Captured in Time
No, it’s not a prison….
Perhaps we all have seen too many movies of this genre! This photograph is very likely the New York Catholic Protectory, in 1885 located in West Chester, NY (then located beyond the limits of The Bronx). This site is now the part of The Bronx known as Parkchester. These at-risk boys were taught (and frankly "herded") in large numbers by the Christian Brothers, which was the common practice of the day at such institutions. It would appear that the boys are ending their recess or break time, and are being lined up to return into classroom instruction or the learning of useful trades. Do you notice the two Brothers wearing bowlers (hats), both at the extreme left? One is on the ground floor and the other (perhaps the director) peers down from the third floor, arms folded.
P.S.
Is any of the youngsters not wearing his hat?
If you know more about this photo you would like to share, contact Brother Joe Grabenstein (La Salle University Archives) at grabenst@lasalle.edu
