Research

Scope and Content Note

The series consists of account books of receipts and disbursements by New York State Asylum (to 1891) and the Syracuse State Institution for Feeble-Minded Children for board and clothing expenses for private pay students during the period 1835 -1903 (none for 1881- 1882). Format differs significantly between the two volumes, but since names carry over from one volume to the other, it may be inferred that both books refer to private pay accounts.

Volume 1 shows accounts of cash received on account for "paying pupils." Entries date from October 1835-June 1880, and are arranged chronologically, then by source of receipt (person or sale). Entries include date (month/date), name (from whom money received), number (designation unknown), and amount. There are totals for each month. Several entries refer simply to "clothing." Amounts are also given for checks of the superintendent to the asylum treasurer (presumably), and there are many entries for cash received from the sales of fruit, livestock, scrap metal, and used items.

Volume 2 shows accounts of amounts received and disbursed for board and clothing expenses of students. Entries cover September 1883-December 1902 (there are sparse entries for January 1903), and are arranged by student/account name. A (presumably) student name often appears in quotation marks under the account name. Often entries are for routine, ongoing expenses (e.g., 3 months' board, clothing, "charge to county"). Sometimes entries end with notes on discharge, readmission, or death, with date(s). Folio references to volumes and ledgers (unknown) appear in red ink.