Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Nazareth

A reader has generously passed on this postcard view of Nazareth.



Nazareth campus plus Moss Hill now - satellite photo.



Same location as above: from a 1924 map.



Another corner of Jamaica Plain, another institution. Nazareth was a more recent introduction to the district than many I've covered earlier, coming in the post-war years (that would be The Big One, as my father liked to say). Although it was out of the way, on the far side of Moss Hill, I was aware of it as a child. That may have been because I was raised Catholic, and might have herd mention of it in church. Years later, a good friend of mine told me that he had spent some time at Nazareth, and had even been sent to the Agassiz school. No doubt we had been in the school at the same time, fifteen years or so earlier. He did not remember the experience of Nazareth fondly, although that should be no surprise - the situation was a necessarily unpleasant one to deal with. The four million dollar facility didn't even make a half century of use, being closed and replaced by the Showa Institute.

I think that it's fair to assume that the headline below contains a typo - the children were homeless, not nameless.



Jamaica Plain Citizen March 20, 1952


Abp. Cushing Breaks Ground For Nazareth

$4,000,000 Home On Moss Hill For Temporarily Nameless Children


Archbishop Cushing yesterday broke ground for Nazareth, the $4,000,000 home for temporarily homeless and dependent children, on Moss Hill, Jamaica Plain, on the grounds of the former Slocum estate.

The brief ceremony was attended by Mayor Hynes and other civic officials; nuns and children from the Home for Catholic Children on Harrison ave., which Nazareth will succeed; and representatives from Catholic religious organizations.

Nazareth will be built on a radial plan of 10 cottages, each cottage containing five sleeping rooms, with six beds to a room; a two-bed infirmary; storage, recreation and dining rooms and kitchenette. Play areas will be built between cottages. The recreation center, in the middle of the radial, will contain an auditorium and gymnasium.

372 comments:

  1. I was one of the homeless children at Nazareth, as were my brother and sister. It was not pleasant, it was wharehousing of children with no personal conection between staff and children. Even though I knew I had sibling there, we were not allowed to see each other, thanks to the radial design spoken of in the newspaper article quoted.
    We were usually shunned by the children in the schools we were sent to beginning is grade three. I felt they were reflecting the attitude of their teachers,
    The dormroom I was assigned to was decorated in brown.
    The day I arrived, the staff took away all my clothes, even though they fit, and gave me other, used cloths. We were allowed no personal belongings.

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    1. This is Zeke & have no idea how im alive n sober.I lived through the nightmare's at lasalette 77-80.any 1 of my brother's who was there with me I'd love to know how many of us left that havent eat'n a bullit.

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    2. Hi Zeke, is your name Chris Zekus?

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  2. Can I talk wtih you about your time at Nazareth?
    I'm at deborahlbmc@yahoo.com.

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    1. debrahlbmc@Yahoo.com I would like to speak with you,but I'm Not sure who you are. please drop me a line. I lived at Zazareth in the late 70's in La Salette. please contact eriamjh92@yahoo.com

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    2. I lived at lasalett in the late 70's as we'll.I nick named that place the house if horror on the hill.the story about what went on there needs to be told.Christopher p.Zicuis aka"Zeke"!

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    3. Well I too survived but the bastard is dead now I am however looking for infoi was in nqzareth cottage where uncle tony lived with his fucking space invaders

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  3. lots of big long brick buldingd with a play room & a tv in the first room bathrooms & bed rooms were down towards the end of the bulding

    we went to school & went back to the bulidings for lunch I was in assumson you were placed in different buldings depending on your age my brother was in fattamua I think right place? e mail me at

    kathylibby@hotmail.com

    put . Nazareth in the subject line

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  4. I remember Nazareth fondly. I remember the people which worked there were super nice. I loved going to the cape every summer. We got a pool every summer. I remember going to the "snack-bar" once a week. We even got an allowance, I believe a dime. Maybe 'cause I was there only from the ages of 5-10 but there wasn't a lot of bad about it. Sure there were some crappy days, but that happens wherever you are. I was in Assumption and Visitation, I think. I think the oldest girls were in Annuciation. My brother was in Fatima and Lassalette, or was it Lords? It was a long time ago. I remember Sr. Pauline and thought she was great. I was there from '69-'74.

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    1. Wow. This post is exactly the same times i was there. Same cottages too. I will always love sister pauline. Bet we know each other. Remember one week evrey july we would go to cape cod. Would love to talk

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  5. My Uncle, Bernard Ninian Cahlander, designed Nazareth as part of his Master's thesis at MIT in 1952. He died many years ago, and I never really knew him, but have always been curious about what he did at MIT. His thesis regarding the design of Nazareth is online if your interested.

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  6. Very interesting. I'm reading the thesis now. I didn't know what building Nazareth replaced.

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  7. Sandy Fenton alisgirl2@comcast.netFebruary 12, 2010 at 12:29 AM

    Hello to everyone,

    I just want to respond to the person that had nothing nice to say about Nazareth (the first comment on the list).
    First of all you should stop and think of how lucky you were when you were at Nazareth. Maybe at the time you didn't think it was a nice place because you were away from your Mother & Father.
    Now you should realize that maybe you were better off being at Nazareth than being at home. Yes, it's sad that you had to go there and you couldn't be home with your family. (Usually on the weekends). You need to stop and think, maybe at that time your parents couldn't take care of you the way they really wanted to.
    Now your an Adult and maybe even a parent if your lucky. If so, you should UNDERSTAND what your Mother and Father have gone thru. Every one has problems and deals with things differently. You should stop and appreciate what they did at that time was best for you. You are an Adult now, so you must stop blaming your parents for the past and move on. Hopefully you took the positive out of living at Nazareth than the negative. From the sounds of your comment, you are still very angry about the way you grew up. It is very sad that your still stuck in how you grew up. I hope you realize some day, Nazareth was probably the best place to have live in the time of your crisis.

    Now, a comment to everyone at Nazareth ....
    I just want to thank everyone that was at Nazareth the time I was there 1976-1978.
    I was 10yrs old. At the time, I didn't like it there all the time because of being away from my Mother. But, now I stop and thank her because that probably was the best thing she could have done. I've learn a lot from that experience and living at another boarding school. It has make me a stronger person and has made me understand how nice these people are to have taken the time to deal with children our age and with all the problems that we had. Also, I meet a lot of nice people and friends there.

    So, to all the people who didn't appreciate NAZARETH at the time of their crisis, please stop and think of how lucky we were to have had people like them in our lives.......
    Thank you all for everything and being there when my family needed you the most. My Mother appreciates what you have done for her too. Thank you.

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    1. you have no idear what your talking about. I lived there as a sexual slave for 4 fucking years. guess you never met frank murphy or tony holmes.abuse ran rampent at that hell hole all disguised by religion. why do you think sooooo many people have sued the place.the staff knew exectly what was going on and let it happen. go fuck youself and do a little research before posting something that is tottally bogus.

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    2. Hey sandy its Christopher Zicuis from Nazareth I dont no if u remember me if u do please call me I was reading sum of yr comments n had to reach out if ya can hit me back at 774 722 9225.WOW!

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    3. Sandy, I have a gmail account now also. my email address is zekesta777@gmail.com. Would like to hear from you. It's Christopher Zicuis

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  8. I was there in 1956. The new facility.
    Is Nazareth still operating? I would like any information available. Is there a website that would have some additional information.
    My e-mail is as follows;
    butchlor@aol.com

    Lorraine

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  9. I was at Nazareth in the late 1950's. If it were not for Nazareth I don't know what my sisters and I would have done and what would have happened to us. I remember with some fondness the Summer trips to the lakes and the time I went to the Mission School. I still give to Catholic Charities as my way of saying thank you.

    DF

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  10. if you walk around the campus today, the wooden signs with all the cottages names are still attached to each cottage.

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  11. Can anyone help with Nazareth pics or research. I have scoured the net and came up with nothing. I too as well as 4 sibs spent 4 years there before the foster home circut began. I wanted it for my site
    http://sites.google.com/site/thecallahanchronicles/
    Thank You for any help you can offer. Bill Callahan

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    1. if you have a facebook page go to it. type in nazareth care center. good luck

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  12. Hello Kathy O, I believe i remember you, i use to live at Nazareth with my sister and three brothers.
    My sister and i also lived in Visitation cottage, my name is Diane and my sister's name is Jackie. I remember Sister Pauline and the counselors Mary Richooti, Patti Cottons, and Ms. Sullivan she use to buff the cottage halls with a big buffing machine, i miss her she was a sweet old lady. I lived there from 1973 until 1975, Nazareth was not the typical orphanage it was a fun and safe place to live i really missed everyone and i always hoped that some day i would reunite with everyone. If you are the same Kathy i knew, i specifically remember you because you were the first person my sister and i met and you were so cool you made my first day at Nazareth real easy you were my first real friend. I wonder if you remember other kids that lived at Nazareth too, their names are Linda Martin, Regina and Author Mullen, Janet Lane and Barbara Guggorio i'm not sure if i spelled her last name right, and the two sisters GeeGee and Jodi. I hope you will revisit this website and find me. You can contact me yahshua4us@comcast.net
    Yours Truly Diane G.

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  13. It's awesome how God works... My long lost sister from Nazareth Kathy O. Just found me on facebook yesterday. And reading her comments on May 7th wondering how I was doing just 4 days ago...once upon a time became the present time. She told me about this website and I just had to say something about this place called Nazareth. Oh, and by the way I must thank my saviour Jesus Christ for my christian foundation. Nazareth is where it all started. I thank God for the christian values that I was taught their and still carry on today. I am a born again believer in Jesus christ. I'm also greateful for the opportunity to live in such a wonderful place like Nazareth. I also have fond memories about Nazareth and most of all sister Pauline. I'll never forget. One night she called my out from my room, took me in the hall way and sat me on her lap. And explaned to me that I was going to get my tonsils taken out. She reassured me that everything was going to be alright. She was right, after all I lived to tell the story. Boy, I have so many good memories their.

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  14. Just found this site. I spent time at Nazareth as well and a few years ago managed to obtain my records from the folks at Catholic Charities (along with the state records). I found that the folks at Nazareth kept amazingly meticulous and useful records and they prompted a lot of memories as well as confirmed my memories.

    Mostly, they confirmed my remembrance of Nazareth as a place that, (despite the fact that most of us would have perhaps rather been elsewhere), was run by people who genuinely cared, made a lot of effort, and did well given the fact that it usually wasn't the result of "happy" circumstance that we were there.

    And hello my Nazareth brethren. It's good to "hear" you again!

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  15. Here is a phone number which you can call to get your records (617) 451-7974. They may refer you to another number (617)522-4040 (which is actually the same phone number from the '70's!

    Good luck!

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    1. thank you im gonna get my records for sure!!! my sister and i were there in the late 70s early 80s i would love to see if there are any pics of us........

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  16. It is obvious that the facility changed dramaticaly from the 1950's to the 1970's. I was one of the unfortunate ones who lived there from October 1956 to August 1957. My parents were getting divorced and my maternal grandparents sent my brother and I there. I guess we were too much for her at five and six years old. When we arrived the took our personal belongings and separated us. We were told we needed to earn our pillow. If you wet the bed you got no pillow. We went to the first grade at their school with our friend Peter. the put us in the back of the class and pretty much ignored us for the year. We repeated the first grade the following year. I asked one of the sisters if I was having a birthday cake for my sixth birthday in December. She said it was too close to Christmas. I still don't eat liver since I sat until 9PM refusing to eat it in their cafeteria. I will always remember the coldness of Nazareth.

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    1. wow the liver that is a really big memory i have i still DO NOT eat liver thats just too funny reading that...

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  17. To Anonymous...I'm so sorry that you were not able to have the good experience as many of us had had in the 70s. When I was living there with my brother we once had a taxi driver drive us back to Nazareth from a visit to home and he had described the old Nazareth facility when it was located, I believe, at Mission Hill. It was quite a different description of what we were experiencing at the time. It may have even operated under a different name but he seemed to know what he was talking about. The nuns seemed to have soften a bit as the years went on. This may be due to the fact that they were younger and from a different generation.

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  18. Hi, I'm Don. (June 16 post) As I recall they separated the boys and girls. I think the girls were treated better. Do you remember the old woman in the (haunted?) house in the woods that the kids threw rocks at?

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  19. hi I have sone pictures of kathy I remember her too I think my brother had a crush on her I have a ton of pictures of my time there If some on can tell me how to post them to my blog I will put them up also if you want to find me on FB just type in kathy libby my profile picture is a table & chair set looking over some water put Nazareth in your request

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  20. I now have some pictures at my blog click on my name & than under my blogs to see them of of me & my brother & a lot of other kids If you know of anyone or see your self please get in touch with me
    kathy

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  21. Hello Kathy,

    I was wondering how I would view the pictures on your blog. I just went on and I couldn't find them. Would you please let me know. Thanks

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  22. Kathy5

    I looked at your pictures. Too funny! I left in 74 at age 10 from Visitation. The only person I know for sure that I knew was Pat Harmon. He, his brother Buddy and two sisters Helena and Wanda lived there. Wanda was my best friend.

    Seeing the cape house, boy, it looks exactly the way I remember!

    I'm sure if Kathy O looks at these pictures she'll remember some people. They look like they may be a bit younger but she still might remember.

    Thanks for sharing!!

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  23. Hello Kathy,

    Yes, I have a sister Rita,Mary,Kathleen and Kellie. We we all there together in 1976-1978. Rita I think was in Visitation and the rest of us were in Annunciation. My sister Rita wasn't there to long (just a few months). My sisters and I were there for about 2years. I do remember Maria Defaria because she was my best friend and some other names you mentioned. I do remember some kids/counselors from your pictures. That's funny.What is your last name? Are you Andy Koslowski's sister? I remebered him in the pictures because we were friends with Frankie Greene. I would go to Fatima and play pool with them. That was the best! We had a lot of fun.

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  24. sandi yes Andy is my Brother & we stayed close with frankie & his family a long time after we left I have more pictures loaded up on FB find me on there & send a friend request with nazareth in the request box
    glad to hear from you

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  25. sandy F here is a link which I hope will take you to my photobucket album with all of the pictures I have

    http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/1003/kathy5/nazareth/

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  26. Hello Kathy,

    Do you still talk to Frankie and his Family? I haven't see him since he came to my house probably 20years ago during the St. Patrick's Day parade. Wow, it's been that long. How crazy is that, it seems like yesterday.

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  27. Kathy,
    Do I have to sign up for photobucket?

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  28. Hello Kathy O,

    What is your name under on facebook?

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  29. Kathy I can't find your name on facebook. I looked under your name exactly how you have it. Is it under that exact name?

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  30. Hello Kathleen,

    I couldn't find you on facebook but I think I found you on a website Mylife. Do you live in the Southshore?

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  31. Kathy O,
    I do remember some of the people you mentioned. I remember Maria & Gina Defaria, Wanda and Millie Hernandez. I ended up going to a school called St. Anne's where Millie's cousin went, which I was very good friends with. Small world.
    Does anyone remember anyone from Annunciation cottage?

    Kathy5, I couldn't find you on facebook either. Do you still talk to Frankie, Harry and Shirley Greene? Tell them I was asking for them.

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  32. Hello Kathy O, & Kathy5,

    I don't know if you both remember Dianne DeVanna. She was at Nazareth when I was there and probably when you both were there. Well, I'm not sure if you know this, but back in 1979, Dianna was killed by her Step Father. (Very sad). Now they have a canter called(The Dianna DeVanna Center). They are having a golf tournament for her on Mon. July 19, in Halifax. Just wondering if anyone plays in that?

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  33. Dianne DeVanna was in Lloyds, in between visitation and annunciation.

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  34. hello everyone If anyone here has a my space page here is a link to my brother page( Andy's)

    also If you find me on FB I can give you his e mail addy he will be visiting our family for the 4th so I will take pictures to share wiuth you all


    http://www.myspace.com/522840630

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  35. hi again just wanted to say I also have a my space page but am on face book way more

    http://www.myspace.com/budgieholic

    face book link http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=36420&post=249877&uid=162104552518#!/kathylibby.5

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  36. I set up a FB page Nazareth Child Care Center. Hope people will join!

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    1. i cant find it???? my e-mail j71theresa@yahoo.com

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  37. http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000102393796#!/group.php?gid=129177560455657

    here is the link to the FB page you have to join FB to be a member of this page

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  38. I'm having some issues with the FB group which I created. Can't seem to find it when doing a search for it. It's there, just can't search for it. Will look into it.

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  39. As someone who worked at Nazareth during the 70's and into the early 80's it is great to see the photos and the pleasant memories for the most part. I worked in fatima and either assumption or Annunciation.( can"t quite remember) I remember Sr. Ruth and Sr. Joanne,the snack bar, the gym and the cape House. What I remember the most though are the great kids that I met there. Have some nice photos I will scan so folks can enjoy.My name is Lou Catano and I was a child-care worker there along with bot of my sistersMaria who worked in Bethleham and christine who worked in a different cottage.Hope everyone is doing well Nice to see the post and read about people's recollections.
    Take care
    Lou

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  40. Hey Lou, by using the facebook address which Kathy5 listed above ('cause at this point FB won't show the group yet in search mode)and become part of the Nazareth group and then you can post the pics on there!....If you'd like :-)

    I hope you can find it!

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  41. I am Chris Catano Cole-i worked in Fatima and for a short while in Annunciation (73-79). I loved working with all the kids and have fond memories of my time there, but realize it was very difficult for the kids to be away from their homes and in a group home environment. I often wish there would be a reunion of sorts for staff and residents.

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    1. hello chris woul you happen to remember my brother andy kozlowski?

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  42. Sandy Fenton alisgirl2@comcast.netJuly 3, 2010 at 5:43 PM

    Hello Chris,

    My sisters & I were in Annunciation from 1970-1971 then 1977-1979. You must have known us (The Fenton Clan) lol. Mary, Sandy (me), Kathleen and Kellie. Rita was in Visitation for a while. I do remember Brian & Fran Murphy, Cathy Burke, Lauren(not sure the last name), Sr. Anna and Joyce Reardon (I think). Not sure if I remember you. Do you have pictures from when you were there? You must know Kathy & Andy Koslowski because they there around the time you worked there. Hopefully you have pictures we can look at. I have some, which I need to put on fb.

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  43. The Fentons certainly sound familiar. The thing is the more i think about it, i think i worked in Assumption, not Annunciation. The majority of the time i worked in Fatima. I posted some pictures on fb today. I do remember the Koslowski's and had pictures of them. Looking forward to seeing your pictures.

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  44. One can now find our facebook group using the search mode now!

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  45. the fentons are ringing a bell in my head I think either my brother ( andy )or myself were with these kids do you have pictures from your time there??
    kathy

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  46. does anyone remember all the names of the cottages? and what age groupd were put where?

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  47. Hello Kathy5,

    Yes, I remember you and Andy. You & Andy were at Nazareth when my sisters & I were there. Kevin James, Tanya & John Richardson, Harry, Margaret Curren, Joanne, Arthur, Lem(he had a sister Nikki in Lords) and Raymond were also there when we were there. I do remember more kids from other cottage.
    The names of all the cottages in order were: Assumption, Visitation, Lords, Annunciation, the gym, not sure (the cottage next to the gym) it was an all boys cottage, then went Famita and La Salette. I do have pictures, sorry I haven't put them on yet. Just been a little busy. I will try and put them on this weekend.
    Everyone, have a wonderful weekend.

    Me, Frank Greene and Andy use to play together.

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  48. I remember Margaret Curren she got a parakeet one year for her birthday I used to love to go & see it in the living room

    nikki she was deaf right? I remember 1 christmas I got a doll called baby go that a way it would crawl and than stand & walk well I guess she wanted 1 too but did not get one she took mine and ran into her room & locked the door funny what we remember

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  49. I don't remember Margarets parakeet. I just remember that she was tall with short hair and very nice. Yes, Nikki was deaf. She lived in Lords and was just adorable. I think she is in some of the pictures that you/Kathleen have on facebook.

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  50. I was there during the 60's, one of 8 children..
    I have mixed feelings...On one hand, we had roof over our head, our own bed, but I was in survival
    mode most of the time....just trying to get by,
    so traumatized, not knowing half the time where
    the rest of my brothers, sisters were...
    I did get to babysit down in bethlehem, where my
    little brother was...

    I'm glad you all are here....If anyone here was there during the 60's I'll check back here from time to time.....

    Joanne H.

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  51. Joanne H -

    If you're on Facebook we've also set up a page for that. It's called: Nazareth Childcare Center 420 Pond St Jamaica Plain.

    Most of the folks were there '69 and on. There are pictures on it.

    It's been nice to read the memories from others, be they good or bad..

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  52. I was there in 1955 0r 1956 my sister was half lebeneas and 2 years younger my brother was irish and in a crib. We both were blond blue eyed. They let me go see him. I was 4. I don't know if my sister was there as I never saw her. She had dark hair dark eyes olive skin times were different. It was not nice being alone, not having anything that belonged to you. In someways you were nameless, parts of the church. email me at Friendlyfaceshr@gmail.com

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  53. (Continuing June 1 Post):

    Kathy O: Sorry it took me so long to get back here. I was at Nazareth in the 60's; once in 61 and again 63-65. Most of that time was in LaSallette with Sister Marcella. Had Sister Pierre in 5th and Sister Germaine in 6th grade. No siblings at Nazareth.

    David

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  54. I would like to know if any one was there in 1950's. It was not at all like the 1970's. It sounds like things got much better as years past. Thankfully!

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  55. @Adrienne,

    It does sound that way. The 50's being a different kind of place. I said before it may be a generational thing with the younger nuns. We '70's kids were very fortunate and I think we all know that.

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  56. I was at Nazareth from about 1961 to 1963 (?) I am very glad to state that I caused some problems there. You see, when The Beatles first came out I was at Nazareth. One of the crazy nuns in Rudebock (?) upon seeing Micjagar of the Rolling Stones stated that he was a disgrace to "manhood." So instantly I grew my hair like Mic. That got me thrown out of nazareth. I think that that nun was a man in disguise! Then later a bunch of other kids from nazareth (6) ended up on Beacon Hill with me as we became hippies. I was never really into drugs, but all these guys got into heavey drugs and really messed up! Nazareth helpped mess them up. Some of them-likely all-got into some "bad sh-t" with some of the Seminarians-if you know what I mean? But to my knowledge none of them became gay because of that crap! I think that the priesthood pushes a lot of priest into being homosexual, or something along those lines. Homosexuality is a psychiatric sickness. I feel sorry for those poor guys (priest). They need Primal Therapy. Arthur Janov's Primal institute can help them out. John Lennon of the Beatles went to Janov for psychotherapy. Well th, th, that's all for now folks. Philip Alberto-anything misspelled, so what it is just a posting!

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  57. Was a student (an outsider) at the Nazareth school from 1961 to 1967. Have fond memories of the Nazareth kids in the classes and the sisters who taught. Sister Gerade (1st grade), Mary Jane (2cd), Helen Andrews (3rd), Desalles (4th), Elanora (Crinkles) 5th, Germain (6th). Sister Pierre was the principal - Asha Basha Boo she used to say! James Gauthier, Howard Powe, David Jackson, Scott Grandon, Monica Crowley were great Nazareth kids (insiders).

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  58. I just recived my records to day. I was there from 4/22/57 12/8/57 I was 5 years old when I went in but turned 6 on 8/15. I stayed in visitation cottage, Sr. Agnes They sent me 2 pictures, and 6 pages of information.

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  59. I was there from4/22/57 12/8/57 visitation cottage, Sr. Agnes For me it was well worth the $50.00. I got 6 pages of records plus 2 pictures. I have no school records? I asked but there were no answers for it. I was 5 when I in and turned 6 over the sumer so I shoud have been in school.

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  60. I got my records I was there 4-22-57 12-8-57 I was placed with Sr. Agnes in Visitation cottage. I have 6 pages and 2 pictures. It was worth the $50.00. I learned a lot.

    Adrienne

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  61. David,

    I have a fairly good memory of the Nazareth Home. I was there from 1959-61. I remember Sister Marcella from LaSallette Cottage and Father James Sullivan, the priest in charge at that time. Also, do you remember Sister Imena, the head sister? Email me if you want at jalexander234@hotmail.com I'll be happy to answer any questions you might have. Until then...

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  62. I lived in Visitation in the mid-60's, when Sister Lucille was in charge. I have been in touch with Sr. Marian Batho, who has achieved considerable stature in the Boston church - I remember her when she was just a postulant. And I do remember doing ceramics and other arts and crafts during the summer. It was a dreadful time in my life, but my life probably would have been worse if Nazareth hadn't been there.

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  63. Hello Everyone,My name is Nancy I was a child
    Nazareth from 62-67 along with two brothers. I
    don't recall the names of many of the other kids
    yet I do have fond memories.Father Sullivan was
    very involved with the children he was a person
    you could always go to if you had a problem he
    cared.He wasn't just a priest to us he was my
    father.I remember he use to play softball with
    us in the back field behind the school.I had one
    nun I was very fond of, Sister Mary Patricia,very
    tall and thin tough yet caring.
    So, for what my life was then I could not have asked to be in a better place.When I finely
    found my parents at 19 I knew I was blessed to be
    at Nazareth> I received my communion and conformation there. I remember my last year there
    us older girls went to Niagra Falls and the boys
    went to the Expo.Even in the 60's we went to the
    cape in the summer.Those were the best years of my life as a child.If anyone would like to share
    their memories of Nazareth with an old timer you
    welcome to contact me: njcs1956@yahoo.com
    Looking forward to hearing from You and I
    Thank You for this sight>> Nancy

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  64. I was there 4-57 12-57. If you were I would like to know. I just got my records and they do not have any school in them.

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  65. Adrienne et al,

    I was at the Nazareth from 1959 until 1961. I remember Sister Leticia of La Sallette Cottage and Sister Marcella of Rue du Bac Cottage very well. Also, Sister Edith was the sister for the girl's cottage (Presentation, I believe). The priest at that time was Father James Sullivan with whom I chatted on the phone more than 10 years ago. If you want to know anything about that time period or about any of the people who worked there, just blog back. I will make it a point to check back every now and then.
    Tom

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    1. Hi.my name is George, I was there 1958, don't know if you remember me it was a tough life, I had my sister with me too . I was very scared there. I remember Sister Marie, the lady in the haunted house, the sisters were mean and cold, no love. I had red hair and freckles, skinny little guy. I will check back on this site.

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  66. wow, incredible bumping into this. I was at Nazareth in and out in the 60's but don't remember the recollection like some of you. I am going to try to obtain my records and check out FB. I was young maybe getting adopted in 68. Funny, I had a co-worker we were sharing our stories and I told her about Nazareth and her grandparents used to work there and she'd come play with the kids. We could have played together...small world.

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  67. I was at Nazareth in the mid 1950s. It was a dreary and unyielding period of my life. I was in kindergarten at Nazareth. I remember the "playroom" well. My parents could not take care of us, that is why we were there. One large lesson I took with me when I left is the difference between being loved versus being cared for. Things were different in the 50s. The design of the building represented the nature of care-taking for children (nameless or homeless at the time) during the 50s. Attitudes about children were different then, especially in comparison to the 70s. In the 50s the nuns took care of us. We were never loved. I am happy for anyone who left Nazareth feeling good about it. You are a true testament to how little one needs to give to a child in order for that child to grow. God bless you. P.S. To this day I am not interested in meeting any of the girls from Nazareth with which I roomed. Once you get back to a family, or your family, you do know the difference.

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  68. my name is lydia mangual santiago & i was at nazareth in the early 60's. my three brothers jose, john & benny were also there. i also has my younger sisters there too. it was sonia, aida,maria. my two small sisters were gigi & jody & they went to nazareth after i had left,i think it was close to the 70's. i did like nazareth b/c the nuns & the staff took good care of us & i'm very thankful for that. when i left nazareth i was sad b/c i didn't want to go to the foster home in winthrop mass.i was in the presentation cottage w/the bigger girls.my sister sonia & i want to go visit the grounds if that's possible b/c we have so many memories there.i wish i had pics of me while at nazareth but i don't, maybe if someone knows me they might have some.that would be awesome. i'm happy we have this website & maybe i can find people who were there in the 60's. i want to thank everyone who took care of me at nazareth & god bless u all. love lydia mangual.

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  69. Hi there!
    what a great site! My name is Madeline Mangual but everyone at Nazareth called me Gigi and I have a sister Jodie. We were both at Nazareth but i dont remember what cottage. Maybe Visitation. I was in the cottage with Sister Pauline. She was wonderful!! One person has found me through this site and i hope to find more. I am not real good with names so if anyone remembers me or my sister Jodie please write!! I also have older siblings that were at Nazareth before me. There names are Sonia, Ida, Lydia, Joe, Benny, Angel, and John. Last name is MANGUAL. I look forward to finding my long lost childhood friends. Does anyone remember the different colored bedrooms? I was in the Blue room! Ha ha!

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  70. To Diane G- Do you remember me? I remember Mary ruchutti! She used to open the blinds and say RISE AND SHINE!!! I have contacted Kathy O. My name is Gigi and i have a sister Jodie and Sister Pauline worked in our cottage. I am on Facebook under Madeline Mangual

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  71. My name is Gigi. That is who i was known as t Nazareth. I hope i am doing this blog correctly. I am having a hard time remembering names that far back but Kathy O has found me! Thankyou Jesus!! And i am hoping there are others o this blog who remember me and my sister Jodie. I also have older sisters who were at Nazareth before i was. They are Sonia, Lydia, Aida Mangual if anyone remembers them, they have joined this blog too. I hope to find more of my long lost childhood friends!! Shawn Booker, Bobby Brown, Janet Patit, Hinterlightner sisters???????

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  72. hi iwas @ nazareth in the 60's so were my sister, lydia maria madeline and josehine my name is sonia mangual does anyone remmber us? the sisters were good to me......thank you love this site. i often think about those day, made me a stronger person,

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  73. Does anyone know whatever became of Donald Vacanti who was there in there in the early '80s? I think he was orignially from Fall River.

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  74. my name is lydia mangual & i was at nazareth in the 60-66. i was in presentation cottage & i liked it very much. if it wasn't for nazareth i dont know where i be today. i had other siblings there too. sonia, aida, jose, benny, john. i hope that i can also find people who were there w/me at the same time.thank u god for all those people who cared for me & my siblings.

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  75. i dont know if my messages are being posted. this is Gigi sister of Jodie and we were both at Nazareth. Kathy O has found me and I am looking for others. Millie Hernandez and Shawn Booker and the Hinterlightner sisters. I am on Facebook under Madeline Mangual.

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  76. Joan Bishara WoodwardNovember 22, 2010 at 2:22 AM

    I was at Nazareth between 1956-1958 believe or not i enjoyed my stay there! My name is Joan Bishara any other teenagers that were they at that time, please comment! I would enjoy hearing from you! Does anyone remember sister Marion or sister Edith?

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    1. YES I REMEMBER SISTER EDITH, SHE WAS MY HOUSEMOTHER IN THE 60'S. I WAS IN PRESENTATION COTTAGE. SHE WAS AWESOME.

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  77. My name is Jackie Johnson I lived there I believe from 73-77 8 years old to 13.
    I has mixed emotions about the place as well, but I know now if I had not had that time away from a bad living condition I may have went dwn the wrong path in life.
    I am thankful for it now.
    I can not remember my Cottage, but I has sister Donna and a night lady who would always buy us and Angel with our birthday stone in the flower.
    I am looking for Shirley, Harry, Frankie Green and Millie Hernandez.

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  78. Remember to check out or Facebook page "Nazareth Childcare Center 420 Pond St" You have to be part of Facebook to find it. It's great to see so many more comments. Nice to see a bunch of folks that were there in the 50's (I was there in the 70's)

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  79. I too have mixed emotions regarding my time at Nazareth. My younger brother Mark and I lived there from 1969 to 1970. I would like to hear from anyone that lived there, especially during those years.

    John john_raymond1961@hotmail.com

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  80. Correct email: john_raymond1961@hotmail.com

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  81. To Mark Bulger: Again I want to thank you for starting this blog. I think that you've brought a lot of joy to many of the former residents of Nazareth. It's been great to make contact with people from our past. Even though you had never lived there you are now a part of the family!

    Hope you had a Merry Christmas.

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  82. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the commenters in this thread. I never expected it to be a connection point for former Nazareth residents, but I'm happy I could end up being part of providing the service.

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  83. I want to thank mark bulger for the creation of the nazareth site. i love it & i'm hoping to find my lost childhood friends. happy holidays. lydia mangual

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  84. I worked at Nazareth in the early 80's as a child care worker.I always wondered what happened to the kids. I often think of Sean he had a brother Richard .I really enjoyed working there.I hope he is well .The other kids in the cottage were Benson ,Bobby,Sean,Chris,Lenny,Mikey,David,Wayne.Ginny was the women who cooked for the boys..I wish you all well .

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  85. I lived at nazareth in the 70's for a 7 month period and I found the place to be an abusive enviornment in more ways than one. It has had a lasting effect on me to this day and I am 39 years old. I have nothing nice to say about Nazareth especially sister Margret Mary i never forgot her and the way she abused us as little boys. it discusts me really. I would love to get my records. I didnt know where to go to get them.

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  86. This is amazing. I would never believe connecting with others from my days at Nazareth was possible, so thank you Mark Bulgar. I lived at Nazareth from 1963-1964 (age 7-8) after my mother died. My Dad would take my brother and me home on weekends until he re-married in 1964. If I am remembering their names correctly, I...'...d like to connect with Monica and Pamela. Anyone remember Sister Luke? Me? Mary Gallagher can be contacted at writing2win@gmail.com

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  87. I just got an updated for number for our records. I had called over to the 617-522-4040 number and they gave me the number to their archives in South Boston. 617-268-9670 9:00 am - 6:00 pm (per the answering service).

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  88. Thank you for the phone numbers. My name is Brian and I would love to talk to anyone that lived at Nazareth in the 70's my phone number is 774-360-2316 call me anytime.

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  89. Just a thought - I don't recommend putting your phone number or email address here in the open. For email, use xyzATabcDOTcom. If you need to give out your phone number, do it through email. There are automated programs that search the internet for private information and grab it up.

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  90. thanks mark for the great advise. lydia mangual.

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  91. I was at Nazareth from 1958-1961 I believe. I was eight years old when I got there and I was 11 when I left. I was in Lasalette with Sister Marcella. She was a wonderful person. A jolly soul. I wonder if she is still alive. Anyone know? I did not have a very pleasent stay while I was there. I was an outcast because I was not Catholic.

    We non-Catholics were forced to go to the old Agaziz School in JP. Our teachers made our lives miserable. Ms. Geary was one of them. I visited her later when she became a member of the Boston School Committee. I asked her why she singled out the kids from Nazareth and she staed that she did not remember doing that.

    I almost died at Nazareth. I had acute appendicitis. I kept on telling sister Paula, the supposed nurse, that I was really sick. She kept me at Nazareth until I could not move. Then they took m by ambulance to Boston City Hospital where they performed emergency surgery on me.

    I remember a my best friend when I was there. His name was Richard Burnick. We were inseperable like Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. I also remember a couple of brothers that were there with us. All I remember is thier name was very Irish and thier father use to have a go cart of some sort. On Saturday night Sister Marcella and Sister Latisha would run 16mm movies. all the kids from the cottage would sit in the playroom after bathtime and watch old films. That is where I found my love for film. I was a motion picture photographer in the military.

    Father Sullivan and the Semminarians use to take advantage of our situation, if you get my drift. That is why to this day I cannot step foot in a Catholic Church because of the very bad memories.

    I left Nazareth and went to live with my mom again. This tme, we never left.

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  92. I worked as a child care worker at Naz then volunteered there in the 60's and early 70's in Bethleham, Annuciation and visitation. I loved being there with the kids. Sometimes I would take groups on day trips. Sometimes I'd get back a little late and Sr Lucille would not be pleased with me. my name was Mary Gaughran (now Counhan) I was married in 1968 and a group of Nazareth kids came to my wedding. They are in my wedding book. In a picture from the choir loft of the church you see a whole row of little white straw hats, it's so cute. The first picture I had the photographer take after Mass was my husband and I with the kids. When my daughter shows me how, I'll post it and any others I have. It is wonderful to read what you all share. ai always wonder what happened to the kids I worked with...now maybe I'll find out. One of my good friends who worked in Annuciation was Margie Lynch...anyone remember her?...or me?

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  93. Has anyone heard from the Harmon sisters?? Helena Harmon and I cant remember her sisters name. I hope she finds this page!!

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  94. CORRECTION--- The cottage was named LOURDES. NOT LORDS. They all were names from the catholic bible.



    Madeline Gigi Mangual

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  95. The Girl's cottages were named after the Joyful Mysteries of the rosary. Annunciation : when The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her she was going to be the Mother of Jesus, Visitation: when Mary went to visit her cousin, Elizabeth (John the Baptist, mother)and Presentation: when Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus to the Temple. And Bethletham for the babies because that's were Jesus was born. I'm not sure about Rue du Bac...I'm not even sure of the spelling...I'm thinking it was another place Mary appeared.
    The By cottages were named for three places where the Blessed Mother Mary appeared hence her titles Our Lady of Fatima, Our Lady of Laselette and Our Lady Of Lourdes. It was all about Mary. Kind of a nice way to name the places children live.

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  96. Hello everyone. I lived at Nazareth from 1969 to 74 my name is Vinnie Sequeira. I lived in Fatima and Laselette. I have a mixture of memories good and bad about Nazareth. I will say I had it much better at Nazareth then at my home.
    The kids I remember most are the Johnson brothers, Paul, Ricky, Keith And Billy. Jerry Hart, Doug Orben,Jimmy Murry, Kieth Booker. The Harmen sisters Helena & Wanda.
    I never thought I could reach people from that time in my life. I aged out of Nazareth and went on to other group homes, Longview farm in walpole and then to Anchorage House in Beverly. Does anyone remember the tree house we built at the bottom of the sledding hill? Gatta go, snack time. Hope someone remembers me. Bye for now.

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    2. As for the tree house...I remember it well, but oddly I don't remember you by name. I remember, and not 100% clearly, building it with Larry Gay, Pat & Roy Harmon, maybe John Gordon, and a few other kids. I also remember the maintenance/landscaper guy, Dan I believe his name was, tearing it down. We had been breaking into the Snack Bar and the main kitchen, and stealing provisions for the tree house. Dan climbed up and found the loot one day while we were in school. The ultimate sanction was imposed and the tree house was demolished. I remember we all ran out of school during class to see it, when the word spread that it was happening. It might be that you are thinking of a different tree house. Ours was not at the bottom of the steep hill beside the school that we used for sledding, but rather the smaller hill behind Rue du Bac, where the Jungle Gym, Slide, Swings, and parallel bars were. Either way, I'm sure we must know each other. It would seem impossible for us not to.

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  97. Wow wish I knew this site was here ,I was there with my younger sister and brother , I recall I was in Fatima then to Laselette. We were there 1961-1963 then into a home in Malden Mass to live with a family who took in state kids their names were the Masons . I dont know if any one went to their homes but would like to here from you if you can. I also have a class picture from Holy Family school 1962-1963 and I will make it available to whom ever they think may be in the class photo. I can only say It was a safe place and like the rest of you I lost all i came with on my body to someone elses clothes but I think mine were due for an upgrade at that point anyway. I remember Fatima and working the kitchen detail remember those eggs and hash.

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  98. Sorry, the school on the grounds was the HOLY CHILDHOOD SCHOOL 1962-1963 grade 3 There are 36 of us good looking kids in the Photo in school uniforms . 15 girls and 21 boys..

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  99. My three siblings and I lived at Nazareth when my mother had a nervous breakdown and my father left. The first time I was placed at Nazareth in 1968 I was 2 and lived in the "Bethlehem" Cottage.

    I was placed at Nazareth for a second time with my brother Joey when we were 10 & 11 in 1976. I have a few photos from those days. I remember Sister Donna and I got my ears peirced there by the Nurse who was also a nun.

    I LOVED the land and we would play capture the flag with ALL the kids and staff and we had an outdoor above ground pool.

    I would love to go back and visit the grounds and connect and share stories.

    Sherri Raftery
    rafterysher@aol.com

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  100. Greetings Anonymous posted on February 19, 2011 3:12 PM! I see you were at THE HOME for Little Wanderers (Then The New England Home for Little Wanderers) - After Nazareth I lived at Orchard Home in Watertown and my brother Joey lived at Longview Farm. AND I lived at Anchorage Aftercare in Beverly - the Independant Living Program with Mike Duda!

    I am on FB and also on the Nazareth Child Care Center 420 Pond St Jamaica Plain MA Face Book Group Page. (Mike Duda is also on FB!)

    Sherri Raftery
    rafterysher@aol.com

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  101. Can someone let me know if there are any pics between 1967 and 1973 i believe those are the right years. Thank You Suzie Orben

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  102. On March 19, 1952, Archbishop Cushing broke ground for Nazareth. In attendance were children from the Home for Catholic Children. I was one of those children. I was seven. It was cold and my coat was not warm enough. Two years later, when contruction was completed, I moved from the home into Nazareth: along with my three brothers, my little sister,the other children and of course the Daughters of Charity. It was brand new in 1954. We were there for about three years. My memories of living there are all happy ones. We were well cared for and were involved in many activies.
    Mary Durfee

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    1. I worked at Nazareth in Annunciation Cottage from in the early fifties. The childrens ages were from 1-3.
      It was my first job and I was 14 years old. Sister Mary Joseph welcomed me in and introduced me to a group of boys and girls age 3.
      I was so happy to be working there, and the children were a joy to be with.
      Everybody, the staff and of course Sister Mary Joseph were very pleasant and always worked right with us.
      The names I remember were Judy Jenkins, Kay Bova, Mrs. Dowd.
      The children were Maryann Cahan,Debbie Mahar,Jerry Guilfoyle, and Ralphie Goodrich.
      These were very happy years for me working at Nazareth.

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    2. I would love to email anybody who worked or lived at Nazareth in the middle fifties.
      my email is eirepat7@yahoo.com

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  103. Hi all!

    My sister and brothers were at Nazareth in the late fifties for a little over 3 years. Bill, Bob and Burt and Kathy Delaney

    We all lived in different cottages.
    My sister has remained friends with the Dodges and the Lyons, and Evelyn .

    My brothers and I lost contact with all.

    Does anyone know of Craig Leslie, Jimmy Avery, Dan Carey, Carol De costa a girl named rita, friend of Carol? Anyone know of other kids of late 50's?

    Contact me at bdbeach4@yahoo.com

    Thanks

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  104. I was at Nazareth during the Cuban Missle Crisis. We had a cuban boy there. I was at LaSallate and remember the nun and her ceramics. I remember the brother with the go cart. One day he came in with his teeth all broken. He put black tar in his mouth to fool everyone. He was a decent guy. We had good equipment and played football. The school was decent. Generally I had a good experiece there. We had alot of attention and went on field trips like the circus. The on negative I will say is that the sister who did the ceramics sat three of us boys down in front of the cottage after we were misbehaving and said the father of one of the boys is cheap and the mother is a whore. I was almost sure she couldnt be talking about my parents because when you are young, your parents are everything. But years later I realized she very well could be talking about my parents. I think like all of us the nun was a sinner and had a bad day and God knows she's done alot more for manking than me, but its something that has never left me.

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  105. LaSalette was a living Hell. All you bastards that let
    It happen will pay dearly. Frank Murphy burns in Hell.
    Tony Holmes is next. You should all be ashamed...

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    1. Don't forget Tim Brennan! How much that all messed me up!! I tracked him down in 80', he yelled at me and said "I'm not like that anymore" and hung up the phone on me!!!

      But hey - you need to let go of the Hate Bro for yourself. All it will do is eat up your life and they continue to ruin your life...
      Yeah, it sux, but YOU make your future what YOU want it to be. Shut the door on that part of your life and open a new door.
      It took a long long time, but I am happy now - Have my own Family and they are safe from people like them.
      It isn't much different than the "one day at a time" Motto. I hope this helps you move on.
      And remember:
      Karma is a bitch! :-)

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    2. I was at lasalette from76-80.the state police didnt beleave my story until they saw the video I did while I was hipnatised.u cant begine to immagine what thoes people did to us.Zeke.

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    3. I just created a page on facebook, its called abused at nazareth child care center, dont you think its time that the truth, and the horrors of what we suffered be known?

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  106. Jim Lutz. Ginny, bill Egan , sue lutz, John mazoni,lou,
    Richard,Dottie, Tony , Fr.murphy, and all the rest of you
    Sick fucks that let all us defenceless children get
    Abused .you killed us . Hope the guilt wraps you up.
    You are all tremendous pieces of shit.....

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  107. Looking for Zecus. Need you bro.

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  108. I work at Showa now wanted to know history
    Great piece of land worth a fortune
    British School is in back leasing from Showa
    Old signs from Nazareth are still everywhere
    Showa U Tokyo is the connection to this school
    Bought it in '88' for students to come to America and learn history, english etc
    I drive for them part time
    Moss Hill is beautiful & peaceful
    Hope this helps Jimmy D

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  109. Kathy Barbara Gregorio passed away 2yrs ago I am her brother John who use to get into alot of trouble there if you remember.

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  110. No fond memories for me either. My sister, brother and I were there in the mid 60's.

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  111. Hi, I didn't attend Nazareth, but my father did. We was sent there in 1966 I believe. His name was Robert Wyatt and he would have been 3 when he was placed there until he was sent with foster parents, now my grandparents in 1968. I am trying to find his other siblings. He was one of 8. I know their names were: Thomas,James,Paul,Ellen,Richard,Raymond and Gregory. If anyone knows anything I would appreciate the info. -a.p.-

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    1. As a child care worker at Nazareth, I believe I took care of Bobby - your dad
      What a nice kid he was!

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  112. Hi, I believe I was at nazareth from 1967-1970.I was in the oldest girls cottage. I remember Sister germaine in the 6th grade and sister marcella. I think Sister Mary Francis was the one in my cottage. I'm not quite sure what the name of it was. I think Presentation is coming to my mind. I got sent there becausr I had been abused and was placed there by the court system. I remember being afraid and not knowing what to expect. Some people were nice and others weren't but everyone there had their own story and reason for being there. I wish there was a way to get in touch with some of the people I met while I was there. I have some fond memories. I remember going to Cape Cod. going to school. Playing baseball in the big field. I received my Confirmation while I was there bt Cardinal Cushing. I also remember Father Sullivan as being a kind and funny guy. I had a counselor named Pam And Cathy....I met a really sweet boy there Named David jackson and would love to know what ever happened to him. I also knew a bot named Tommy Wyatt who came from Cambridge...I just want to thank everyone who looked out for me and took care of me at a time in my life that was full of confusion and fear....I well forever be grateful that there was a Nazareth because it could have been worse....

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    1. IF U HAVE FACEBOOK GO TO NAZARETH CARE CENTER,. WE HAVE A WEBSITE. GOOD LUCK

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  113. Hi My name is Anna Bellitti and I lived at nazareth from 1967-1970. If you know mw i would like to hear from you My e.mail is annabellitti@yahoo.com...I would like to fing David Jackson who live in the big boys cottage back then. He was sweet...

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  114. Hi, I was there for 3-4 summers around 1956-1959 (7-10 years old)
    with 2 sisters ans two brothers we all had crossed eyes. Any one remember? The snack bar rings a bell but I can't place it. While I hated the discipline, I remember it fondly
    glenwilde@aol.com

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  115. Hi, I was at Nazareth from Sept. 1967 to June 1968. My name was Bonnie Manning,and I was in Presentation, my brother Jack was also there he was in LaSalette. Just one year, but one that had a profound impact on my life.
    Coming from a home of chaos and alcoholic parents, Nazareth brought order, and boundaries and lots of joy. I have many fond memories of people and experiences. I remember one "outsider" I think that what we called those who only attended the school, anyway her name was Jane or Janie I think and she was very kind to me. People in my cottage that I remember by name were, Linda Bacon, who was dating David Jackson at the time, lol. Anna Maria Bellitti, who was in my room who I see blogged above. Pam Boytnot?, Demerese Cormier, Donna and Dedee Blood. I do remember a Tom wyatt, Arthur Derome, and Steve somebody? lol. Hi to all, will blog more later.

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  116. Hi This is Anna Maria Bellitti Hi Bonnie Manning, I remember you and I'm touched that you remember me.I remember you had beautiful black hair and have a good personality and funny.I remember Linda bacon and I loved David Jackson.and the others you mentioned.I hope you are well. if you would like you can Email me at annabellitti@yahoo.com I would love to hear from you.

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  117. my mom was here sometime between 1965-1969 with several of her siblings. if anyone was there, please contact me. She doesn't remember much.Crodrig2@mail.valenciacollege.edu. please help.

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  118. Hi,
    My name is Connie. I was at Nazareth from 1963-1969. I remember Sonia, Lydia ida, Bonnie,
    Anna Bellitti, Pam Boynot, MaryAnn Devlin, Linda Bacon and her sister Robin. Nancy with the one arm. Linda Crowley, David J. Howe Power,
    Tommy Thompson, Lydia was dating Tommy Nezwici.
    I loved Nazareth. Sister Mary Patricia is still working, Sister Mary Rose Just retired. Sister Pauline left the convent and I believe she married. Sister Barbara, also left the convent and married a man with 6 kids. It is so nice to see all of you here. Do any of you remember me?
    loco4ktb@verizon.net Connie

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  119. Hi,
    My name is Connie. I lived at Nazareth from 1963-1969. And I remember ALL of you guys.
    Lydia, Sonia, Ida, Anna B. Lynda and Robin, Risa, Maryann Devlin, Bonnie,Pam B. Diane Carney,Lynda Crowley, Nancy( with the hook arm we use to say at the time.) Donna and Diane Shannon, Roberta and Nancy Burke. You guy's were my family, and I loved everyone of you.
    And I have fond memories of each of you. I loved Nazareth. And because of the chance Nazareth gave me to see a different angle on life, I have had and am having a wonderful blessed life. Feel free to e-mail me.
    Connie loco4ktb@verizon.net

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  120. lydia santiago mangualNovember 17, 2011 at 8:52 PM

    I connie, it's lydia mangual. I HAVE SUCH A BAD MEMORY THAT I DON'T REMEMBER TOO MUCH ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO NAMES. WHAT'S UR LAST NAME? DO U HAVE A FACEBOOK? thanks for the nice comment. lydia mangual.

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  121. hi

    Not sure if this will work When I was in Highschool in mid 60's I worked after school in Visitation cottage. I was able to take girls home for the weekend.

    Many years later I had a group and we started to have birthday parties and Christmas paries for the children

    I remember Dianne I remember her horrible death.
    the Sister had told us over and over how scared they were for the children. But the state was involved and socal workers insited the children be sent home on week ends and on sunday nights the Sisters had to clean up the mess

    I later got my company involved when I gave a presentation about Nazarth. This was After Dianne's death.

    It hurts me to know some of you children were also abused there. I never saw it but the most time I was there is when I was in highschool and I only remember a few of the girls.

    My heart goes out to you that had a horrible experience.

    O have no ;ove for Nuns I was not healthy and on said a few nasty things to me.

    I also went a few years to catholic school (sisters of st Joseph and I have nothing to say good about them but thier words and actions still hurt

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    1. Dian sat next to me in Ms.Beth's class.She had the whitest teeth I've eva seen n always wore a red dress with a white collar.She was very quiet n shy an wasent there very long.A perfect angel if I eva saw 1.Rest peacefully sister,yr brother always,xoxo Zeke.

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  122. Hi work it was more like babysitting that what they called it. I think it was 50 cents a hour

    Mary

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  123. Hi Lydia,
    MacLean is my last name. I mostly played with Sonia, and I really liked Ida, she was so quiet.
    I do not do face book. By the time I get to face book the information is old, my kids always laugh at me because I am trying to put answers to things that have passed. Oh well. So I do not do face book. Connie

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  124. Hi

    I have always wanted to know if you children got presents at Christmas? I don't ever remember see any of the girls with dolls and other toys. It was a long time age. I have always wondered

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    1. well I know that I did if your parents were allowed to visitas mine & my brother were.
      not to sure about the kids who parents had nothing to do with them I think the state gave money to the staff so the kids each got something on chirstmas morning

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  125. My name is Deb (Debbie) I am Diane & Risa's sister. I was there from 1966(?) may be '67 until Feb 1969. I was in Visitation and remember a girl named Donna Richardson (maybe Richards). I beleive she had a little sister named Debbie Owen. Would love to reconnect with those who remember me. I will check this blog often.

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  126. A client of mine recently told me that as a child he went to the Nazareth in JP (unsure of dates, possibly late fifties/early sixties as my client was born in 1953, he suffers from certain memory loss). He came from a family of 10 siblings, last name Evans. He has not seen his family in years and is looking for them. Can anyone help me with names, dates, other info? You can reach me at devorah.borenstein@gmail.com. Thanks very much!

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  127. My name is Carl, I was at Nazareth on 3 different occassions. The last time was 1966-1967. I also had three sisters there. Rosalie, Bernadette and Meriyyn. Anyone one remember us?

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  128. I was a resident a Nazareth at 420 Pond Street from September 1966 due Septemaber 2967 while my father was in Viet Name. I was in the Presentation Cottage..........the Sister in Charge was Sister Mary Patricia and the worker for Pesentation was Miss Pam.

    It was probably one of the best experiences of my life once I learned the ropes being in an institution environment and got to know the staff and girls.

    Just as anything in life, one had to balance everything..........take the good with the bad. I left there with mostly positive feelings. SIster Mary Patricia and Miss Pam were my mentors and tought me much.

    The majority of the teachers at Holy Childhood School were grand...........received an outstanding education there.

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  129. Connie

    OMG Girl ------------ Do I remember you, Anna Belllitti, Linda Ccawley, Linda Bacon, MaryAnn Devlin, Diane Carney, Cheryl Ferrier, The Pettipaw Sisters, Pam Benoit, etc. We all lived in Presentation together under the direction of Sister May Patricia and Miss Pam. Miss Myrphy..........how can we miss our Miss Murphy.

    Sister Barabara who grew up in NY use to play the guitar for us..........Sister Pauline was cool.

    I slept in Annunciation with the little girls.........Sister Laura (who left the convent) was the Sister In Charge. Margie Lynch, Kathy Leary.........some of the workers in Annunciation (great staff).

    I have ben in contact with Miss Pam and know where she lives. I saw her about 10 years agao and we were talking that we would love to have a reuinion.

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  130. I look at the above messages and recall so many names that were in the Presenation Cottage with me. Connie, Anna, Diane Carney, Pam B, Linda Croweley, Linda Bacon, Jane and Carolyn Pettipaw, Donna, Cheryl Ferrier, Mary Ann Devlin, etc.

    Sister Mary Patricia oversaw our Cottage with Pam Hamilton as the main caregiver to we kids. They were a super duo together.

    While I as there, Sister Germaine was the 6th grade teacher, Sister Mary David was the 7th grade teacher, and Sister Amelia was the 8th grade teacher.

    My experience at Nazareth is one I have very fond memories of. There were times when I thought differently but for the most part, it was a very good place to be when we, as children, didn't have any choice of where we would be placed.........so many things back then were out of our control.

    I believe that Nazareth provided me a firm foundation that I could build my life upon. I believe I had been able to live with the cliche "A Firm Foundation Cannot Be Built on Shifting Sands" because of the mentoring of Sister Patricia, Pam Hamilton, Sister Barbara, Sister Ann, Sister Mary Rose, Mrs. Murphy, etc. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will never forget any of you..............

    I am so sorry that were so many others that had negative experiences during their stay(s) at Nazareth.

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  131. Obituary for Sister Mary Patricia

    FINNERAN, SR. MARY PATRICIA, DC
    Section: CAPITAL REGION, Page: B6
    Date: Friday, May 10, 2002
    MENANDS -- Daughter of Charity, Sister Mary Patricia Finneran, DC, 80, died Wednesday, May 8, 2002 after a short illness at St. Louise House, Menands. The oldest of four children, Mary Elizabeth Finneran, the daughter of Genevieve A. O'Connor and Patrick F. Finneran, was born and grew up in Ashland, MA. After graduating from Regis College, Weston, MA with a degree in food management and dietetics, Mary studied nursing at Carney Hospital in the Cadet Corps Program of World War II. She worked as a nurse at Carney Hospital before entering the Daughters of Charity in 1949. Sister worked much of her community life with the mentally ill and troubled children. She ministered in Seton Institute, Baltimore, MD and Astor Home of Children, Rhinebeck, NY and with the retarded in Kennedy Child Study Center, New York, NY. During these latter years she earned a doctorate in clinical psychology from Fordam University. Sister Mary Patricia was the administrator of Nazareth Child Care Center, Jamaica Plain, MA and St. Catherine's Center, Albany, NY. One of the highlights of Sister's life as a Daughter of Charity was being elected to attend the General Assembly of the Daughters of Charity in Rome in 1974 where she joined Sisters from 72 provinces from around the world to deliberate on community matters. She then served in Carney Hospital, Boston, MA, St. Vincent Medical Center, Bridgeport, CT and the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Pottsville, PA. At St. Vincent's, she was chair of the board of directors of the medical center and the health services boards. She came to St. Louise House for health reasons in 2000. She is survived by her brother, Francis Finneran of Newburyport, MA and nieces and nephews. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2002 in the dePaul Provincial House. Calling hours will be on Friday from 4-7 p.m. with a wake service at 7 p.m. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Daughters of Charity Development Fund, 96 Menand Road, Albany, NY 12204.

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  132. I worked at Nazareth from 1963-68. My name is Pamela Hamilton. I miss you all dearly, I can remember 34 girls from presentation. Hello to Sandie, Connie, Anna, Lydia, Ida, Sonia, Maria. Lydia, if you can please post your email, I will write to you. I remember you all very, very, well. Sandie told me that the obituary for Sr. Mary Patricia was not the sister Mary Patricia in Presentation. Our Sister Mary Patricia is celebrating her 60th year as a nun, this January. Merry Christmas to you all!

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  133. Oh, I almost forgot, my email address is: pam.naz6368@gmail.com

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  134. Just a note: if you post your email address here, it can be picked up by robot harvesters and put on spam lists. I recommend creating a new email account - maybe something like

    myemail(nospam)@gmail.com. You see how I added 'nospam' to my own email account name? That way you can remember the account and check it occasionally, and not worry about getting on spam mailing lists. Once you contact each other, you can share your real email address.

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  135. Hi, I was at Nazareth around '66-68 for Kindergarten-1st grade. My name is Brian. I was a shy boy but I remember having fun on the property: playing on the hill and woods, learning to ride a bike, the ice cream shop at the entrance, Christmas in the auditorium, oatmeal for breakfast, maybe a girl named Barbara Reed, Ritz crackers and napping on a blanket in Kindergarten. This is a great site, thanks to all for sharing and bringing back memories.

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  136. Hey - sort of late onto this page -
    My name is Wanda Harmon/Chapman - Nazareth in the Early 70's.
    Well, funny to find ones name posted on a blog somewhere out in cyber world.... '-)
    Anyone remember Pearl Kesterson?? I believe this was the girls name that saved my life when I hit the slide and knocked myself out - Tall black girl - ??? Was there with 2 brithers Buddy and Pat - and Sister Helena.
    Am hoping to hear from Gigi, Jodi, Mary Alice Murphy and her brother - can someone tell me what happened to Dianne - never knew the story of that mess...
    You all can find me on FB- not on too too often but, I do eventually get to it.... I am one of the technologically Challenged - Up to my kids to help me find my way around ;-)
    Was anyone else the victim of T. Brennen/boys counselor?? He had a Golden Ret. dog.........
    I do miss Sister Pauline and her beagle dog though - what was it's name?? -
    Wasn't all bad there - wasn't all good either -but Sure can't forget it!!!

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    1. Unfortunitaly I know the whole story about Dian Devanna.She sat next to me in school.I'd be more than willing to share Dian's story to honor her memory.Zeke.

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    2. Please be careful what you say about someone's private life here. There is a Facebook group for Nazareth where you can say anything you like.

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  137. I think the dog was pepeto ( meant little one if I remember correctly). I loved that dog. :)

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    1. Yup. Pepe aka Pepito. Loved him!! Sister Pauline's dog.

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  138. My two sisters and brother were there in the seventies Bill Sandy and Christine Davis. I was put in the Italian Home for children around the corner. The picture in the box was us on visit days at Nazareth

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  139. HI PAMELA,THANKS FOR UR RESPONSE. WE HAVE A NAZ SITE ON FB, U SHOULD JOIN US B/C ITS SO MUCH FUN. KEEP IN TOUCH. MY EMAIL IS lydiamangual@ymail.com

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  140. HI CONNIE, NICE TO HEAR FROM YOU. WE HAVE A NAZ SITE & I HOPE U CAN JOIN US.

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  141. Pam

    It is so nice to see that you posted. I was also very fortunate to get to know you on an adult level. I was very fortunate to be in Presentation when you and Sister Mary Patricia were there overseeing we girls.

    I have sent Sister Mary Patricia a note of thanks and hoping to establish communication with her.

    I hope everyone has a great week..............

    Sandie Norton

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  142. Hello all. I lived at Naz a couple of times between 1975 and 1980. I lived in Fattima(sp) and the one next to it that begins with and R. I cannot remember the name. I do rememner a lot of different thing from there, mostly good. I remember playing football in the lower field where i broke my leg and had a full cast thru the winter. That did not stop me from sliding down the big hill on a sled. I used to go thru the woods toward where the nuns lived and picking blueberries. There were a lot off nice people working there when I was there. My brother also moved in in 79-80 and we stayed for a while before we were adopted. We wer part of Wednesday's Child and Sunday/s Child whick helped us find a family. Would love to chat with others from that time period.

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    1. Ray, if you're on facebook we have a group called Nazareth Child Care Center 420 Pond St Jamaica Plain MA. Join us!

      http://www.facebook.com/groups/129177560455657/docs/

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    2. Ray, were you adopted by Tom & Joan?

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    3. My sister and i was also there during this time frame would like to talk!! j71theresa@yahoo.com

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  143. I've recently deleted a couple of comments in this thread. With freedom of speech comes responsibility. Comments that include foul language will be deleted when I catch them.

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    1. how do I delete something that I posted? I need to remove a part of a section that I wrote.

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    2. I can delete comments. If you email me, I can delete it.

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    3. okay what is your email address?

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    4. The link is in the right margin: Send Mail.

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  144. I have both negative and positive memories....
    Singing, "I don't want to grow up, just to learn to be a puppet....".
    My sister and I were separated, lots of kids in a room, no belongings, and more...
    My adoptive parents picked us up in a green truck, and a bunch of kids followed us into the back of the truck.
    Seeking others who were there around 1975.....

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  145. Wow, I've searched in the past for information about Nazareth. I lived there between 1957 and 1959 and then again between 1963 and 1964. Fatima, LaSallete and Rudibach. My brother, year younger and sister, year older. Sure they separated us by age and sex but did not keep us from interacting as siblings. I remember Sr Marcella and Sr Latitia and Fr Sullivan. My memories are fondly vague but cheerful -- good times and bad times. We had a good childhood there, normal in many ways. It was a lousy time in any child's life to be torn from a normal family life at ages 6-8 and an escape from a bad foster home at ages 11-12. I attended both the Catholic school there in 1955 and 1963/1964 and the local Jamaica Plain public school from 1958/1959.

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  146. I've removed a comment. This simply isn't the venue for accusations that name names. I encourage anyone who had problems at Nazareth to seek help, but this is simply a local history blog, not a place to make criminal accusations. I never intended this to be a place for former Nazareth residents to reconnect, but I can see that this is what has happened. But being responsible for this blog, I just feel like I have to draw the line somewhere. I certainly don't want to deny anyone their free speech, but for anyone who feels strongly about Nazareth and abuse of any kind, there is a well known lawyer who deals with such claims - please seek him out.

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  147. My name is Mary I was at Nazareth from 1966 to 1969 age 6 - 9. I was in Visitation. I have good memories of my time there. I made my first communion there. I was in the first bedroom with three other girls before I got placed in a very nice foster home. I remember Mary and Gertrude as volunteer/councelor and Miss Sullivan. I also remember Sr Mary Bernadette.
    I have looked for information on Nazereth before and did not find anything. I was happy to find this blog It brought back many memories.

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    1. Mark if you are interested we have a facebook group called Nazareth Child Care Center 420 Pond St Jamaica Plain MA https://www.facebook.com/groups/129177560455657/doc/205730199467059/

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