Monte Pio Girls Home Badge (Maitland)

Description

They’re not in the best of condition, but this is local history, so worth preserving never the less.  Monte Pio Girls Home was an orphanage that operated from 23rd May, 1910 until 1972 and was run by the Sisters of Mercy.  Originally there was one dormitory with forty beds, but as the numbers of orphans rapidly increased, it became necessary to extend.  An additional wooden building was built in 1915 and by 1919 the number of girls had increased from the original 19 to 90.  For the first five years the orphanage depended almost entirely on the generosity of the Maitland people for food, clothing, shoes and other necessities.  A committee of ladies was formed to assist in charitable work to raise funds for the orphanage, which included selling fundraising badges.  Monte Pio became famous for its annual concert, with entertainment – dancing and singing by the girls.  Monte Pio is now a motel and part of the Mercure Brand.

Each badge measures 2cm in diameter.  There are six available.  If you have a preference contact us or leave a note in the comment box at checkout.