History of St. Dominic's

In the late 19th Century, America was considered "The Land of Opportunity" by thousands of immigrants who dreamed of a better life for themselves and their children. New York City became a favorite destination.

However, the dream faded for many when decent housing could not be found; no jobs were available for many because of discrimination by business owners as to whom they would hire. Some men took their families westward in search of a home and employment. Others went alone; few returned to their families. Many mothers became depressed; substance abuse surfaced, and neglected and hungry children roamed the streets of New York.

The Dominican Sisters at Holy Rosary Convent, Brooklyn, New York, were asked by Cardinal McClosky to find a place in the country for the poor orphaned, immigrant children. Meanwhile , the Sisters had also been asked by the pastor of St. Catherine's Church to staff a school he planned to open. The Sisters purchased land for a convent. However, because of the poor economy, the school was delayed and the Sisters turned their thoughts to building an orphanage. The cast of building proved prohibitive.

Walking back to the train station, the Sisters saw "FOR SAIL" on a house on what is now known as Western Highway. When invited into the home by the owner, Mr. Eustace, they were amazed to see a large oil painting or one of the miracles of St. Dominic: Raising a dead child to life. Sr. Mary Ann knew this was a special sigh sign and said: "Here we shall be." She also knew what their mission would be: To give new life to children in need. And, for 129 years St. Dominic's Home has continued Sr. Mary Ann's mission by responding to the needs of the times.

On November 1, 1878, the first nine Sisters and seven girls arrived at what was known as St. Joseph's Home. Within two years there were more than two hundred girls in care.

While in court one day, Sr. Mary Ann heard the judge remanded a boy to another institution. Rather than separate the family, she told the judge she would take the boy. Soon, the boys population increased as fast as the girls.

The transition of the name from St. Joseph's Home to St. Dominic's likely occurred in the early 1900's The Sister's Congregation became involved in many other services to the poor, especially education. Since all business matters were handled by the Sisters, expanding ministries made it difficult to keep financial affairs separate. So, in 1962, ST., Dominic's Home became a separate corporation but remained one of the Congregations ministries.

Provided by: the St. Dominic's Alumni Association Committee