The Pennsylvania Sanitarium
By W. J. Fitzgerald
THREE years ago the present month a sanitarium was opened in Philadelphia by Dr. A. J. Read and a corps of assistants. Although very little has been said concerning this institution by the denominational press, yet it has been doing a vigorous and considerable work from its opening until the present time. Twelve or more persons have engaged in the work. Generally speaking, the institution has prospered financially, by gathering to itself a fair patronage of patients able and willing to pay reasonable rates. This has made it possible for a considerable amount of charitable work to be done for those not able to pay the regular rates. From the beginning, the work has been hindered because of lack of room, and because the house was not such as would invite those persons who have plenty of money. The need of larger and better quarters has been very apparent for some time. We believe that the Lord has enabled us to purchase a most attractive and desirable property. About fifteen years ago a wealthy contractor purchased several properties. After removing the houses from the ground, he had erected a magnificent private dwelling facing on Girard Avenue, and a beautiful office building just to the rear of the dwelling, and facing on South College Avenue, the street which runs in front of the famous Girard College. When this property was complete, it cost over one hundred thousand dollars. A great mistake was made in building such an expensive and elaborate private residence in that locality of the city. Financial reverses came to the owner of the property. Real estate values depreciated, and the property passed into other hands, entailing great loss upon the original owner. We purchased the property for $29,750. Taking into consideration carpets and other articles of furniture which came to us with the house, the purchase price is reduced to $29,500. We shall be enabled to conduct the work upon a dignified and proper scale in this property. Such patients as will be able to pay more money into the institution will be brought here. This will make it possible for more free work to be done. In view of the fact that Philadelphia is the third city on the continent in point of population, and doubtless the first as a center of medical importance, it has seemed most desirable that our medical work be properly represented here. A commodious and attractive property will make it possible for a consecrated and efficient force of laborers to do a work that will adequately represent the rational reform movement which has been committed to our hands. Doubtless some who read these lines will desire to aid this important work in this great city. To such we will say15that donations of any amount will be gratefully accepted. You may also aid by encouraging persons of your acquaintance who need sanitarium treatment to come to the Pennsylvania Sanitarium, which, after May 1, will be located at 1929 Girard Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. We also ask the aid of your prayers. W. J. Fitzgerald,
President Board of Trustees.