The Old Ladies Home

     On January 2, 1905, a meeting was held at the residence of Mrs. George Pfau, Jr., for the purpose of forming and perfecting plans for founding a home for persons who were without the means of providing themselves with the necessities and comforts of life. The first name selected for the institution was ‘Home for the Aged,’ but as this included both sexes, a condition contrary to law, the name was changed to ‘The Old Ladies’ Home.’ Solicitors were appointed to see what amount could be raised, and they met with such success that at the next meeting a committee was appointed to draft a constitution, by-laws, and rules, i.e., Henry Burtt, Mrs. Sarah Ransom, Miss Clara J. Loomis and Miss Rose Beck. 

    A board of directors to serve one year was elected as follows: Mrs. George Pfau, Jr., president; Mrs. Sarah Ransom, first vice-president; Mrs. Agnes Zulauf, second vice-president; Miss Clara J. Loomis, Mrs. Ed Weber, Mrs. Daisy Kehoe, Mrs. C.E. Asbury, Mrs. William Lewis, Mrs. Jessie Bishop, Mrs. John Geinger, Mrs. I.F. Whitesides, and Mrs. William Seibert. The following gentlemen were appointed on the first advisory board: George H. Voight, A.A. Schwartz, W.B. Lewis, S.E. Mullings, John Best, George Holzborg, James H. Armstrong, George Pfau, Sr., Henry Burtt and John C. Zulauf. 

    In November, 1905, the Ward property at the northwest corner of Market street and Ohio avenue, was rented and prepared for the admission of applicants. Eight ladies were cared for in this home until late in 1906. In October, 1906, the property at 330 West Market street was purchased from George Pfau, Sr., and the ladies were moved to the new building in April, 1907. 

    In the purchase of this new property Mrs. Sarah Ransom donated one thousand dollars and Mrs. Jennie S. Cobb, the sister of the late William Stratton, of Colorado Springs, donated a like amount. The rest of the necessary amount was made up of small subscriptions. 

    Eleven ladies have been cared for in the new home. The institution is supported by hard work on the part of the ladies who manage its affair, and on the generosity of friends. An aid society has been formed and it affords much assistance to the managers in the matter of supplies and money. The present board is Mrs. Sarah Ransom, president; Miss Rose Beck, first vice-president; Mrs. John C. Loomis, second vice-president; Mrs. Daisy Kehoe, third vice-president; Miss Clara J. Loomis, secretary; Mrs. William Seibert, treasurer. The home has done much good in Jeffersonville and the ladies managing it deserve unstinted praise for the perseverance and success.

Source: Baird’s History of Clark County by Capt. Lewis C. Baird, 1909.