Illinois State Training School c. 1970

June 14, 2011 Cherie Bombell 61 comments

This is how I remember Illinois State Training School for Girls, Geneva, Illinois. I used to park my car in the lot just opposite the guard station then walk through the middle of the grounds to Geneva Cottage or to Oak and Wallace Cottage on the right (just out of the picture). The cemetery is in the wooded area to the right. Even though I know there are beautiful homes built on this site now, I can’t imagine anything other than the place as it was when I worked there and youngsters were attending school, working and living in these buildings.

Does anyone know what all the buildings are? This is what I remember – correct me if I’m wrong. The little building at the entrance opposite the parking lot is the guard station. The building to the right of the driveway going to the second parking lot is the Administration Building (pathway to the door) with an employee residential building just to its right. Behind the second parking lot is the dispensary and the school to the right – the one with the steeple. Behind those buildings are the laundry, kitchen and other maintenance type buildings. Surrounding the middle are the cottages that became ‘home’ to the juveniles incarcerated there. Also a chapel is to the right of the school. I’m not exactly sure where but on the left was where inmates could go rollerskating and swimming. I remember a scary incident at the pool when an excited young girl saw the pool for the first time. She had never been in a swimming pool and couldn’t wait top get in and get wet. She jumped in, landed near me but couldn’t swim. Without any fear and laughing the whole while, she ‘climbed’ up me to stay above the water. I was pushed under and almost drowned!

This photo is a real memory jogger for me. I’d forgotten how big the institution was and how many buildings there were. What stories does it bring back to you?

This picture is provided courtesy of Geneva History Center Archives Collection

Kids Behind Bars 1970s, Cemetery, Department of Corrections, Detention Centers, Geneva Illinois, Geneva Illinois Girls School, graveyard, incarcerated, young offenders

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#1 | Written by Megan Shoger on April 5, 2023. Reply

I am doing intense research on the school and the gals who spent time there. I have been visiting the cemetery for years and hike the woods regularly searching for items that were left behind. I am trying to document the people buried in the cemetery and stories of girls who made it out. If any of you would be willing to share your stories with me, please send me an email! I would absolutely love to hear from you and about you and your experiences. @mshoger2013@gmail.com
#2 | Written by Debby brewer on February 10, 2023. Reply

I was wondering if you had any pictures of a woman named Helen Eileen Barnes she would have been there in the 30s 0r early 40s any info would be helpful
#3 | Written by Samone Richardson on January 14, 2023. Reply

Hi , I’m looking for information for my mother. Her mother Saline Perry attended this school ,I’m not sure during what year. My grandma was born in 1948 so maybe the 1960s she attend. Does anyone remember Saline Perry? Also , I’m looking for a Dr that was there during the same time, his name was Ernest, not sure the last name. He was said to be my mothers dad.
#4 | Written by Connie Alexander on October 28, 2022. Reply

I read a lot of your comment s
#5 | Written by GOAJ on March 21, 2022. Reply

In the early to mid 80s the place was abandoned with a few buildings standing and the place was overrun with deer. I would often camp there and train for kick boxing matches. It was up on a hill and was a wonderful place to set up a telescope and stargaze as you were above the lights of the surrounding area and to take your sweetie for a candle light picnic and snuggle session.

One night though I was disturbed by a group of Satanists who were digging up a grave! A male and female adult pair of posers in their late 30s and bunch of young adults and teens playing acting like a version of goth meets dungeons and dragons. I lite into them like white on rice and sent the fleeing. Warlock boy tried tp scare me with his powers which apparently could not stop a stinging jab and a right cross, but what do I know of Warlock powers. He bled okay though. Witchy woman cast a curse on me, and here 40 or so years later I still wonder what it was suppose to do give I ended up married, with successful grown children, and a multi-millionaire; but if that is the power of black magic maybe everyone should experience it. Come daylight it was obvious they had dug up “baby” graves before and I reported it to the Geneva Police who berated me for being up there and threatened to charge me with trespassing and battery.

After that I sort of tried to watch over the cemetery and drove off the freaks on 4 more occasions. After I phoned in additional reports and told residents the police came by up there now and again and the Satanist started carrying on their sicko stuff in an old farm silo down toward Aurora at I-88 and Randall Road until the were found out and the silo torn down. Always wondered were they went to.

Back then the place was desolate and sad, very creepy in so many ways but so tranquil and lovely in other ways. I just feel rage at the thought of those sickos digging up bodies to this day. In fact today I went up there with one of my sons not knowing what had happened to the cemetery and thinking maybe I could do some charitable estate thing to secure it. There is now a rather upscale subdivision up there and a fence around the cemetery – wow, but then 35-40 years is a long time. I hope all the souls buried there are at rest.
#6 | Written by Lindagail on January 20, 2022. Reply

Cherie, I was there in 1968. There was no pool then. Twice they took the Honor Cottage to St. Charles to use their pool. Don’t remember the name of the cottage but known as the Honor cottage. After reading the other positive experiences, I feel like being placed on the honor cottage with Mrs. Mueller shortly after I arrived was the worst thing that could have happened to me. I’m glad others had matrons who were kind to them. I can only wonder, what if I had that kind of experience, how much more productive my time there could have been.

On the Honor Cottage, we stood in line for meals. No talking. We stood at our tables in the dining room until told to sit. No talking. No matron was ever called anything but Mrs. So and So. IF EVERYONE in the cottage was good, we got to go downstairs and listen to records for an hour. That happened twice while I was there. Again, IF EVERYONE in the cottage was good, (mind you, one person could screw it up) we got to watch TV or listen to the radio for ONE hour. That happened maybe 3 times. Maybe. Twice we got to go to the gym and watch a movie. I was farmed out for cleaning houses for ten cents an hour.

I wish I would have taken the electrician program which would have given me a good paying trade. But it was a nine month program and when I first arrived, I couldn’t imagine being there nine months so I didn’t sign up. I did learn how to crochet doilies and slippers, got my GED, learned to type and took keypunching. The GED enabled me to get into college so something positive did come out of the experience. I’ll let you know once my memoir is published. There’s a chapter on Geneva in it.

I appreciate you for creating this website. Gives me a different perspective. Every cottage was not run by a Mrs. Mueller.
#7 | Written by Nannetta "psycho" on December 27, 2021. Reply

I attended the girl’s school sometime in the early 70s at Willard’s cottage and boy was it a different time back then. I met a matron named Janice Holloway, and she saved my life as I was going through a really rough time being locked up there. I broke a bottle of tweed cologne one night and Ms. Janice smelled it and followed the scent and saw I was attempting to take my own life. She screamed “no Nanna!!!” Over and over and immediately came to my side and wrapped my arm and made me read this Bible verse repeatedly and I remember it till this day!!! That scripture which is John 14 1-3 has stayed with me over the years as I was a troubled young girl and Janice saved me! Now, at age 67 I have been on a long Christian journey and my war is against satan and the author of all confusion and I couldn’t be happier to have left that life behind long ago. Peace out, stay blessed and remember John 14 1-3 Merry Christmas and sending love.
#8 | Written by Nannetta “Psycho” on December 26, 2021. Reply

I attended the girls school sometime in the early 70s at Willard’s cottage and boy was it a different time back then. We all gave each other nicknames and “psycho” was mine as a young girl. Lol! I met a matron named Janice Holloway, and she saved my life as I was going through a really rough time being locked up there. I broke a bottle of tweed cologne one night and Ms. Janice smelled it and followed the scent and saw I was attempting to take my own life. She screamed “no Nanna!!!” Over and over and immediately came to my side and wrapped my arm and made me read this Bible verse repeatedly and I remember it till this day!!! That scripture which is John 14 1-3 has stayed with me over the years as I was a troubled young girl and Janice saved me! Now, age 67 I have been on a long Christian journey and my war is against satan and the author of all confusion and I couldn’t be more happier to have left that life behind long ago. Peace out, stay blessed and remember John 14 1-3 Merry Christmas and sending love.

If you want to reach me I can be reach at my granddaughters email montianab@yahoo.com
#9 | Written by Nannetta “psycho” on December 26, 2021. Reply

I attended the girls school sometime in the early 70s at Willard’s cottage and boy was it a different time back then. I met a matron named Janice Holloway, and she saved my life as I was going through a really rough time being locked up there. I broke a bottle of tweed cologne one night and Ms. Janice smelled it and followed the scent and saw I was attempting to take my own life. She screamed “no Nanna!!!” Over and over and immediately came to my side and wrapped my arm and made me read this Bible verse repeatedly and I remember it till this day!!! That scripture which is John 14 1-3 has stayed with me over the years as I was a troubled young girl and Janice saved me! Now, age 67 I have been on a long Christian journey and my war is against satan and the author of all confusion and I couldn’t be more happier to have left that life behind long ago. Peace out, stay blessed and remember John 14 1-3 Merry Christmas and sending love.

If you want to reach me I can be reach at my granddaughters email montianab@yahoo.com
#10 | Written by Emily Ragusa on October 15, 2021. Reply

My GGG-grandmother was at this “school” in 1927. Her name was Pearl B Grace. I didn’t know her, and I’m trying to learn more about her experience while she was there. Does anyone know or remember her? Or, how I can get my hands on any records that remain from her time there? Please email me emragusa@gmail.com
#11 | Written by Almaz Abegaze on September 22, 2021. Reply

I’m in search of any information that would lead to finding my fathers family..
My mother was there in the early 1970s I was born there in 1970 I was put in foster care immediately.. My family didn’t want me cause I was black..
My mother’s name is Ellen Louise Shinall 17 years old 1-2-53 Caucasian long black straight hair… my mother was deaf..
Any information or stories
Does anyone know if there is way to research the names of the employees
#12 | Written by Steve on July 31, 2021. Reply

Hello, my name is Steve. I remember being there when Miss Lovett was there as a counselor.
#13 | Written by Debra Miller Moore on June 15, 2021. Reply

Cherie,I look back at your page now and then.Im surprised you have really came along way with this.When you started,you had nothing at all.I was the first to post,but that’s no longer on here.Congrats all’s it took was time.Memories that will never be forgotten by so many of us.God Bless.
#14 | Written by Jean Venables-Johnson on March 12, 2021. Reply

Hi ! I was at I.S.T.S.G. In the 60’s & tried to get my Certificates for Restaurant Training & Meat- Cutting… (to no avail) I remember the Art teacher that was there when I was…she drove a Saub…she was THE BEST !!! She entered a couple of oil paintings in the Illinois State Fair & I won ribbons for them !!! I can’t recall her name but her being SO NICE & TEACHING ME SO MUCH MADE IT BEARABLE BEING THERE !!! I remember having to wear “Saddle Shoes” & Pea-Coats & when I first got there I was hanging up my Pea-Coat & a group of girls rushed at me & tried to attack me, but I ran my arm through the wire hangers & defended myself & after that nobody bothered me ! I remember a girl whose name I never forgot : Queen Esther Phillip’s & saw her Rip a Television that was mounted on the wall & throw it at someone ! She was VERY TALL !! I remember going to St. Charles (for boys) on the weekends or to their pool & you HAD to stay in the pool…( I couldn’t swim & a girl grabbed me at the deep end & let me go & I almost drowned ! ) I and another girl were planning on escaping ( we were cleaning the Administration Building) we went up to the attic & were reading old files from the 1940’s) but the German Shepherds found us ! They threw us in the “HOLE” that I recall being called “Blackstone or Bluestone” I didn’t realize that my “Papers” had came back & I was scheduled to go home…but NOW I had a prolonged stay because of my trying to let myself out LOL ! I spent most of my teenage years there & maybe the longest I was out was maybe a month ! I will NEVER forget my stay there & have changed my ways since but that place was DEFINATELY AN EXPERIENCE FOR ME !!!
#15 | Written by Carol on February 25, 2021. Reply

I was an inmate in the late 50’s. I remember Hope Cottage. Worked in the bakery with Miss Blair. Also remember the honey business. My first week there was the loneliess time of my life. cried myself to sleep. My father died while I was there . they let me go home for his funeral. My crime was running away and using drugs. There was no rehab at all. I was there from 1956 to 1957. My class was graduating high school and I was locked up. I was so sad.
#16 | Written by Diane Kraft on January 9, 2021. Reply

I was at Geneva in 1961 , my mother put me there because I would not stay at home , my father had custody of me but she went to court saying he had no control of me. I went tyere pregnany , do not remember the name of the cottage I was in but do remember at lady that I believe was named Crusie ( not sure of spelling) she was aftican american , very pretty & kind , she was there as the matron most ofbthe time . We had our own room that we wete mostly locked in . Had a old large cooking pot we had to use for the bathroom & in the morning, first thing was to clean it . When I went into labor it was the middle of the night , i kept calling for help & all the girls in the following rooms called along with me . I was transported in a car to Illinois Research Hospital where I gave birth to my beautiful son who was a breach birth. I was not allowed to see him . I went back to Geneva until I turned 18 which was a month after my sons birth . I was then directed to a foster home where my son was at . I went there to pick him up , I remyI did not like it , there were several babies there lying in cribs , my son had a bad rash on his face , I couldn’t get him out of there fast enough.I also got my teeth fixed while in Geneva , I really did not think
It was that bad , I just got very lonely for my family . I had heard a lot of rumors the year I was there about girls being beat , running away & raped. The cemetery used to give me chills to look at it & just imagine what terrible things happened to those in it that must not have had any family’s .
#17 | Written by Sharon Randall Friday on October 7, 2020. Reply

Hi Cherie. I do know if you remember me, or if you are still running this website. We spoke a few times many years ago. I was there in the 60’s. If you still need the names of the buildings, please let me know. I remember them all. – Sharon R
#18 | Written by Sharon Randall-Friday on October 7, 2020. Reply

Hi Cherie. I do know if you remember me, or if you are still running this website. We spoke a few times many years ago. I was there in the 60’s. If you still need the names of the buildings, please let me know. I remember them all. – Sharon R
#19 | Written by Sharon Randall-Friday on October 7, 2020. Reply

Hi Cherie. I do know if you remember me, or if you are still running this website. We spoke a few times many years ago. I was there in the 60’s. If you still need the names of the buildings, please let me know. I remember them all.
Sharon R
#20 | Written by christy on July 10, 2020. Reply

Hello, I am helping my best friend find her ancestors who may have been her 1938-1942. Did they keep records and if so where do go to find them. Joan was stealing at 14,15 and was charged with Grand Larceny. She was white and given reform or punishment at Dwight at the time. Can anyone help me find records from that era;1938-1942? Christy
#21 | Written by greg jennings on June 20, 2020. Reply

I grew up in this area and found across the graveyard. It hat a profound impact on my youth. Could I talk to you ?
#22 | Written by Sharon Randall on February 19, 2020. Reply

Hi Cherie, don’t know if you remember talking to me many years ago. I was there between the ages of 11-16 (1964-1969). I don’t know if anyone listed all the cottages or not. Too much to read, and my eyesight is poor these days.

During my incarceration, there were 12 cottages in use. On the North side of the property (front to back) were Harvey (used for storage), Fabyan, Howe†, Willard, Faith†, Geneva, and Hope† Cottages. On the South side of the property (front to back) were Wallace†, the Unit†, Elm, Beverly, Maple†, and Willow Hall Cottages. The cottage with a † I lived in them at some point. The last cottage I was in, was Wallace Cottage. After that I never returned. Also between Howe and Willard Cottages, there was a gymnasium. Where we could roller skate. and where watched movies. There was a farm cottage behind the gym, but I do not think it was used for anything (storage maybe). And one year, they added a outdoor built in swimming pool. Where lots of us almost drowned, because of some of the girls didn’t know how to swim.

In the central North section, there was a dispensary (where you could see a doctor, nurse, or dentist), A Beauty salon, an industrial bakery and an industrial laundry.

In the center, there was a school & library, Electronics (for 16+), and the chapels (I believe one was Catholic, and the other was Protestant).

To the rear of the property there were a few smaller buildings. The was a butcher/ slaughter house, a greenhouse, etc.

Girls after a certain age, were allowed to work (instead of going to school) at the beauty Salon, Bakery, Laundry, & Slaughter House. Sometimes they had to wait for an opening. The beauty salon was the most difficult to get into, because of it’s popularity. It was also a beauty school where you could obtain a degree. Most often you were put on a waiting list. I never wanted to work there, because it always smelt like burnt hair. I did; however, work at the bakery for a bit.

The admin build. of course was at the front (center), sort of between Harvey Cottage and Wallace Cottage. It was used for visitors, Sociology, Psychiatry, and your overall chastisement by the Administrator. 🙂 I was there a lot. I still remember my Mother crying every time she came to visit me there. Broke my heart every time.

I hope this help, and I am not just repeating what someone else has said. If you have any questions, please ask them now, as my memories are becoming less clear these days, and my ill health portends my likely demise in the near future.

To all the girls that have spent time in this place, My heart goes out to you. It was not the most terrible place I have been in my life, but it was not a happy place either. Lots of scars. sad memories, and broken hearts, for too many girls. Whom, like myself, ran away from home too many times. And did not deserve to be locked away like that. Running away is no longer a crime, thank goodness.

Geneva (as we girls called it) was built for one purpose. To house girls who did not conform to societies rules. Of the thousands of girls who were sent there over the years, only a very small few were there for actually committing a real crime. We were all labeled (unfairly) as bad girls and criminals. We were neither. I am glad they tore the place down, but what came after was even more cruel. The city of Geneva denied there was ever a facility there for many years. They just wanted to pretend it never happened. Sadly, they wanted to forget all the girls who had suffered the ISTG.

Blessed Be to All, Be well and happy.

Sharon R
#23 | Written by Cassandra on November 4, 2019. Reply

Growing up in Geneva I always found the place very fascinating as did most townies. This thread is very interesting and I find the stories of the women who spent time there, very interesting. We did not know much about the place. The urban legends of what went on were discussed quite a bit. I always took them with a grain of salt. Happy to read of the success stories. Very heartwarming. Thank you to the ladies who are sharing.
- #24 | Written by Montiana Bew on December 26, 2021. Reply
  
  I attended the girls school sometime in the early 70s at Willard’s cottage and boy was it a different time back then. I met a matron named Janice Holloway, and she saved my life as I was going through a really rough time being locked up there. I broke a bottle of tweed cologne one night and Ms. Janice smelled it and followed the scent and saw I was attempting to take my own life. She screamed “no Nanna!!!” Over and over and immediately came to my side and wrapped my arm and made me read this Bible verse repeatedly and I remember it till this day!!! That scripture which is John 14 1-3 has stayed with me over the years as I was a troubled young girl and Janice saved me! Now, age 67 I have been on a long Christian journey and my war is against satan and the author of all confusion and I couldn’t be more happier to have left that life behind long ago. Peace out, stay blessed and remember John 14 1-3 Merry Christmas and sending love.
  
  If you want to reach me I can be reach at my granddaughters email montianab@yahoo.com
#25 | Written by linda j yougman on April 29, 2019. Reply

i was in there started at 14 3 to 4 times from 1960 to 1964 had a child there in 1964 brought her home with me. i was 18 i was never mistreated i was just a mean girl lol , i got out got married to the father and i am still married as of april 28 2019 , sad to see the place go away , i am still planning to see where the sites was , if any one on here that remembers me email me are leave message i am originaly from east st louis illinios , i believe some girls in the early 1900 was mistreated in sexual ways , i just was not . brings back a lot of memories a few fights in there , it was a experience hope to hear from some of you its been along time we are up in age now
- #26 | Written by JT on March 2, 2021. Reply
  
  It’s in Geneva IL. Only the cemetary remains.
- #27 | Written by Megan Shoger on May 29, 2023. Reply
  
  There is the cemetery and the foundation of one building left. Part of me wants to say it was the slaughterhouse from looking over old over head pictures.
#28 | Written by Carolyn Whittington on April 13, 2019. Reply

I have been trying to search out this place and where all the school records may be archived. With no success I need a copy of diploma or copy of my transcript, I was there from 1960 to 1965, anyone with any information I please reach out.stay strong and be Blessed.
#29 | Written by Mary Lynn on February 8, 2019. Reply

I was there two different times in 63 and in 64. A habitual runaway because my step-father was too touchy feely and my mother didn’t believe me. I remember both Oak and Wallace cottages.
The best memory I have is liking and being liked by my fellow “inmates”; I was white and had never been around black people before. So many of us had nicknames, but the only one I remember is a young woman named Marco. Another good memory is being allowed off campus during Passover, to celebrate the holiday with a local rabbi and his family.
The worst memory, and one that I still live with today, is being subjected to Electroconvulsive therapy – electric shock therapy. Twice. On the campus. I tried to get medical records released, but was not successful. This has caused a lifelong loss of bits and pieces of memory.

Also remember the hole. Remember the smell of the beauty shop, where the girls would get their hair washed and pressed. And the toast at breakfast that was brushed with melted butter. Using pencil lead to outline my eyes.
- #30 | Written by Mary Carter on June 18, 2020. Reply
  
  I was there also for the same reason you were Im 77 now and will never forget that place..I went in 1957 for one yr….placed in a foster home with a woman that wanted a house cleaner..I did get a job..so she stop pressuring me to clean.. i turned 17 and was able to be on my own ..that didnt last long..i went back to Geneva..told when i turned 18 id go to a womans prison..There was no reason..other than i tried to run got over the fence they got me.. Running from my step father molestation’s was my thing..hence my runs.from every where.and other things i did..They let me out to my father..no probation ..MY life was hell for years.today i have kids and grandkids and even great grands I Stopped drinking in 1981 hubby died in 82 with lung cancer…was on my own with the three kids for some time..some how i survived and remained sober since..kids are grown and awesome..My higher power is amazing…….I beleive my cottage mightve been hope.. I worked in the meat dept..delievered it to cottages and made ice cream..later i went to the beauty school two weeks before boards i was realeased..and couldnt stay ..sad for me.. blessing to you if you get this……Marylou.
- #31 | Written by Mary Carter on June 18, 2020. Reply
  
  I was there also for the same reason you were Im 77 now and will never forget that place..I went in 1957 for one yr….placed in a foster home with a woman that wanted a house cleaner..I did get a job..so she stop pressuring me to clean.. i turned 17 and was able to be on my own .
#32 | Written by Cathleen bailey on November 12, 2018. Reply

I was taken here in 1961 when my mother died. I was mixed in with all kinds of kids and taken care of by girls incarcerated there. A man named Mr.Tevis brought me out to an office to meet a couple who was paying to adopt a child. I kicked him in the butt as hard as I could. They told the couple I was a baby. I was 5 years old. They adopted me and immediately we moved to California. I ran away 3 times and when I was 15 stayed on my own.
My Brother was taken there. He was taken to three different foster homes and then adopted to a family found by Mr.Tevis. His experience at this place was much rougher than mine. The state placed us there. We should have been allowed to stay with our family.
#33 | Written by Alexis Medinna on September 20, 2018. Reply

I was there in 1967,I was 15 years old,and I lived at Geneva cottage for 10 months. I remember Mother Watson,our house mother,was awesome. And I remember Ms. Monday was the best cook,and a sweet little bit of a woman. Call me crazy,but I kinda liked it there,it was the first place where I felt safe in several years at that time. We had awesome teachers at the school,I remember our art teacher was a retired college art teacher who had toured Europe,and brought a bit of the world to us through art,I still use things she taught me when I draw. It was hard sometimes,rules were rules,and when broken you lost tv time,or had to stay in your room,but it was better than what I had kept running away from at home. I remember Ms. MacMinera I think was the name of the head lady who gave me my first pair of pierced earrings the day I left,I thought I was so slick for piercing my own ears while I was there. For some of us it was better than what we didn’t have at home…
#34 | Written by Anne Tuisl on April 26, 2018. Reply

I live in the Fox Run neighborhood and have always wanted to learn more about the facility and about those buried in the cemetery. I found these records with very detailed information about the school, letters from the girls, and their monthly Gazette, written by the girls. Hope you’ll find this information helpful and interesting.

http://www.idaillinois.org/digital/collection/isl/search/searchterm/state%20training%20school%20for%20girls/field/subjec/mode/exact/conn/and/order/title/ad/asc

With regards to the damage done to the cemetery, it is so disrespectful and such a shame. Individuals in the neighborhood have taken it upon themselves to now lock up the cemetery at dusk and re-open at dawn to try and prevent any further incidents.
#35 | Written by Blankety Blank on November 2, 2017. Reply

Back around 1971, I was at Charlie Town, Illinois State Training School For Boys, outside of St. Charles.

I recall that once while I was there, they took us to Geneva Girls School for a dance one evening.

It was a very exciting evening.

I recall dancing with several woman that evening, and we all feasted on hamburgers and fries from Mc Donalds. I do not recall what cottage we were in.

I was around 18 at the time, and killing time till I was released to go back home.

Now at age 64, I still have fond memories of that evening at the Geneva Girls School.

It was really great to get out of Charlie Town for an evening to go there.

Sometimes they also used to take us to the movies for an evening in St, Charles, if we were on good behaviour.

Blankety Blank.

>>>>>>>
#36 | Written by Neil Benedict on October 26, 2017. Reply

Hello,

My name is Neil and I have been researching my genealogy and I discovered that my grandmother lived at the State Home in Geneva per the 1940 census records. I don’t know the duration of her time there, she never mentioned it (totally understandable from what I have read so far). I spent a lot of time with her as a child and she died when I was 14 years-old. I just want to learn more about her life and she does not have any siblings or surviving relatives (my dad died when I was 9 and he knew her best). If anyone on the forum happened to know her or could direct me to other resources for records or pictures I would really appreciate it.
Best regards,
Neil
#37 | Written by Tiffany Parker on February 23, 2017. Reply

Hello. Me and a few friends have always gone to this site to look around. Currently were reasearching to see exactly when on here and why there is a graveyard. Upon searching google i heard of a woman named ophelia who would practically torture the girls. I want to know if there is anything intact besides the graveyard to look at. I rwad there are tunnels are they still there? If you have any information please feel free to contact me at Latiffania@gmail.com. Thank you so much
#38 | Written by Barbara Bonert on January 14, 2016. Reply

My sister was at this “school” and
Her memories are all of a horrible
Place with abuse and things no child should ever see
#39 | Written by Angie on November 23, 2015. Reply

My grandmother went here in 1962. My mom was born there in 1963. I don’t know very much about this place, or how to contact the doctor or any records. My mom was told that O’ Dwyer was actually just the case worker? He is on her b.certificate. Please, if anyone knows any information or has any advice please email me at angierock910810@gmail.com..Thank you..
- #40 | Written by Cherie Bombell on January 14, 2016. Reply
  
  I’m sorry your sister’s experience was so horrible. After reading other people’s accounts, I’m not surprised. The pain can fester for years. I hope she has been able to move past it and found peace. Some people have found writing their stories to be cathartic but I wouldn’t recommend without lots of support around. If you think it will help your sister to have a voice, I can post her story on the True Story pages – give her a page under that title. Let me know and I’ll tell you where to email it.
  You sound like a caring, loving sister. She’s lucky. Best wishes to both of you.
#41 | Written by Shari Lewis on March 18, 2015. Reply

My Great Grandmother was listed as being an inmate in the 1910 census – Mabel Catherine May. She was 12. She married my Great Grandfather at age 18 – I’m assuming when she was released as an adult. I’m looking for any information about the place.
- #42 | Written by Cherie Bombell on March 18, 2015. Reply
  
  Shari, the Geneva Historical Society has a lot of pictures from the early 1900s. They aren’t on display and you’d probably have to arrange to view them. Don’t think there are names to identify anyone though. I don’t know where old records are kept. Years ago I tried to find out from Illinois Corrections and Illinois Archives but no one responded to my queries. I’ve heard there are records stored at St Charles Boys School (not sure of current name). Please let us know if you uncover anything. Thank you for posting.
  - #43 | Written by Ellie Wood on September 9, 2015. Reply
    
    Hi. My name is Ellie and I understand that this was from a couple months ago, but I thought you would enjoy to know, I myself live in this neighborhood and I can tell you sometimes talk about this gets really supernatural. This is indeed the picture of our neighborhood, I can connect all of the roads, the offroads, forest preserve, fields and more. This picture matches our neighborhood perfectly. If you have visited the ‘baby graveyard’ we like to call it, you can still see most of the grave engravings clear, and Becky is in fact one of them after reading another article and visiting the the graveyard again. Not meaning to offend, I hope I informed you enough to believe what’s teue and what’s not and inform others as well. Have a nice day, and come and visit the graveyard sometime!
    - #44 | Written by Cherie Bombell on January 14, 2016. Reply
      
      Hi Ellie. I definately believe you! I was there in 2012 with one of the girls (now woman) that was incarcerated there in the 60s. It was a very emotional experience. I found the graveyard to be especially sad because it has been damaged by vandals and not maintained. I believe when the property was bought and developed, there was a condition that the cemetery be maintained. Out of respect to those buried, this should be honoured.
      You have probably seen the concrete ‘doorway’ to the right and to the back of the cemetery. There is a woods and trail the other side of it. Brenda told me this was called The Gate to Hell by the girls. Do you know if it is still called that by the locals?
      - #45 | Written by Kyle Miller on September 29, 2016.
        
        Hi Cherie. I’ve been trying to do some research on this facility for myself, and you have a very extensive knowledge of this place! Your website is, by far, the best I’ve come across yet. You reference the fact that Brenda says the concrete doorway is called the “Gate to Hell.” Do you have any idea why they referenced that? Just wondering if that opening was of some significance. I can’t seem to find that area(or the cemetery) in any photographs(that I’ve seen…).Any info you might have would be great!
#46 | Written by CAROLYN HOWE on September 7, 2013. Reply

I was there for 5 yrs. in the 50’s. Habitual runaway. I was determined to find my mom & siblings. They said, “You CAN’T run from here!” Did I fool them. I escaped 8 or 9 times:) Long story short, I could see the office bldg. from my then barred window. Forgot the name of the cottage. I worked in the laundry. Spent lots of time in the hole (as we called it) due to running. Only once I didn’t make it to Chgo. I jumped in the Des Plains river & started swimming. The guards finally caught me. They got in a boat. Couldn’t out swim that:( There was no pool then. I wouldn’t talk to any of the grown ups. I had withdrawn inside myself because of a very abusive childhood & being put in so many different homes. I left Geneva at 18 1/2 . When I was there babies were born at a hospital & not brought back with the mother. I DID find my family, and aunts, uncles, some cousins, & my grand parents. That my friends is what determination will do:) Been married to same good man over 50 years now. You see, he helped me learn how to feel, how to trust, & how to love. God protected me all those years, cause He had a husband picked out for me. For those of you who spent time there, I hope you have found peace, and Christ. Howe is my married name.
#47 | Written by Jeanna on March 1, 2013. Reply

Hi. I am looking for a piece of my history. A family member told me that my mother had me when she was 13 and while pregnant, was at this Geneva home for girls. I was born there. I am searching today for that truth because my mother won’t tell me about it. I will be 44 years old and she was there april of 1969. If anyone can help me gather some information on this place, I will be so happy. I am planning a visit to Geneva in the next few weeks to obtain my birth certificate and hopefully close this chapter of my life.
- #48 | Written by Cherie Bombell on March 1, 2013. Reply
  
  I hope you find what you are looking for, Jeanne. I met up with Brenda (who writes on this site) in Geneva last August. The only thing left of the institution is the cemetery. You might want to visit there to get a sense of the place. There’s still a big concrete gateway next to the cemetery that Brenda tells me the girls called the ‘Gate to Hell’. The plaque in front of the cemetery talks about ‘wayward’ girls. They weren’t all wayward. From the ‘True Stories’ part of this site, you can read that some children just had no where else to go because parents died or they were locked up for running away from abuse. For others their biggest crime was truancy. In 1969 the institution still kept the girls locked up for most of the weekends and when they were not in school or working. This changed and the girls were given more freedom when I was there in the early 70’s. Your mom may have stayed in the dispensary rather than living on a cottage.
  
  The doctor that delivered you might have been Dr O’Dwyer. He was still alive a few years ago. The Geneva History Centre had a display about the institution and a woman buried in the cemetery, Sadie Cook. The Doctor attended that display. They may be able to help you but I’ve found they seem to be resistant to hear anything negative about Geneva’s history.
  
  Jeanna, please let me know about your visit and what you find out. I’d be very interested. Best wishes. Cherie
- #49 | Written by Brenda on March 1, 2013. Reply
  
  Hi, I was in Geneva Girl School about this time, what was your mother’s name?
  Babies were not usually born at the school dispensary in the late 60’s and 70’s, back then
  after the babies were delivered at a community hospital near the school the mother and baby were brought
  back to Geneva to recover in the dispensary and the baby left Geneva with a family member or social services after a
  couple of days. Dr O’Dwyer was the only medical doctor I knew during my times in Geneva, but I’m not sure if he delivered
  the inmate’s babies at the local hospitals.
  I wish you luck during your visit to Geneva, the locals like to glorify the place and ignore the truth about the school.
  Brenda
  - #50 | Written by Linda Tart on August 16, 2015. Reply
    
    I was in Geneva, in the early 60’s. At that time, most of the girls had their babies at, Illinois Research Hospital, in Chicago. All of the pregnant girls were on Wallace Cottage.
- #51 | Written by Cherie Bombell on September 25, 2013. Reply
  
  Jeanna, did you find out any more when you visited Geneva? Did you get your birth certificate?
#52 | Written by Joan on August 19, 2011. Reply

I was in Geneva in 1973-1974. I was on Hope Cottage until it was closed, then Fabian Cottage.
- #53 | Written by Cherie Bombell on August 20, 2011. Reply
  
  That was when I worked there, Joan. Do you remember any of the kids or staff on Hope or Fabian? I hope your experience wasn’t too traumatic like so many of the stories I’ve heard from the other women that were there. Thank you for letting us know you’re out there.
  - #54 | Written by Joan on August 22, 2011. Reply
    
    I remember a girl named Billie was on Hope Cottage. She and two other girls, from other cottages, were detained in Geneva until they were old enough to go to the women’s prison (Dwight?). I do not know which cottages they worked on, but I remember a Miss Phelps and a Mama Smith.
    
    I was at Geneva for 15 months and I took advantage of everything they offered to help better my life. I obtained my GED, completed the keypunch course and the junior lifeguard course, and was able to work off campus at the Jiffy factory.
    
    I was sent to Geneva because I was a habitual runaway – I had no criminal charges of any kind. Actually, I told the judge that I would probably continue to run if I was not sent to Geneva. It was one of the best decisions I ever made, as I straightened up and now have a good life.
    
    I have been successful in my career. I am married to a wonderful man who retired from the Dept. of Defense. After just a few months of retirement, he found that retirement was not for him, and he is now a member of law enforcement for the State of Colorado. I have two children and four grandchildren.
  - #55 | Written by Jeni on September 25, 2018. Reply
    
    My mom worked there around 1972. I am interested to know what she did there.
#56 | Written by Brenda on July 8, 2011. Reply

There are two windows at the north end of the dispensary I spent most of my first trip to Geneva behind the second one. From that window I could see the gym and swimming pool.

I remember any time a girl/girls left a cottage to go any where on campus such as school, church, dispensary, BP etc the matrons would call ahead announcing they were on their way and a return call was placed to the cottage when the girl/girls were coming back. During the day guards stood at their posts watching the girls walk to their destinations and at night the guards drove cars around campus shinning spot lights between cottages and on the windows.

Looking at this picture today I can still see myself at twelve years old behind that fence so scared, alone and forgotten.
#57 | Written by rose on June 16, 2011. Reply

i was on hope holly and wallace cottage.
#58 | Written by rose on June 16, 2011. Reply

oh i learned how to knit and crosett, seramie, i like my craft teacher i cant remember her name .
#59 | Written by rose on June 16, 2011. Reply

i was there i believe in 72,73 i learned a lot in geneve i remember ms zimmerman
ms. savera, mr. tree, mr. mario nuzzo he was our keypunch teacher keypunch was my first job they treated us well we ate good got a lot of excerise i went to school got my 8th grade diploma we went on dances with the males i work off campus at vally view as a clerk i used to miss my mom but i kinda like it there since i had to be there i was there 11 months i exscape and wasreturned three days later ole geneve we never heard of the tale of abuse or death anyway that’s what i remember.
- #60 | Written by Cherie Bombell on June 16, 2011. Reply
  
  Rose, you were there when I worked there! But I worked either on Oak or Wallace with the guys then. I was on Geneva Cottage as a cottage supervisor when I first started -can’t remember if it was late 1970 or early 1971. A few girls escaped on my shift. I was in the hall cutting some of the girls’ hair when it happened. Another supervisor was sitting in the office reading a book and a third one was asleep in the TV room! I’m the one that got in trouble!!
  
  If you want to write more about your time there, I’d love to create a page for you. It would be interesting to hear your memories and about your three days ‘on the run’! Thanks for commenting, Rose. Lovely to hear from you.
- #61 | Written by Cherie Bombell on August 20, 2011. Reply
  
  I remember Ms Zimmerman Rose. She was a counselor and from what I knew of her, a really lovely woman. She married the superintendent. I remember Tree too but none of the others you mention. One of my favorite people there was Ma West. She was a real character and really loved the kids. She had integrity and was very fair. Thank you for visiting this site and for sharing your memories with us, Rose.

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Cherie Livett Bombell

Illinois State Training School c. 1970

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