On Granite St.

I think this statue is right in front of Holy Name highschool

St. Anne's Roman Catholic Church was founded in 1855 on Eastern Ave. In 1962, the congregation merged with Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the building was razed.

This Grotto is indeed in front of Holy Name High School. It is located across the street from St Ann's Orphanage which was torn down and replaced with individual "cottages". It was run By THE GREY NUNS from Canada. I remember going to the Grotto as a group to say the rosary when the weather permitted. To my knowledge it had no connection to the parish of St Ann's. As we had a beautifull chapel and a resident priest Fr. Alfred Berthiume, an Assumptionist. Brings back wonderful memories.

I can rember the Oraphanage Maby more than Id like to When I was a boy both my brother Gene and myself spent about 3 years there,I can't rember if it was 3 or 4 floors but I do rember we slept on the top floor.in a dorm that must have held 50 beds. I rember the back was all caged in for safety .and this building sat atop a hill that we played ball on in the summer and went slideing when it snowed, I do rember at the foot of that hill was a little woods and vines of "concord Grapes'and across the street there were hazelnut trees on the side were the shrine was there was also a very small pool in Pea green.and below that were the playgrounds we played in .over on the other side I can rember a barn and Pigs. I have got to say that Ive never gone back but my brother Gene has and told me of the change,he still lives in Mass. I have lived all over the world.and just never found the time to go home. but I do have fond memeries if the sisters who took care of all us kids and put us on the right road in life.

I believe the address for St. Anne's Orphanage in 1963 was 133 Granite St. It was not far from St. Vincent's Hospital. I believe the orphanage was one huge building (or two, front/rear, joined by an internal rampway). Father Alfred Berthiaume was the serving priest in that year; he passes away in the early 80's. Sister Dolores served in the girls section--we all thought she was pretty hep for a nun. She left the sisterhood later--last known address in Florida somewhere. I hope Jose Gomez from Cuba (pre 1963) writes and adds comments to this site. Behind the orphanage was a baseball diamond where the nuns taught us baseball. Sister Dolores taught us football. Also out back and down the hill was the pathway we walked to the junior high school (Providence St. School, I think). What a trip down memory lane. Thank you, Chuck.

i attended holy name, and would often stop here to smoke one last one before the school day

My Grandmother, Blanche lived at St. Ann's, made her First Holy Communion there on May 30, 1910. Father Marie-Clement Staub gave my Grandmother her first Holy communion. My Grandmother told me of her memories at St. Ann's, one of which was the dandelion greens. My Grandmother, and her sister Loretta, would pull dandelion greens from the grass on their way down to supper. They would place them between the bread they were given, for flavor. My Grandmother never spoke an angry word about the Grey Nun's or St. Ann's. It though was a tough life, but much better than the alternative. My grandmother was a "boarder" which meant that she did have a surviving parent, her Father, Peter Goyette. Pete as his friends called him, was a barber. His shop was on Grafton Street in Worcester. Peter, my great gandfather, killed himself in 1948.

My son and I live off of Granite Street, and hanging in my hall is a picture of my Dad's first communion class taken in front of the St. Anne's Grotto. I have only heard stories, but know that he and his twin brother were at St. Anne's orphanage for a period of time. I found it interesting to learn that the nuns who took care of him were French Canadian, because so is he. Currently my son goes to school at Holy Name, and he is named after his Grandfather. I've often wondered why I was drawn to this neighborhood, maybe St. Anne's is the connection.

I was five years old when I was sent to Saint Ann's.My first night was spent in what I considered a big crib, in a huge room with many of the big "cribs". The girls and boys were in seperate parts of the building, and I only recall seeing boys at playtime outside. The nuns did indeed speak french, but had to speak english too, obviously for english speaking kids were most likly the majority. I do not remember that grotto, but I do remember the showers were in a lower part of the building, and it was just one open room with alot of shower heads,rather spooky and dreary place. We used to be helped by older girls, and my daily wish was not to have to be there like the older girls that were'nt adopted. I Felt terrible for them. I was adopted about a year later, and when I was leaving the orphanage, I had my two little girlfriends ready to go with me. I don't remember their names,but they were twins, and had red hair. Needless to say how upset we were when we found out we could'nt all be adopted together.I still wonder about those girls, and all the other kids that were there. I wonder what happened to the children when they closed/tore the place down.

I attended Saint Anne's Orphanage from September 1951 'til June 1959. Thank you for the page on Saint Anne's otherwise known as Saint Anne's French Canadian Orphanage. I remember the buildings, grounds and pool. I attended class at Saint Anne's Orphanage and remember the showers and dining hall. After Saint Anne's I went to Working Boy's Home in Newton Highlands Massachusetts from 1959 - 1961.

I would really like to contact some "boarders" from St Annes between 1954/5 and 1961 about the time I was there. If anyone would care to respond - please use this email. I remember the orphanage, sister frigette, sister roy, fr. alfred, monsignor sullivan,I remember days totally alone when all the kids went home and I could not, I remember the showers, the dance recitals, etc. does anyone else? Yes, I remember the grotto too. kblackwood2002@yahoo.com

I was sent to Saint Ann's in 1969 and lived there through 1975. My first 3 nights were spent in the young girls cottage as there was no room in boys cottage. There was 5 cottages at that time, 1-Young Boys, 2-older boys, 3-young girls, 4-mid girls, 5-older girls and one main main building which housed the Chapel, kitchen (All meals prepared there and walked to each cottage) Ron Archiri (sp?) was my counselor. Sister Margaret was the closest thing I had to a mother. Over-all it was a good place

I am trying to determine if this is the same orphanage that was also listed as St. Anne's Orphanage,Needam, Mass? Or is there another St Anne's Orphanage that anyone may know of in Needam, Mass?

I appreciate the chance to comment on my memories of St. Anne's Orphanage. My sister and myself were boarders. We attended from 1954 to 1959. Reading through all the postings brought back all the memories that have been shared. I started as a "Little Boy" and graduated to the "Big Boys" upstairs. I, too, remember the separation of boys and girls, the fields where we learned baseball and football. I remember going to Holy Cross College and seeing my first football game. We were the guests of Holy Cross and got to eat with the students in the great dining hall. Tommy Green was the quarterback and they played Syracuse. It wasn't until years later that I realized that we had seen the great Jim Brown playing for Syracuse. I'm sure someone else remembers that game. I'm sure someone else remembers going to the Boston Garden and seeing the Celtics play and meeting Bob Cousy and other players after the game. I'm sure others remember when the Mouseketeers came to give us a show (complete with Annette). Or when we did the Hula-Hoop dance at the Stadium Festival in Holy Cross Stadium. It was hosted by Dick Clark and we were about as close to the stage as you could get. I remember that Connie Francis and Fabian were the headliners. I won't ever forget because myself and a girl named Marilyn were chosen to go on the stage and pull the tickets for the cars that were given away. We later had our picture taken with Dick Clark, Connie Francis and Fabian. What I wouldn't give for a copy of that. The memories I have are countless and good. I remember studying and becoming an alter boy. I made my First Communion there and was one of the alter boys serving Fr.Alfred when my sister Cheryl Ann made her First Communion. I got to hold the platter under her chin when she received. I,too, would like to communicate with others that attended the years that I did. If anyone would care to communicate, please use my e-mail address. In closing I would like to comment on one memory in particular. As I said, my sister and I were boarders, we had a parent. At Christmas time everyone at the school was told to make a list of three things we really wanted. We could wish for anything except a bicycle. At Christmas time, downstairs where the stage was, we all opened gifts and at least one item, maybe it was two, of the three we listed, had our name on it.

My father was raised by the nuns at St Anne's and he turned out to be the kindest gentles man that I have ever known. He use to tell me about the pigs and other stuff to. He learned about God and he knelt and said his prayers morning and night and I attribute that to the nuns. I wish that I could get some info on him from the early 1900's. Janice (Pepin) Young . His name was Emile H Pepin

I remember the grotto and the orphanage! I was there along with my biological brother 1955 to 1963. My memories are sad, but make me a better person. Would love to have pictures of the orphanage if anyone has one for my children and grandchildren, and niece who is most interested! I have a picture of Sister Roy and Siter Lucias (sp?) that I cherish!

MY UNCLE WAS FATHER ALFRED BERTHIAUME. WHEN I WAS A YOUNG GIRL FATHER ALFRED BROUGHT A GROUP OF CHILDREN FROM THE ORPHANAGE TO A PICNIS AT OUR HOUSE IN SPENCER MA. ONE YEAR, WHEN HE WAS AT OUR HOUSE FOR THE ANNUAL PICNIC A HERD OF COWS CAME RAMBLING ACCROSS THE STREET FROM JOLICOEURS FARM TO JOIN THE PICNIC. WE ALWAYS LOOKED FORWARD TO A VISIT FROM FATHER ALFRED AND HIS CHILDREN. PB

I was at the orphanage from 1936-1946 I was three when I arrived and thirteen when I left I would like to here from any one that might remember me.My e-mail address is tvayo@bellsouth.net

I remember the orphanage just like most of you do The little girls The big girls The same for the boys I was there when the Groto was built. In the 1940,s I used to bring the food to the big boys on a big cart thru the connecting tunnel to the boys side. I thought I was something having that chore. It was a big deal to me at the time. I went to Mass in the old chapel hundreds of times over the years I remember the pigs and barn. The play areas. The metal ones attched to the back side of the orpahnage. Does any one remember Sister Perault,sister Trouxier They were the big boys Mothers at my time there 1936-1946

If you were at St. Anne's Orphanage in the early 1950's please email me with the subject line St. Anne's Orphanage - at kellysquare2003@yahoo.com. I'd love to compare notes, hear stories, etc. I was about 4 or 5 when I went there --I think between 1954-1957. I remember Father Alfred - Sister Baceau(sp), Sister Roy, Miss Shirley who used to have a room right off the dormitory, etc. Thanks much.

JAMES - Jan 2008 Jan 21,2008, I was a boarder at St Anne's orphanage 1947 - 1953, I have some good memories and some not so good, such as getting the "stick" in the closet every morning for wetting my bed and carrying the sheets to the laudry. I do have good memories of Sister Ann and baseball albums my team was the Washington Senators, also remember the swiming pool and visits from Bishop Wright. I remember the pigs and barn and eating Yuck blood sausages, the plays we put on, and 'parlor' if you had a visitor on Sunday. If anyone attended in those years please email at nubywinds@verizon.net and share memories thanks!

My father-in-law was at St Anne's orphanage from 1954-58. His name is Roger LeBlanc. He was there with his brother Ivan and sisters Doris & Murial. He has many fond memories of his time there and would be interested in talking with anyone who might remember him. He is not on-line but if anyone would like to get in touch with him please send me a e-mail at Misty182@aol.com.

I attended St Ann's from 1953 until 1959 - I was three and remember Father Alfred, the "big" girls and the "little" girls - I remember we each got a "big" girl as a mentor, I remember me sitting at the top of the stairs, there would be a girl at the bottom and she would call up a name and I would go get the girl who had company. I remember being a flower girl for the bishop. I remember the HORRIBLE showers down somewhere and the awesome pool. I remember running around that pool and the shrine across the street. I remember walking to the store with money in our "envelopes" and seeing Fanny on the walk down to buy penny candy. I had a friend, her name was Linda Lesperance - I have often wondered what happened to her. I do not remember the cows and the pigs mmmmmm thanks everyone for all of the memories

In 1978 I lived at Mt St Ann's orphanage at 133 Granite Steet, Worcester, Mass. It was a wonderful place to be. It was not like the little orphan Annie stereotype. The sisters were wonderful and beleive me they were indeed strict when the occasion called for it.

I remember in 1978 we had the big blizzard. I was 11 years old at the time. It was dangerous outside. The wind was tearing up the city. The temperature was unbearable. Man, the snow that came down with that storm. The next day of course there was no school at Granite Street School. After morning breakfast and our chores, we all got to go outside and play in the snow. We dug tunnels and built forts a couple feet taller than us. Somebody came up with the idea to spray down the walls of the snow forts with water from a watering bottle. It worked great. the walls became coated with thin layers of glistening ice. At the end of the day we had the snowball battle to end all snowball fights. It was the funnest time i had there (other than the swimming pool in the summer. Note: The pool has since been filled in and grown over, but the fence is still there and you can see where it was.) Thanks to sisters Margaret, Helen and Marie and Father Alfred for taking such good care of me.

hello...back again. if anybody remembers being at Mt. St. Anns in 1977 & 1978, i'd like to here from you. We may even know each other. My e-mail address is bootlegt1@yahoo.com

I lived at St Ann's from mid 1975 to 1979 when I graduated North High. I lived in the 'D' house down at the bottom of the hill. It was for older girls and younger children and babies. Sr Marguerite and Sr Marie were the house mothers. I remember FR Alfred taking us to Assumption basketball games. My email os othy_84116@yahoo.com

Does anybody knmow what happened to the little cottages after the Grey Nuns left in 1979? St. Ann's was then run by the Catholic Charities corporation until it closed in 1983. I know the cottages housed some poor people in need a little after that, but then what happened? Are the cottages still there today? Any help would be more than welcomed.

Hi again folks. It's been a couple months since I've visited here and I see some new posts. Lorraine I remember a lot of what you posted here and more - although I don't remember name really of any of the girls. James I too have bed wetting stories and one that is pretty vivid even now 50 years later :). My sister has been going to the Worcester library and looking up information. I'm wondering information from the library can be accessed on-line - it would be easier. Also, how to go about getting any records, or information about staying there.?I seem to have run into roadblocks several years ago from writing to Catholic Charities. Anyone have any ideas on this? James, I'll email you at some point. Feel free to email me at peafreen@gmail.com and please use St. Anne's in the subject line so I won't think it's spam.

My father , JOseph Willialm Donovan, his brother Harold and sister Ruth were at ST. Ann's in 1915 -for several years. They were aged 2, about 6 and 9 0r 10. Ruth died there of septicimia - any one have any relatives that go that far back?

My sisters and my two brothers went to Saint Ann's around 1964-1965 we were there for about 3 years. then we were sent to a foster home (hell on earth) The Nuns were FANTASTIC as was Father Alfred. We missed the nuns the moment we left. I remember being at the big orphanage then moving to Vernon St. I think it was? We left before they returned to the old orphanage, I believe at the time they were doing some major reconstruction. I remember the sister that was in charge of the younger girls was Sister Alice. Anyone out there remember the move and When the orphanage moved to Vernon st?

Sorry my sister said the name of the street was Salisbury st. But I am fairly sure that we left in 68-69 before the orphanage moved back to Granite St. And to the person trying to get records of your stay there. We tried to gain access to all our records through the State. When we left the nuns and were placed in that Foster home. We were then in the guardianship of the state. We were told the records from both places were destroyed in a fire in Worcester??? And of course that was the end of that, Before that we were told to get a lawyer, then once we told them we had knowledge about the freedom of information act and right to private records that had been maintain by the state, that we had a constitutional right to those records, some how they all disappeared In a FIRE No Less!!! Hmmm Seem suspicious to anyone else? We were never in the care of Catholic Charities so who knows maybe they still maintained records from back then.

Aileen is my sister, We lived at Mount St. Ann. At the time they moved to the house on Salisbury St. I remember they stop taking in children for awhile. Only a couple dozen of us could fit in the new home. The temporary home was a large white house that was being used as an office building. I know this because when Sr. Alice gave us the tour of the new place, while being converted for us. There was a wall urinal in what was to become the Jr. Girls bath room. Not knowing what it was I asked Sr. Alice if we would be able to keep the bubbler. She just said no and hurried all of us out, before someone tried to get a drink from it. It was a Jewish neighborhood. I made a friend across the street. She was a little Jewish girl. I went to her house to play several times at first. Then suddenly the visits ended. I think it was because I was telling everyone I wanted to become Jewish. Then I could have a big bedroom of my own. I’m sure that didn’t sit well with the nuns. I also remember going many places with the nuns in the Beach Wagon (the Woody). I loved farther Alfred, he took me places quite often. To his family’s house, the ballet, basket ball games, even indoor swimming at I think it was at Assumption. At one point I decided become a nun. I was going to play the guitar like Sr. Maria. She played at the folk masses foe us. Then when they shorten the Habits. I though “what’s the fun in that if you don’t get to wear that cool long habit, with the huge crucifix hanging from it.” I discussed it with Father Alfred. We agreed. I probably didn’t have the calling, if it was about the dress. I didn’t mind. Sr. Maria didn’t have the calling and she was my mentor. She left the Order just before we moved to the new home. She wanted to get married and have children of her own. Mass was never the same. However she would stop by and visit all of us when something special was going on, Holy days, first holy communion, ect… I had the mumps when I was to make my first Holy Communion. I was very disappointed because I did get to have the host like everyone else. Father Alfred was so kind he brought me an unblessed host and did a practice Communion with me that day. Not long after I made my Communion all by myself. So that I wouldn’t be the only one not able to receive. These were some of the best days of my life. I went to visit Mount St. Ann’s in 1978. I wanted to Thank everyone. They had been in the cottages for about 8 or 9 years by then. Sr. Alice, Miss Shirley, and Father Albert were still there. Sister recognized me right away. She also remembered all my brothers and sisters . Father Alfred gave mass and all the young children helped him. Then we visited, remembering the old times and how much the world had changed, since those simple days. Everyone was very moved that former children had such fond memories of life with them. As I left I told them I would visit again, but life got away with my time and I never made it back for another visit. I have so many stories I could go on for ever. I was a very busy child, I had to know everything about everything. I must have driven poor old Father Alfred crazy. To me he was the answer man sent to me personally. God bless all of them, Carolyn

Failed to leave e-mail address in original posting. Was at grotto and St.Annes Orphanage site in July (2008) while vacationing from Oregon. Attended from 1954-1959 with sister Cheryl. Anyone wishing to communicate can reach me at e.grautski@canby.com. Please include St.Annes in subject line.

1969 through 1975 shecky109@gmail.com

Hey Justine, the cottages are still there. I live about 2 miles from the site. The place is now a shelter for battered woman and young single mothers. there has been a flurry of construction on the site recently. i'm not sure what they are building, but the pool is definitely completely gone now, as well as, the swing sets. I have recently been in contact with sr Marie. Her and sr Helen are working in Northern New Hampshire. i left my e-mail address here earlier, then the next thing I knew I was receiving e-mails from sr Marie. Leave your e-mail address. You never know what can happen.

The Grey Nuns from Saint Anne's are located in Lexington, MA 10 Pelham Road Lexington MA 02421-8499 617-862-4700

I do so wish someone had pictures of the interior of the orphanage. The dining hall, showers, main living area. Back porches (endless summer days playing jacks on those). Running around the pool to dry off. The terry cloth pullover robs with your face cloth and soap to take a shower. The tiny little sinks all lined in a row to brush your teeth. The small (little girls) beds (white wraught iron). The TWO bicycles available (you had to be the fastest one to get a hold of one) The countless charity shows I had to rehearse for and sing. That strange lit up statue thing of Jesus in the dormitory who's eyes followed you. Shirly (can't remember her assitant). And WONDERFULL Sister Roy (mom at the time). Sister Baceau (she yelled a lot). And always rember the folding of sisters apron... The closet with the cubby holes that held your clothes and underwear. The big room where you played, got dressed and onec an a while watched TV. Big Brother Bob Emery. I remember it all....How did one nun and two lady assistance handle it, I'll never know. If anyone remembers these things and or especially has photos of the sisters and the facility, PLEASE let me know. gallerymusic@verizon.net

MaryAnn - My Grandmother (who I called Nana) grew up in St. Ann's Orphanage, probably starting in the 1920's sometime. She would be in her early 90's if she were alive now. She went to live there because her mother died and her father was too much of an alcoholic to take care of her and her brother. It is really quite a long and sad story... She did not have a nice time at the Orphanage. She was heartbroken over her mother's death and she was separated from her brother Edward because he had to stay on the boy's side. Edward could not take the regimine of the Orphanage and suffered from failure to thrive. He was adopted out quickly because of this. However, my Nana had Polio when she was 18 months old and this left her crippled and club-footed. The nuns sent her to a hospital right away to have the foot and leg operated on, so at least one good thing came out of it. She told me that many of the Nuns were mean, although there were one or two she was very fond of, and kept in contact with as long as they were alive. She also told me that it was only French speaking then with some English classes that were probably like 'English as a second language'. She was sent to this Orphanage because her father was French Canadian and French speaking. However, Nana did not know French before she went to the Orphanage. She also told me that sometimes they would get corn flakes donated to the Orphanage. When they poured the flakes into their bowls there was 'stringy stuff' hanging off of the flakes (probably moth investation). She did not know until after she left the Orphange that Corn Flaks is not supposed to have stringy things hanging off of it. When she was sixteen she was told that now she should quit school and go to work because she had to pay the Orphanage back for room and board for all the years she grew up there. Anybody with interior photos of this Orphange, I would love to see them.

I was at St Ann's 1950-56. remember Sister Becau, Joan Bohigian and her 2 sisters Mary Ann and Rose Ann, Barbara Ordway, Ann Brewer and Zoe Cinncotta. Write me at mobycat2000@yahoo.com with St. Anns'a in subject line

Is St. Anne's the only orphanage in MA. to be razed in the 1960's, my father was in a orphanage that was taken down in the 1960's but he never told us the name.

My older sisters and brother were at St Anne's in the early fifties.My Mom got sick and my brother Rich,my sisters Pat and Sue were at the orphanage for about a year.I went to a relative's.Denyse,I remember you from Holy Name,you were my sister Sue's best freind.How are ya?

HI John A. Vayo my father was at St. Anne's from 1934 to 1943 his name was Bill Brehio. Did you know him? black hair and about 5'11" in 1943.

My grandmother Vivan and her sister Loretta lived at St. Ann's for a time in either to the late 20s or possibly early 30s. My Dad and are are trying to find out why they were sent there as they only stayed for a few years and ended up back with their mother Loretta Bonner at some point. Did anyone know them or know where the records might be at this point?

Please contact me my email is rapierre@cisco.com

My aunt Doris Joyce taught dance at St. Anne's, after she died I inherited some priceless photo's of children from the orphanage, I have some pictures of Dick Clark with some children, a first communion picture of about 10 little girls, one african american the others white, other pictures of children from the orphanage in dance costumes. I am not sure what years it is, but looks like the 50's, I would like to share some of these photos, they could be of you or family members. Some of the bigger photos say Peter Nappellio photographer , another says Mac Jacobs creative photograhy and the other looks like photos from the gazette

I was in a catholic orphanage in Ma during the mid- 50’s. I remember: They spoke French It was a huge place almost like a castle The nuns wore their Habits I made my first communion The beds were made of metal all white. About 50 or more in a room. Does this sound familiar to anyone? All the people that could help me find the right orphanage are now dead. Please email me, Carmen at carmendeliar@yahoo.com

Dear Jackie F. I lived at St. Anne's with my brother Bobby and sister Pat, I used to be a dancer at the orphanage I would love to see some of the pictures you have my email is cdemjs5@aol.com

I have been searching for a pic of the old st annes church at thr top of st annes hill.Anyone out there who can help please send info to balk1224@yahoo.com.Thanks

I AM TRYING TO FIND PEOPLE WHO WAS BROUGHT UP IN ST ANNES BRIGHTON HOVE LANSDOWN ROAD COVNENT PLEASE LET ME KOWN ABOUT 1950 EARLY 60

My sister Mary, my brother Brain and I lived at Mt. Saint Anne's in Worcester. I lived in the old orphanage as well as the newer cottages. The years were 1962-1964 I think. And 1971-1972 in the big girls cottage with Sr Marguerite. I don't have fond memories. I do remember having to crawl on the floor at night in the old orphanage to sneak to the bathrooms. And I remember being paddled. And I remember having to line up at the bathroom door - in the evening - after we got ready for bed - with our days underwear in hand - to show the nun. If our underwear were "dirty" we would be sent to bed in front of everyone! Not a great place for me, my sister or my brother.. My email is judy.nagle@rcn.com

my current e-mail address is jvayo1@bellsouth.net If any one wants to chat with me about St Anns I would appreciate to hear from yous

Hi, this comment is for Jack Daunais, I am searching for a man named Jack Daunais who was staioned in Germany long ago and who knows a woman named Heidi Hess. If you are this Jack I am searching for can you please contact me asap via email. Denisedr54@comcast.net

st Annes orpanage from 1964 - 1967 i was there with my brother kevin, also the name of one of the sisters, remember holidays to st pauls bay, and dymchurch railway, would love to hear from anybody who was there during those years, my emal: annequeally@btinternet.com

I LIVED AT ST.ANNES FROM AROUND 65 TO AROUND 67/68 I REMEMBER THE CAVANAUGH FAMILY AND IF I REMBER RIGHT THERE WAS A BROTHER NAMED KEVIN. I THINK HE WAS MY "BOYFRIEND" EITHER THAT OR I TOOK HIM UNDER MY WING FOR A WHILE CAN'T REMEMBER I ALSO REMEMBER ALL THE SAME STAFF AND THE MOVE TO THE BIG HOUSE. IF YOU THINK YOU KNOW ME REMEMBER THE GIRL WHO SISTER ALICE USED TO LOCK IN THE CLOSET AT NIGHT AND I'D LAY ON MY BACK AND KICK THE DOOR FOR WHAT SEEMED LIKE HOURS AND WHEN I FINALLY FELL ASLEEP SHE WOULD PICK ME UP AND PUT ME TO BED. THIS DIDN'T HAPPEN VERY OFTEN MOSTLEY WHEN I WAS FEELING SORRY FOR MYSELF BECAUSE MOST PEOPLE GOT VISITORS AND I NEVER DID. SORRY IF I KEPT YOU AWAKE! DOES ANYONE REMEMBER JANIS OR BONNIE MCCORMACK? I CAN'T REMEMBER IF I MET THEM THERE OR AT WORC.DETENTION CENTER. I TOO WOULD ALSO LIKE TO FIND SOME PICS FROM BACK THEN I AM NOW 50 YRS. OLD AND HAVE NO PICS OF MY CHILDHOOD. I WAS ALSO A WARD OF THE STATE AND WENT INTO A FOSTER HOME BEFORE WE MOVED BACK TO THE GRANITE ST LOCATION. SO I NEVER EVEN GOT TO SEE THE "COTTAGES" IF I REMBER RIGHT DIDN'T FR.ALFRED HAVE A WOODEN LEG OR WAS THAT THE FR.BEFORE HIM? WE ALL HAD NUMBERS ON OUR CLOTHES CUBBIES AND MINE WAS #3. IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN MY LUCKY NUMBER!! I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE WHO MIGHT REMEMBERS ME AND I'D LOVE TO TALK ABOUT OLD TIMES. MY E-MAIL IS sunfire4559@aol.com HOPE TO HERE FROM YOU SOON..........CHERYL

I am looking for ED Grautski who was at St,Anne's Orphanage in worcester Mass, at the same time as I was, I was one of the Hula-Hoop- Dancers on the field at the Stadium Festival at holy cross, please contact me at my Email address reddragontruck@aol.com

I NEED SOME HELP ON THIS ONE FOLKS....WHILE VISITING THE CHOP HOUSE ON SHREWSBURY ST., I NOTICE A WALL PLAQUE BOASTING THAT WAS THE LOCATION OF ST, ANNE'S HOSPITAL...I WANT TO DISPUTE THIS FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS....I OWN 163/165/167 SHREWSBURY ST. (ALL ONE BUILDING)...MANY YEARS AGO, TWO ELDERLY NUNS WERE IN FRONT POINTING TO THE TOP OF THE BUILDING AND THE ENTRY...NATURALLY, I THOUGHT SOMETHING WAS FALLING DOWN...WHEN I WENT OUT TO TALK TO THEM, THEY STATED THAT MY BUILDING USE TO BE ST. ANNE'S HOSPITAL AND IF I LOOK AT THE STRUCTURE, I COULD SEE ACTUAL CROSSES BUILT INTO TO STRUCTURE...WHAT IS EVEN MORE ODD, IS THE FACT THAT EVER DOOR INSIDE (WHAT ARE NOW APARTMENTS) HAD 2X2 WINDOWS IN THEM AS THOUGH THEY WERE FOR VIEWING IF THE DOORS WERE CLOSED TO THE ROOMS...IN VAIN I TRIED TO TRACE BACK THE BUILDING THRU THE VARIOUS HISTORICAL GROUPS AND THEY TELL ME THEIR EARLIEST INFO IS THE 60'S WHEN MY STOREFRONT WAS A DRUGSTORE...I WAS TOLD BY SOME OLDTIMERS THAT THE BUILDING WAS BUILT IN THE EARLY 1900'S AND I SHOW DEEDS ONLY AS FAR BACK AS 1911...ANY INFO WOULD SURELY BE APPRECIATED...MIKE GRANDONE, I.T. VENDING...508.756.2546...ITVENDING@AOL.COM

HELLO, I AM REVISTING THIS SITE AS I HAVE MET SOME ALUMNI FRON ST ANN'S ONE ALUMNUS IS AL GAUTHIER AND WE CONTACTED EACH OTHER, VERY GOOD CONVERSATION, I AM LOOKING FOR DONALD FOUNTAIN & RONALD ST JEAN, I WAS THERE FROM 1947 - 1952 MY EMAIL IS NUBYWINDS@VERIZON.NET

Hi James, Will try once again to post on this site . It was great talking with you and remembering the past. hope to get together soon. told you about Ed Latrell, he thinks he remenbers you and Daved Rivenburgh. My E-mail Is acgauthier@verizon.net

Does anyone know where Paul Turner is now (#29)? I am #28 and my buddy Al Gauthier was #27. Al found two or three of us that remember each other from the late 40s. Would like to find others and have get-togethers. email is emmelatch@aol.com

Hi, Thought I'd write a few lines, I was a border at St. Ann's Orphanage in 1947, from about Sept. to November. I was one of the fortunate ones I had an aunt that decided to take me in, I lived with her for nearly 6 yrs.then my Dad remarried. Some of the things I remember are the large showers and how we were responsible for a child younger then you to care for. I remember the large bed area, white iron beds and the caged in porches where we had apples to eat maybe during recess.I was able to get a picture of the Orphanage from Catholic charities. There was an article in the paper in 1963 about the 25th anniversary in 1947, it appeared in the Worcester Evening Gazette in 1963. I hope this helps some people. The Orphanage was torn down and the site has Holy Name High School there now on Granite St., the grotto is still there. I remember the nuns being nice to me, but of course I wasn't there very long. I was happy I had solved my problem because I didn't even know the name of the Orphanage I was in but I had 2 pictures of myself on the site of the orphanage and when I got the picture of the place I instantly knew it was St. Anne'. So good luck if this helps you. Fondly, Rita Chauvin

My mother Margaret(Peggy Leighton) was at St Ann's from about 1922-1933. Although she referred to it as a boarding school, she was an orphan. I had emailed the Sisters of Charity and was told that a fire in the 1940's had destroyed all records. Would love to hear from people with loved ones there in this time period. email to ironhead4@localnet.com

Still looking to meet old friends that were at St Anns from 1947 --1953. Have renewed friendships with ED Latrell and Jim Page, contact me at ACGAUTHIER@verizon.net

I am looking for information regarding Dorothy E. June who may have been there in the mid 1920s. Any help would be sincerely appreciated. lorsimung@yahoo.com

like to no if any one was in stanneswell brighton and hove 1950 looking 4 annwall margaret wall john thomson vialet carperter eyone whittfield my name is nina alberici,if your any one who remmbers me or names are here please write back

I too am looking for information. My grandfather made his first communion at St Anne's in 1924. I recently came across the actual document. Any idea if the diocese of Worchester holds onto the records. Any help would be gratefully appreciated. Thank you. c_weinman@hotmail.com

I am trying desperately to piece together my family tree. I had 1 great uncle and 4 or 5 great aunts that were in St. Anne's sometime around 1920 til ?. Are there any records from the early 1900's. Was anybody else there during this time period? Any help would be greatly appreciated. My email is moderndayruth41@yahoo.com

I believe my grandfather Leo Arthur Hebert and his sister, Bernadette, were residents at St. Ann's from 1912 to approx. 1921. Just looking for information. Please email any info you may have to virgoj3@yahoo.com. thanks

Looking to get ahold of Jackie F regarding pictures of Dick Clark with some children. I am one of those children. Picture was taken at Stadium Festival at Holy Cross College in late 50's. Girl in picture is named Marilyn and we were chosed to draw names for car give-aways. Connie Francis and Fabian were headliners and were photographed with Dick Clark and us. I can be reached at egrautski@canby.com. Thank you.

I was at St Anne's around '67 '68. Attended Holy Name for 10th grade. Fondly remember Fr Alfred. Also the elderly Sister Barry who cared for us older girls. One of my sisters was on the same ward as myself and a younger sister was downstairs with Sister Alice. Others girls I remember are: Helen and Vicky and I think Donna. We were there before the cottages. I've never been back but my sisters went to Fr Alfred's memorial. I loved the little theatre downstairs. Sang my heart out in the shower room. Great accoustics. Contact @ sgmbm007@fairpoint.net

Looking to contact Norm Lussier. We attended St. Annes at the same time and I, too, left in '59 and attended Working Boys Academy in Newton Highlands. Contact me at egrautski@canby.com

Does anyone know about Peter Nappellio? He is reported to be the photographer of some photos supposed to be on this web page.

My grandmother Jeanne d’Arc Lemoine (1919-2006) was in St. Ann’s Orphanage in Worcester from 1922-1926. Her father died before she was born, and her sister died at age 5 when my grandmother was just a baby. My great-grandmother put her three remaining children in the orphanage. My grandmother’s brothers were Romeo and Clarence Lemoine. My grandmother was given the designation “BF30” for ‘Baby Female #30.’ She always had bad memories of the orphanage, with deep feelings of abandonment. Left there by her mother at age 3, she was separated from her brothers who lived on the boys’ side. As the years went by, her brothers were brought back home one by one as my great-grandmother remarried, leaving my grandmother alone in the orphanage, finally returning home to be with her family when she was about 6 or 7. I would be interested in any other stories or pictures from the 1920's. I have posted some pictures that I have from 1923. I am at chatell@juno.com.

LOOKING 4 ANN WALL MARGARENT JOHN THOMSON VIALET CARPERTER I WAS IN ST ANNES CHILDEN PLACE WITH THE PEOPLE ON THERE IF YOU ARE ONE OF THE POEPLE PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT LOVE TO HEAR FORM YOU MY NAME IS NINA ALBERICI

Several months ago, I purchased a Casavant pipe organ from a church in Leominster. I now find evidence inside the organ that it was originally located at the orphange of St Anne in Worchester. It was given by the friends of the orphans and prbably moved to Leominster when the orphange closed . Would love to hear from anyone who remembers anything about it.

my e mail is thomcat85@aol.com

I remember Aileen and Carolyn Cavanaugh; remember always spelling your last name out loud as: CA-VA-NA-UGH for some reason. Anyways, I remember Granite Street School, Salisbury Street, and of course the orphanage with Father Alfred and Sister Alice, and Mother Superior I think. I remember sitting on the stairs a bunch when I got in trouble and also my skinned knees one time when I refused to walk. It has been a walk down memory lane. Went back to see the mansion, think I did find it as when I looked in the window I remember "those stairs". Anyways, the rest just didn't look right as the group homes were put in in its place I think. Nice to see there is this website for us folks. It almost seemed like it never happened. In some ways the orphanage was better. I do remember feeling abandoned too when I first arrived at age 4 and stayed till about 8. It was back in 1965-1969 I guess, then a foster family took me in. Another story. Thanks all for your comments. Will have to keep this bookmarked.

I am trying to find out about my great great uncle luther. he was placed in an orphanage in 1905 with his sister JENNIE fenner his brothers- CHARLES FRANCIS Fenner HARRY JAMES Fenner EDWARD RAYMOND Fenner ESSEX WILLIAM Fenner I know that they were put in an orphanage after their father died in 1905, and when their mother got remarried she was able to get all but Luther back, because he was adopted by an unknown family..I am not sure that it was this orphanage but it's the only one I can find in the area of Spencer, Mass...Anyone with any information please e-mail me at shelbie36@hotmail.com, in subject line please put Luther Fenner Thank You

I wrote earlier about being at St. Anne's and would love to hear from any one that was there when I was , around 1960. I was five and remember two sisters that I think were twins ? I remember falling off a swing on that hill of a playground and hitting the cement. I found the some of the sisters scary, especially the one that cut my long hair off when I first got there. I have only one photo of me sitting on a footstool in front of a fireplace. I remember the older girls took care of us, bringing us to the spooky showers in the basement, and how we kept our panties on while showering. I remember a big dining room, a long hall type room lined with sinks to get washed at on the same floor as our white metal railing crib beds. I remember only one "party" for Xmas, I got a large doll that looked like me, I cherished it. Only to have to leave the doll and one beloved stuffed elephant behind when I left. I would really love to hear from anyone that was there when I was. I had dark brown hair and freckles.

I am looking for anyone that might have been at St. Anne's from approx. 1937-1944 that knew Donald V. Conroy. He also went to live with a family last name of Driscoll in Cherry Valley, MA contact me at donna_m_conroy@yahoo.com

I lived at St. Anne's from 1979-1981, the state put myself and my sister's there. I was 8 and my sisters kristie was 7 and my little sister Peggie was 5. kristie and i was together in the same cottage but Peggie was 5 so she was at the bottom of the hill. sister sueanne was displease with me an other girl, tracey nickles, she got adopted the year before we left. i dont remember alot from those days, i had it a parent who took anger out on us. i remmeber getting into alot of trouble through, i guess that was my way of acting out. i remember when Star Wars first came out, i had to be good for a week to go and see it. back then we had stars put next to our names if we where good and did not recieve the paddle lol. then i went back there in 1990 right after christmas, cause of my x husband beat me and i had a son of my own. when i was there then, it felt creepy cause of the memiors of my childhood. it was like there was ghosts/spirts every where. if anyone remembers me or my sisters please email me at sadlostsoul1971@aol.com thanks.

My grandmother Mary Miner (age 5) and her sister Helen (age4)were placed at St.Ann's after their mothers death in 1918.My grandmother claimed the nuns were horrible and abusive.When my grandmother was of age to leave she opted to stay another year to stay with her sister.My grandmother had to earn her room and board.Lets just say she worked like cinderella.She had no happy memories in the 10 year she lived there.

I posted something yesterday but now I don't see it. Trying to reach Katherine Jackques Blackwood, please get in touch so we can talk. e-mail is: tiboyboxer45@charter.net thanks Nancy D

I am tyring to contact Zoe Cinncotta. I think we were at St.Ann's at the same time. My name at that time was Nancy Landry. Please contact me if you want to talk about our time there. My e-mail is: tiboyboxer45@charter.net. Hope I here from you or anyone else who remembers me as well.

Does anyone know Peter Nappellio? His daughter is searching for anyone that knew him.

My name is Carmen, I was in St. Anne's about 1955-1960. I don't remember any other Hispanic children there. I do remember when I came back to Brooklyn I knew French. All the people that could fill in the blanks for me are dead. If there is anyone who was there during those years let's chat. I would also love to see photos of St. Anne's Orphanage. My memories are few and I need your help. You can email me at carmendeliar@yahoo.com or Facebook Carmen Roman Galindo. I live in Florida.

My two sisters and I were placed in St Anne’s Orphanage between 1955 and 1958 when my mother and two sisters died in a fire. My memories were not very pleasant seeing that I was very sick most of time and received a number of injuries while at the orphanage. However, I do remember the event at Holy Cross College with Dick Clark, Annette and Mouseketeers, and Connie Francis. During this event a group of us from the orphanage were to perform some kind of dance on stage and I was one of the dancers. I believe that we were all dressed in white, but I’m not sure, but the shoes were white with reddish soles. However, I would not dance and started to cry while on stage. I remember Dick Clark and Annette coming over to me and asking me why I was not dancing. I do not remember what I said, but I do remember that the nuns were not too happy with me when we returned. I do have a newspaper article with picture that I have regarding the “May Merry Makers” from the orphanage who performed in Milford for the Milford Guild, Holy Family League of Charity. I am in this picture with Lucille Laplante and Maurelle LeBlanc. If anyone knows them please let them know that I have this. If anyone has any photos of the event or ophanage I would be interested in seeing them. Also, if anyone would like a copy of what I have send me an e-mail at jbobgauth@hotmail.com Thanks

I to was at the Salisbury St. house. I was 7 years old and my little sister and little brother were taken to Sister Alice. I have fond memories of that old house. I to spent a lot of time on those old stairs for miss behaven. Shortly after we arrived, my sister and brother were placed in a foster home. I stayed and soon after Sister alice and I moved to the cottage on granite. I was little and it seemed like I got there, then I moved to the other place. I lived there till I was 11 years old. I miss it sometimes. I'm so sorry I never got to go back and say, "thank you."

I am looking for information on a great aunt who spent some time at St. Ann's between 1913 and before 1929 when she married. She was either called Alice (Viola) or Ida Andrews ..... Does anyone know where any of these records actually ended up and IF a fire is true???? ANY/all help greatly appreciated ... have been trying to track her for 30 years!!!!!! genealogymonky@charter.net

I am looking for ANYONE who remembers Peter Nappellio. He was the photographer at St. Ann's and passed away in 1974.

I did not live at St. Annes, but my parents would pay for me to go there at lunch time, to get a hot lunch. I was a student at Granite St, School, and in those days, there were no hot lunches. I was there around 1966-1968 ish. I fondly remember Miss Shirley, the huge room with all the beds, the shiney clean floors, the bathroom with all those sinks (i had my own)the playroom, and the nuns...always in thier habits. Also, Veronica Comeau, Helen ? I was also in a dance recital!

I was there from 1948-56. Please contact me at candygirl24@suddenlink.net thx!

I am looking for Candy Blaisdell who posted a comment about the orphanage. I believe that Candy may be my aunt. My mom is Gail Blaisdell, and also grew up in the Worcester area in many orphanages, and as a result lost contact with Candy. My mom named my sister after Candy. If there is any contact info, please forward it to me. diamondwolken@gmail.com

Wow! I just got through reading all these comments. In tracing my family tree I found Ester LaPrade as a boarder at St Anne's in 1900 at the age of 9. While I am losing hope of finding any records I have seen a glimpse of what it may have been like there. I also learned that maybe she was not orphaned because she was listed as a "boarder" in the Census. I thank you all for sharing your stories, they have touched me. If anyone has found records from that era, please email me at: mrosenfield23@comcast.net Thank you

I was taken to Saint Ann's when I was 4 and my brother Lee (LaPrade) was 7 my father had gotten custody in a divorce and he could not take care of us. My brother when he got older was sent to Nazareth boys home (some where in Worcester area) the nuns were very mean and the only time we got treated well was when my Dad who was a bread man stopped and dropped off his day old bread, cakes and cookies. We were there in approximately 1944 - 1949 and then were places in Foster homes. Till this day when a nun goes by I get a terrible feeling in the pit of my stomache. When we got chicken pox, our hand were tied to the white metal beds so we could not scratch and all night you heard children crying. I hope all the kids found better times later in their lives.

My dad John Gamache and his sister Terry were at ST Anne's in the 1930s. They went there because their older sister was one of the nuns Sr Marie Jeanne Gamache.My dad said it was a very sad time in his life his mother and father were to poor to care for them both but brought them home after a while. Always wondered where this place was.

Roger Gamache..you didn't leave an email but I have a funny feeling that we are related. I can't believe that I did not know that your Dad and sister were in St Anns!!!!! I wish I knew how to reach you. dduffy3@aol.com

I am trying to find Tracey Nichols who was at St. Annes in the late 1970's. She use to spend weekends with me when she lived there before they closed. She would be in her late 30's now. Please contact me at dchaisson52@gmail.com.