The George Sim Johnston Archives
In 1992, following the death of George Sim Johnston, a highly respected and longstanding member of The NYSPCC's Board of Directors, his family and friends generously made possible the establishment of the Archives that bear his name and honor his memory. The George Sim Johnston Archives serve as one of the nation's most valuable repositories of original and compiled material on the origins, history and development of the child protection movement. Archival holdings include microfilm copies of case files from The NYSPCC's incorporation in 1875 to the present, including more than half a million files concerning as many as two million children. The archives serve as an invaluable resource for academic research and for private individuals seeking information on their family origins. In 2001, The NYSPCC was awarded a Documentary Heritage Grant from the New York State Archives and Records Administration to examine ways to preserve the existing collection and through new technological innovations, make its holdings more readily accessible to the public.
Questions regarding the archives, and requests for a presentation on the history of the NYSPCC should be directed to The NYSPCC's Archivist, Joseph Gleason, at 212-233-5500 ext.214 or via e-mail at jgleason@nyspcc.org
Genealogical Searches
From 1875 to 1950 nearly all reports of alleged child abuse, neglect or abandonment in New York City were made to The NYSPCC. Individuals researching their family genealogy may request information on individual case files from this period. Two levels of searches are offered:
- Family Search - $25 Flat Fee
Provides a thorough search of The NYSPCC records and the identification of all relevant case files. A "Report of Basic Findings" is provided which summarizes the number of case records found, names and vital information of household members, and a brief statement regarding the nature of the case(s). If a substantial amount of material is discovered, an estimate is provided regarding the number of hours required to produce a "Comprehensive Family Report". - Comprehensive Family Report - $25 per additional hour
Individuals seeking a more through examination of materials may request a "Comprehensive Family Report". This will include a detailed review and analysis of all relevant information contained in each record, noting or resolving discrepancies in vital information, and to the extent applicable or possible, explaining procedures and identifying resources for further research.
Whose Records May be on File?
- Residents of Manhattan and Marble Hill 1875-1950
- Bronx residents west of the Bronx River 1875-1916
- Non-resident children whose cases were reported in the above areas
Who May Request and Obtain Information?
- Persons who as children were the subjects of reports
- Relatives and descendants of such persons
- Legal representatives of such persons or their estates
- Professionals engaged by any of the preceding
To request a "Family Search" simply complete and print out the application form and mail/fax it along with a check/money order or your credit card information to:
The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children
ATTN: Joseph T. Gleason
161 William Street, 9th floor
New York, NY 10038
FAX: 212-791-5227
ATTN: Joseph T. Gleason
