An Account of the Van Diemen's Land Orphan Schools in 1828

That fine building belonging to Mr. Loane, and late the residence of Mr. E. Curr, has been rented by Government for a Female Orphan School. It is singular that this building is erected nearly on the same spot where the late Lieutenant Governor Collins erected an Orphan School nearly 20 years ago. It is to be conducted, we understand, by Mr. and Mrs. Chorley. The Male Orphan School, to be managed by R. W. Giblin, Esq., is to be established at Roseway Lodge, near New-town, so that the boys may be near the Government Farms, on which some of them are to be practised in the habits of agriculture. 

That the establishment of these laudable Institutions is at length certain, may be perceived by the extensive tenders of articles lately advertised for by the Government. The number of children is however considerably less than was anticipated. This arises from many orphans having been placed under Guardian-ship — and many where the father or mother is still alive, not being permitted by them to go to the institution. To remedy this crying sin, however, as much as possible,the Lieutenant Governor has directed that all prisoners' children, who may be in indigent circumstances, shall be placed in the Orphan School, if not with the parties consent, why without it. We admire this decision of conduct; and strongly reprobate those parents whose wicked obstinacy has compelled His Excellency to adopt the measure which at first sight carries with it the appearance of a stretch of power. But the measure is good — it is called for, and it has our warmest and undivided support.

Source:The Orphan Schools. (1828, March 1). Colonial Advocate, and Tasmanian Monthly Review and Register (Hobart Town, Tas. : 1828), p. 43.