The Immaculate Heart of Mary Orphan's Home Photo Gallery by Karl R. Josker at pbase.com

The Immaculate Heart of Mary Orphan's Home

The Immaculate Heart of Mary Orphan's Home was founded in 1895 by the Felician Sisters from St. Stanislaus Church, Buffalo. They acquired land at 2600 William Street, Cheektowaga and built the orphanage.

In 1942, the name was changed to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Children's Home. At one point, it housed and cared for over 400 children. The last child was admitted in March of 1979, and the facility closed in 1983.

Due to arson fires in 1989 and 1992, the complex was demolished in 1992.

comment |

Guest		18-Jul-2020 00:29
I lived there around 56-59 my name was Susan Van Wie...I remember Suster Carmeline and Sister Virginia...First I was with St. Teresa group than Maria Gorreti..We all got tye flu around 1957 spent time in the infirmary I also would get boils on my head and have to soend time there..I remember th Knights of Columbus would come every Christmas and bring us books of life savors...

Guest1970		15-Jul-2019 00:24
I lived in the neighborhood and came a few times on special "visiting" days in the early 1970s. I remember playing pool on a full size pool table that looked small in this huge room- an activity room of some kind. I also remember the big in ground swimming pool which I thought was underused. I walked past the campus on William Street probably a dozen times a week. I was amazed to learn many of the orphans had at least one parent and that parent visited on Sundays. I remember being sad that the fence had barbed wire on the top- not razor wire like a modern prison, but three rows of rusting barbed wire none the less. I have a few general questions: some of you have talked about being in sister so's and so's group. Was a group coed and multi aged? Is that how they kept families together. You also talk about "graduating" was that from the 8th grade? Where did most of you go to High School? My older sister remembers some of you attending JFK.

Jay		26-Dec-2018 05:32
My grandfather Ferdinand (Fred) Jarzyniecki & his 8 brothers & sisters were homed here after the death of their mother & their fathers inability/unwillingness to care for 9 children.

Karl R. Josker		28-Nov-2018 19:12
Try calling the Buffalo Catholic Church Diocese Office; they should be able to tell you where the records are.

Patricia Szkotnicki		27-Nov-2018 20:55
Does anyone know where I can get the records? I am trying to find the records for my grandmother, she has no idea who her parents were, not even 100% on her maiden name.

Walter Calkins		27-Aug-2018 16:18
Ron, sorry I don't remember but I do remember she used to she was mean and always got on to me for daydreaming and telling me I was at the bar. Sorry I cannot help with the familiar names you ask about because I left Buffalo in 1967 and lost touch with everyone there. I know Jim's brother got killed in Nam in 68 if I am not mistaken.

Ron s		19-Jul-2018 05:30
Does anyone know the whereabouts of Jim Tyrcz, Nick Gervasi, Jerry Gorski, Lester Van Patten, Bill Ryan, Elias and Wesly Pembleton, David and Gregory Vann, or Roberto Becerrill? Fellow residents 1956-59

Ron		11-Jul-2018 20:02
Ray Van did you have a brother by the name of David?

Ron		11-Jul-2018 19:57
Walter, was it you that Anselm followed down a flight of stairs beating the kid with a yard stick and her fists and screaming? I remember one kid literally had a permanent stutter by the end of the school year.

Douglas White		21-May-2018 23:28
Hi,my mom was there around 1933-1945. Dorothy Zelazny.She had 3 siblings but I'm not sure if they were with her. When the war started she was sent to live with a family in Springville. I'm trying to find out anything about records. All family has passed but her and she has dementia that's getting worse. The memory that I personally have is when my brother & I really got out of line she would pay a "visit" to say hi to the sisters. We had to stand there quietly while they talked. One other, my mom would drive bus for the orphanage,(that was her regular job)I was allowed to go along when the kids were taken to a circus that was in town. I think it was at the audience.My mom said that I totally embarrassed her when I commented on the "healthy attributes" of a young lady riding a horse in a skimpy outfit. I was 6. This would have been 69/70. I was a little advanced for my age LOL..

Deb Anderson		26-Apr-2018 19:13
Hello does anyone remember a Corinne (cory) Lee? She would have lived here 1957-1959. Please respond if you have any information @ andejame4@ msn.com

Guest		26-Apr-2018 19:11
Hello. I am wondering if anyone remembers my mother Corinne (cory) Lee? She would have been there 1958-59. Was this also a home for unwed mothers? If you know her or anything about her please respond at andejame4@msn.com

Maggie Rehfeld		11-Apr-2018 21:27
My great uncle Wincenty Grzegorzewski had to put 4 of his children in this orphanage after his wife died. They are Rose, Leon, Cecelia and Tellie Ortila. Does anyone know anything about them or where I might find the records since the orphanage was burned down.

Maggie Rehfeld		10-Apr-2018 22:47
My great uncle Wincenty Grzegorzewski place 4 of his children here in 1914 after his wife died. Their names were Rose, Celia, Leo, and Tellie Otitia. Does anyone have any information about them? Any information would be appreciated.

Walter Calkins		17-Mar-2018 18:58
Yes Ron, I remember her. If I wasn't paying attention to her she would come by my desk tell me I was"at the bar day dreaming". Got a few board bustings from her

Ron		22-Feb-2018 18:30
Do any of you remember Sr. Anselm, the 5th grade teacher 1957? She would scream and slap us and tell us that the reason we were in the orphanage was because we were "garbage"; our families were "garbage" and we could tell anybody we wanted to because no one would believe us. Every day for an entire school year was the same, dreading her and praying some kid had the right answer before she got to your desk. At lunch time the nun in charge of the resident group might be giving out beatings because she wasn't satisfied with the way we had cleaned our assigned areas : hallways, dorms, sitting areas.

Guest		27-Dec-2017 17:50
Janice; Funny you should mention her,I only recalled the name because I only knew her as Sister Bruno. I can't say anything good, or bad about her other than I remember the name.

Mary Galey		17-Oct-2017 00:23
I went grammar school at St. Josaphats. For three years three boys from IHM were part of my class. Names were John DesSantis, Joe Calabrese, Ronny Hackett. I think of them often and wonder what may have happened to them. Timeline would be 1968 - 1971, or so.

orphan finder		09-Oct-2017 18:41
Hello everybody. My name is Tamie Rovnak. I am a genealogist and specialize in locating orphans. Just because somebody may have been "adopted", not all hope is lost in finding birth records. Feel free to contact me at tlr.research@gmail.com Many people weren't legally adopted, so to speak, they often assumed the last name of the family they were adopted by. If somebody wasn't legally adopted, the original birth certificate still exists. I used to host a website, with Buffalo Orphanage Studies, but needed to end it to protect my dream..Be on the lookout for "Where Did the Children Go? It will be about all the orphanages that were in the Buffalo area

Donna Severs		25-Jul-2017 07:02
I remember living there, I remember sister,Timothy,sister Debra,Sister Joshephine, and I remember Robin McGee and the twin girls Vanessa and Valerie and the 7 Cummins kids. I was in with Sister Allen,I was there in the 70 to 80. Last name was Starr and had red hair.

Joan		17-May-2017 19:29
My grandmother Julia Kotlik was in the orphanage in the early 1900s along with her brother Thomas and sister.

Guest		30-Apr-2017 02:51
Hello, I only have faint memory of this place. I'm not sure if I was here only once or twice or three times. First time might have been me and my older brother, we fell from a pine tree he was my protector, I believe I left to help a woman with her kids cuz I was to teach her to cook. Second time, I was the child still learning how to walk again. I believe I was brought in with 3 younger siblings. I may have been back for half of 4th grade in 1979 I would have had 4 younger siblings this time. My little brother who started with me would have jumped in the pool the day we toured the school. I was recently told I was adopted in April of 1976. I also remember either coming back to visit or change dads in 1979. My life was full of goodbyes. I'm just trying to piece my life together. Can anyone help me?

Joanne Gilliland		21-Mar-2017 02:36
I am a nurse with the area agency on aging in Youngstown Ohio. One of my patients asked if I would try to find information on her father Stanley Zavistowski who was left at the orphanage by an uncle. Stanley was born in Poland about 1900-1905. She stated he was adopted by a family: Wildelski. Any information would be greatly appreciated so sad to read all of your experiences but also heartwarming to hear of your survival against horrible odds

Sierra		19-Mar-2017 17:29
My grandmother may have been born in this home. If anyone can provide any information (perhaps if anyone knows of where the records have gone, or if it's possible to trace birth parents through this home) it would be so desperately appreciated. Her birth name was Marlene Edwina Murphy, born May 25th 1943. She was adopted from Father Baker's at the age of 5 and was renamed Maryanne Cularusso. She has been searching for information about her birth parents for her entire life. Please contact me with information: sierrajurek@aol.com

Patricia Paakkonen		08-Mar-2017 20:27
Cora Bonus : Have you tried contacting their brother's family for more information? Also there are census records for Clara E.Koch, mother of the 4 girls and one boy, Albert.

Guest		25-Feb-2017 00:04
kathie my name is bonnie; i was there all so in 1957.to 1962.i still have my report card from there with my pic on it.my e mail is smithbonnie 1972@yahoo.com.

John E Sauberan		20-Jan-2017 12:59
Sauberan 1942 8 children

linda Secunda		16-Jan-2017 04:21
I am trying to find information about my grandmother who was raised that the orphanage. Her name was Josephine Gileta. She was raised there with her smaller brother and sisters. Does anyone have information about who I can contact for records? Sincerely, Linda Secunda lsecunda@hotmail.com

Jennifer Jarvela		19-Oct-2016 14:37
I got files from Viilla Maria school.. They sent the records there... I have photos of my grandmother, mom, and aunt... Also some of the girls outside the children's home... They lived there for 13 years.. 1940-1953

Amy		09-Oct-2016 02:54
Was this also the same place that was a "home for unwed mothers" that burned down? If so, I think my mother was born here in 1955. Does anyone know if there were records that survived the arson fires?

Guest		11-Sep-2016 23:04
To John==The last names of kenny and dennis was Lesniak,,,

Cheryl		18-May-2016 23:31
Does anyone remember Faye ertell? She is my mother.she was there 194_1949.

ROBERT NORTH		04-Feb-2016 17:14
I WAS HERE TO, MEANY YEARS AGO .... MY NAME IS ROBERT NORTH JR ,,, IT WAS SO HARD LIVING THERE/.

dmarch		29-Dec-2015 16:30
Does anyone remember the Marchlewicz girls. Were there in 1940's until 1950's.

Susan Monde		02-Dec-2015 16:17
I remember you Michelle Huffman. I was in Sister Virgil's group with you. Sylvia - the memories. This is Susan Monde aka Sue Papp. A lot of people are asking about the Ervolinas. There was Angelo, John and Connie. Oddly enough Connie's daughter is my stepdaughter and I speak to her often. I also have a son from my childhood romance in this place by Tony Naples. My son is 40 now and has blessed my with a grandaughter who is 4. Thank god she will have an easier life than I did. Not complaining about my time in the home. It was better than living at home. Sure wish this place was still standing - I would like to go wander around the place. I used to go investigating around the building when I was there. So much to see. I hope all who were housed here are doing well! Sue

Ray Van		24-Nov-2015 09:45
I ma Ryan Van Karl, but i was called van back then in the home. i have really lost many friend i had back then due to the fact that we all left and shared. well i still hope to find more friends in the future like Francis, Dan, Mitchell, Lawrence and many more...

Edward Bakston		18-Sep-2015 00:14
Anyone remember Edward Bakston, that's me

Kathie ( Polinski) Thurston		14-Sep-2015 19:11
I lived at the Home between 1957-1962. I have very mixed memories of the place. The one thing I am sure of is that I was taught discipline! I had Sr. Dennis, she was very nice, also a Sr. Lucretia who was a total witch! She beat the crap out of me. If anyone was there during that time please contact me. It was a part of my life, be it good or bad and had a large part in my becoming the person I am today.

Florence Cathcart		15-Aug-2015 18:33
My mother, Adeline Sopczyk, along with her sister and 2 brothers were at IHM from 1930 to 1934. Stated reason was parents were indigent. She never talked much about that time and after reading these comments I can see why. One thing she did say was that they would sneak down to the kitchen for a piece of bread because they were hungry. For those who are looking for information, contact the Immaculate Heart of Mary Convent of the Felician Sisters in Buffalo. I would appreciate pictures of the home. Contact me at cathcartflo@gmail.com. Thanks and God Bless.

Cora Bonus		22-Jun-2015 23:12
My Mom was there in 1911 or 12,Gertrude Mary Koch,her sisters Gladys M.,Ruth A.,Mildred M. Clara L. They were put in the orphanage by their Mother Clara L. Koch because the father Louis Koch died in 1911. Their ages range from 9 to 1 year. They are all dead could I find information on them? cora a bonus so they are all dead.

Kate Herman		06-Jun-2015 01:31
Have posted photos of group photos taken during the early fifties. I have them posted on Ancestry.com

Guest		05-Mar-2015 22:19
My grandfather, Stanley Kankowski and his brother, Walter and John were there from 1905-1914. Does anyone have any information about this time period?

rose Danielewicz		21-Jan-2015 22:09
@George Brown, My brother Frank DiLorenzo graduated with the Mutka sisters from the orphanage. Would love to see the pics.

rose Danielewicz		21-Jan-2015 22:05
My 3 brothers were in IMH in or around 1950's for about 2+ yrs. Frank, Anthony & Elmer DiLorenzo, my brother does not have good memories of it, we had a picture of him doing a play with a paper hat on but it has been misplaced. Where would the records have gone to for them? My brother Frank graduated from there.

Guest		31-Dec-2014 03:01
What would have happened to these records? For the children that were adopted though here?

Walter Calkins		22-Dec-2014 05:27
Tammy Ann I am sorry for this late response but my dad had 4 brothers Jim, Floyd, Howard and Earl. Not sure if your dad was one of them. I left Buffalo in 1967 for the military and have not been back since except for summers while in college and short visits. He also had two sisters Velma and Betty

immaculate heart orphanage home		28-Aug-2014 17:19
Nicki I think I have info about your grandfather reach me at cynclylimited@gmail.com

Marcia		04-Jun-2014 14:28
I think my Mom(Sophie"Zosia"Mortka) worked there as a cook(she was Polish & learned English from one of the nuns)-guessing late 30's early 40's.The nun later left the sisterhood & married, becoming Celia Wiatrowski, who lived with husband, Frank, in Angola. As Sophie's children, we addressed Celia as Aunt Cel. Anyone remember my Mom or my Aunt Cel when she was a nun?

guest		23-May-2014 20:27
HI JOHN ROSLOWSKI HERE, I WAS THERE FROM 1944 TO 1954 WITH MY SISTER JOANNE . IF ANY ONE REMEMBERS US . NICKNAME JOHNNY CAKE WITH RED HAIR.I HAVE GOOD AND BAD MEMORIES IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TALK rozzoj1@msn.com I LIVE IN TEMPE ARIZONA

john roslowski		23-May-2014 20:06
john roslowski I was there from 1944 to 1954 with my sister joanne. I was a red head . nick name johnny cake. if any one remember us I would like to here from you. I have good and bad memories.

Nicki		13-Apr-2014 15:07
Hi I dont know if anyone can help me but I am lookng for old pictures of my grandfather or any stories from people that knew him and his brothers and sisters. According to the 1940 census they lived at IHM but may have been there earlier than that. The last name could have been spelled one of three ways because the census has it listed as such. Bress, Biss or Brss. He died when my mom was just three years old and we are trying to find any nformation at all. I'll keep checking here for any replies. Thank you.

George Brown		31-Mar-2014 13:14
My name is George Brown and I and my two brothers, James and Denis were inmates of I HM from 1950-1954. I was a cub scout, Pack 58, and boy scout, played on the basketball team, was in charge of the altar boys, remember Father Benkovshi(sic), on the track team and played softball every day cross the street. We have all subsequently gone on to college, brother Jim a now retired architect in Hawaii, Denis a high level lawyer with Royal Dutch Shell Oil Company in California. I am president of a small business in PA. I do have some photos of the Home from when it was abandoned but before the fire and I'll post them hen I can I remember fellow basketball player, Albert Harranza, Sister Stanicia, Millie Mike, Violet and Carol Mutka. I remember the Sunday night movies, doughnuts from a metal can served outside, playing marbles, Camp Tiiwihii, the small candy store, wool bathing suits when we went to a public pool and the beatings by the nuns I sure wouldn't mind hearing from anyone from my era.

Ed March		17-Mar-2014 17:01
My husband Ed was in the home in the 40's and 50's. He does not have very good memories about the home. My mom worked there for a long time in the laundry. Sister Boguchwala was a very nice person to work for. My mom walked there from Iroquois Avenue every day, that's how I met my Ed. My sister and I enjoyed visiting Mrs. Leonard who lived in the attached cottage at the home. We were good friends with her daughters.

Guest		17-Mar-2014 16:52
My husband Edward Marchlewicz was at the home for a long time in the 40's and 50's. He has some very sad memories. My mom worked there in the laundry for a very long time. Sister Boguchwala was very kind to her. We lived on Iroquois Avenue and my mom walked to work every day. We loved to visit Mrs. Leonard and her daughters. I hear they sold some of the land just recently.

Wayne Diebold		17-Mar-2014 02:04
Just thought I'd give this a shot; After i left IHM I was moved to Father Bakers, aka Baker hall. Does any one remember these guys Jack Brenner, Leonard Blair, Ronnie Mound, or Paul Wise. they were my friends while there. Some of our house parents were Jim O'neil and his wife, and Joe and Sally Mullins all sweet people. if anyone remembers these people please comment, I check this site weekly.

Joan Kurkowkski-Gillen		15-Mar-2014 22:42
My father grew up here in the 1930s and early 1940s. He never had a negative thing to say about the orphanage. The nuns were good to him. It was much better than growing up with no mother and an alcoholic father.

guest		28-Dec-2013 02:37
I have often wondered about this Place. Now that I have found some info on it I want more info. reading the comments has really got me to thinking. I recently moved right down the street from here and have to pass it to get to the main road and every time I do I feel sad. I also look over at the remaining building and it looks as if someone is standing in the window. Anymore links or info on this would be great

Shannon		28-Dec-2013 02:32
I live just down the street from this place now, Every time I drive past it I get sad. It also looks as thought their is a child/ person in the window in the only building left. It has caught my attention for sure. Not to mention the things I am experiencing in my new home. Reading the comments has made me feel as though there is a lot more to find out about this place and the surrounding area. I feel for the kids that were there...

kevin pierce		04-Dec-2013 19:56
my name is kevin pierce and i lived at IHM from 1964 to 1971. susan monde i remember you and frances and sandy rodgers. you had a brother if i am not mistaken susan named bill?

Wayne Diebold		15-Oct-2013 03:14
In 1957 there was an outbreak of the Asian flu. I remember the day I started feeling sick and the frightened look on the nuns face to this day. I guess we weren't told about the flu to keep us from getting scared, because a lot of people who got the flu in 57 died from it.I remember me and several others were taken to the infirmary and put to bed. I don't remember much for about two weeks except the care i was given, I don't remember any doctors but I do recall the nuns who who cared for us and many who prayed for us several times a day. Yes there were bad things that happened there, but when I think about it, if it weren't for those grouchy nuns I might not be here today. And you know what/ I have not had a bout with any kind of flu since 1957.

tammy ann		09-Oct-2013 18:51
also my last name is Calkins so i was shocked to see another Calkins post to this, not sure if we are related or not

tammy ann		09-Oct-2013 18:50
i was there from the time i was 5 yrs-11 yrs old (1976-1982) i was there with my brothers and my sisters . Some really bad things happened there and some really evil things too. there was some really good people there also . the dance teacher was wonderful, also i do remember the germam shepherd too. i have pics from the dances we did ,I also learned to tap there . MY Facebook name is Tammy ANN. if any of you want to look me up and share stories .

Ruth Sippel Pace		24-Sep-2013 12:44
my two brothers, Butch and John and I were there 1959-1960. I had just turned 7. I don't remember any beatings, but some things were kinda cruel. I remember an outing on a school bus to AMA&A's - Thruway Mall to see Santa Claus. Some organization or AMA&A's themselves must have donated toys for us - but we girls all got the same brand new doll. On the bus ride back - the nuns took the dolls from us and said we would be getting them back ON Christmas - we never did. When my father came to take me home "for good" sometime in summer 1960 - I wanted to go back to the dorm to pack my things (I had been bounced around so many times that I "knew" that if I didn't pack my own stuff, something would be missing). and sure enough, when my stuff got to my house, my teddy bear, that I kept on my bed, was not there. I remember the first evening that I was there - I had long hair, past my butt - and they cut it all off - applied stinging lice medication. I suppose they had to. My two sisters Gert and Kathy were in a foster home on Iroquois Ave - a few blocks away and Kathy was livid when she saw they had cut my hair. We five kids were able to see each other when Gert and Kathy would come by and we would visit - seperated by the fence. what a shame it burned down - I'm now a paranormal investigator - ooo that would be cool to investigate. I can't remember any names of the nuns, and only three girls - Gloria, Denise, and Lizzie. Lizzie was only about 4 and whined a lot.Got on my nerves. I'm on facebook - Ruth Herr Sippel Pace if anyone wants to connect. I didn't even know about the reunion until years later.

Jill Kulczyk		20-Sep-2013 11:55
Mr. Cannan it was Henry, I asked by father the day I wrote this post. He told me I only met him once or twice as a child because he moved to Cincinatti, Ohio, my dad said my grandpa was the one who bought him the bus ticket. I tried looking into it and it seems he past away but I think he may have a son named Henry as well.

Guest		13-Sep-2013 15:58
My father and his 2 brothers were there in the late 30's to late 40's, the beatings and sexual abuse they went through were horrifying. My father told me stories about horrible things that happened in the basement that is mentioned as creepy in a comment below. My father did leave in 9th grade, ended up graduating from college and having a nice family of his own, but is unable to forget his early years, especially a he gets older.

Larry		05-Sep-2013 12:35
Jill- I think the other uncle was Henry. Regards, Larry Cannan

Jill Kulczyk (Kurkowski)		30-Aug-2013 18:14
My grandfather's 9 siblings were at at this orphanage, name being Kurkowski. My grandpa was the oldest, hence, was not sent there. He never discussed the passing of his mother and father in much depth but I know it was difficult for him because as a young man it was impossible to care for 9 siblings. Two of my uncles became priests, in fact my uncle Frankie as I knew him, Father Innocent to the rest of Buffalo, began teaching at Bishop Ryan in Buffalo, New York. When Ryan closed he taught at St. Francis for years, then was chaplin at St. Joe's hospital (all the stained glass windows there were made by hand, talent of uncle Frankie). He also spent some time at a small parish in Auburn, NY and ultimately returned to St. Francis High School, where he passed away today. Id love to hear stories about my family while they at Immaculate Heart of Mary. They were in the orphange in the 1930's. There were 9 total, 7 boys and 2 girls. All were Kurkowski's...Frankie, Chris, Leo, Freddy, Chet, Art, Dorothy, Helen, horrible but I am forgetting the names of one at the moment, I believe he moved away to Cincinatti, OH many many years ago. All but one has since past away. God bless you uncle Frankie, I cherish all the memories I have with you as a child. May you rest in peace in the arms of your mother who has missed you so.

Linda Hart		20-Aug-2013 13:36
My mother & siblings were there from 1923-1939. My aunt who was there from 8yrs old-18yrs, has bad memories/abuse of the place. My mom who was a toddler when placed, said it was probably better than living with a father who drank and could not support them. (But he came every Sunday to have dinner with them) Any one with any info during that time, I'd love to hear from you. There were 5 siblings and their last name was Michno. I don't have the correct Polish names in front of me, but they were: Contantine, Ivan -or John, Beatrice, Lottie, and Mitch. They were from North Tonawanda, NY.

Wayne Diebold		21-Jul-2013 03:54
Ron; Another memory that comes back to me is the night watchman who walked the floors at night, used to scare the crap out of me sometimes when he shone his flashlight on my face. I remember I was plagued with terrible ear aches sometimes and they would hit me in the middle of the night, and if the watchman was near by he would try to comfortr me until a nun would come to see what was wrong. does anyone remember his name?

annalisa		11-Jul-2013 04:00
I used to go in there all the time when I was younger, the things I experienced and the feelings you got could not be explained. When we would go into the basement, there were tiny cells with just a bed, toilet and sink. We went in that area just a little but there was just a ton of odd noises that we just couldn't get over. It was a beautiful building but believe it held a very dark past. I wish I took pictures but my memories are all I have of my visits.

Debbie		26-May-2013 08:26
This is Debbie and my email is lanabar86@yahoo.com. My mom grew up there and if anyone has any pictures or videos of the fire or anything l would love some copies. Blessings, Debbie

pamrs		21-May-2013 00:50
My father and his brothers grew up there in the late 40's and early 50's. He does not speak of it much but from what he did tell me was awful how he was treated by the nuns. My dad's last name is Rushok and I am sorry to see that he was not the only one with the same experience.

Debbie		19-May-2013 11:38
Hi! lf anyone has any pictures that they would like to email me l would really appriciate it. My moms family grew up in IMH. She would love to see them. Blessings, Debbie

Debbie		19-May-2013 11:35
Hi!this goes out to anyone who has pictures or a video of the fire. My mom and her family grew up there. I would love a copy. Please email me at lanabar86@yahoo.com. Blessings, Debbie

Randy		13-Apr-2013 22:48
We investigated this location before it was burned and demolished, does anyone else know of any supernatural activity at this location? We had several unexplained events that took place here during several visits. I was hoping I could get more insight to this.

rebecca		11-Apr-2013 05:48
Kuzara I read your post, My name was Rebecca Keenan I was their 1945 to 52 and my brother Robert Keenan[Bob] I also remember Christmas, midnight mass parading thru the corridors. Easter time, the hugh chocolate bunny one year, it must have been about 3ft tall, they broke it up and we all got a small piece of it. Reba or Becky

ron		28-Mar-2013 18:53
michelle; the statue of Martin deporres is on the grounds of a catholic church on losson rd in cheektowaga. It stood on the edge of the playground on the boys side of the orphanage when I was there in the mid 50s ron

Joanne Burnash		22-Mar-2013 17:21
Hello, My name is Joanne (Mitchell) Burnash. I am conducting a geneology search of my father, Edward J. Mitchell, and understand he lived in Immaculate Heart of Mary Orphan's Home sometime between 1914 and 1930. While at the Home I believe he lived there under his birth sire name and changed his name to Mitchell sometime around 1930. Can anyone tell me how I can go about learning what his last name was while living at the Home? Thank you for your help.

Kuzara		07-Mar-2013 02:02
Hi everyone.My name is Eugene Kuzara.I was in the home from 1944 thru 1953,together with my brothers Teddy,Robert,and Tommy. also sisters Patty and Sandy. The nuns that took care of us other then a handful were decent and treated us good.Especially sisters Pious (8th grade),Loraintine (choir),Agnetta (band), Pauline (6th grade), and more that I can't recall their names.I grew up with the Mutkas,Harenzas,Catalanos, Richters, Gospodarskis, Wozniak, Bogardus, Blaszyk,Orlowskis etc. My most memorial moments were Christmas Eve. Walking through the corridors singing Christmas Kolendy before entering the church and seeing people that use to be in the home in previous years and their families,also kids like me that had one parent left that couldn't take care of ALL of us. After midnight mass said by Father Bentkowski, the nuns use to invite the people downstairs in the eating area for a get togethere serving coffee and donuts. I enjoyed being in the Band (played trumpet),being in the Boy Scouts and going to camp in Holland, but mostly being on the track team. Running the winter meets at the Armory and the summer meets at Delaware Park.We ran against the Catholic schools in the Buffalo area. Such power houses like St. Stans, Holy Angels, Holy Family,etc.IHM won more than their share of medals and trophys. Also when the band played at the Erie County Fair Parade,when we marched around the track before we approached the grandstand the 2nd time the standing applause we received from the people. Thank You Sister Agnetta wherever you are. GOD BLESS YOU.

Diane		07-Feb-2013 20:44
My Mom & I used to walk to 5:30am mass on Sunday mornings when I was a kid. We lived three streets away on Starlite Avenue. I remember feeling sad that the children there were not able to be home with their families. I was there the day of the fire.

John		18-Jan-2013 21:33
Hi everyone. I did not live at IHM but I have two male cousins -- whom I have never met -- that were there (I believe) in the '40s and '50s. I do not know their last name but they were brothers (of course) -- Dennis and Kenny. Their mom left their father and he could not take care of them so they were placed there. Their parents are both dead and since I do not know their last name (my aunt remarried before I was born) so all I know are their first names. I believe they ran away once or twice and showed up at my newlywed parents apartment on Gibson and I was told it was heartbreaking to have to tell them they could not stay and would have to go back to the orphanage. They just did not understand why they could not live with other family members -- or their parents. I have read your stories and much of it is heartbreaking. God bless you all.

Ron		17-Jan-2013 18:37
Come on Walter! How could you not remember the bus trip? If we were lucky, the nun wouldn't have us praying the roasary out loud and we could just watch out the windows. I also recall the usual lecture as we went thru the slums downtown that if we didn't clean up our acts, then we were destined to live in the slums.

ron		13-Jan-2013 19:23
Wayne, I do remember the barber school 's swan and Michigan st. I remember getting nicked by the student barber. he was afraid that I would cry and he would be kicked out. I remember he said he was an ex offenders. I mouth shut. Do you remember the amputee that hung out in front of the body. he got around on a skateboard contraption.he was amputated from.the easiest down.

Walter Calkins		13-Jan-2013 16:36
I remember the barber school but not how we got there. I guess it was a trip out.

wayne Diebold		16-Dec-2012 04:27
Hey! do any of you guys remember the nuns loading us up in that old bus and taking us downtown to the barber school to get our hair cut?

Guest		17-Nov-2012 23:45
Christina Pawlik : are you on facebook? Elias Pembleton is my Uncle

Guest		26-Oct-2012 10:15
Janice - You mentioned Sr. Brunona - I was in her class at St. Josaphat School, just a few blocks from the orphanage. I don't recall which grade, probably around 1953-1957 time frame. Fred - ffkazzak@gmail.com

Guest		16-Oct-2012 18:30
Wayne-Sweetest day was in October; i remember the stale candy. The Asian flu was in '58 or '59. I remember being in the infirmary for a bunch of days w/ the nun (she wore white, I guess, to signify that she was a "nurse") carrying on about laying still. I can also rember being violently ill in the middle of the night, as a kid, on my own and cleaning up the mess , afraid of the nun being angry about it and the consequences ron

Wayne Diebold		01-Oct-2012 04:13
Guest; as far mas I know, we were distantly related to the ohio Diebold's of the safe company fame. I say distantly because they never had anything to do with us. I was at IHM two different times during the 50's and 60's I keep coming back to this page because it brings back so many memories, the smells of the burning tires . the girls home ec making cookies, and another memory I think many forgot, once a year some of the local merchants would bring left over candy for us on what the nuns called "sweetest day" it was a nice jester but the candy was stale.I remember when the asian flu epidemic broke out , i think it was 1959 I almost died. If it wasn't for those nuns, I would have.It sure would be nice to hear from some of you, i'm 65 years now and will answer any and all corispondence Wayne Diebold armorbearerseph611@sbcglobal.net AND MR. JOSKER, THANK YOU SO MUCH!

Guest		20-Sep-2012 22:09
I think We would all like to see the fire......

guest		20-Sep-2012 20:51
Anyone still out there from the 40"s? I went back for a vist in late 60's and it was luxurious compared to our stay. Beatings were routine, 25 to a group in narrow beds, Christmas eve was terrifying. Sexual abuse by one nun. Despite all that, we were fed, clothed and for most, in a safer environment than kids on the street today.

Guest		07-Aug-2012 10:16
Hi. This goes out to the peson labeled "guest". You had mentioned that you had pictures of the fire that burned the home and a video. I am very intersted in getting a copy. My mother and her family were all raised there from 1934-1950 and I know she would love to see them. Please email me with any questions. Thanks!! Debbie

George Brown		22-Jul-2012 04:55
I and my three brothers were at IHM from 1948 to 1953. I am George Brown, was 1st trumpet in the band, was a cub and Boy Scout, lead the altar boys, brought milk to Father Benkovski.The only decent nun was Sr Stanischa.I place left many bad memories, the beatings, the terror of the nuns, etc. Sunday evening movies (when the projector worked!)

janice		11-Jun-2012 20:03
In doing family research, I learned I have a great-aunt that may have been a Sister at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Children's Home from about 1920 till her death in 1969. Does anyone remember Sister Mary Brunona? Your information- positive and or negative will be greatly appreciated. Please respond to this board for follow-up email address. Thank you all.

Ron		07-Jun-2012 20:43
Walter or Wayne; Do either of you remember the name of the kid that Sister Anselm use to beat so bad in 5th grade when he couldn't answer questions quick enough? We all got hit (remember being taught the multiplication tables ? She used a paddle on our hands or just slapped us)but this kid really suffered. I recall one time watching her beating on him with a yardstick as she followed him down a flight of stairs at school. I remember the kid because he ended the school year with a stuttering problem and he would flinch if you went near him and he was not like that when the school year started in September. Anselm use to scream at us that we could complain to anyone we wanted because no one would believe us.

Walter Calkins		06-Jun-2012 03:44
Ron, I remember him but I remember playing baseball and having a great time at it. Also when we went to his house, he and I think his brother would tear phonebooks in half. Like you said his family was very kind to us

Ron		05-Jun-2012 17:05
Does anyone remember the visits to the orpahange by father Leo McCarthy in the late '50?. He would try to organize a football game, which would degenerate into a fistfight with the first kick off by him as the two sides of boys would rush at each other and go at it. He also let a bunch of us pile into his car and go to his family's house in Alden. a big deal because we got some TLC from his mom and an afternoon away from the home. A really nice guy. I just saw him the other day at a funeral and said "hello" and "thanks". I am no longer a boy of 10 and he's no longer a young, new priest but a silver haired Monsengor.

ineda		03-Jun-2012 18:07
Im so glad to connect to my past I was 6 when i came here in 72-75. I was the only black girl at the time. My experience was more positive than my family life,it was a world unlike the one I came from.-Ineda baker

Michele Huffman		19-Apr-2012 02:24
Wayne Diebold, my mother's family has Diebolds, wonder if we are related? Lorraine Winans (Huffman when married my Dad, David)) was my Mom. She died in 1961 when I was 2 and was why my sister & I wound up in the home. I always wonder when I see Diebold safes in banks if any relation, how cool would that be?

Michele Huffman		19-Apr-2012 02:15
My sister and I were in the home from 1965 to about 1970 on and off (2 foster homes in between). I remember that they split us up in the home anbd I was on a higher floor with Sister Virgil's group. I thought that was mean, we were together in foster care. Does anyine remember picking weeds on Saturdays and getting a jellybean for each weed, then the kid with the most jellybeans got to pull a small toy from a paper bag that was tied to a string? Sister Virgil was mean, I hated the endless walks and prayers around the grounds and it seemed like there was a Saints Feast Day almost every week. Santa came in a helicopter and gave us all toys in the gym and it made the local news every yr. That was cool, but I HATED the aluminum Christmas tree with the color wheel, so fake and cold, like the home....some nuns were very sweet but I was not fortunate enough to get any of them for my group or teachers that I can think of. I remember Ervolinos but cannot recall any of my groupmates names....anyone remember me? Scrawny, buck-toothed and sad most of the time. I recall being friends with a few people, but for the life of me cannot recall names. One black girl in my group hung out with me, sorry I wish I could remember names....it feels like I should never have forgotten those most precious parts of this whole experience, so sad. I had a few phone numbers but lost tehm over the yrs. I remember shopping in the commissary for Christmas gifts for my Dad and grandparents (handkerchiefs and cologne, etc) that they would take out of your acct if your family put money in for you. NO SNOW DAYS!!! remember the school connected to the dorms & church etc. Family visit days were nice if you had a visit but awful if not.....Also remember airdrills, huddling in the halls covering our heads. I think there was a huge windstorm that some said was a tip of a tornado that ripped up trees on the huge grounds. It never seemed warm there, always cold to me, but I loved the statues and artwork. St Teresa, little heart of the infant Jesus with Roses raining down upon her death, I took her name for confirmation. I don't remember any pictures but I never had a camera. Hope everyone that went there is doing well and are happy now. e-mail me if you remember me or want to share.

Guest		23-Feb-2012 14:00
Sharon: I do remeber that.Also, din't Nick Gervasi paint/created a picture for the play? I havea photo of us. Hope you're happy and well? ron

Brandy		11-Feb-2012 14:31
My grandfather was put here from about 1933 until he ran away from the home in about 1943. He was 10 years old when he ran away. We have been looking for more information on him and it is hard to find any information on him since his mother would never give anyone his real father's name and she would never let him or anyone else see his birtrh certificate. His first name was Robert....in the later years he found his real mother and her new husband and he than took on the last name Sitarek. If anyone knew him please contact me.

Sharon G		26-Jan-2012 20:13
Some of the names I do remember, Ronald Scoma. Ronald if we read this do you remember writing a play and performing it on stage with a couple of classmates? I was one of them, I helped with the props for the play and performed in the play. I do have pictures of us performing somewhere. I may have lost them when I moved. But I know there were alot of kids that really did not like being there, two of which were my sister and brother, but I and my friends made our own fun, sometimes at the expense of punishments. I did alot of scrubbing walls and floors during that time. God Bless Everyone that survived.

Kathi Miller Kolczynski		21-Jan-2012 22:26
I grew up on Milsom, the street running perpendicular to the Columbus, the Orphanage, the "priest house" and convent were a big part of our lives. My first Christmas Eve Midnight mass I net to was at the IHM chapel. We played baseball for hours in the empty lot between Kennedy and Gerard. My brother wanted to adopt a boy named Joe from the home, I don't recall his last name or circumstances. This would have been the late 60's into the 70's. Spent many evenings with friends hanging out on the stone wall that ran along Columbus. I witnessed the big fire, it was heartbreaking to see this once magnificent complex destroyed. Worrier still that politics has left the owner few options so it sits vacant.

lisa Munshi		03-Dec-2011 21:16
I lived in the Home thru the early 70's.. I have mostly good memories of the home.. I also remember Mircole(the maintence) man. Connie, and Angelo Ervolina.. I remember Sister Rosalma, Sister Joseann, Sr. Carmeline, and father Walter.. I lived there for 6 years. it was my last option, having traveled all thru the foster care system.. thank God my life today is happy.. It was a rocky start to a great finish !! My name is Lisa Campanelli, and now i am Lisa Munshi.. I am on facebook,if you like to contact me..

WAYNE DIEBOLD		13-Nov-2011 02:59
Christine; the nun for the sixth grade 1957 1958 was Sister MARY MAGDALINE from what I remember of her, she was the sweetest of them all. She was the one who got me interested in reading. I remember her reading Charlots web.and madecit so realistic I could almost see the animals.WAYNE DIEBOLD ARKANSAS

Guest		24-Oct-2011 19:35
Christine-who were your teachers? I had Celestine; Anselm ('57-'58)(5th gr)and I cant rember the nun for 6th ('58-'59) R

Christine		18-Oct-2011 11:51
Christine Pawlik 1951-1958,,,,have some interior pics....Elias was my first boyfriend and ron do I know you....Have been a RN for 45 yrs....those were the good old days

Christine Madigan		14-Oct-2011 23:04
I am the daughter of Alice Demyanick.She and her sister and 3 brother were at the home in the late 30's and 40's.I would like to know if the records from them would possibly be availabe. My mother died in 1970 . I was told that the Felcian Sisters on Doat street have the records.Does anyone know if this is true ? Thank you

dina_1		28-Sep-2011 17:53
Does anyone remember Shirley Erickson? She was at the orphanage some where around 1968-71. She was my aunt. I recently found information regarding her history there. I have been Blessed by recently adopting her beautiful grandaughter. As I read through her profile, I realize her grandaughter's personality is exactly like Shirley's. I would love more insight if anyone is willing to share with me. Their story is remarkable. "For I know the plans I have for you" Jeremiah 29:11

R		19-Sep-2011 18:29
I'm curious: did anyone go to the "reunion"? What was said by the residents? What did the nuns say?

Ron		19-Sep-2011 18:25
Wayne; I remember the smell of the burning tires and being allowed to go play on the piles and along the rail yard. I remember a "bum" talking to me saying he was hungry and so I brought him back to the orphanage and told him maybe the nuns would give him food. They werent happy. Do you rember the other smell from the tanning factory on William St that would blow over the place? One side was burning rubber; the other was tanning factory.

WAYNE DIEBOLD		17-Sep-2011 01:43
WALTER CAUKINS. I WAS A NAVY CORPSMAN AT KHE SANH IN 68 I CAN'T SAY FOR SURE I WORKRD ON WALTER BUT IF HE WAS A 2/5 MARINE THERES A GOOD CHANCE I DID. THERE WERE A LOT OF GOOD MEN WHO DIED THERE. RON. ONE OTHER THING I.M SURE YOU.LL REMEMBER ABOUT IMH IS THAT AWFUL SMELL OF BURNING RUBBER LATE AT NIGHT FROM THAT TIRE PLANT SOMEWHERE DOWN THE ROAD.WISH YOU'D E-MAIL ME AT THE ADDRESS I GAVE WAYNE DIEBOLD ARKANSAS

Guest		30-Aug-2011 08:21
I am a fire fighter who responded to the fire. To this date, it is still the biggest fire every in Cheektowaga. I have a video of the fire and some news print. Whoever started this page can contact me and I can send them the pics if anyone is interested.

pastor123		14-Aug-2011 22:37
I was in the orphanage from 1964-1976. I remember the Ervolinas, Intorres, Susan Monde, the Kania Brothers, the Reynolds, Kessicks, Deers, Fran Rogers, ..Nuns...like Sisters Hiltrudis, Dennis, Agneta, Lauretine, Virgil, Carmeline, Rita, Josanne, Celestine, Mr Mirko, Mr Slack, Dorothy Gay our dance teacher, Rusty, the german sheperd dog,and many more. I remember the Halloween and Christmas parties, camping at Seven Hills girl scout camp, Sunday night movies, along with the many unjust and painful moments of punishment and challenging relationships with those involved. Good or bad, pretty and ugly, God had a plan for all of us. I learned that if you dwell on the past, you forsake your future. Today can be your new beginning, because YOU have the power to change anything with the help of Jesus, who really loves you! God bless...you are all the best! God bless and have an awesome day! Love you all!, Sylvia Rose Bettencourt (Kremblas)....

Robert North Jr		10-Aug-2011 08:37
I WAS IN THIS HOME WITH MY BROTHER I WAS IN THE JR GROUP I WAS A ALLTERBOY ILL NEVER FOR GET THIS HOME AND HOW SOME OF US WOULD GET BEET THERE WAS TIMES I COULD NOT SIT DOWN FOR DAYS AFTER GETING HIT OR BEET THE SISTERS THERE KNEW NOTHING OF GOD BECAUSE GOD NEVER BEET ANY ONE MY NAME IS ROBERT NORTH JR IM 49 YEARS OLD I WAS IN THIS HOME FROM AGE 9 TO 10 I KNEW EVERY ONE IN THIS HOME ITS SOME THING YOU COULD NEVER FOR GET AND ALL THE BAD THINGS THAT WENT ON HERE AT THIS HOME I JUST FOUND THIS SITE ANY ONE THAT WAS THERE YOU CAN CALL ME IF YOU LIKE AT 17166735000 MY EMAIL IS BONORTH@YAHOO.COM AND IM ON MESSENGER AS WELL SO MENNY BAD THINGS WENT ON IN THIS HOME AND TO DAY STILL KNOW ONE REALLY KNOWS ABOUT IT ILL TELL EVERY ONE I KNOW WHAT KIND OF THINGS WENT ON HERE AT Immaculate Heart of Mary Orphan's Home THEY BEET THE SHIT OUT OF SOME OF US BAD GOD LOVE EVERY ONE THAT WAS THERE ILL NEVER FOR GET THIS HELL HOLE AS LONG AS I LIVE CALL ME OR TEXT MY OLD FRIENDS I LOVE YOUS ALL FROM ROBERT NORTH JR

Guest		09-Aug-2011 17:27
We were at St Vincents and when they closed we went to Immaculate Heart. There were 4 of us all girls,Gloria, Kay, Joan, and Mary Lou Walden. i WENT TO THE Reunion and was sorry I didn't get some of the pictures that were passed along. We were there from 1952 to 1954 and then were put in a foster home. My mother died when I was 7 and we called ourselfs 1/2 an orphan.

Kenny B		03-Aug-2011 21:36
Looking for members of the class of 1973 Pat Kesick, Tom LaValley Salina Osika, and me Kenny Beilman! where are You????

Ron		29-Jun-2011 18:36
Walter-Hope thats you that replied? You're right about Sr Erminelda. Who had the eniors and Martin DePorres? We fought to a draw, but you were bigger then me. Fighting was pretty routine as the bigger kids beat on the smaller ones calling it "initiation". I was stationed at Ft Sill for AIT. ( Do you remember the nuns shreiking that we were worthless and garbage and should join the Army so we would we be fed, clothed and housed?) Do you remember taking the two toboggans over to the hills in the construction area. The biggest kids took them and us little guys took are chances running and jumping and trying to pile on as they went down the hill. The price of the ride was being punched all the way down or tossed off, if you couldn't take it. I stepped back on the grounds a few years ago when I was in town. It was winter time and Buffalo-grey. Very sad;very eeiry Will try to conect when I have access to facebook Anybody else out there from the residents from '55 to 60?

Guest		28-Jun-2011 03:51
Ron, Sr Ermanelda I believe was in charge of the Juniors. Got lucky and spent eighteen months in Panama, 67-69, instead of the Nam. Lots of beer and women. Haven't been back to Buffalo since accept between semesters in college, Oklahoma. I was sad to hear the place burnt down. My wife wanted to go see it if we ever went back to visit. I am on facebook if you are interested. I have a poor memory but some things stick out. I had so many fights I cannot remember any of them. Hope I didn't hurt ya.

Ron Scoma		23-Jun-2011 18:50
Just came across a posting that Elias Pembleton who was a fellow resident in the '50's won a Silver Star for gallantry under fire as a marine platoon Sargeant in Viet Nam in '69. I think thats wonderful! Now I'm curious: how many of us made it successfully? please post a note.

Ron Scoma		23-Jun-2011 18:04
Hi Walter; We were in the same groups together and Scouts-Martin DePorres and then the Seniors. We duked it out one time, but you were bigger then me. The 5th grade teacher was Sr Mary Anselm-. I remember that your dad came racing to the orpahange on the night of the fire to see if you were ok. And I remember Sr Agnetta-she also conducted the choir. We had Sr Celestine in 4th grade. Do you remember the names of the nuns that were responsible for the groups? Have you ever encountered any of the other residents? I saw Elias Pembleton a few years agao at a GRCO reunion-he looks great and happy. Anybody else out there from '55-'59?

Walter Calkins		05-Jun-2011 15:36
Ron Scoma, I am sorry but I don't recognize your name. I do remember Gregory Vann,Walter and James Tyrcz (Read where Walter was killed at Khe Sanh in Jan 68). They had a sister Julia and I think she was James twin. Somebody mentioned about somebody drowning, that was Butchie Lappa in the twelve foot pool at a pool I believe was on Clinton street. The fifth grade techer was a mean one. She used to hit you with a stick or ruler, not sure which, but would always get on me for day dreaming saying I was "At the bar", funny. I remember a lot of kids coming from another place because of a fire and I guess that would be you. The name Diebold rings a bell but cannot remember the first name. Schelkeoff was fun and so were the Sunday night movies and visitor days on Sundays in the auditorium. There were four of us there,me, my brother and two sisters. I don't recall the nunsbeing mean just strict and quick with the paddle for disciplain. I guess we gotthere in 53 and left in 58, not sure of dates just 1st thru 5th grade. Been a long time ago since we were there.

Debbie		15-May-2011 12:56
I keep on reading the coments but noone said they remembered my mom and aunt. Edith Bogardus and Diane. My uncle Ralph. Anyone? Please email me if you do. Dec28ltr@aol.com. My mom would love to hear from anyone. Thanks Debbie

icu2hehe		29-Mar-2011 16:20
WOW!!!!! I have so many memories from IMH and like others I have both good and bad memories. I see people mentioning names that I remember quite well. I do remember the Ervolino's Angelo, John and Connie. I was there from around 1965 through 1972 when I outgrew the place and moved on to Baker Hall. If it will help others remember, I can throw out some other names that stick out for me. There were brothers: Danny and Martin Batherson. Sisters: Marlene, Celine and Carmella Intorre. Someone mentioned Father Walter Gartska (I too was an alterboy). Sister (where's my clapper) Gertrude. Social Worker Dianne Dingleberry. The Chech guy in charge of maintenance I think his name was Miro. Sister Josephine. Dorris Hart and yes I seem to have faint memories of a Cynthia Deering. Thanks Mr. Josker for the brief trip down memory lane.

Robin McGee		21-Mar-2011 04:37
The home was haunted. The building your're talking about was where we had shop. The grounds keeper/handyman Eugene lived above it w/ his mom.

Guest		07-Jan-2011 16:19
I was at IHM 1954-1955, graduated from 8th grade and was then in a couple of pretty dreary foster homes. I remember the IHM nuns as sad, frustrated and lacking in any human warmth - the mother superior as a self-righteous, nasty person who didn't really like kids. But to be fair - we weren't really likable; we fought, stole things, ran away and pushed the envelope of what we thought we could get away with. And they punished us with a thick leather strap (and we usually deserved it). So it was almost like a prison with guards (who clearly wished to be somewhere else) and the inmates (who had no choice on where they lived); with neither trusting or even liking the other. Thinking back on it, I think that the nuns did the best they could. They had their own demons. The only bright spot was the music teacher, Sister Agnetta, who everyone seemed to like. I went on to college, medical school, became a surgeon and eventually returned to Buffalo. I called Sister Agnetta who was then living at the old folks home for nuns: Villa Maria. I offered to go over there and take her for a ride in my Ferrari (I know - I was showing off back then - now I drive around in a 20 year old Mercury wagon). But Sister Agnetta was neither impressed nor interested. To her credit, she didn't know what a Ferrari was. More likely, her memories of the past were probably no better than mine and she saw no joy in reliving them.

Ron Scoma		30-Sep-2010 18:46
I was there from '56 to '59. There were x3 buildings set apart from the main structure. One was a woodworking shop where the 5th grade boys took a basic wood working class. Another building was agarage. A third building was across the street from the main front office and was aresidence for the developmentally disabled residents. Does anybody remember the group of Hungarian refugee men that the diocese sent to the home briefly? They had escapedduring the '56 uprising. Does anybody remember the fire caused by careless smoking of one of the resident maintenance men? One was killed trying to get back to his room for money he hidden and was saving. The nuns kept us in the building to keep us away from the commotion and firefighters. I remember the name Nick/Rick Ervilino.

Ron Scoma		30-Sep-2010 18:29
There were x2 free standing buildings on the grounds when I was there from '56 to '59. One was a woodworking shop where the boys took a shop class. I remember building a toy boat. A second building was a garage. There was a third building across the street from the gate to the admin offices. It was a seperate facility for a group of residents who were developmentally disabled. Was there a Nick Ervilino? Does anyone remember when the diocese had a group of Hungarian refugee men who escaped during the '56 uprising housed at the home?

Debbie		13-Sep-2010 07:08
Hi everyone. My mother was raised in this home during 1937-1950. Her name is Edith Bogardus. Maybe she went by Jane. Her sister were named Diane, Kay, Roseanne, and she had 2 brother.One of them were named Ralph. Did anyone knew any of my family members. I would be really interested in hearing your stories. Im sure my mom would too. Thank you for your time and website. It was very informative. Please email me with any question. Thanks again. Debbie

Investigator Ryan		12-Sep-2010 02:51
well i am a resident in cheektowaga and i was wondering if this place is haunted...? me and a buddy were there last night and i walked past the fence and i felt like i wanted to cry cause all the kids who were here...there is only one small building right in the middle of the field..makes it more creepy well if anyone can kindly get back to me with some information im gonna investigate the one small house and the fields with cameras..well thanks for your help..---> Ryan ^.^

Guest		05-Sep-2010 17:56
Lived there with my sister around 1965 I believe Remember some names Ervolinos stick out I believe connie tony and angelo Surprised to find this site Huffman was our last name. Any one remember?

Lynda Murphy Gardner		30-Aug-2010 11:45
I have great memories of the home. Oh how I wish I could visit it today. What a shame that such a beautiful place was destroyed. I was there from late forties until early 50's. The nuns were very nice to my sister and I. I never saw abuse such as stated in some of these posts. Thank God for those nuns. Any inside pics sure would be apprciated if any one knows where I can find some.

Guest		15-Jul-2010 00:33
I love hearing all of your stories. my family recently moved in the area and the grounds are across the street on William from my street. I dated someone who was in the home. His name was Rick and he had a sister. They were adopted together but I do not know when. He did not have many nice things to say about this home and now every day I look at what remains and I wonder why they can't do something with this land. I never got to see the grounds and don't even remember the fire. The house that remains standing, can someone tell me what that house was? It appears to have what looks like a pool outside of it.

Robert		25-Jun-2010 18:43
I was in the Children's Home from 1968 thru 1973 and felt the nuns treated me well; I also remember Father Walter since I was one of his alter boys. I am really glad Mr. Josker took these pictures some are very memorable for me.

Guest		02-Apr-2010 14:33
I grew up in the area and for a few years before and up til it burned me and my friends would go in there. Only during the day it was scary at night I swear the place was haunted. I wish I could have seen it before the vandels got it. A few of my friends started the first fire by accident in the church trying to stay warm partying. Then second time was arson I dont even think it was winter. The police came looking for my friends at jfk that started the 1st fire, my friends were in school at the time so they had alibi's. It was found to be kids from Maryvale or Central I cant remember.

Guest		27-Feb-2010 03:39
RON SCOMA' WRITE ME AT armorbearerseph611@sbcglobal.net WAYNE DIEBOLD

Haydee		09-Feb-2010 16:19
Message to Isabel Martinez - I just found this website and read that you were at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Orphanage in 1961 as part of the Pedro Pan Group. My sister and I were there also as part of Pedro Pan. We arrived in September 1961 and after three months were placed in a foster home. My name is Haydee and my sister is Aleida. I would love to contact you. Thank you.

RScoma		06-Jan-2010 19:38
I remember the names Wayne Diebold, Walter caulkins and Sister Liguria. Did anyone besides me go to IHM from German Roman Catholic orphanage after it was set on fire in Jan.56 by a resident? Does anyone remember the beating that kid took from the nuns?

Guest		23-Dec-2009 04:21
The elderly priest in the late 50's was Father Bernardo

WAYNE DIEBOLD		23-Oct-2009 02:21
ONE OF THE MOST ABUSIVE NUNS I REMEMBER WAS ANOLD NUN BY THE NAME OF SISTER LIGORIA I REMEMBER HER BECAUSE SHE KNOCKED TWO OF MY TEETH OUT WITH A SPOON. REMEMBER THE SMELL OF COOKIES BAKING WHILE THE GIRLS WERE HAVING HOME EC. DOES ANY ONE REMEMBER THE NAME OF THE OLD PRIEST BACK IN THE LATE 50'S AND EARLY 60'S W DIEBOLD

Joyce czuprynSki		19-Oct-2009 06:28
I lived a few streets away from the children's home. I was born in1969 a d have lots of memories of the home. A friend of my mom was a nun there briefly (sr Paula Skalski). My mom and I would come to visit often and I remember playing with the children on the playground. After it closed I would sneak in often. The place was amazing, woodwork, church, I couldn't believe everything that was left behind; kids artwork, writings, furniture. I loved roaming the place and exploring. As the years went on there was more and more vandalism. I remember hearing steps and voices above or below where I was. As a high school student I did a lot of black & white pencil & charcoal drawings of the inside of the home.

R Scoma		05-Jun-2009 18:32
I was suprised to find this site. I was a resident from 8/56 until 7/59. I was there for the fire in 58, which was due to careless smoking by a resident worker. He went back into the bldg to retrive money he was saving to go back home. He was either Polish or may have been a Hungarian refugee that the nuns took in following the hungarian uprising. I remember the nuns as pretty abusivive: Sr Anselm was a teacher in the 5th grade who taught by slapping and hitting. saw another kid tossed down a flight of stairs. Beatings for not doing clean up to standard was pretty common. I remember a Walter Caulkins, Jerry Gorski, Walter and Jim Tyrcz, Roberto Becerril, the Pembleton Brothers, Nick Gervasi, Dennis Cooper, David and Gregory Vann. I remember camp Schelkoff; Sunday nite movies; and that stale crumbcake bread on Sunday mornings and some boiled mweat concction that we called "Shlitz double bubble" because of all the fat and grizzle. The nuns used to tell us we were garbage; our families were garbage and that we should join the army so we would have a gurantee of clothes, a bed and food. I have a masters degree and retired from the USAR as a Major. I think I did those things to spite them! Ron

Isabel Martinez		20-May-2009 22:46
I was at the orphanage 61-62. I was part of the Pedro Pan Operation of children from Cuba. I would love to have these pics. How can I download or buy. If there is anyone there from these times, I would love to have you contact me. Isabel Martinez. I was in the girls area, 8-12 group. Thanks and God Bless.

Guest		05-May-2009 01:18
TO ROBIN McGEE-MY NAME IS CYNTHIA DEERING,I WAS IN THE HOME AROUND 1972.I WAS IN SISTER DEBRAS GROUP.I REMEMBER YOU .I REMEMBER TRYING TO GET MY MOTHER TO ADOPT YOU.I GUESS I WAS TOO YOUNG TO UNDERSTAND MY BROTHERS,SISTERS & I WERE IN THE HOME BECAUSE MY MOM WAS TOO SICK TO CARE FOR THE SIX SHE ALREADY HAD.ANYWAY,I HAVE OFTEN WONDERED WHAT BECAME OF YOU.I WOULD LIKE IT IF YOU WOULD E-MAIL ME-cynthia.deering@yahoo.com THANK YOU,CINDI

rosied51		13-Mar-2009 17:38
My 3 brothers were there in mid50's Frank, Anthony & Elmer Dilorenzo. Frank graduated in 1954 from there. I have pictures, some names were Mutka sisters.

rose		13-Mar-2009 13:07
The picture I have is from 1954.

Rosemary		13-Mar-2009 13:02
My brothers were there, Frank , Anthony & Elmer DiLorenzo. I have a photo of my brother Frank graduating from there.Have newpaper article could get copy if one would like.Has names in it.

Susan		02-Jan-2009 19:11
Wow - the memories. I lived in the home from 65' to 72' so I'm a bit more of an old timer than most of you. I've looked for a site on the place for years - surprised to finally find one. I was taken out of my family home by the state and placed in this home so for me it was a better situation than I was in. I also have mixed feeling but most of them are good. I was surprised to find the place burned down. I would have liked to sneek in myself with my kids and show them the place. It was a fantasic old building - I wonder if they just plowed over it or if they dug up the basements. There's old railroad tracks that ran under the place - I was always curious about what they were used for. There is not a lot of history to be found on the building so I guess I'll never know. I'm now living in Southern California - been out here for about 25 years now. I went home a couple years ago for my mom's funeral and swung by to have a look at the old place - well the grounds now. Had to show my boyfriend so he would not think I was a nut and made it all up. Whoever put this site up thanks. Sue

jjcblm5145		02-Nov-2008 15:50
WOW sorry bout this but my brother is the one who burnt this place down! sorry guys for all ur loss of memmories and stuff it was abbandoned and it was a hang out spot of ppl but it was cold so they (him and his friends) started a fire feel free to ask my bout the whole story

john		09-Oct-2008 01:09
Robin Caulkins sound familiar, real familair. But its been awhile. My last name Sgroi. I was around 7 when I arrived at the home, I ahve to check on those dates though. I was pretty young and wild. I remember going to school at the home. It seems like I have blocked a lot of memories but they come back slowly...john

Robin		29-Sep-2008 17:45
John, What was you last name? Do you remember the Caulkins? There were 7 of them. Robin

john		23-Sep-2008 02:38
Robin I lived in the orphanage from approx 1974-1979. Its funny but I remember the pipes running in the ceilings. I learned to swim in the pool after I was thrown in the deep end of the pool. I remember making scarfs at xmas time with yarn. Of course there was the church activities and the dormatory living. I also remember walking with other kids to a local theater to watch the move watership Down. The wood work was amazing and it was a city with in a city.

john		23-Sep-2008 01:22
I lived for 5 years as a child in the orphanage. Have many memories. Wondering if other photos are available.

Robin		08-Sep-2008 05:14
I'm in Lockport,NY. Who is this?

Guest		05-Jun-2008 15:04
Hi Robin, We wondered how you were, and how you got on after you left. My brother was the last child to graduate from the school, and they pretty much kept the place open for him. They closed it after the school year ended and they found him a home to go to. I left in 1979 from the place across the street. My auntie, and me by default, is still in touch with some of the nuns. Where did you land? I'm in NYC, a painfully hip section of Williamsburg to be exact.

Robin McGee		11-May-2008 06:22
I lived there from 1974-1980. When I first arrived there were 150 kids. When I left there were 50. I wanted to show my fiance the place and was suprised to see it gone. It was a city w/ in itself. There was an infirmary,beauty salon,dentist office, fully equipped gym,movie projector in the auditorium. There was a built in swimming pool, tennis court,shop building (we started Home Ec. & shop class in fourth grade)I'd love to hear from anyone else who lived there. I have mixed memories & feelings about the home.

Guest		27-Apr-2008 20:04
As an 8th grader at TR (public school nearby) we volunteered one summer to help at the "orphan home". The woodworking inside took my breath away!

click on thumbnails for full image

Type your message and click Add Comment

It is best to login or register first but you may post as a guest. Enter an optional name and contact email address. Name
Name Email
help	private comment

Type your message and click Add Comment

It is best to login or register first but you may post as a guest. Enter an optional name and contact email address. Name
Name Email
help	private comment