There are four sets of photos that have provided insight into the Michigan Hospital School, Michigan Convalescent Home, and Sister Kenny Polio Hospital. They include two separate sets of original photos found in storage areas at the Botsford Commons Senior Community Campus.
The first set found was badly damaged by mold, as the material they were mounted on was not archival. However, the City of Farmington Hills digitized these photographs. With current photographic software, the images are much improved.
Girls entertain themselves on a sun porch. Photo undated.
These photographs depict life on the hospital campus — girls scouts, Boy Scout Troop 46 setting up camp,
Boy Scout Troop 46 sets up camp.
a playhouse (which stood next to the 1st hospital building on the site), children being schooled, hydrotherapy, and more.
The second set of photographs was in much better condition. It contains close-up portraits of a select number of children. The faces are endearing, and if you look closely, you’ll see period children’s toys!
The third set of photographs was delivered from the Farmington Community Library – Heritage Collection. These photos include photos of the children enjoying outdoor time on the porches — in December!
The fourth set of photographs is available on the Virtual Motor City site. It’s the Detroit News Photonegative Collection, which is archived at the Walter P. Reuther Library at Wayne State University. A limited number of these photographs will be available at the Reunion. The entire collection is permanently available to the public. Requests for use can be directed to Mary P. Wallace, AV Archivist.
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