The Reform School at Pontiac, though a State institution, was completed and ready for occupants in 1870. Geo. W. Perkins, former Warden of the IL Penitentiary was seleced as Superintendent. There is belonging to the institution in land 280 acres which is worked by the inmates. The inmates have a large play ground of several acres including a baseball ground. An additional bldg. called a Family Building has recently been erected where about 30 of the better class of boys will reside apart from the others. Five teachers are employed, also a farmer, engineer, baker, overseers of shops to a number of 18 employees. The school was opened for the reception of boys in June, 1871, and to this date there have been 756 admitted. There are at this time in the school 194. Between 70-80 are employed making shoes, 60 of the smaller boys are engaged in caning chairs, the rest of the inmates are employed on the farm, laundry, bakery and garden. All clothing worn is manufactured by the inmates. Besides the duties of 6 hrs of labor a day, all attend school for 4 hrs., 9 hrs. is allowed for sleep. Visitors are welcome at the school from 1 - 3:30 p.m., Monday, Wed. and Friday. (from 1888 History of Livingston Co., IL ) Susan Ulfers Campbell in GA