Villa Maria
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S5280ft
N 42° 58.983 W 085° 41.977
16T E 606021 N 4759752
Located on the west side of Van Buren Avenue, just north of Walker Avenue. Streetside parking available.
Waymark Code: WM1BB9
Location: Michigan, United States
Date Posted: 03/23/2007
Views: 45
Villa Maria was founded by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd in 1904 as a haven for destitute young women. Many girls came here seeking shelter from negligent or abusive families; in later years some were referred by social service agencies. Villa Maria's mission was not only to educate, but to teach self-discipline and offer the women a new start. Residents learned a variety of skills so that they could become independent. The home was first located on Bridge Street and moved to the present site in 1904. In 1985 it became a retirement center.
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