Page:Walks in the Black Country and its green border-land.pdf/101

Rh and happiness in the world. Here they are apprenticed to various occupations—farming, shoe-making, tailoring; printing, &c.; and when they have acquired these trades, places are sought for them, not only in England but in Australia. Canada, and other British colonies. Both these institutions are greatly indebted for their origin and support to the Hon. C. B. Adderley, who gave the land which they occupy, and, what is equally valuable, his earnest sympathy and generous goodwill. The institution has grown to meet the demand for its benevolent offices, and now has sufficient accommodation for 100 boys.

There are many other reformatory and educational institutions in Birmingham and its suburbs, established on the voluntary principle for which the town is distinguished. Indeed, one who looks forward in the expectation or hope to see a uniform or unsectarian system of education adopted, must notice, with a little concern; the rapid rise and extension of denominational schools. The number of churches and chapels that have opened day schools as an integral part of their establishments, seems to be increasing to an extent which may interpose an obstacle to a national system. In many cases, the school house is a part or continuation of the church or chapel building, and frequently numbers several hundred children. It is a matter of common occurrence to hear of the