Education for the Blind of the Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight Observer April 8, 1865
To the Editor of the Isle of Wight Observer
Sir – I should feel obliged by your inserting the following in your next paper. Having sent circulars to the clergymen of the various parishes, Dissenting ministers, and several gentlemen and ladies of the Island, I beg to say I shall be most happy to receive their names to be on the committee, or any others who feel interested in the welfare of the blind. It may not be uninteresting to many of your readers to know the origin of a blind society in the Isle of Wight. In June, 1863, a lady by the name of Vicars (I believe the aunt of late Headley Vicars) came to Wootton Bridge and taught me to read in the house that I was born in, and about a year ago recommended me to Mr Moor, who came to Ryde and established a society, whose failure may be attributed to want of publicity. I am anxious to ameliorate the condition of my blind brethren and sisters both by education and pecuniary assistance, and many are in distressing circumstances; indeed, I should be most happy (if the funds would permit) to establish a home for them in the Island.
I am, Sir, your much obliged servant,
John Cooper
Wootton Bridge, IW, April 5, 1865.
PS – Subscriptions received at the “Isle of Wight Observer” Office, Ryde
