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From the cramped quarters of New York City in 1922, childcare pioneers Ettie and Henry Schacht looked to the expansive woodlands of Connecticut for their school and found a perfect location in the town of Quaker Hill. The Schachts purchased 500 acres of farmland complete with two large but old farmhouses and an unused dairy barn. Over the years, a number of cabins, camp buildings, and farm and support facilities were added to the property, and in 1942, the program blossomed into a coveted and ambitious year-round boarding school. The Schachts inspired various specialized programs, including a special education school and residential and foster care programs. In addition, the founders established an ambitious outdoor education facility, its setting surrounded by an adventure challenge course, farm sanctuary, log cabin, and nature center. Celebrating its centennial anniversary, Waterford Country School's innovative and successful Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) program continues to work around the clock to meet the special needs of children and families at risk.
About the author
Author Benjamin S. Turner is the outdoor education director of Waterford Country School. He holds a bachelor degree from Northeastern University and a US Fish and Wildlife Service migratory bird rehabilitation permit. Additionally, he has earned a graduate certificate in animal-assisted therapy from the University of Denver. Turner gathered a wide range of images from the Waterford Country School's archives and collaborated with a knowledgeable team of researchers to produce a visually engaging account of this historic educational institution.
