Blind School, Exeter
of Sty. David's Hill, Exeter
1851 Resident was Sarah Friend (age 46 born Torkholes, Lancs.) Matron of the Blind School - Widow. With her daughter Emily, three servants, two teachers. 11 female and 11 male Scholars with ages from 10 to 28 years.[1]
1861 Blind Institution, 6 St David's Hill, Exeter: Sarah E. friend (age 56 born Blackburn), Superintendent and a Widow. With her daughter. Six staff / servants. 12 female and 21 male pupils age from 10 to 43. Most seem to be trained in basket work.[2]
1871 Devon and Exeter Institution for the Blind, St. David's Hill, Exeter. Sarah E. Friend (age 66 born Blackburn), Matron and a Widow. Eight staff including teachers and servants. 14 females and 17 male pupil boarders aged 12 to 48 years and most listed as basket Makers.