St Francis House, Aboriginal children home in Semaphore South, Australia
St Francis House was a residence in Semaphore South that provided shelter and education for Aboriginal boys from remote areas. The facility operated between 1946 and 1959, accommodating over 50 boys aged 9 to 12 years old.
Father Percy Smith founded the facility in 1945 as a Church of England hostel for boys from inland regions. The institution later moved to Semaphore South, where the Australian government took over management in 1952 and increased financial support.
The house sheltered Aboriginal boys who attended local schools while staying connected to their roots and cultural identity. Residents from remote areas formed a tight community together under one roof.
The house was located within a larger building and provided straightforward accommodation for young residents. Visitors should know the facility is no longer active today, but its historical importance to Aboriginal history in Australia remains significant.
Former Australian cricketer Ashley Mallett documented the residents' experiences in his 2018 book. His account offers a personal glimpse into the everyday life of the boys at this location.
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