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Though the original house no longer exists and a new one was built in 1960, Clark’s vision remains the same, “that people should not be alone and need to feel like they are part of a family even when they grow older,” said Catherine Estep, the executive director of the assisted living facility.
Currently 19 women live at the home, which is open to women who are over the age of 65-years-old. Estep said the home’s max capacity is 20 and her organization’s goal is to provide a family-centered environment for those women.
“To me its fascinating that someone in 1899 who didn’t have the right to vote was able to start a business that is still up and running in the city of Springfield,” Estep said of Clark.
In order to honor her vision and celebrate 120 years in the community, an open house will be held this afternoon from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. During the celebration, city commissioner Joyce Chilton will deliver the proclamation honoring Clark’s decision to open her doors to those, like herself, who were unable to live alone unassisted.
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As guest tour the facility Thursday afternoon, an all-girl band called Lafferty Pike will play music from the late 19th century while dressed in period appropriate attire.
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