New historical marker in Haddonfield recognizes Bancroft’s founder and her contributions to special education.
More than 140 years after Margaret Bancroft opened a small school for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, her contributions to special education are being recognized at the site where her school stood for 125 years.
On September 26, the New Jersey Historical Commission unveiled a commemorative marker at the former Bancroft School property in Haddonfield, New Jersey. The ceremony brought together state and local officials to recognize Margaret’s pioneering work and the lasting impact of the organization she founded.
A Pioneer in Special Education
In 1883, Margaret Bancroft opened her first school in a rented house on Centre Street in Haddonfield. At a time when children with disabilities were frequently excluded from public education, she believed every child deserved the opportunity to learn in an environment that met their needs.
Her approach emphasized individualized instruction, compassion, and helping each child reach their potential. These principles helped establish a foundation for practices that would eventually become central to modern special education.
In 1892, Margaret moved the school to a larger property in Haddonfield, where it remained until Bancroft relocated to its Raymond & Joanne Welsh Campus in Mount Laurel in 2017.
Recognizing Her Legacy
Among those in attendance were Assemblyman Lou Greenwald, Camden County Clerk Pam Lampitt, Haddonfield Mayor Dave Siedell, and Sara Cureton, Executive Director of the New Jersey Historical Commission. The unveiling was an opportunity to reflect on Margaret’s contributions to special education and the impact of her work more than 140 years later.
During the ceremony, Greenwald and Lampitt reflected on Margaret’s belief that every child deserves an opportunity to learn, the importance of preserving her history, and the impact Bancroft continues to have on individuals and families throughout the community.
Continuing Margaret’s Work
Margaret’s approach to education was grounded in a philosophy she expressed simply: “It has taken unbounded patience, hopefulness, and trust, but the great secret has been love.”
Today, Bancroft continues her mission, supporting children and adults with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and other complex needs through educational, residential, and community-based programs.
The historical marker is a reminder of where Bancroft began and the vision that has guided us for more than 140 years. While our programs, services, and communities have grown and evolved, our commitment to empowering the individuals we support to live their best life remains rooted in the work Margaret started in Haddonfield in 1883.
