1890
After reading a story in the "Evening World" and moved with compassion to help youngsters living in poor conditions, Mr. William R. George, a native of West Dryden, invites the first group of children from New York City to summer camp in his home town. The fresh air camp was supported by The New York Tribune Fresh Air Fund, which provided railroad fares, farmers in the Dryden area who supplied food for the 22 youth, and volunteers from the Church of the Savior (109th Street) who helped supervise.
July 10, 1895
The George Junior Republic (GJR) is formed when 5 youth from the summer camp stay through the winter. GJR's motto is Nothing without Labor and its cornerstones are the principles of self-government and support. Its aim is to develop character, promote good citizenship and provide general and vocational education. The Junior Republic model created by William George is replicated across the country at multiple sites and internationally as well. In 1908 The National Association of Junior Republics is formed naming William R. George as the first national director and Lyman Beecher Stowe, grandson of abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe, as the national executive secretary.
1898
On March 5, 1898 the Constitution of The George Junior Republic is adopted. It is ahead of its time granting girl citizens the right to vote - well before the NY State Constitution grants women that right in 1917 and before the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1919.
1901
Construction to build Christ Chapel begins. The non-denominational structure is designed by Auburn, NY native Julius Schweinfurth. Today the Chapel is open to youth, their families, staff and visitors who wish for a quiet space on campus to explore or practice their faith.
1905
In January 1905, a new school building donated by a friend of the Republic is completed on campus. On January 22, 1909, the Hunt Memorial School is established as a Union Free School District (UFSD #27). The image here is of the Hunt Memorial school building circa 1940 before a fire. While the building no longer stands, the school endures today as The George Junior Republic UFSD and continues to provide sound academic instruction to youth residing on the WGA campus.
1951
Eleanor Roosevelt visits campus and is presented with an Honorary Citizen Award by citizen John F. The former first lady was quoted later as having said: "Sometime ago I visited the George Junior Republic at Freeville, New York. I was impressed by the program which was being carried out, which lays particular emphasis on preparation for citizenship. Many young people find the particular project which suits them best in a set-up such as the George Junior Republic, and I think anyone visiting this school will be enormously impressed by the success they have with young people."
1968
The installation of a spillway pipe and concrete cradle begins the creation of Loch Urquhart. The Loch is named for Donald Urquhart, who served as executive director for 42 years. It was dug by youth in the heavy equipment vocational program with adult supervision and donated equipment. Today it provides an aesthetic value and array of recreational activities including fishing, canoeing and swimming.
1970
On the occasion of the 75th Anniversary of the George Junior Republic, ground is broken for the Ewald Dining Hall and Boscowitz Field House. Both buildings continue to be a hub for activities throughout the day and at night.
1996
The George Junior Republic of Freeville becomes the first private residential treatment center in New York State licensed by OCSF to provide services to youth who have engaged in sexually harmful behavior.
2004
The Therapeutic After-School Program is launched for Tompkins County youth and their families. This community-based program is aimed at reducing and preventing the need for residential treatment services later in a youth's life.
2005
The George Junior Republic formally changes its name to The William George Agency for Children's Services (WGA) to more accurately convey the work it does to help youth in crisis. This same year, WGA expands its programming to accept youth with dual diagnoses. The Pathways to Independence and Skills for Success programs open for youth with both intellectual disabilities and serious emotional and psychiatric disturbance, offering specialized services and supports designed to improve adaptive daily living skills and the capacity to function independently.
2017
The Paws First animal-assisted intervention program is introduced. The program's first phase centers on positive reinforcement-based dog training to increase a participating youth’s confidence and independence, self-esteem, sense of purpose, and safety awareness. Youth learn how to care for an animal correctly through this process. The second phase provides youth and others with animal companionship across campus.
2019
WGA receives accreditation from the Council on Accreditation (COA). Accreditation involves a detailed review and analysis of an organization’s or program’s administrative functions and service delivery practices. All are measured against international standards of best practice. The standards emphasize services that are appropriate, coordinated, culturally competent, evidence-based, and that are provided by a skilled and supported workforce.
2020
The William George Agency celebrates 125 years of helping youth (see the video on our About Us page).
2022
After a brief renovation, WGA's on-site Medical Clinic re-opens as an Article 29-I facility.
2024
The WGA Equine Program becomes a Premier Accredited Center of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.).
2024
WGA announces plans to develop an Agriculture Education Center on campus. WGA has a rich history of agriculture and farming to include flower and vegetable gardens, dairy cows and angus cattle, sheep, turkeys, lambs, pigs, horses, and an apple orchard.