Ragged School
How things used to be and mostly still are.
The sign shows it’s proper name, Orphanage, but in Victorian England everyone calls them Ragged Schools. They’re called that because we, the poor, unkempt children, the industrial revolutions detritus are sent here to live and learn skills that will be used in the factories. The only presents we receive come on Boxing Day when the rich bring us their leftovers and a piece of coal to burn for warmth.
Today is Easter Sunday and a miracle has happened. Not only do we have the day off, but someone has left us chocolate eggs. We are truly blessed.
About the Creator
Mark Gagnon
My life has been spent traveling here and abroad. Now it's time to write.
I have three published books: Mitigating Circumstances, Short Stories for Open Minds, and Short Stories from an Untethered Mind. Unmitigated Greed is do out soon.
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Comments (8)
This is great. I am so glad they got some chocolate!
That tugged on my heartstrings. Loved your story!
Everyone should have chocolate eggs on Easter
Very interesting written and very creative
Those poor kids. I don’t imagine those orphanages were particularly kind places to grow up in. Great storytelling Mark - especially in so few words.
I’m afraid to ask if they have tried the eggs to make sure they really are chocolate. 🤔🫣🤢🤮
A simple act of kindness goes a long way. Plus I learned something today.
I never heard that term before. It is apt though from the pics we have seen. But we do still have them around today, unfortunately. Haves and have nots. Never changes. Is this one of those 100 word;;; I forget the name poem. I like them. Short and to the point.