Bertha M. Rudderhome (Taylor) - 1921 High and 50 similar items

Antique Folder-Style Cabinet Card Photograph. Identified as Bertha M. Rudderhome (Taylor). Dated June, 1921 and indicating it was a high school graduation photo. Photo by J.E. Purdy Co., Boston. Measures approximately 5.25 x 8.25 including mount. Condition: This is an original photograph, not a copy or reproduction. The photo is in perfect condition. The mount has some edge and corner wear. We are unable to verify with certainty that the following biography pertains to the same Bertha M. Rudderhome: Bertha M. Rudderhome was a philanthropist and the wife of Frederick J. Fisher. She and her husband made significant contributions to their community, particularly in Detroit, Michigan. In 1928, the Fishers contributed a staggering $1 million to construct the Burtha M. Fisher Home for the aged and poor. This home, located at Outer Drive and Southfield Road in Detroit, was named after Bertha. The building alone cost $750,000, and it was primarily intended to provide care for elderly residents. In 1985, Good Housekeeping Magazine even rated it as one of the 10 best nursing homes in greater Detroit. Unfortunately, due to a shortage of Catholic sisters needed to care for the residents and the unwieldy size of the facility, the home closed in 1989. Bertha M. Fishers will, dated November 16, 1946, bequeathed the Fishers $1.2 million art collection to the Detroit Institute of Arts. This collection included 19 paintings and 3 tapestries. Additionally, she donated $1 million to the University of Notre Dame. Of this fund, $750,000 was used to construct the Fred J. and Sally Fisher Residence Hall, while the remaining $250,000 was placed in a trust to help deserving students finance their education. Bertha M. Rudderhome Fisher left specific requests to relatives and a servant, but the residue of her estate was divided among her four sisters. Her contributions to art, education, and care for the elderly continue to impact the lives of many.