The Villa De Chantal
This institution (Home school for girls) was formerly known as Francis
de Sales Academy, and was founded in 1864 at Maysville, Kentucky. In
August, 1899, the academy was removed to Rock Island. The Villa de Chantal
is located on one of the most beautiful bluffs overlooking the
Mississippi, and commanding a superb view of the surrounding country. The
institution was first incorporated in 1866, under the title of "The
Sisters of the Visitation," Maysville, Kentucky, and after its removal to
Rock Island it was re-incorporated under the laws of the State of .
Illinois, with the new title, "The Sisters of the Visitation," Rock
Island, Illinois. By its charter the academy possesses all the rights and
privileges of a collegiate institution. The course of study embraces the
academic, intermediate and primary departments.
The academic department offers two courses, the general and the college
preparatory; art, drawing, painting and crayon work are provided for in
the course. The piano, organ, harp, mandolin and violin are taught by
competent instructors.
The department of elocution is under the supervision of a finished pupil
of the Chicago School of Oratory. Foreign languages may be studied under
the supervision of accomplished linguists. Aesthetic culture, and daily
physical exercises receive special care. The library of the Villa de
Chantal is one of the most complete school libraries in the State. The
City of Rock Island is to
be congratulated on possessing this excellent educational institution.
Source: Historic Rock Island County, pub. Kramer & Company, Rock Island, Illinois, 1908