Happy Valley was located on approximately 150 acres of land at Pomona, New York, in the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains of Rockland County, just forty minutes’ drive from New York City. There was probably no more beautiful countryside to be found in such close proximity to our largest city.
The children lived in cottages, each with a kitchen, dining room, living room, bedrooms and baths. The cooking and housekeeping were done by the cottage mother. Each child helped according to his capacity as he would in his own home, thereby gaining a sense of worth and accomplishment.
The boys and girls had separate campuses on either side of the buildings and grounds provided for school and community life. The girls lived with a cottage mother, and because they seemed happier in association with varying age levels, were generally grouped accordingly. The boys, preferring the association of others their own age, were allowed to enjoy this arrangement. The boys lived with cottage parents in order that they may have the companionship and example of a substitute father, as well as the affectionate care of a substitute mother. There was plenty of space indoors and outdoors in which to play games or follow individual hobbies.