St. Thomas Orphanage

One of the monumental building projects of the pioneer days of the diocese was the construction of St. Thomas Orphanage. Bishop Bonacum, traveling with horse and buggy, canvassed the Diocese for funds. After a decade of patient attempts, unremitting dedication and indomitable courage in the face of criticism, the orphanage at 4001 South 27th Street was completed without debt in 1906, at a cost of $80,000. St. Thomas Orphanage was finally closed, yet its duties, especially adoption services, were absorbed by Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Lincoln.

Unfortunately adoption records even that far back can't be accessed without a court order. There is an Elsie V. McKenzie listed as buried in Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery.

http://www.lincolnfh.com/