In 1920, six sisters opened a pioneering home and school for children who needed specialized care and education. At a time when few women ran their own businesses, Birdie, Kate, Nora, Del, Gladys and Olga Ansley went against the advice of family and medical professionals to build something new. “The Ansley School & Home for Children Who Deviate from the Normal” first operated in St. Catharines before moving to what is now Riverbend Inn at 249 John St. E in 1927. The sisters combined their skills in teaching, nursing, health, nutrition, music and recreation to create a home-like environment where children could receive individual care, learn new skills, play and develop socially. The Ansley sisters helped break new ground in the care and education of children with different learning and support needs. Their school challenged expectations at a time when few services existed for these children and their commitment shaped the lives of the families they served.