HISTORY OF ARKELL HALL
Arkell Hall opened its doors as an adult home in 1952 after serving for many years as the home of the Arkell family. Bertelle Arkell Barbour, benefactor of Arkell Hall Foundation, bequeathed the family home in her Last Will and Testament, instructing that it be used as a home for needy elderly ladies. Barbour was one of five children of James and Sarah Arkell. James Arkell
had immigrated to America as a child. In 1859, with his partners Benjamin and Adam Smith, James started the Arkell and Smith Paper Bag Company in Canajoharie. The Company became a major producer of paper bags with production plants throughout the U.S. In 1888 James also served as a New York State Senator. Barbour’s brother Bartlett Arkell formed the Beech-Nut company in Canajoharie in1891. Frank Barbour, Mrs. Barbour’s second husband, was an executive at Beech-Nut. Barbour’s first husband, Bernhard Gillam, was a nationally prominent political cartoonist before his untimely death at age forty. Barbour lived in the family home until her passing in 1950. It was through her foresight and love of her community that she created Arkell Hall Foundation and the Arkell Hall adult home. Both continue to thrive and serve her community more than sixty years after her passing. The Arkells were patrons of the arts and world travelers. Their love of artistic expression is clearly evident in Arkell Hall with beautiful carved woodwork, paintings, stained glass accents and other objects still in place. The grounds surrounding the Home contain beautiful flowering plants and trees. Barbour’s portrait welcomes residents and visitors to her lovely home. Today all applicants are welcomed regardless of income or ability to pay. In keeping with Mrs. Barbour’s wishes and Arkell family tradition, Arkell Hall offers a warm caring staff, security and comfort in exceptional surroundings.
