Donation Receipt to Surp Haç Armenian School Foundation Armenia Istanbul 1974

Donation Receipt to Surp Haç Armenian School Foundation - Istanbul, 1974

Description:
An original donation receipt, issued on May 15, 1974, for a contribution of 200 Turkish Lira made by Janet Keşişyan and her child to the Surp Haç Armenian School Foundation in Üsküdar, Istanbul. The document is signed and stamped, carrying official validation.

This piece not only reflects the continuing philanthropic traditions of Istanbul’s Armenian community, but also preserves the long and layered history of Surp Haç School, one of the most important Armenian educational institutions in the city.

The Surp Haç School was first established in 1678, attached to the Surp Haç Church in Üsküdar to provide religious education. In 1718, under Patriarch Hovhannes IX Golod, the premises were expanded and converted into classrooms. By the 1770s, the institution grew into a seminary (Ruhban Okulu), known as Tıbradun and İskolya. It continued its educational mission until 1932, after which the school closed, remaining under the administration of the Surp Haç Church Foundation. In 1953, with renewed permissions, the school reopened and resumed its role as a cornerstone of Armenian education in Istanbul.

This 1974 receipt is a valuable artifact demonstrating how members of the Armenian community in Istanbul continued to support and sustain their cultural and educational institutions well into the 20th century.

Key Features:

• Date: May 15, 1974

• Donor: Janet Keşişyan & child (Armenian citizens)

• Recipient: Surp Haç Armenian School Foundation, Üsküdar

• Amount: 200 Turkish Lira

• Validation: Stamped and signed

• Historical Context: Reflects the legacy of Surp Haç School (1678–present) and the enduring support of the Armenian community for its educational institutions.