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A HISTORY
OF
CATHOLICITY
IN
Northern Ohio
AND IN THE
Diocese of Cleveland
BIOGRAPHICAL
BY
MICHAEL W. CARR
PRESIDENT OF THE CATHOLIC HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Volume II
CLEVELAND
PRESS OF J. B. SAVAGE
1903
Al.
Om
COPYRIGHT 1903
BY
MICHAEL W. CARR
CLEVELAND, OHIO
■«- lb
CONTENTS
Biographical Sketches and Portraits of the late Rt. Rev. Edward
Fenwick, D. D., O. P., first Bishop of Ohio ; the late Most Rev.
John Baptist Purcell, D. D., Archbishop of Cincinnati; the late
Rt. Rev. Amadeus Rappe, D. D., first Bishop of Cleveland; the
late Rt. Rev. Richard Gilmour, D. D., second Bishop of Cleveland ;
and the Rt. Rev. Ignatius F. Horstmann, D. D., third and present
Bishop of Cleveland.
Biographical Sketches and Portraits of pioneer and prominent priests,
and of leading members of the laity, some of whom were among
the early pioneers, while a large number are of the present gener-
ation.
Succinct Biographical Notices of all the priests who labored in the
Diocese of Cleveland from the beginning, and who have either
departed this life or gone to other fields of labor.
Miscellaneous Sketches with Illustrations — The Infirm Priests' Fund;
the cemeteries in Cleveland, Youngstown, and Toledo ; and The
Catholic Central Association.
Index to Biographical Sketches
Page
Fenwick, Rt. Rev. Edward D., O. P. 1
Purcell, Most Rev. John B., D. D. . 7
Page
Rappe, Rt. Rev. Amadeus, D. D. ... 11
Gilmour, Rt. Rev. Richard, D. D... 27
Horstraann, Rt. Rev. Ignatius F., D. D . . 40
Page
Alten, Nicholas C 46
Andlauer, Rev. Albert 48
Barry, Rev. John P 49
Bauer, Rev. Seraphin, D. D 52
Becker, Rev. Peter 59
Biechele, Joseph 60
Bloomer, James M 63
Boehm, Rev. Charles 65
Boesken, Rev. Henry E 67
Boff, Rt. Rev. Mgr. F. M., V. G. . . . 69
Boylan, Captain Patrick 72
Brady, Captain George F 75
Braschler, Rev. Charles Jos. A 77
Bredeick, Rev. John Otto 79
Broun, Rev. John B 81
Buerkel, Rev. John B 83
Burke, Rt. Rev. Edmund, V. A 84
Butler, Richard A 86
Callaghan, Hon. Thomas E 88
Carlin, Anthony 90
Caron, Very Rev. Alexis 92
Carr, Mr. and Mrs. John 94
Carroll, Charles D 97
Champion, David J 99
Chevraux, Rev. Charles Vincent. . .101
Christophory, Rev. James 104
Clary, James D 106
Conlan and Dillon, Rev. Fathers. . .107
Conlon, Rev. Thomas F 110
Cronin, Cornelius 112
Dailey, James A 114
Dainz, Charles A 116
Daly, Peter 118
Page
Dangel, Joseph 120
Dannemiller, Benedict 122
Deasy, Timothy H 123
Dechant, Rev. Michael 126
Dick, Joseph 128
Donnelly, Hon. Michael 130
Dwyer, Rev. Patrick C. N 132
Fahey, Peter R 135
Farasey, James 138
Farasey, James D 140
Farrell, Rev. James J 142
Farrell, Rev. Patrick, D. D 144
Faulhaber, Frank V 146
Feltz, George 148
Finnegan, William P 150'
Furdek, Rev. Stephen 152
Gallagher, Thomas 154
Gallagher, John Vincent, M. D 156
Gerardin, Rev. Joseph S. A 158
Gerhardstein, Rev. Henry J 160
Giebel, Francis J 162
Giedemann, John A 165
Ginther, William P 167
Glidden, Francis H 169'
Gloden, Rev. Joseph P 171
Goebel, John 173
Hackman, Joseph 175
Hallaran, Denis J 177
Hannan, Family 178
Halligan, Rev. James Henry 180
Hannin, Rev. Edward 182
Harmon, Hon. Gilbert Francis 185
Hart, William J 188:
IV
INDEX TO BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— Continued.
Page
Healy, Rev. , Michael 190
Hickey, James 192
Hill, Very Rev. John Austin 194
Hoeffel, Rev. Aloysius 1 197
Hoffer, Rev. Louis 199
Holland, John 201
Horst, Rev. Nicholas W 203
Horton, William Joseph 204
Houck, Rev, George F 206
Houck, John 209
Hopp, Rev. Francis J 210a
Hoynes, Michael J 211
Hribar, Rev. Vitus 213
Hroch, Rev. Francis J 214
Hug, Edward V., M. D 216
Hughes, Henry 218
Hultgen, Rev. Francis L 220
Hurd, Hon. Frank H., LL. D 222
Jennings, Rev. Gilbert P 225
Johnston, Rev. John 227
Keffer, Harry A 229
Kelley, Michael J 230
Kegg, Robert J 232
Kennedy, Hon. Thomas M 234
Kennedy, Patrick M 236
Kinkead, Rev. Michael P 238
Kirby, Rev. Daniel Barry 240
Kirschner, Charles J 242
Klaus, Philip 244
Kleekamp, Rev. John H 245
Klute, Rev. John W ! 247
Knapp, Charles J 250
Koudelka, Rev. Joseph M 252
Kramer, Henry 255
Krupp, John 256
Langenbach, Albinus 258
Lavan, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas 260
Leeming, Rev. George 262
Leslie, Daniel E 265
Lindemann, Hon. John F 267
Lindesmith, Rev. Eli W. J 269
MicCart, Edward. . . .' 276
McClO'skey, Rev. James P 278
McGarry, M. J. and Jas. F 280
McGuire, Rev. Patrick J 282
McHenry, James 284
McKay, Capt. George P 286
McKenney, Patrick J 288
Page
McNicol, Patrick 290
McNicol, Daniel E 292
Madigan, James P..., 294
Mahon, Rev. Thomas F 297
Malone, Edward 299
Manning, William A 301
Martin, Rev. Anthony T 308
Miller, Joseph 305
Mix, Robert E 307
Mizer, Rev. John G 309
Moes, Very Rev. Nicholas A., D. D..311
Moes, Rev. Nicholas 313
Molony, Edward 314a
Morrissey, Patrick J 315
Mullen, Mr. and Mrs. John 316
Mulligan, Patrick J 318
Mulrooney, John 320
Murphy, Rev. William F 322
Murphy, Rev. Edward J 324
Murphy, Daniel J 326
Neracher. William 328
Neuhausel, Martin 330
Nunn, John 1 332
O'Brien, Rev. Patrick 334
O'Brien, Patrick C '. 337
O'Connor, John 339
O'Donnell, John Joseph 341
O'Mara, Patrick 343
O'Neil, Thomas 345
Orlikowski, Frank 346
Osthaus, Prof. Edmund H 348
Parsch, Christian 350
Pfeil, Rev. Nicholas 352
Pfeil, Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence 354
Pilliod, Augustine 356
Plumanns, Rev. Leonard J 358
Puetz, Rev. John P 360
Quinn, Rev. James J 361
Rebholz, Rev. Silvan -.364
Reichlin, Rev. Casimir 366
Reichlin, Rev. Charles 368
Rosinski, Rev. Benedict 370
Rudge, George 372
Ruffing, Anthony 375
Rupert, Rev. Frederick 377
Schaffeld, Rev. Joseph G 380
Schaffeld, Rev. John A 382
INDEX TO BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— Continued.
Schaffeld, Rev. John T
Schmitz, Rev. Nicholas
Schritz, Rev. Philip A
Schwertner, Rev. Augustus J.
Scullin, Rev. Felix M
Shea, Rev. Patrick J
Shenk, Alexander
Smigel, Peter S., M. D
Smith, Rev. Joseph F
Smith, Patrick
Smith, Patrick M
Stallkamp, Frank H
Stuber, Rev. Anthony B.
Page
..384
..386
.390
..892
.394
.396
.398
.400
.402
.404
. .406
.408
Suplicki, Rev. Andrew J 411
Thorpe, Rt. Rev. Mgr. T. P 413
Toole, Mr. and Mrs. Charles 416
Tracy, Rev. John 418
Page
Trenkamp, Henry 420
Treiber, Rev. Clement H 422
Uphaus, Rev. Joseph, C. PP. S 424
Vahey, Rev. George ].. 426
Vogt, Rev. John G 428
Wahmhoff, John H 430
Wamelink, Prof. John T 432
Ward, Timothy C 434
Ward, Peter W 43S
Weger, George S., M. D ...438
Westerholt, Rev. Francis 440
Whalen, Peter F 442
Widmann, Rev. Joseph S 444
Wittmer, Rev. Theo., C. PP. S 446
Wonderly, Rev. Ignatius J 448
Zwilling, Mr. and Mrs. John F 450
Biographical Notices of Priests of the Secular and Regular Clergy,
formerly on the Mission in Northern Ohio, or in the Diocese
of Cleveland 452 to 53?'
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES
Page
Calvary Cemetery, Cleveland 545
Calvary Cemetery, Toledo 550
Calvary Cemetery, Youngstown 551
Catholic Central Association 553
Page
Infirm Priests' Fund 540
St. John's Cemetery, Cleveland 548
St. Joseph's Cemetery, Cleveland. .. .547
MISCELLANEOUS ILLUSTRATIONS
Page
Board of Infirm Priests' Fund 540
Canton — St. John's Church (in-
terior) 496
Carey — Shrine of Our Lady 528
Cleveland — Calvary Cemetery,
Main Entrance 545
St. John's Cemetery, Main En-
trance 548
St. Joseph's Cemetery, Central
Cross 547
Page-
Delphos — St. John's School and
Pastoral Residence 612'
"Gordon" Miter 32'
Thompson — Maria Steig Shrine 480
Toledo — Calvary Cemetery, View-
Looking West 550
Youngstown — Calvary Cemetery,
Main Entrance 552
Receiving Vault 462
Mater Dolorosa Statue > . .464
THE AUTHOR'S PREFACE
THE first volume of this work is essentially historical. This,
the second volume, with the exception of the miscellaneous
sketches, is wholly biographical. Of purpose is this
division with its distinction made, because biography is the analysis
of history.
Tersely defined, biography is the measurement of the char-
acter and the outline of the life of an individual. When a person
thus writes of himself and his career it is called autobiography,
but whether oneself or another be chosen as the subject it is
biography nevertheless; hence, it is not the rule that men shall
have been gathered to their fathers before the pen of the biographer
be allowed to touch them.
"Post-mortem biography" was not the rule with the author of
"Men of the Time." The forty-six subjects of "Plutarch's Parallel
Lives" had not all passed away. Cornehus Nepos, in his "Lives of
Commanders," did not concern himself about dead heroes exclu-
sively. "Csesar's Commentaries" are but his own autobiography.
Much of the history of our own day, like McCarthy's "History of
Our Own Time," is in part the biographies of prominent rulers,
warriors, statesmen, and leaders, and^ to a degree, of many over
whom they hold sway. St. Paul himself was not so sensitive about
his record and character as some, who take texts for sermons from
his epistles, profess to be concerning theirs. He tells us who he
was originally — Saul of Tarsus, a persecutor of Christians ; what he
became later — the Apostle of the Gentiles, "a Vessel of Election" ;
much of what he did — journeying extensively, and laboring in
season and out of season; and something of what he suffered for
the faith — shipwreck, imprisonment, stripes, etc. What we know
of St. Paul, the great preacher and teacher, we have learned from
St. Paul, the autobiographer.
With such examples of memorial and biographical proprieties
before us, we can the more readily agree with the celebrated
VIII AUTHOR'S PREFACE,
French author that, to the hving the biographer owes considera-
tion; to the dead he owes but truth. — "On doit des egards aux
vivants; on ne doit aux marts que la veritS."
The mission and purpose of biography are to describe the
spirit and acts of men and thereby to entertainingly instruct and to
encourage by example. It deals cursorily with personal acts and
facts, while its essence is the careful weighing of human character.
Alexander Pope had this idea clearly in mind when he wrote in
his famous essay that, "The proper study of mankind is man" ; and
Langhorn had an equally correct conception of it when he
forcefully declared that, "No species of writing seems more worthy
of cultivation than biography, since none can more certainly
enchain the heart by irresistible interest, or more widely diffuse
instruction to every diversity of condition." Man studying man
and painting word-pictures of him, even if but poorly done, must
ever prove of unfailing interest to humanity. The imperfections of
the writer-artist's work are often lost sight of in the attractiveness
of the living subject, for the mind thinking, the heart loving, and
the emotional nature active must ever have claims on human
attention.
Not only is biography allied to history, but it is even the test
of what history is in its logical sense. Men are the actors in every
historical drama; their characters are inseparable from the plots,
the essential parts, while their deeds but set these forth in bold
relief. Given the characters of men, and their acts and careers are
not dif^cult to determine. The deeds men do are predicated on
their characters. Every individual begins to form character early
in life, and long before its noon is reached that of each is fully
developed. Old age does not change the complexion of character,
nor can death either heighten or unmake it. It is this sum of the
qualities of a man, and not so much his acts or his years, that the
biographer is concerned with. Having journeyed near to the ridge
of life or beyond, and while yet in the flesh, would, therefore,
appear to be a good time in which to estimate a- man's mental and
moral worth.
Why then put ofif until after his demise the giving to the
public a knowledge of his capabilities and powers, and the good
uses to which he has been, or may be, devoting them ? There can
' AUTHOR'S PREFAiCE. ix
be no good grounds for such deferring, for surely supersensitive-
ness or false modesty, to say nothing of things less worthy, ought
not to be even thought of as reasons justifying it. The second
corollary to the eighth commandment obliges every one not only
to strive to acquire a good name among men, but to even allow to
be made known both his good works and his intellectual and moral
equipment looking to these ends. It also imposes the duty on all
of us to defend our character when seriously aspersed. Proverbs
xxii says : "A good name is better than riches ; and good favor is
above silver and gold." Much of the force of these thoughts
consists chiefly in their application to the living.
The few, therefore, who can not bring themselves to approve
of the scope of such a volume as this is, on the assumed ground that
the tr^th, to their minds being either praise or censure, ought not
to be, and can not be, told of men while yet alive, are either con-
fused as to what biography really is in its relation to a good name
and to high character, or they are not likely to be accused of
possessing the most excellent judgment. Placed on either horn of
this dilemma they are left little choice of position. They assume
that the recognition of noble qualities and ability in the living is not
proper, is flattery; while on the other hand they adopt the
dictum, De morhtis nihil nisi honum, that, "Of the dead nothing
should be said but what is good" — flattery again ! And yet, their
professed zeal for the whole truth touching the quick or the dead
is quite consuming. The encouragement and satisfaction, to say
nothing of the information which a volume such as this affords,
they would deny to the Catholic and reading pubhc, forsooth,
because they entertain the notion that the truth may not all be
told ; or if merit and worth be generously recognized in bishops,
priests, and laymen, they call it flattery, and fear that a measure of
blame and harsh criticism will not be set up in opposition.
Such persons evidently forget that, "A man whom it is proper
to praise cannot be flattered." They also seem to overlook the
truths that, "We get no good by being ungenerous, even to a
book," and that,
"The least flower, with a brimming cup, may stand
And share its dew-drop with another near,"
Every intelligent person knows that in order to avoid making
these biographical sketches mere, barren lists of names, dates, and
X AUTHO'R'S PREFACE.
dry facts, it is essential to cite in addition some of the more
prominent talents and qualities possessed by the subjects, together
with such characteristical elements and circumstances as will aid
in the portraitures. Especially is this demanded in the case of
priests, who are generally regarded as the best educated men in
every community, and whose qualities and abilities it were culpable
to either ignore or treat with indifference. The natural and varied
talents, years of training, and culture of the right reverend and
reverend gentlemen mentioned in this volume, and, indeed, also
the practicability, sterling character, and record of the laymen
therein set forth, doubtless stand for much more than is ascribed
to them by the author. Hence, any approach to adulation or
flattery, even in form, is not only foreign to the intention of the
writer, but is happily rendered next to impossible by the character
and talents of the individuals described. Adopting the thought
of another and changing some of the words it can be affirmed in
point that,
"All the world's praise re-echoed to the sky
Cancels not blame that shades the judgment's eye;
All the world's blame, which fault for fault repays,
Fails to curtail the meed of merited praise."
Where recognition, or even praise, is merited by the living,
why defer the giving of either until after death, or why be stingy
or ungenerous in their bestowal during life, especially since the
object aimed at is the encouragement and enlightenment of man-
kind ? Why seek for cause for blame as an excuse for this, and not
finding sufficient, fall back on the weak assumption that biography
is "post-mortem literature" ? Biography is not mortgaged to the
dead. It does not mean picking flaws with. Neither is its office
that of fault-finding or rebuke. It deals with character as the
shaper of human conduct, and the best biography is that which
shows the real or implied relation between character and deeds.
With these things in view, representative persons, both clerical
and lay, have been selected in various portions of the Diocese of
Cleveland as fit subjects for extended mention. Some are of those
who have passed away, while the great majority are from the ranks
of the living, and such descriptive sketches have been written of
them as best comport with truth and fact, to the ends that the
entire Catholic body may be represented and honored by and
AUTHOR'S PREFACE. xi
through them, and that the public may see how well and favorably
Catholics will compare with their fellow citizens in things spiritual,
intellectual, and material.
Accompanying each mention a fine portrait of the subject is
inserted. This feature has been adopted neither in compliance
with, nor in opposition to, the wishes of either the individual or his
friends. It is done rather to aid in the description, and to give a
clearer idea of the appearance and manner of the person, for the
countenance and poise reflect the interior qualities which comprise
the character. We are counseled in this by numerous authorities,
among them Thomas Carlyle, who once said : "Often I have
found a portrait superior in real instruction to a half-dozen written
biographies. I have found that the portrait was as a small lighted
candle by which the biographies could, for the first time, be read
and such human interpretation made of them."
Recognizing, therefore, the importance of portraits in a work
of this kind, we have, even at great expense, freely employed them
so as to make up for any deficiencies that might have occurred in
our humble efforts at estimating and delineating character. By
thus pictorially supplementing what in each instance we have
indited we are encouraged to hope that a discriminating public will
both approve of, and welcome, the volume here offered by The
Catholic Historical Society, and The Author,
MICHAEL W. CARR.
Cleveland, Ohio, January, 1903.
The Catholic Church
In Northern Ohio and in the Dioeese of Cleveland
BIOGRAPHICAL
THE RIGHT REV. EDWARD D. FENWICK, O. P., (*)
FIRST BISHOP OP CINCINNATI.
JANUARY, 1822— SEPTEMBER, 1832.
Edward D. Fenwick, a descendant of the ancient English
family of Fenwick Tower, was born in St. Mary's county, Mary-
land, in 1768. After the death of his father, Edward was sent to
Europe to complete his studies. When leaving home he was in
his sixteenth year. He entered the Dominican College at Born-
heim, Flanders.
Impressed with the spirit and virtues of his Dominican
preceptors, he became attached to them and soon joined their
Order. From his childhood he showed a tender and unaffected
piety. This grew with, his years, and impressed itself on his
superiors, whose respect and confidence he easily won. During
the French revolution he was engaged in the duties of a professor,
and as procurator of the Dominican convent at Bornheim. When
the French soldiery overran and pillaged the Netherlands, his
convent was seized and he, with his brethren, imprisoned as
Englishmen. Securing his release as an American citizen, he
•The first five sketches in this volume— those of the Rt. Rev. Bishops Fenwick, Pur-
cell, Rappe, Gilmour and Horstmann— have been written by the Rev. George F. Houck,
Chancellor of the Diocese of Cleveland.
2 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
went to one of the Dominican convents in England. There he
remained till 1804, when in compliance with his ardent wish he
was sent by his Provincial to America, to labor there in behalf of
the spiritual interests of his countrymen. His own native State
was the first field of his priestly labors in America. In this portion
of his Master's vineyard he toiled about one year. Then Bishop
Carroll, of Baltimore, upon consultation, and with the advice and
consent of the Father General of the Dominicans, sent him to
Kentucky to establish a colony of Friars Preachers. In compHance
with instructions Father Fenwick, accompanied by three of his
brethren. Fathers Wilson, Tuite and Anger, founded, in 1805, St.
Rose's Convent, in Washington county, Kentucky, on a farm he
purchased with his patrimony. Here it was that the Dominican
Order had its first home in the United States, and from this place
the light of the Gospel was carried far and wide. The Convent of
St. Rose was soon crowned with benedictions. The children of
St. Dominic, animated with the zeal of their pious founder, spread
through the whole of Kentucky, affording its inhabitants the
benefits of the religion of Christ. A Bull was received from Rome
constituting Father Fenwick Provincial of the Order in North
America. He would not, however, accept the proffered honor,
fearing it might prove a hindrance to the conversion of souls.
A remarkable circumstance, which has always been looked upon
as the most certain evidence of the exalted virtue of Father
Fenwick was that, after having obtained from Rome the office of
Provincial for Father Wilson, with the permission to annul the
appointment should he himself choose to retain that position, he
did not hesitate a moment, but asked Father Wilson to accept it,
as for himself he preferred rather to obey than to command.
In 1814 Father Fenwick, the apostle and pioneer priest of
this State, made his first missionary visit to Ohio, and went as far
north as Perry county, in the present Diocese of Columbus, where
he found three Catholic families, consisting in all of twenty
members. These good people were so rejoiced to see him, that he
could never recall his first pastoral visit to this part of his vast
"parish" without experiencing the greatest consolation, because
he considered it the first fruit of his mission in Ohio.
According to the most authentic information obtainable
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 3
Father Fenwick's first visit to Northern Ohio — within the territory
of the Diocese of Cleveland- — was in 1817, when he came to
Columbiana and Stark counties. There he found a number of
Catholic families, some of whom had moved to Ohio from
Pennsylvania and Maryland; others had emigrated from Ireland
and Germany. None of them had seen a priest since they had
settled in Ohio.
In 1818 Father Fenwick estabhshed on a farm, given for the
purpose by Mr. P. Dittoe, a fervent and generous Catholic, the
present flourishing convent of St. Joseph's, near Somerset, Perry
county, Ohio, and was its superior for nearly four years. From
St. Joseph's he and his few brethren of the convent, among them
his nephew, the Rev. Nicholas D. Young, regularly attended the
missions in Perry and the neighboring counties, whilst those of
Southern Ohio received pastoral care from St. Rose's, Kentucky,
and occasionally, also, from St. Joseph's, Perry county.
Bishop Flaget, of Bardstown, had vuider his jurisdiction
Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. He petitioned the Holy
See to reheve him of the spiritual care of a part of his immense
territory. In accordance with his wish the Diocese of Cincinnati
was erected, in 1821, and Father Fenwick consecrated by Bishop
Flaget as its first bishop, in the Church of St. Rose, Washington
county, Kentucky, on January 13, 1822. Soon after his consecra-
tion. Bishop Fenwick took possession of his Episcopal See.
Arriving at Cincinnati he found neither church nor dwelling. He
rented a small house, where he was obliged to sleep in the garret ;
the other part was destined for a chapel and a study. At times he
was not able to pay the rent, and frequently had to seek his meals
in the city. His cathedral was a barn-like, plank building, about
one mile from the town, and in rainy weather quite inaccessible.
The attempt to move it to the town failed ; it broke down on the
road. A lot was wanting upon which to erect the cathedral again ;
but where were the means to pay for it?
Without money, without the hope of procuring it to pay the
debts already contracted, everywhere even the most necessary
things wanting, in 1823 the Bishop resolved to set out for Rome,
with the intention of resigning his heavy charge. The Holy
Father, Leo XII, did not accept his resignation, but encouraged
4 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
him to return to his See and presented him with 1,200 scudi for
the expenses of his journey and those of the clergyman who
traveled with him. It was the dark hour preceding the dawn of a
brighter day. The day of prosperity soon came. God blessed the
good Bishop's efforts and opened up new resources to him. In
France especially he received great aid, the Association for the
Propagation of the Faith, at Lyons, giving him generous
assistance, Belgium, also, and Germany, following the example of
France, contributed liberal sums to Bishop Fenwick in support of
his poor diocese. On his return, in 1824, the above mentioned
debts were paid, and a brick cathedral erected on Sycamore street,
with the money he brought from Europe. Later he established the
Athenasum College, near his cathedral church. He also intro-
duced into his diocese the Dominican Sisters, and one or two other
religious communities to instruct the children.
Full of courage, after his successful visit to Europe, he
devoted all his energy and zeal to the development and visitation
of his diocese. At or away from his episcopal city, he never had
an idle moment. To reach all the missions of his immense diocese,
covering Ohio and Michigan, he had to make long and tedious
journeys by wagon, stage or on horseback, often through forests,
and more often over roads, that were all but impassable.
His last visit to Northern Ohio was during the time of the
cholera, in 1832. Before leaving Cincinnati, on a visit to Michigan,
he had been ailing. Rallying somewhat, and prepared to die in
the midst of his labors if God so willed it, he proceeded on his long
journey, visiting all the missions along the route. He himself fell
so sick at Sault Sainte Marie, Mich., that it was feared he would
not recover. But he rallied and soon was on his journey home-
ward to Detroit, and thence through Northern Ohio to Canton,
where he arrived on September 24, completely exhausted, with
fresh symptoms of the dreadful scourge that visited the entire
country and counted its victims by the thousand. He was
attended with the greatest and most tender care. Next morning
he said Mass and wrote several letters. The stage arriving at the
door of the pastoral residence of Father Henni, he bade him good-
bye and went on to Wooster, intending to go thence to Cincinnati.
Arriving at Wooster about 8 p. m., he was taken from the stage
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 5
with the fatal seal of cholera on him. He was brought to a hotel,
where he expired at noon, Wednesday, September 26, 1832.
Before sunset of the same day a mound marked the resting place
of his remains. It seemed he had a foreboding of his death, for
wherever he passed he said : "This is my last visit." In one of his
letters he wrote that he would visit two or three congregations in
the neighborhood of St. Joseph's, Perry county, which would be
the term of his mission, and that thence he would return to Cincin-
nati, because his strength failed him, but added, as was his custom,
that he would do so; Deo volente, quia homo proponit, sed Dens
disponit.
Father Henni was at once informed of the Bishop's dying
condition, but on arriving at Wooster a few hours later, he found
him buried.
The following obituary of Bishop Fenwick is taken from the
Catholic Telegraph, of October 6, 1832. It was written by its
editor, the Rev. Father Mullon :
"Our venerated and beloved Bishop has gone to reap the
reward of his labors and trials, leaving us the memory of his
worth, the example of his virtues, and the odor of his sanctity.
He is dead ! Edward Fenwick is no more.
"Where is he whose approving smile was ever ready to cheer
us; whose sympathetic heart shared our griefs, and the counsels
of whose wisdom was a lamp to our footsteps? Where is he whom
we were accustomed to behold at the altar of his God ; in the habi-
tations of want and wretchedness; by the bedside of disease and
pain ; or in the rude cabin of the simple native of the forest ; on the
errand of mercy and the work of benediction ? Alas ! those
benignant features are stiffened in the rigidity of death ; that heart
beats no more to human hope, or joy, or feeling; that light is
extinguished; and the dank, cold clods of the valley are heaped
above that majestic and venerated form.
"In the poignancy of the present affliction our only solace is
in the consoling hope that his removal is only to an entrance on
the happiness of the beatific vision of his God, in those abodes
towards which his longing desires were ever directed, and where all
his treasures were.
"This occasion, and our own feelings, will neither justify nor
permit us now and here to dwell, at length, on his character and
virtues — they are themes which hereafter through our pilgrimage
we shall recall with delight and gratefully perpend. They will only
allow us at this time to record the manner of his decease.
6 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
"He was on his return homeward from Canton, Stark county,
after a long and laborious visitation of the remoter parts of his
extensive diocese, during which his heart was consoled * * at
beholding the fruits of his enlightened charity and zeal. The pre-
vailing epidemic (cholera) arrested his course and terminated his
mortal career, at Wooster, in the county of Wayne." * *
"We add the following letter, addressed by Rev. M. Henni
to Rev. J. I. Mullon, editor of the Catholic Telegraph :
'Wooster, Sept. 27, 1832.
'My Dear Friend. — P. has already advised you of the alarm-
ing illness of our good Bishop. A task of most heart-rending
character remains to me, to announce to you the event. He is no
more ! He died yesterday (Wednesday), at twelve o'clock, and
was immediately interred. I witnessed only the mound which
covers his remains. Requiescat in Pace.
Your most affectionate,
M. HENNI.' "
In February, 1833, Bishop Fenwick's remains were taken to
Cincinnati and there entombed under the old cathedral. They
now repose beneath the altar of the present St. Peter's Cathedral,
Cincinnati.
Bishop Fenwick was deservedly esteemed for his many noble
qualities. He was a man of great simplicity of character. Delicate
in health, he nevertheless devoted himself unsparingly as priest
and bishop to the work within his sphere. The Catholics of Ohio
owe him a debt of gratitude as the founder of the Church in this
State.
"By his talents and amiable deportment he had gained himself
many admirers and many personal friends. As a herald of the
Cross he was always at his post, faithful, vigilant and indefatigable.
In the ordinary walks of life he was dignified, affable and unosten-
tatious. * * * He was truly the apostle of Ohio."^
"Though not gifted with great natural talents, he possessed a
peculiar tact for winning souls to Christ. * * * Frank, open
and sincere by nature, and an American himself, he possessed an
instinctive talent for dealing with Americans, whether Catholic or
Protestant. Multitudes of the latter were converted to Catholicity
through his agency."^
(1) Catholic Almanac, 1S48.
(2) Spalding's "Sketches of Kentucky," p. 155.
IN NORTHERN OHIO.
THE MOST REV. JOHN BAPTIST PURCELL, D. D.,
SECOND BISHOP OP CINCINNATI, 1833-1850.
FIRST ARCHBISHOP OF CINCINNATI, 18B0-1883.
John Baptist Purcell, a native of Ireland, was born at Mallow,
county Cork, on February 26, 1800. After completing a collegiate
course in his native country he set out for the United States,
landing at Baltimore in his eighteenth year. For a short time he
held a position as private tutor, but desirous of devoting himself
to the priesthood, he entered Mt. St. Mary's College, at Emmitts-
burg, Maryland. Showing talent much above the ordinary, he
was sent to the famous Sulpician Seminary, Paris, to complete his
theological studies, where also he was ordained priest on May 23,
1826. Shortly after his ordination he returned to the United
States, and was appointed president of Mt. St. Mary's College, of
which he was an alumnus. For seven years he held this important
position, when the Holy See appointed him successor to the
lamented Bishop Fenwick, as second Bishop of Cincinnati. As
such he was consecrated, in his thirty-fourth year, at Baltimore,
by Archbishop Whitfield, on October 13, 1833. After attending
the Second Provincial Council of Baltimore, held a few days after
his consecration, he set out for Cincinnati, arriving there on
November 14, 1833. In his episcopal city he found but one
church, a college in embryo, (the Athenaeum, on Sycamore street),
and an orphan asylum. His diocese comprised the whole of Ohio
and part of Kentucky. In Ohio there were at this time but sixteen
churches, attended by fourteen priests, a Dominican convent in
Perry county, and a Catholic population estimated at about six
thousand, souls. Within the limits of the present Diocese of
Cleveland there were but three churches, viz. : one near Dungan-
non, and one each in Canton and Tiffin. These churches were
attended by two priests, the Revs. John Martin Henni and
Edmund Quinn, stationed respectively at Canton and Tiffin.
To visit his scattered flock Bishop Purcell could not avail
himself of the convenience of travel now enjoyed, nor the hos-
pitality now offered. On country wagons, by stage-coach and on
horseback he covered great distances over bad roads, through
primeval forests and across unbridged streams, often partaking of
8 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
primitive country hotel fare, and often taking shelter in log huts.
But in spite of difficulties, hardships and frequent privations,
he cheerfully and often made his diocesan visitations, instructing,
consoling and encouraging the faithful committed to his charge.
His episcopal visits were always red-letter days for the clergy and
laity. His cheerful disposition and buoyant spirit spread sunshine
and joy wherever he went, and his sermons attracted by their
brilliancy and eloquence.
His first visit to Northern Ohio was made during the months
of June and July, 1834, viz. : Dungannon, Canton, Louisville,
Canal Fulton, Chippewa (Doylestown), Wooster, Tiffin and
McCutchenville. During the months of July, August and
September, 1835, he visited Dungannon, New Lisbon, Cleveland,
Cuyahoga Falls, Randolph, Louisville and Canton, and in 1836,
Tiffin and Fremont. June 7, 1840, he preached in Cleveland at the
dedication of the Church of Our Lady of the Lake, known later as
St. Mary's on the "Flats," Bishop de Forbin-Janson, on a visit
from France, performing the dedicatory ceremony. During the
same month Bishop Purcell also visited Liverpool, Chippewa,
Canton and East Liverpool. November, 1840, he again came to
Northern Ohio, visiting Findlay, Glandorf, and Ft. Jennings.
In 1841, during the months of June, July, August and
November, he made an extensive tour through Northern Ohio,
visiting the following places : Norwalk, Peru, Shelby, Shelby
Settlement, Tiffin, McCutchenville, Wolf's Creek (New Riegel),
Sandusky, Fremont, LaPrairie, Perrysburg, Toledo, Canton,
Louisville, Randolph, Akron, Chippewa, Wooster, Canal Fulton,
Massillon and Bethlehem. In all these places he administered
confirmation, and in many he dedicated churches or laid corner-
stones for such. In June and July, 1846, he visited Sandusky,
Cleveland, Peru, Norwalk, Tiffin, New Riegel, Toledo, Dungan-
non and Wooster, and in August, 1847, Wooster, Canal Fulton,
Youngstown and Akron. At Akron he performed his last epis-
copal function in this part of his jurisdiction, ordaining to the
priesthood, on August 5, 1847, the Rev. James Vincent Conlan.
In 1834 he sent a band of Redemptorist Fathers to Northern
Ohio to take charge of missions in Huron, Erie and Seneca
counties, with residence at Peru, near Norwalk. They were
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 9
succeeded in 1844 by the Sanguinist Fathers, who had been invited
by him in Europe, the year previous, to come and labor in the
Ohio mission.
Shortly after his advent to Cincinnati, in 1833, the rapid
growth of Catholicity in that city, as in fact throughout the
country, aroused bigotry and fanatical alarm. He was challenged
by a Protestant preacher, named Alexander Campbell, to a public
debate on Catholic doctrine. This was in 183Y. For many days
the disputants held sway over large and interested audiences.
The brilliant young bishop vanquished his opponent and gained
for himself the name of a profound theologian, accurate historian
and keen debater.
He was a facile and pleasing writer, as his many learned
pastorals will attest. He also contributed largely to the columns
of the Catholic Telegraph, and had the habit of writing descriptions
of his episcopal visitations, which will prove a storehouse of
valuable material for the future historian of Catholicity in Ohio.
Finding his diocesan work far beyond his strength, he
petitioned the Holy See for a division of his vast spiritual territory.
In compliance with his wish the division was made in 1847, and all
that part of Ohio, north of forty degrees and forty-one minutes,
was made a separate diocese, with the Episcopal See at Cleveland,
and the Rt. Rev. Amadeus Rappe as its first bishop. When Bishop
Rappe took possession of his See he found forty-two churches,
fourteen secular priests and seven Sanguinists under his jurisdic-
tion, an increase of thirty-nine churches and nineteen priests since
1833, when Bishop Purcell was appointed to the See of Cincinnati.
Although thus relieved of nearly one-third of his former juris-
diction, Bishop Purcell's zeal and labor did not diminish; on the
contrary they grew and spread. Catholicity under his direction
made wonderful strides in Central and Southern Ohio. With
astonishing rapidity churches multiplied, congregations sprang
into existence, religious, charitable and educational institutions
were established, all demanding and receiving his watchful care
and paternal guidance.
In 1850 Bishop Purcell was made Archbishop, with the
Bishops of Louisville, Vincennes, Detroit and Cleveland as his
sufifragans.
10 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Under his direction Mt. St. Mary's Seminary of the West
was opened near Cincinnati in 1852. Indefatigably he labored
for the spread of rehgion, and everywhere throughout his diocese
evidence of his zeal and of the steady growth of the Church could
be seen.
In 1853 Archbishop Purcell was relieved of the charge of
Eastern Kentucky, by the erection of the Diocese of Covington.
In 1868 he asked for further relief from constantly increasing work.
The result was the erection of the Diocese of Columbus, compris-
ing the southeastern part of Ohio. The first bishop was the
Rt. Rev. S. H. Rosecrans, who, as coadjutor since 1862, had
lightened his labors.
In 1869 the Archbishop made the last of his many visits to
Rome, this time to attend the Ecumenical Council of the Vatican,
which opened in December of that year. He took a prominent
part in its debates, notably in those connected with the definition
of the infallibility of the Pope. He belonged to the inopportimists,
but after the council defined papal infallibility to be of faith, he
yielded assent.
In connection with Archbishop Purcell's biography it is
necessary, as a matter of history, to mention the clouded ending
of an otherwise brilliant career, a singularly pure and unselfish life
spent for God and His Church, viz., his financial disaster, of which
Dr. John Gilmary Shea, in his history of "The Hierarchy of the
Catholic Church in the United States," pages 107 and 108, writes
as follows:
"Early in 1879 financial afYairs, which had been managed by
the Very Rev. Edward Purcell, ended in bankruptcy. How it all
came about must ever remain a mystery. The venerable Arch-
bishop, as ignorant as a child of the system and its extent, at once
came forward and assumed the whole responsibihty of his brother's
operations. This only complicated matters and raised a host of
legal questions as to his abihty, in character of trustee for the
Catholic church in his diocese, to assume an individual indebted-
ness contracted by another; and if he could, it became necessary to
decide what property became liable for it — that owned by the
diocese, or the property of every Catholic church and institution
in the diocese. If the debi became a just charge on the whole
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. H
diocese and all its churches and institutions, it was a debt on every
Catholic, which he was bound in conscience to pay. This extreme
view no theologian or canonist was found to take.
"The debts were at first supposed not to exceed a quarter of
a million dollars, and attempts were made to meet or reduce it
materially by subscriptions ; but when it was found that the indebt-
edness reached nearly four millions of dollars, the attempt was
abandoned as hopeless. The Very Rev. Edward Purcell died
broken-hearted. The Archbishop made an assignment of all
property in his name, and long litigations began. The courts
ultimately decided that the congregations were not liable except
for moneys actually advanced to them."
In May, 1880, Archbishop Purcell retired to Brown county,
Ohio, near the Ursuline Convent, where he lingered in illness,
brought on in the early part of 1881 by a paralytic stroke, till his
death, July 4, 1883.
THE RIGHT REV. AMADEUS RAPPE, D. D.
FIRST BISHOP OF CLEVELAND.
OCTOBER, 1847— AUGUST, 1870.
Louis Amadeus Rappe, first Bishop of Cleveland, was born
on February 2, 1801, at Audrehem, a village near Ardres (district
of St. Omer), Department of Pas-de-Calais, France. His parents,
Eloi Rappe and Marie Antoinette Rappe, nee Noel, belonged to
the peasantry and were highly esteemed for their probity, industry
and Christian virtues. They had a family of ten children, five sons
and five daughters. The subject of this sketch was the youngest of
the sons. Of his four brothers, three were killed in the Napoleonic
wars, the fourth died unmarried. Destined by his father to the life
of a farmer, Louis Amadeus received but an elementary education,
such as the village school afforded. Trained by his parents to
habits of order and industry, he soon acquired a practical knowl-
edge of husbandry and thus became very useful to his father in the
management of the farm. He took delight in his avocation ; was
passionately fond of horses, a liking which he retained all his life.
He was also fond of youthful sports and athletic games. Sparkling
12 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
with wit and cheerfulness, he was a general favorite with the young
people of his native village. His career seemed well marked out
and his family friends did not doubt his vocation — that of a farmer.
But God was there, with His secret and admirable designs!
One evening, toward the end of the year 1819, when Amadeus
was in his 19th year, and the family were gathered around
the domestic hearth, the father expressed a regret that not one
of his sons had a vocation to the priesthood. He said he had
always hoped to see one of them at the altar, this wish having
been the dream of his life, but that now it was not to be reaHzed.
Amadeus, struck by this remark, answered : "Well, father, if you
wish it, I will become a priest." It need hardly be said that this
answer was not taken by the family in a serious light. A general
laughter ensued, so diametrically opposed to that sacred calling
were his well-known tastes. On the following morning he went to
his father, saying : "Father, the remark which I made to you last
evening is serious. It occupied my thoughts all night; I have
seriously reflected upon it, and wish to be a priest."
The sentiment thus made known to the father, and to the
mother, consent was readily granted, but not without doubt and
fear lest their son might not persevere. They were all the more
apprehensive of his firmness and perseverance, as one of his older
brothers had begun the course of studies for the sacred ministry,
but failed to reach the altar.
Soon the necessary preparations for the departure of young
Amadeus were made. He went to Furnes, a small village about
six miles from Boulogne, to the pastoral residence of one of his
relatives, the Rev. M. Noel, who was parish priest of the place.
Our young aspirant to the sacred ministry took his first Latin
lesson from this venerable priest, under whose wise direction he
seriously reflected on his vocation, which, as he acknowledged, was
put to a severe test for the first few months. In October, 1820, he
entered the college at Boulogne, then under the direction of the
celebrated Abbe Haffreingue. As he was taller and older
than his fellow students, he was given charge of one of
the studyrooms, an office delicate, and at times difficult, but filled
by him with kindness and prudence. Even at this epoch in his life
he showed a keen sense of duty and a firm will. One of his rela-
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 13
lives having seen him during a vacation full of mirth and glee, the
life of the circles in which he moved, noticed that at college he was
serious and sedate, and so told him. Amadeus replied, "When
vacation is over I shut up all my mirth in a box, to be opened only
the next vacation." As he was of a most cheerful disposition, it
must have cost him no little effort to do so.
In 1821 he received tonsure at the hands of Cardinal de la
Tour d' Auvergne Lauragais, Bishop of Arras. Having com-
pleted the collegiate course of studies in 1826, he went to the
Diocesan Seminary at Arras, receiving minor orders on December
22 of the following year. On May 21, 1828, he was ordained sub-
deacon, and on December 20 of the same year, deacon. The same
prelate who gave him tonsure also ordained him to the priesthood
on March 14, 1829.* The parish of Wismes, a small village near
Fauquembergues, district of St. Omer, was his first appointment.
There he remained till 1834, meanwhile also attending a neighbor-
ing mission church. The chaplaincy of the Ursuline Convent at
Boulogne-sur-Mer having become vacant and the sisters knowing
the sterling worth, indomitable zeal, and great prudence of Father
Rappe, were desirous of having him appointed their chaplain and
spiritual director. Mother Ursula, the superioress of the
community, petitioned his bishop to this effect, and her request
was granted. Father Rappe remained chaplain to the Ursulines of
Boulogne from January, 1834, till May, 1840. During this time he
read with intense interest the "Annals of the Propagation of the
Faith," which excited in him an ardent desire to devote himself to
the American mission. In 1839 Bishop Purcell, of Cincinnati,
passed through London on his way from America to Europe, and
whilst in that city he was requested by the parents of three young
English ladies to take them under his protection as far as the
Ursuline Convent at Boulogne. There he met the zealous
chaplain of the community, and future missionary. Father Rappe,
to whom he made known the spiritual destitution of his large
diocese. The Rev. Amadeus Rappe then offered to go with him to
America. This he did, however, with great diffidence, owing to
his age, thirty-nine, which he felt would be no small hindrance
•The tacts in connection with Bishop Rappe's home, college and seminary life were
furnished the writer in July, 1888, by a gentleman intimately acquainted with the la-
mented prelate, who was his cousin— Dr. Dewulf.
14 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
in adapting himself to the Hfe of a missionary in a strange land.
Another great obstacle for him was the fact that he was unac-
quainted with the English language. But he would allow none of
these obstacles to hinder him from entering upon the toilsome and
self-sacrificing life of a missionary. After receiving the necessary
permission from his Ordinary to leave his diocese, he bade farewell
to his convent charge, which deeply regretted to lose him, who had
been its wise counselor and prudent director. He set sail for
America, in September, 1840, arriving at Cincinnati the following
month. He was immediately sent by Bishop Purcell to Chilli-
cothe, in order to learn English. Mr. Marshall Anderson, a
convert and most estimable gentleman, was his teacher. But
Father Rappe found it very difificult to master even the rudiments
of the language. In a few months, however, he was able to speak
it sufficiently well to make himself understood, though his pro-
nunciation always remained defective. About 1836 the present
llourishing city of Toledo was founded. Cathohcs there were very
few in number and had neither church nor priest; Tiffin was the
nearest place whence sick calls were attended. The Miami and
Erie canal was being built about that time, and there came quite a
large influx of Catholic laborers who settled along the line of the
canal and the Maumee river. There was much sickness then, the
dread Maumee fever undermining the strongest constitution, and
hurrying many of its victims to an early grave. There was also
much intemperance among the laborers, who spent their hard
earned money in drink and allowed their famiHes to want. To this
uncultivated and uninviting field of labor Father Rappe was sent
about six months after his arrival at Cincinnati. His "parish limits"
extended from Toledo to the Indiana State line and as far south as
Allen county. From the summer of 1841 till the spring of 1846,
his labors, privations and difificulties of all kinds were indeed
trying; he never lost courage, but full of missionary zeal and self-
sacrifice he labored faithfully among his people. It was here he
first saw the terrible effects of intemperance, which so filled him
with a horror of this vice that he fought it then and during
the remainder of his life by word and example. Thousands
bless his memory for the energetic measures he took in rescuing
them from a drunkard's grave. For five years, 1841-46, Father
Rappe was alone in this section of the State, but his work grew
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 16
beyond his strength. Hence Bishop PurceU sent him a co-laborer
in the person of the Rev. Louis De Goesbriand, who arrived at
Toledo in January, 1846. At that time Toledo and the surround-
ing country, even as far west as the State line, were full of malaria
of the most malignant type. Bishop De Goesbriand, in his remin-
iscences of Bishop Rappe's missionary life, says : "At certain
seasons it was impossible to meet a healthy-looking person, and
frequently entire families were sick and unable to help one another.
Apart from the terrible malarial fever, we were occasionally visited
by such epidemics as erysipelas, and towards the end of 1847 we
saw ship-fever stricken emigrants, landing on the docks, to die
among strangers a few hours after arrival." After the Miami and
Erie canal was finished many of the laborers left with their families
to seek homes in a more healthy climate. As the majority of them
were Catholics, Father Rappe's missions were greatly weakened.
Very few Catholic families remained between Toledo and Defiance.
Mass was said, however, each Sunday at Toledo and frequently at
Maumee City, and on week days at Providence, Defiance, Poplar
Ridge, and occasionally at Fremont and La Prairie. The roads
were often almost impassable, but Father Rappe and his faithful
companion found neither bad roads nor the inclemency of the
weather a sufificient obstacle to prevent them from visiting each of
their scattered missions at the time appointed. In his intercourse
with his people, Father Rappe was most affable, and he knew well
how to win their respect and confidence. He was acquainted with
every family, and knew every member of each family. He had a
special gift to teach catechism, and would spend weeks in a settle-
ment preparing a few children for the reception of the sacraments.
During this time of preparation he would instruct the children for
hours each day, and always managed to rivet their attention. He
was ever watchful of the spiritual welfare of the adult portion of his
flock, urging them to frequent confession, and to attend Mass with
regularity.
To assist him in instructing the children at Toledo he secured
several Sisters of Notre Dame from Cincinnati. They were of the
band of Religeuses that had come with him from Namur, Belgium,
in 1840, and established a branch of their community in Cincinnati.
He secured a house, near the present site of St. Francis de Sales'
Church, Toledo, which was fitted up as a convent and select school
16 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
for the little band of sisters that shared with him the trials and
hardships of missionary life. They remained at Toledo from 1846
to 1848, when, owing to lack of support, they were recalled to
Cincinnati.
Bishop Purcell finding the labor of properly attending to his
vast diocese, comprising the State of Ohio, too much for him, he
petitioned the Holy See for a division of his jurisdiction, and
suggested Cleveland as the most fit city in Northern Ohio for the
Episcopal See. Consequently, the new Diocese of Cleveland was
established, and Father Rappe chosen as its first bishop. Although
his appointment was confirmed on April 23, 1847, the Papal Brief,
issued to that efl^ect on the same day, did not reach Cincinnati until
the following September. He was consecrated in St. Peter's
Cathedral, Cincinnati, on October 10, 1847, by Bishop Purcell,
who was assisted by Bishop Whelan, of Richmond, Va. On
October 12, just before setting out for Cleveland, Bishop Rappe
published his first Pastoral letter. Its full text will be found on
pages 76 to 78, in the first volume of this work. In plain but
unctuous language the Bishop outlines in his letter the work
before him. He addresses his brethren of the clergy and his
children of the laity in most kindly words, that make the Pastoral
letter mirror him as a man full of apostolic zeal and love for souls.
Within a very short time after Bishop Rappe came to Cleve-
land and to his diocese he impressed all, the non-Catholics, as well
as Catholics, that his sole aim was the betterment of his flock, to
work indefatigably for God's glory and the spread of religion. As
an evidence of the Bishop's wonderful endurance in his most
arduous labors, which were of well-nigh daily occurrence, the
following account is taken from the "Reminiscences," written by
the Rev. E. W. J. Lindesmith, at the request of the writer :
"When I came to the Seminary, in the fall of 1849, Bishop
Rappe lived on Bond street. The Seminary was then located in
the rear of the Bishop's house. The students would all rise at
5 a. m. After morning prayers at 5 :30, the Bishop would walk
down to St. Mary's on the "Flats," hear confessions, and then say
Mass. On Sundays, when the Bishop was at home, he would hear
confessions from 6 to 10 :30 o'clock, and then sing High Mass and
preach. He had already said Mass at 8 o'clock and preached, and
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 17
commonly the confessions were not all heard. He would then go
to the confessional again after last Mass and hear all that were
there. On several occasions I saw him hear confessions on Sunday
evening after the sermon and Benediction, at 8 :30 p. m., and give
communion to people who had fasted over twenty-four hours, and
could not get a chance to go to confession. One Sunday I served
the Bishop's 8 o'clock Mass at the Cathedral where he preached.
Then I drove him in a buggy to St. Patrick's, where he dedicated
the church. He said a second Mass and preached. Then I drove
him to St. Mary's on the Flats, which at this time was the German
church, with Father Luhr as pastor. There we had dinner. After
dinner we went to the church, where the Bishop confirmed the
German children and preached. After that I drove him in the
buggy to St. Vincent's Orphan Asylum, where he gave the veil to
several Sisters, and then gave Benediction and preached. After
that I brought him to the Ursuline Convent, where he gave Bene-
diction and preached. Then I drove him in the buggy to his house,
where we got supper. After supper he walked to the Cathedral,
where he preached and gave Benediction. Then I went to the
Seminary, and how many sick calls the Bishop attended to that
night I don't know."
In order not to repeat here the record of Bishop Rappe's long
and laborious work, of his many difTlculties, sore and severe trials,
the reader is referred, for a full account of these, to pages 78-92,
in the first volume of this work. The summary of that account is,
that in every good work Bishop Rappe was in the front rank,
never shirking his part, never refusing his aid or countenance.
Though often meeting with disappointment, or receiving insult for
his pains, he never halted, but courageously went on in his work.
He knew no such word as fail. But time, incessant labor, and
great mental strain caused by opposition, began to tell on him.
He had also lost the use of his right eye, and was in danger of
losing his sight entirely. In 1869, whilst he was at Rome, in
attendance at the Vatican Council, accusations against his char-
acter had been sent to the Apostolic See. This was too much for
him to bear. A just God, he felt, would vindicate his innocence.
He was tired of opposition, strife and calumny, and so concluded
that it would be for the best interests of religion if he retired from
the diocese he had served so long. He therefore resigned as
18 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Bishop of Cleveland on August 22, 1870. After a short stay in
Cleveland, on his return from Rome, he went to the Diocese of
Burlington, whose bishop, his old-time friend and co-laborer, the
Rt. Rev. Dr. De Goesbriand, gladly welcomed him. Not wishing
to eat the bread of idleness, and feeling that he had still strength
to work for the salvation of souls, he again entered the missionary
field, as he had thirty years before, preaching and catechising in
the villages and settlements of Vermont now, as he had done in the
then uninviting parts of Northwestern Ohio.
When Bishop Rappe came to Cleveland, in 1847, he found a
sparsely settled diocese awaiting organization at his hands. He
left it flourishing, well provided with priests, churches, schools and
religious institutions. The episcopal city in 1847 had but one
small church ; in 1870 there were eleven, with as many congrega-
tions, most of them of considerable size. His work as a missionary
priest and as a missionary bishop, his burning zeal and noble self-
sacrifice enshrine him in the history of the Church in the United
States as an apostle of Catholicity in Ohio.
When the Rt. Rev. Dr. Rappe was informed that Bishop
Gilmour had been appointed his successor he sent him a letter in
which, among other things, he expressed his great satisfaction at
the appointment. Following is a copy of his letter, now on file in
the diocesan archives:
"Rutland, Vt., May 6, 1872.
"Rt. Rev. Bishop :
"It is just now I have the pleasure of receiving your kind
letter of the 27th of April. For twelve days I had been engaged
in the North of this State, and my correspondence had been
detained at St. Albans. I state this to justify ray silence, which
may have appeared strange to you. On hearing of your appoint-
ment to Cleveland I thanked God from the bottom of my heart.
It is a consolation for me that the diocese of my afifection has been
entrusted to your care.
"I shall be engaged here for one month more, but will remain
at St. Albans, or in the vicinity, from the 20th of this month till
the 7th of June. My home is with Very Rev. Father Druon, at
St. Albans, * * where I will be most happy to see you. I am
not forbidden to visit Cleveland, but for the present, the interests
of religion demand I should remain at a distance.
"I will not cease to pray for peace and harmony among my
ever beloved children. I have not neglected to advise them to
avoid everything scandalous. I have already exhorted some of my
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 19
friends to receive you with respect and confidence, and to assist
you to overcome the many difficulties you have to encounter.
"Please let me know when I may expect you, and pray for
Your devoted friend in Xt.,
A. RAPPE."
In this connection, and in justice to the memory of Bishop
Rappe, the following account is put on record :
Cardinal Simeoni, Prefect of the Propaganda, in a letter sent
to the Rt. Rev. Bishop Gilmour, May 8, 1885, referring to Bishop
Rappe, says:
" * * 171 ilia miserrima conspiratione contra episcopum Cleveland-
ensem, prcsdecessorem Amplitudinis Tucs, in qua ille sanctus et apostolicus
senexfalso * * accusabatur." (*)
Five years after Bishop Rappe resigned, the Holy See ofifered
him another diocese, as appears from the subjoined letter addressed
to Bishop Gilmour by the Rt. Rev. Bishop De Goesbriand :
"Burlington, Vt., 21st December, 1884.
Rt. Rev. R. Gilmour, Bishop of Cleveland :
Rt. Rev., Dear Sir:
"After consulting my records I find that Mgr. Roncetti, Able-
gate of the Holy Father, arrived at Burlington, from Portland, in
company of Father Ubaldo Ubaldi, Very Rev. Father Quinn and
Rev. Father O'Farrell, of New York, on Saturday evening, July
24th, 1875. The object of his visit was to see Rt. Rev. A. Rappe,
whom he thought to be living in Burlington, but who was living at
St. Albans with Father Druon.
"The Ablegate expressed himself disappointed in not meeting
him. I remember distinctly that after inquiring concerning Bishop
Rappe, he opened in my presence, and read with much attention,
a letter of Cardinal Franchi to himself, and said to me that he had
been commanded to see Rt. Rev. A. Rappe, and authorized to offer
him another diocese. The Ablegate left Burlington the next day
and did not see Bishop Rappe. Whether or not he wrote to him I
cannot tell, but it was certainly intended to speak to him of another
See, for I remarked to Mgr. Roncetti, that the charge of a diocese
would be too much for Bishop Rappe, who at that date must have
been seventy-four years of age.
"What I have here written I am ready to swear to.
i-LOUIS,
Bishop of Burlington, Vt."
(*) "In that most wretched conspiracy against the Bishop of Cleveland, Your Lord-
ship's predecessor, in which that holy and apostolic old man was falsely accused • •."
— Trans.
20 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Dr. John Gilmary Shea in his history of The Catholic
Hierarchy in the United States, (page 206), referring to the resig-
nation of Bishop Rappe, says ;
"Bishop Rappe had built up the diocese and might have been
expected in his declining years to enjoy a happy old age amid the
clergy and people whom he had guided as a faithful pastor for
twenty [twenty-three] years, but this was not to be. An ungrate-
ful opposition sprung up, calumny assailed even the venerable
bishop, who with a broken heart resigned his See on the 22nd of
August, 1870, and retired to the diocese of his good friend Bishop
De Goesbriand, of Burlington."
In his Lives of Deceased Bishops, Dr. Richard H. Clarke says
of Bishop Rappe: "While attending the [Vatican] council his
reputation was assailed unjustly at Rome, by calumnies forwarded
from the very diocese he had served so well. This movement was
limited to a few. * * * Rome, misled by calumnies, which it
afterwards discovered and pronounced to be the fruits of a con-
spiracy, counseled his retirement. But he was never removed from
his office as Bishop of Cleveland. On his return to Cleveland from
Rome, he resigned his bishopric August 22, 18Y0. He had been
Bishop of Cleveland not only in name but in deed, and left that
title unsullied before God."^ * * "Since his death I have seen
the original letter, one from the Holy See, in which the means
resorted to, to compel his retirement from his See, are spoken of as
a 'miserable conspiracy,' the accusations against him are charac-
terized as 'false' (falso accusabatur), and in which Bishop Rappe
is himself spoken of as 'that holy and apostolic old man,' (ille
sanctus et apostolicus senex.")^
At the Pontifical Requiem High Mass for the deceased
prelates of the Cincinnati province, celebrated at St. Peter's Cathe-
dral, Cincinnati, March 7, 1882, at the time the Fourth Provincial
Council of Cincinnati was in session, Bishop Dwenger, of Fort
Wayne, preached the sermon on the occasion. Referring to
Bishop Rappe, he spoke as follows :
" * * We remember today the first Bishop of Cleveland,
Amadeus Rappe. Having known him from the days of my child-
hood, it is today a pleasant duty to do justice to his memory. He
was elevated to the episcopal dignity, not so much on account of
brilliant talent, as on account of piety and apostolic zeal. It was
an edifying sight to see the hard working apostolic bishop visit
every church of his wonderfully growing diocese every year,
(1) Vol. 3, pp, 244, 245.
(2) Vol. 3, pp. 248, 249.
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 21
preaching, giving confirmation, hearing confessions; nothing was
too hard for him ; nothing could tire him. When I conducted
missions and forty hours' devotions, I sometimes would feel a
delicacy to urge the priests to go in the confessionals; but if the
good bishop was present I never hesitated to ask him to hear
confessions, if I knew there was a crowd. Witness the wonderful
growth of the Diocese of Cleveland from the year 1847 to the time
of his resignation. I do not deny that the saintly apostolic bishop,
relying upon the advice and judgment of men whom he considered
more learned than himself, did commit some error in the adminis-
tration ; but the austere, hard-working, apostolic man was innocent
of the cruel accusations that were concocted against him, and
saddened the last days of his life. I know how these accusations
were concocted. I have spoken with the principal witness. I know
he [the Bishop] was innocent. Beautiful were the words the good
bishop used, when in 1870 he tendered his resignation to the Holy
See: That for the good of his diocese he not only resigned his
dignity, but also his good name; that for the sake of peace and
harmony he desired no vindication."*
For obvious reasons all the details of this sad chapter in
Bishop Rappe's saintly and self-sacrificing life are not yet for
pubHcation. Those that can now be given will be found on pages
89-92, in the first volume of this work.
Immediately after his resignation Bishop Rappe retired to
St. Albans, Vermont, making his home with the Very Rev. Z.
Druon, V. G., until his saintly death, at St. Albans, September 8,
1877. He was incessantly engaged in his former and favorite work
of giving missions and catechising the young throughout the
Diocese of Burlington. He conducted a very successful mission
in the great parish church of Notre Dame, Montreal, preaching
the entire course of sermons himself. Immense audiences heard
his eloquent and impressive sermons, and thousands took from him
on that occasion the pledge of total abstinence. He was the
Father Mathew of Montreal. The last mission he gave was at
Grand Isle, near St. Albans. Although seriously ailing of what
proved to be his last illness, he closed the mission exercises, after
one week of intense pain and suffering, September 7, 1877, the day
before he died. On the same day he left for Milton, twelve miles
from St. Albans.
*CathoUc Telegraph, March 9, 1882.
22 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
The following particulars of Bishop Rappe's fatal illness and
death were given to the writer by the Very Rev. Father Druon,
in a letter dated September 20, 1888: "He arrived at Milton in
the morning (Friday, Sept. 7th), when Father Cardinal tele-
graphed to me. I reached Milton at 12.30 P. M. and found Bishop
Rappe a little delirious, though he had taken a good fish dinner.
I brought him to St. Albans without any trouble, in the afternoon,
when I telegraphed to Bishop De Goesbriand, who arrived in the
evening. He heard his confession, for at that time he had entirely
recovered his consciousness. Dr. Fasset, who came to see him in
the afternoon, found him fairly well, so that he then had hope of
his recovery. After the Bishop's arrival at St. Albans, when he
was still a little delirious, he wished to start for his missions, and it
was then that he said: '/ have a grand mission to perform; I want
to go to Cleveland by the way of Buffalo.' On the following day he
fell into a comatose state from which he never recovered ; he died
peacefully that night at 11 :30 o'clock. The last words he breathed
were : 7 have prayed for my friends ; / have prayed for my enemies ;
now may God bless them all\" Words of apostolic benediction, of
forgiving and loving charity; an echo of the Last Words on
Calvary !
His remains were brought to Cleveland — to the city he loved
so well. On arrival Thursday evening, September 13th, they were
met by an immense concourse of people, Catholic and Protestant,
all vieing to do honor to the dead Bishop whom in life they loved
and venerated. By torchlight the immense funeral cortege passed
from the Union Depot to the cathedral, where, on a magnificent
catafalque, Bishop Rappe's mortal remains were placed in state
for the night. Next day a Pontifical Requiem Mass was celebrated
by Bishop Dwenger, of Ft. Wayne. Bishop Ryan, of Buffalo,
preached the panegyric, pronouncing a beautiful tribute tO' the
memory of the sainted dead. The remains of Bishop Rappe were
then enclosed in a vault beneath the cathedral he had built, and
beneath the altar at which for eighteen years he had offered up the
divine sacrifice.
Tuesday, October 16, the Rt. Rev. Bishop Gilmour preached
in the cathedral at the Month's Mind of Bishop Rappe. The fol-
lowing passage is taken from his sermon on that occasion : "Bishop
Rappe came as a missionary, he abided as a missionary, he perse-
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 23
vered as a missionary. The same brave old missionary bishop!
Seeking his people far and wide ; preaching incessantly to them
from the pulpit, day after day and year after year; patiently await-
ing them in the confessional ; by the bed of the dying, consoling
and exhorting, or by the side of youth, guiding and protecting,
encouraging or chiding, he was ever the same — the indefatigable
bishop, who knew no self, only God and the things of God.
Preaching retreats, erecting temples, founding convents, giving
instruction in his universal character of missionary, he died as he
had lived — a true soldier of Christ, a man of God. It is the most
beautiful episode, perhaps, in the Catholic annals of the United
States. His last public act was to celebrate Mass and ask the
prayers of the people for the grace of a happy death ; his last words
were an invocation of charity. It was meet that he should have
been brought here to repose under the altar that he built ; it was
right that he should have come among his own for their prayers —
those to whom he had given a Hfe's earnest labors. It was fitting
that his virtues and his memory should be placed before the people
whom he so loved, for whom he had so labored."
The following communication to the Cleveland Leader,
September 10, 1877, was written by one of the ablest lawyers of
the Cleveland bar, and by one who had no "church affiliations."
It voiced the kindly feeling universally entertained toward Bishop
Rappe on the part of non-Catholics :
"THE DEAR BISHOP."
"And so the good Bishop has gone. Permit one who is
neither Catholic nor Protestant, but who knew him well during all
the long period of his ministry in Cleveland, to pay a tribute to his
memory. Whatever were his personal accomplishments they were
far surpassed by the qualities of his heart. All who knew him will
concur in praise of his candor, his inviolable fidelity, his courtesy,
his frankness, his freedom from the least tincture of unkindness or
uncharitableness, his attachment to his friends, his gratitude, his
deeds of charity, his patience amid the trials and perplexities of
his charge, his mildness, his purity of life and manners, his fervent
and unfeigned piety. Born a gentleman, he possessed in an
eminent degree all the personal graces and suavity of manner
which such birth impHes. He was modest and unobtrusive. He
preferred retirement and peace to the tumult and strife of the
24 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
world. In the performance of every duty he was energetic, faithful
and cheerful. In a word, he was a great and good man ; but
because he was great and good, envy and jealousy conspired to
drag him down. Relentless opponents, while they attempted to
despoil him of his exalted office and good name, were totally
unable to charge him justly with a single moral stain ; and though
he suffered much, he was certainly exempted from that most
merciless of all sorrows, the anguish of remorse. His name will be
enrolled with the names of other good and worthy men who by
their lives and example have contributed to the culture, prosperity
and happiness of the human race. I think I see the good Bishop
at the approach of the last mortal pang, closely embracing the
crucifix, his gaze steadfastly fixed upon the world beyond the stars,
with the words upon his lips, 'Into Thy hands, O Lord, I resign
my spirit.' And though he died in a distant State, who can doubt
that in the moment of dissolution he breathed forth a sweet and
holy benediction for the diocese for which he had done so much !
"Faithful and loving hands have borne back to our beautiful
city the remains of the beloved Bishop, and they shall repose in a
crypt beneath the dome of the Cathedral which he erected for a
people he loved so well. S. E. Adams."
The Cleveland Leader said of Bishop Rappe in its issue of
September 10, 1877: "A dispatch from St. Albans, Vermont,
announces the death of Right Rev. Amadeus Rappe. Bishop
Rappe was of French birth and education. * * * j^jg f^j^g
qualities as a courteous, cultivated man made him many friends
among people of all classes and religions, and many well remember
the indignation of his American friends when * * * j^g ^^3
elbowed out of the diocese which he had so laboriously created.
* * * Few Catholic prelates have shown such a broad, intelli-
gent liberality and so many winning qualities as a public-spirited
citizen. Though always a zealous and aggressive Catholic, he had
a manly respect for the rights and opinions of others."
In 1887, Bishop Gilmour authorized his vicar-general, Mgr.
BoiT, to raise a fund by collections in the churches of the diocese
for a monument, to be erected to the memory of Bishop Rappe.
The response of the diocese was most generous. Since then a fine
marble bust of the deceased prelate has been executed and placed
in the Bishop's residence, and in October, 1888, a hfe size statue in
bronze of Bishop Rappe, in full pontifical robes, was cast in Rome.
It is now temporarily placed in the vestibule of the Cathedral.
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 25
Few men on the missions of America ever excelled Bishop
Rappe in the line of his work. Untiring in zeal, patient in hard-
ships, generous, unselfish, no labor seemed to weary or exhaust
him. Good his aim, suffering and sorrow the objects of his charity,
he lived for religion and his kind. Ill-versed in English, because
learned late in life, defective in early education, yet by nature's
gifts and his own energy of character, he ranked as an orator of
more than ordinary powers. The Bishop was not a polished
orator, but he was singularly expressive in his language, in which
there was a vein of sympathetic poetry. This, coupled with his
peculiar pronunciation and emphasis, made him a most interesting
speaker. Though his diction was far from pure English, it was plain,
his delivery animated, and his appearance in the pulpit full of deep
earnestness. While preaching he had a habit of brushing his brow
and gesticulating freely, without much regard for the rules of
gestures. He never preached for effect; his aim at all times was
"to preach Christ," not himself. He was also a ready speaker and
on short notice would preach a sermon full of emotion and spiritual
food, evincing the fact that he was a man given to reflection and
mental prayer. He was perfectly at home in the pulpit. His
sermons had these very desirable qualities — they were understood
and remembered; they never failed to win the attention of his
hearers. One of his favorite themes was Total Abstinence, of
which he was a consistent and practical advocate for many years
and up to the time of his death. He had a horror of saloons, or
"grog-shops," as he called them, and in sermon or lecture would
attack them in scathing language.
His wont was to preach thrice every Sunday — frequently four
or five times — always to a different audience, and often in churches
miles distant from each other.
Bishop Rappe was most courteous in manners ; every act and
motion indicated grace itself. Tall in stature, erect and rapid in
his gait, he walked,, cane in hand, with the agility of a young man
of twenty, and with the air of a soldier. Approachable to all
without distinction as to age, creed or social condition, he was
universally respected by those who had the good fortune of his
acquaintance. The prominent Protestant gentlemen of Cleveland,
Toledo and elsewhere in the diocese, with whom he had business
26 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
or social intercourse, had the highest esteem for him, based, as it
was, on his integrity, affabihty and tolerance. In a word, he was
acknowledged to be "every inch a gentleman."
He had a tender love for the orphans of his diocese, and
frequently visited them in their respective asylums, entertaining
them with anecdotes and instructing them by plain and fatherly
explanations of Christian doctrine and morals. His visits to the
orphanages were the delight of the inmates.
Bishop Rappe possessed remarkable business ability, and his
work in this direction gave unmistakable evidence of his practical
knowledge of financial affairs. He would have become a million-
aire had he been a banker or merchant. He could see things
clearer and more readily than some of the sharpest and keenest
business men ; the result of his early investments proves this. The
purchases of the Ursuline Convent property, the lots on which
Charity Hospital stands, and the Seminary grounds on Lake street,
were all made at times when ordinary business prudence would not
have ventured to invest, but they have, long since, increased in
value a hundredfold.
In disposing of his savings in his last will and testament,
Bishop Rappe did not forget the Diocese of Cleveland. Charity
Hospital, the Orphan Asylums, the Ursuline Convents of Cleveland
and Toledo, and a number of poor churches shared largely of his
generosity now, as they had so often whilst he was their spiritual
head.
He was great as a missionary rather than as a bishop, and
excelled as a pioneer who explored and outlined, leaving to others
to shape and consolidate. A lover of his native land, he gave not
only his allegiance but his most ardent support to his adopted
country. A true patriot, a Christian man, tolerant of dissent, con-
ceding to others what he asked for himself — religious and civil
liberty — he died at the ripe old age of seventy-six, thirty years of
which he had spent as priest and bishop on the missions of Ohio.
He died amid the tears of his people, and the respect of his fellow
citizens, with the well-merited reputation of a life spent for God
and the good of his fellowmen.
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 27
THE RT. REV. RICHARD GH^MOUR, D. D.,
SECOND BISHOP OF CLEVELAND.
Richard Gilmour was born in the city of Glasgow, Scotland,
September 28, 1824. His parents, John and Marian (Callender)
Gilmour were of the middle class, and in religious belief Scotch
Covenanters. With a view to bettering their position in life they
set out for America in the spring of 1829, Pictou, Nova Scotia,
being their objective point. There they Hved but a short time,
however, as that part of the new world did not meet their expecta-
tion. They then sought a home in Pennsylvania, which they found
on a farm near the village of Cumbola, Schuylkill county, about
five miles from Pottsville.
As soon as their son was of proper age they sent him to the
village school, located on the hilltop, near Cumbola, where he
showed more than ordinary proficiency in the branches taught.
With his retentive memory and varied reading he soon outstripped
his school companions, so that he longed for other fields of learn-
ing to master. But lack of means on the part of his parents
prevented him from realizing this desire. A kind Providence,
however, opened the way to him in a direction unexpected, as will
be seen later on in this narrative.
The Gilmour family had for their nearest neighbors the family
of Michael Quinn, excellent CathoHcs, who soon were on intimate
terms with them. Young Richard was a favorite in the household
of Mr. Quinn, and felt as much at home with these good people
as though he belonged to the family.* Mrs. Quinn, at his own
request, taught him Catholic prayers, and often at her knees he
recited the Lord's prayer. Hail Mary, and Creed. And this he did
as earnestly and devoutly as any Catholic child, although, as he
often related, he found it difificult for a while to properly bless
himself.
As time went on he formed a strong attachment for one of
the sons of the family, about his own age. This young companion
of his, Bernard J. Quinn, invited him to accompany him to the
nearest Catholic church, located at Pottsville, which the Quinn
•The facts in connection witli Bishop Gilmour's home life were given to the writer by
a member of the Quinn family: those of his college and seminary days were communicated
to him by the Rev. Henry L. Wright, a life-long friend of the Bishop.
28 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
family attended. Richard's first visit to the CathoHc church of
that town so pleased him that he gladly repeated it, not only once,
but every Sunday for nearly four years, the two lads walking the
entire distance, five miles, to and from Pottsville. Thus early did
he show a religious turn of mind, and a desire to be in the House
of God, though not a member of His household. In this connection
it may not be out of place to mention this further fact of his boy-
hood days, as related to the writer by one who knew him intimately
then, that never was he heard to utter an improper word, nor was
he ever seen to do an improper act. His deportment as boy and
young man was at all times and on all occasions in strictest con-
formity with good morals and propriety, which won for him the
esteem of his youthful companions and his elders. His love for
truth and abhorrence of deception, in whatever form, so notable in
his later career, were strongly marked characteristics in him, at a
time when these noble traits of character are often sadly wanting
in thoughtless and flippant youth.
Richard was sixteen years of age when he first spoke to a
Catholic priest, the Rev. James Maginn, at that time (1840) pastor
of St. Patrick's Church, Pottsville. It was on the occasion of a
procession in that town of the Father Mathew Total Abstinence
Society, organized in 1840 by Father Maginn. The procession,
widely advertised, drew many persons from the neighboring towns
and villages. Among them were Richard Gilmour and his young
friend, Bernard J. Quinn, who banteringly asked him to call on the
priest, whom both had seen viewing the procession on the streets
that day. Although Richard had heard the priest frequently
preach in the church at Pottsville he never had mustered courage
enough to call on him. To Master Quinn's surprise and pleasure
he agreed to accompany him to Father Maginn, who received his
young visitors very kindly, and at their request also administered
to them the Total Abstinence pledge, to hold for five years. The
good priest was in the habit of giving medals to those taking
the pledge from him, but it happened that on this occasion his
supply of medals was exhausted. He therefore asked Richard and
his companion to call for them the following Sunday, as by that
time he would have a new supply. Sunday came, and the boys
called as asked, but the expected supply of medals had not arrived.
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 29
Thus several Sundays came and passed before the priest was able
to redeem his promise, but with each visit Richard's first shyness
diminished and finaUy disappeared. He took a fancy to the kind-
hearted priest, which was reciprocated by the priest, and was the
beginning of a friendship that lasted till the death of Father
Maginn, in 1889. These meetings had also the efifect of so setting
young Richard's keen and enquiring mind on edge as to the teach-
ings of the Church, that he read with great avidity, and unknown
to his parents, all the Catholic books, especially those of a contro-
versial kind, which came within his reach. Hence in a short time
he was as fully equipped with arguments in defense of the Church
as the best informed Catholic laymen thereabouts.
The Rev. Patrick Rafferty, an intimate friend of Mr. Michael
Quinn, was pastor of St. Francis' Church, at Fairmount, at the
time of this narrative (1842), a suburb of Philadelphia. He had
for a number of years the very laudable practice of training in his
own house a number of boys, with the ultimate object of a seminary
course. To these he gave daily lessons in Latin, mathematics and
English literature, for two or three years, as the needs of his
students demanded, besides giving them free board and lodging.
A vacancy occurring, he expressed his desire of taking another
youthful aspirant for the priesthood. He was told that young
Richard Gilmour had expressed himself desirous of becoming a
priest, though not yet a Catholic; that he was well behaved, and
had good talents. Father Rafferty at once consented to receive
him. He wrote him to that effect, but the letter conveying this
information failed to reach its destination as soon as was expected.
Meanwhile another Protestant young man, who had applied to fill
the vacancy which Richard was to fill, received the coveted place.
When finally Father Rafferty's letter reached Richard he bade fare-
well to his parents, who were unwilling their son should take this
step. Arriving at Philadelphia, he found the vacancy in Father
RafTerty's hospitable home filled. But kind Father Rafferty made
room for him, even though at some inconvenience. Richard,
thankfully appreciating the favor extended, at once set to work on
his first Latin lessons, with his host as preceptor. His fellow-
student was Henry L. Wright, who became his hfelong friend, and
was received into the Church, with him, on August 15, 1842.
30 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Father Rafferty baptized them in the presence of Richard's mother,
who had by this time become reconciled to her son's step, to
become a CathoHc and a priest.* Eighteen months were thus spent
in Father Rafferty's house by these two young aspirants to the
Holy Ministry. In the autumn of 1843 Bishop O'Connor, of Pitts-
burg, called to see his friend. Father Rafferty. The Bishop was in
search of students for his recently opened seminary, and on recom-
mendation of Father Rafferty took Mr. Gilmour's offer to afifiliate
himself with the diocese of Pittsburg. His stay at Pittsburg was
of short duration, however, as the Bishop was obliged to close his
seminary at the end of June, 1846, for lack of support. Richard,
nothing daunted, at once applied to the President of Mt. St. Mary's
College, Emmittsburg, the following September, and was kindly
received.
In that "nursery of bishops" Richard Gilmour showed much
of that force of character Avhich marked his priestly and episcopal
career. The college superiors soon recognized this trait in him
and appointed him prefect of the college boys, at best a thankless
position, though one of responsibility. Acting in this capacity he
was not long incurring the displeasure of some of his fellow
students who disliked his decisive mode of enforcing rules and
tolerating no injustice or deception. With such he was not
"popular/' but he cared not for popularity that had to be purchased
at the cost of dereliction of duty imposed.
Unable to pay the tuition and board fees, he asked to be
allowed to teach some classes, besides attending to his own. This
he felt competent to do as he was considerably in advance of many
of the students in mathematics, history and English literature. His
offer was accepted and he was pleased thus to refund to the college
by teaching what it gave him as a student. That he was kept busy
doing double duty, as teacher and student, is selfevident. To keep
up with his classes he had to "burn the midnight oil" during all
of his college and seminary course of studies. But he never lagged
in them. Before entering the seminary proper he passed his
examination for the degree of Master of Arts, which he obtained in
1848.
While attending to the duties of prefect he was taken seriously
*A few years after the ordination of her son, Mrs. Gilmour became a Catholic. Her
husband did likewise shortly before his death, about 1860.
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 31
ill With pneumonia, which left him in a very precarious condition.
As soon as he could be removed, for better medical care than the
college could afford, he was taken to his first preceptor and kind
friend, Father Rafferty, in whose house he was made welcome.
Regaining by slow stages his former strength and health he occu-
pied his leisure time taking lessons in French from a competent
master, and very soon he was able to speak and write that language
with considerable ease. Nor did he neglect his seminary studies,
so that when he returned to Emmittsburg he found his absence
from class had not left him much behind his fellow students. With
indomitable zeal he resumed his studies, completing the pre-
scribed course at the end of the scholastic year, June, 1852.
During the following vacation he set out for Cincinnati, for which
diocese he had been received by Archbishop Purcell a few months
previous, and by whom he was ordained subdeacon and deacon.
August 30, 1852, he received priesthood at the hands of the Most
Rev. Archbishop Purcell, who a few days after sent the young
priest to Portsmouth as resident pastor, with charge of fronton,
Gallipolis, Wilkesville, and a number of stations in Northeastern
Kentucky and West Virginia. His zeal found plenty to feed upon
in that vast and to a great extent undeveloped field of labor
assigned him. At Ironton he found it necessary to build a
church, but had no means with which to do so. He was obliged
to seek outside aid and was thus enabled to put up a chapel of
planks ; not even planed boards could his poor people afford. His
earnestness of purpose and frankness of character soon won his
way for him among his people, and prospects brightened. As his
work grew his energy kept apace with it. At Portsmouth he at
first found strife, but fair, firm and kind in his dealings, he quickly
put an end to contention, arising largely from a spirit of nation-
alism, to which he was ever a foe. He taught his flock to be
Catholic first and then thoroughly American.
In April, 1857, he was promoted to the pastorate of St.
Patrick's congregation, Cincinnati, made vacant by the consecra-
tion of the pastor, the Rev. James F. Wood, as coadjutor to the
Bishop of Philadelphia. Here again his administrative qualities
and priestly zeal had full sway, and well did he realize the expecta-
tions of Archbishop Purcell. During his pastorate St. Patrick's
32 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
grew and flourished as never before ; a well appointed school was
built, the parochial school system was brought to a high degree of
perfection, and all else pertaining to the spiritual and temporal
interests of his charge was done with most gratifying results.
During this time he translated his well-known and now widely
circulated Bible History, the original being in French, which he
greatly improved and amplified. He also arranged a book of
school hymns, known as "School Recreations," whose circulation
reached far beyond St. Patrick's parochial school, so popular did
it become. Feeling the want of suitable readers for Catholic
schools, he offered to compile a series if the Catholic pubHshers
securing his manuscript guaranteed to do their part, so as to make
the readers, in point of print, paper and binding, equal to the best
of readers used in the public schools, at no greater cost, however,
than these. His offer was accepted by Messrs. Benziger Bros.,
who fully complied with their part of the contract. The result has
been that the Gilmour "Catholic National Readers" at once sprang
into public favor. They soon reached a very wide circulation, each
edition excelling the previous one in contents, arrangement and
mechanical perfection.
Father Gilmour felt the need of some respite from his inces-
sant strain in connection with pastoral work, done unremittingly
since his ordination. He desired also to devote some time to
literary pursuits, so congenial to his taste. Hence, to realize this
double object, he asked for and obtained a professorship in Mt. St.
Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati. But his valuable services as a pastor
were not long to be dispensed with, as he remained at the seminary
but little more than a year — from April, 1868, to July, 1869. He
was called to fill a vacancy in the important and at the same time
disturbed parish of St. Joseph's, Dayton. His prudent manage-
ment and business tact soon brought things to rights in this new
field of labor, so that when he was called, in 1872, to wear the
mitre, he left his congregation in a most prosperous condition.
On April 14, 1872, he was consecrated Bishop of Cleveland,
by Archbishop Purcell, in the Cathedral of Cincinnati, his appoint-
ment to that See having been made by Pius IX, on February 28,
1872. About two weeks after his consecration he took possession
of his Cathedral church at Cleveland, thus relieving the Very Rev.
THE "GORDON" MITER, (PRESENTED TO BISHOP GILMOUR IN 1888.)
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 33
Edward Hannin, who had filled the office of administrator of the
diocese since the resignation of Bishop Rappe, in August, 1870.
Cares, difficulties and trials were again his lot, but in a greater
degree and of graver form than during the years of his priesthood.
Within his sphere of office he had contentions to meet and opposi-
tion to encounter, that were of much the same character as those
which saddened the life of his predecessor. Bishop Rappe. From
without he was considered with disfavor by the non-Catholic
friends of his predecessor. This disfavor was intensified when he
published his first pastoral letter, in February, 1873. In it he
fearlessly discussed and defended the political rights of Catholics,
who had till then been looked upon as "hewers of wood and draw-
ers of water," and seemingly took that position, rather than that of
equals of their non-Catholic fellow citizens. In the same letter he
also explained and defended the parochial school system, and made
it incumbent on the parishes of his diocese to^ establish and main-
tain parochial schools when at all possible, and to make them at
least equal to the public schools. In this he but continued his line
of action, begun by him when a parish priest. As a promoter and
defender of the Catholic parochial school system he now gained,
and ever after had, a national reputation.
For his pastoral letter he was fiercely attacked by the local
press and pulpit, as well as by the press at large. But in spite of
assault, calumny and misrepresentation, he pursued the path of
duty as he saw it and forced the public to at least acknowledge that
he cared not for its opinion, if it ran counter to what he considered
himself bound to do and say.
Recognizing the power and influence of the press, and desir-
ous of giving the large and influential Catholic body of Northern
Ohio a defender of Catholic thought and rights, as also to meet the
almost daily assaults and insults of an antagonistic press, notably
those of the Cleveland Leader, which the Hon. Senator B. F. Wade
had bluntly, but fittingly characterized, the Bishop established, and
supported at great personal sacrifice, the Catholic Universe, its first
issue appearing July 4, 1874. The Rev. T. P. Thorpe was its first
editor. Mr. Manly Tello succeeded him in September, 1877, and
remained in charge till July, 1892, when he resumed his former
profession as attorney-at-law.
Meanwhile the strain of incessant work, worry and care told
34 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
on his constitution. On June 24, 1874, while attending the com-
mencement exercises at St. Mary's Academy, Notre Dame,
Indiana, he fell seriously ill of nervous prostration. For two years
he was unable to attend to the affairs of the diocese, and for months
was at the brink of the grave. His physicians ordered him to take
absolute rest, and in compliance with their direction he went to
Southern France, for the benefit of his shattered health. On June
1, 1876, he returned to Cleveland, to the great joy of his people,
who received him with an ovation of welcome. Though not fully
restored to health, he resumed his Episcopal duties by degrees and
gradually regained his former strength and vigor. In 1877 he
began to systematize the business affairs of his diocese. He had
all the deeds of church property indexed and plats made of every
parcel of land. Blank forms and registers covering all the details
of diocesan and parochial afifairs were also introduced, so that
within a few years the Diocese of Cleveland took front rank vnth
the best regulated dioceses of the country for its thorough system
and order.
In 1876 and 1877 he tested before the courts what he con-
sidered the unjust taxation of the parochial schools of Cleveland.
Although the Supreme Court of Ohio had decided the question in
the celebrated Purcell-Gerke suit, that Catholic schools were not
taxable, one of the Cuyahoga county auditors (Mr. Benedict),
regardless of this decision, placed the Catholic schools of Cleveland
on the tax duplicate. The Bishop entered suit of restraint, the
Common Pleas, Circuit and Supreme Courts, successively, decid-
ing in his favor.
Above it was stated that Bishop Gilmour was held in disfavor
by the non-Catholic citizens of Cleveland for his public utterances.
This soon became thoroughly changed. Until 1881 he never had
an opportunity offered him of addressing his fellow citizens as
such. His first appearance in public as a citizen was on the occa-
sion of the Garfield meeting held in the Public Square, July 4,
1881, when the citizens of Cleveland assembled to give expression
to their sympathy for the assassinated president, then at the point
of death. To most of that vast audience the Bishop was a stranger.
After his speech, most eloquent and patriotic. Bishop Gilmour
gained and ever after held the esteem and respect of Cleveland's
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 35
citizens. At the congress of churches, which held its sessions at
Cleveland, in May, 1886, he was invited to speak. The subject
assigned to him, "ReHgion in the Public Schools," was treated in
a thoughtful and masterly manner, and he held the undivided atten-
tion of his immense and varied audience. The address was copied
fully, or in part, by the leading journals of the country. After 1881
he was called upon repeatedly to speak in public, always receiving
a most respectful hearing, even on the part of those who dissented
from his views.
In the Chtu-ch he also held the position of a thoughtful and
prudent prelate. In the IV and V Provincial Councils of Cincin-
nati, he took a prominent part in the deliberations. In fact, at the
request of the bishops assembled in the latter Council (May, 1889),
he wrote their Pastoral letter. He was also a conspicuous figure
in the III Plenary Council of Baltimore, held in 1884. In the
summer of 1885 he was delegated by the Archbishops of this
country to go to Rome in the interests of the decrees of the
Council, sent there for review and approval. He went there at his
own expense. As he had no means to defray his expenses to Rome
and return, he was obliged to borrow the money. He had been
there three years previous on his official visit in connection with
his administration of the Diocese of Cleveland. He was, therefore,
no stranger to the Roman authorities, who now, as then, received
him most kindly. The above mentioned mission, performed in
connection with two other bishops who had preceded him to Rome,
was most successful.
Owing to overwork, lack of proper exercise, as also to great
mental strain, caused by dissensions and trouble in the diocese, as
recorded in Vol. I, Chapter V, of this work. Bishop Gilmour
became seriously ill in July, 1890. For eight months he was a
patient in Charity Hospital, under the skillful treatment of Dr.
Reuben A. Vance and the careful and attentive nursing of the
Sisters in charge. He rallied sufficiently, it was thought by his
physician, to undertake the long and tedious journey to Florida,
there to escape the rigorous winter of the lake region, and under
-God's providence to recover his old time health and vigor.
But Almighty God had ordained otherwise. This was to be
the Bishop's last of his many journeys in life. He arrived at St.
36 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Augustine, Fla., on March 18th, 1891, very much weakened, and
took to his bed, from which he was never again to rise. For over
two weeks he suffered intense pain, but was always full of courage,
and hoped he might yet rally and finally recover. During all of
his illness and pain he never showed signs of impatience, but
frequently gave expression to his perfect resignation to God's will.
The whispered words : "Thy will be done," were constantly heard
from his lips.
On Easter Sunday, March 29, he had another severe attack,
which he took as an admonition that the end was near. He sent
for his confessor, the Rev. Father Camillus, O. F. M., and for his
secretary, the writer. Both reached him the following Friday and
found him at the brink of the grave, but his mind as clear as ever.
Having attended to his spiritual and temporal affairs, and having
received the last rites of the Church he loved and served so well,
the dying Bishop said he was now ready to meet his Judge. He
repeatedly thanked God for the grace of having been called to His
Church and altar, saying: "This call was worth immeasurably
more to me than all I have suffered from calumny, assault and mis-
representation, while honestly trying to serve God, religion and
the diocese committed to my care. I forgive all as I wish God
to forgive me for any error I may have committed. I tried to do
my honest best. It may not have been the best, but it was the best
I could do with the lights and talents God gave me." One of his
oft-repeated prayers was: "I rejoice that God has sent suffering
to me here. I rejoice that this is sent for the atonement of my
faults and sins. I suffer gladly in union with my Redeemer."
The final struggle came on Monday evening, April 13, 1891.
The agony lasted less than 15 minutes. The Bishop's dying words
were: "My God, Thy will be done !" At 7.50 p. m. his soul went
to God; an honest minded man, a great bishop passed from time
to eternity!
Bishop Gilmour died of a broken heart \ His death-bed com-
munication to the writer clearly explained the sudden collapse of
the Bishop, who had greatly changed for the worse in less than
two weeks before he died. The facts then communicated were
given to the Bishop but two days before he left home for Florida,
and so shocked him in his weakened condition that he never
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 37
rallied from the blow, which was aimed at his personal character—
and that he could not bear.
For publishing this statement, shortly after Bishop Gilmour's
death, the writer was attacked and maligned by persons who knew
nothing of the inner history of this mortal assault on a defenseless
man. He was also attacked in the newspapers by one who had
assailed Bishop Rappe's character in like manner, but he made no
reply, preferring out of charity to be misjudged, rather than
publish the details of the perfidy, and expose the asscdlants of
Bishop Gilmour. After a lapse of nearly ten years the writer sees
no reason to retract the statement then made, and once again he
fearlessly reiterates it. Let those who are to blame answer to a
Just Judge for their criminal act.
The Bishop's remains were brought to Cleveland, and after a
most imposing Requiem sei"vice, attended by a large number of
the hierarchy and clergy and a vast concourse of people, they were
placed to rest in a stone sarcophagus beneath the altar of his Cathe-
dral church. Archbishop Elder was celebrant of the Mass and
Bishop McQuaid delivered the panegyric ; both these distinguished
prelates were the deceased Bishop's bosom friends.
On May 14, 1891, a Memorial mass meeting, composed of
Cleveland's citizens of every creed, and of no creed, was held in
Music Hall, which was packed to suffocation. All the speakers
were non-Catholics and held prominent positions in the various
professions. Among the ministers was a Jewish rabbi, and all
spoke in admiration and praise of him in whose honor the immense
and remarkable meeting was held.
Bishop Gilmour was a man of strong individuality, firm, bold
and courageous. As a preacher and public speaker he was
eloquent, logical and full of earnestness. As a writer he was
pointed and wielded a strong pen, even trenchant at times. His
style was as simple and clear as his speech. He was an inde-
fatigable reader, as also a judicious collector of books. Only the
best in hterature found shelf room in his fine library of about 3,000
volumes, which he bequeathed to the Diocesan Seminary.
Tall, commanding in appearance, with a markedly intellectual
countenance, he would easily be singled out in any assembly as a
man of force and strength of character. Not quick to express his
38 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
views, he seldom receded from them when expressed, and only then
when he was convinced that they were untenable. Strictly honest,
just and fairminded in his dealings, he resented keenly any
injustice or deception. Kind and forbearing- toward weakness,
he was just as ready to measure swords with insult or assault,
within the limits of his official position. Always dignified in his
bearing, at first sight he impressed one as stem and reserved, but
those who knew him as he was, knew also his kindness of heart
and generous impulses. As a conversationalist he had few super-
iors. With a fund of anecdote and quiet humor, and a retentive
memory of his reading and travels, he was most entertaining in
any circle. He was frugal in his habits, methodical and painstaking
in his work. A man of system, he had "a time for everything; a
place for everything, and everything in its place." Few men in
like position spent more hours at desk work than Bishop Gilmour.
He governed his diocese as much with his pen as with his crosier.
Thoroughly American in sentiment, he had, nevertheless, an im-
partial respect and a kindly feeling for all nationalities composing
his flock.
His fatherly care and watchful solicitude for the orphans under
his charge as also his tender love towards children in general,
formed a distinctive trait in his character. He was happy with
them and they too were happy when he was among them. He in-
troduced the Orphans' New Year call, when hundreds of orphans
from the various asylums in Cleveland paid him their annual visit
at his residence, and were in turn loaded with candies, etc. It was
always a mutual feast for host and guests.
He took special interest in the Diocesan Seminary, and when
in health he never failed to attend and take part in the examination
of the students and of the junior clergy. He also regularly
attended the annual commencement exercises in the various
academies, and addressed words of kindly encouragement to
teachers and pupils, and of fatherly advice to the graduates.
Bishop Gilmour was a man whose slender purse was always
open to calls of charity. Of this feature in his character. Bishop
McQuaid, in his feeling and eloquent funeral sermon, at the obse-
quies of his bosom friend, Bishop Gilmour, spoke as follows :
"I felt a little curious to know what ample provision he had
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 39
made for somebody ; to know how he had invested his money, and
what disposition he had made of it in his last will and testament.
If the diocese does not pay the simple expenses of his burial, there
will not be found enough in his treasury to pay them. * * He
died after thirty-nine years of hard work in prominent positions, I
might say, penniless. He distributed a few trinkets to bosom
friends, always true and loyal, as touching reminders of afifectionate
gratitude. No one need trouble himself about his will ; there is no
wealth to be disposed of. What a beautiful record is this to leave
behind him ! The Diocese of Cleveland, liberal with its Bishop, not
stinting to his absolute wants ; yet what became of the money and
his opportunities ? They went for religion and sweet charity ; the
cause of education, of suitable reading for the people, and the
maintenance of a Catholic press worthy of the name, and so scarce.
They were not used to further his personal ends. This is a record
of which any bishop may be proud. Resembling St. Paul in native
energy and steadfast purpose, he was not unlike him in disinterest-
edness, self-reliance and personal independence. St. Paul pre-
ferred to earn his bread by the work of his hands, that he might be
able to preach the Gospel without fear of the judgments of men,
dreading only those of God. Blessed has this diocese been for
having had over it for so many years a truly apostolic Bishop like
Bishop Gilmour, and blessed have his priests been in having had
before their eyes the example of a chief who looked to God in all
things, having remained faithful to the end."
The following anecdote, taken from the Catholic Universe, is
in line with the above :
"One day as Bishop Gilmour sat in the Universe office a poor
woman entered and asked him for an alms. He searched his
trousers pockets — in vain. With a smile, he put his hand in his
vest pocket, pulled out a folded two-dollar bill from it — all he had
— and handed it to her. He died without possessing a cent —
except the arrears of his current year's salary; without owning a
foot of land — except his mother's grave !"
He was a man of deep, unostentatious piety, with a tender
devotion for the "Queen of the clergy." His faith was simple and
generous. To the personal knowledge of the writer, who was in
close relations with him for fourteen years, the Bishop was in the
40 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
habit of spending hours in his private chapel, before the Blessed
Sacrament; and his beads were his constant vade mecum. He was
a man of prayer in the privacy of his chapel or chamber, as he was
a man of speech and action in public. He was always earnest,
never frivolous ; true to his friends and forgiving to his enemies.
THE RIGHT REV. IGNATIUS F. HORSTMANN, D. D.
THIRD AND PRESENT BISHOP OF CLEVELAND.
Ignatius F. Horstmann, the third of ten children bom to
Frederick and Catharine (Weber) Horstmann, is a native of Phila-
delphia, Pennsylvania. At the time of his birth, December 16,
1840, his parents resided in that part of Philadelphia then known
as the District of Southwark. His parents were natives of Clop-
penburg, a thoroughly Catholic town in the Grand-Duchy of
Oldenburg, Germany, and came to this country in early life. They
were married at Philadelphia in 1836. Mr. Frederick Horstmann
was a prominent, prosperous and wealthy business man in the city
of his adoption. He was also no less prominent as a Catholic
layman. For many years he was a member of the Holy Trinity
parish. During the long period of the "Trustee troubles" in that
parish, which caused Bishops Kenrick and Neumann great anxiety,
Mr. Horstmann stood loyally by them, and was most helpful in
removing the scandal. At all times during his long and useful
career he contributed generously towards the support of churches
and charities in the Diocese of Philadelphia. He died on June
29, 1872, at the age of sixty-two years.
The subject of this sketch began his education in the parish
school of Holy Trinity, when less than six years old. After a short
time his parents sent him to the private academy conducted by
Madame Charrier, and her daughter, Mile. Clementine. The
academy was situated on German street, east of Third street,
Philadelphia. From that institution he passed through the
Secondary school, and then was promoted to the Mt. Vernon
Grammar school. After he finished the regular course there with
distinction, he was admitted to the Central High school, from
which he was graduated in 185Y, with an exceptionally high aver-
THE RT. REV. IGNATIUS F. HORSTMANN, D. D
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 41
age. He then entered St. Joseph's College, Philadelphia, which
was conducted by the Jesuit Fathers. Having a strong desire
to study for the priesthood, to which he felt himself called, he
entered the Preparatory Seminary, at Glen Riddle, in 1859, being
among its first students. So pleased was Bishop Wood with him
that he chose him, in 1860, as one of the first band of students he
sent to the American College in Rome. There he soon took forer
most rank in the classes of the Propaganda, and won a number of
medals in Theological contests. After completing the prescribed
course of studies at the Propaganda, he was ordained by Cardinal
Patrizzi, on June 10, 1865. After his ordination he continued his
studies at Rome for the Doctorate in Theology, which degree he
won in 1866. Returning to Philadelphia in the latter part of the
same year he was given the Chair of Mental Philosophy in the
Diocesan Seminary of St. Charles Borromeo, which at that time,
and until 1871, was located at Eighteenth and Race streets. He
continued to fill a like position in the new and present Seminary, at
Overbrook, now a part of Philadelphia. Whilst in the Seminary
he edited an introduction to the Holy Bible, and also an English
edition of Catholic Doctrine, as defined by the Council of Trent.
He remained at the Seminary until the close of 1877, when he was
appointed to the pastorate of St. Mary's Church, Philadelphia, as
successor to the Rev. Michael F. Martin. With tact and ability he
managed the parish, and drew to the church large audiences by his
learned and interesting discourses. So well and carefully did he
conduct the financial afifairs of the parish, which he found deeply
in debt, that when he left it in 1885, there was the handsome sum
of nearly $20,000 to the credit of the church. The chancellorship
of the archdiocese having become vacant in September, 1885,
Archbishop Ryan filled the vacancy by the appointment of the Rev.
Dr. Horstmann. His extensive learning now became of special use
to the intelligent Catholic reading-public in his valuable labors on
the American Catholic Quarterly Review, which he conducted as
assistant editor until December, 1891, in addition to attending to
the Chancery office work. He was also during this time the
spiritual director of the Catholic Club, of the convent of the Notre
Dame Sisters, and of the convent of the Ladies of the Sacred
Heart. The spiritual directorship also included the direction of
42 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
three organizations which met at the academy of the Notre Dame
Sisters, and were composed largely of former pupils of that
academy, viz., the Children of Mary, the Tabernacle Society, and
the Christian Mothers. The last mentioned society was the first
established in the United States, and Dr. Horstmann was their
first spiritual director.
The twenty-fifth anniversary of Dr. Horstmann's ordination
to the priesthood was celebrated with becoming solemnity in the
Cathedral of Philadelphia, Archbishop Ryan preaching the Jubilee
sermon. Many of his friends among the laity gave him a reception
at the Catholic Club, and presented him with a purse of $4,200,
which sum he at once turned over to the St. Vincent's Home.
Many rumors were current regarding the succession to the
See of Cleveland, which was left vacant since April, 1891, by the
death of Bishop Gilmour. These were put to rest on December
11, 1891, by a telegram sent on that day to Dr. Horstmann from
Cincinnati by Archbishop Elder. Following is a copy of the
telegram :
"To the Right Rev. Ignatius F. Horstmann, St. Peter's Cathe-
dral, Logan Square, Philadelphia:
"I joyfully salute you Bishop-elect of Cleveland. Cardinal
Simeoni's letter to you, mailed here this afternoon.
WILLIAM HENRY ELDER."
The news of Dr. Horstmann's appointment, made by Leo
XIII, on November 29, 1891, soon spread from the Cathedral.
Letters of congratulation began to pour in from his friends among
the clergy and laity, near and far, and many telegrams were also
received. In answer to the many telegrams he received from
priests and laymen in the Diocese of Cleveland, the Bishop-elect
sent the following expressive message to the Editor of the Catholic
Universe :
"Philadelphia, Pa., December 14. — Having just received
official notice of my appointment to the Diocese of Qeveland,
allow me, in answer to the many telegrams of congratulation from
clergy and laity of Cleveland, through your columns to thank all
sincerely, and to ask humbly their prayers in my behalf, that this
choice of the Vicar of Jesus Christ may be for the greater glory of
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 43
God, the salvation of souls and the true welfare and prosperity of
the great Diocese of Cleveland.
IGNATIUS F. HORSTMANN,
Bishop-elect of Cleveland."
Archbishop Ryan was informed of his Chancellor's promotion
on his arrival home from St. Louis, the following day, and cordially
saluted him as Bishop-elect. Although sincerely congratulating
him on his elevation to the hierarchy, he expressed his deep regret
at losing the invaluable assistance of his able and loyal Chancellor.
Dr. Horstmann received Cardinal Simeoni's letter, above men-
tioned, on December 14, 1891. His consecration, however, was
deferred until February 25, 1892. The imposing and solemn cere-
mony took place in the Philadelphia Cathedral. Archbishop Elder,
of Cincinnati, was the consecrator, assisted by the Rt. Rev. Bishops
O'Hara, of Scranton, and Chatard, of Vincennes. Archbishop
Ryan, of Philadelphia, preached the consecration sermon, which
was a masterly efifort, worthy of the noted orator. The magnifi-
cent and spacious Cathedral was filled to overflowing with an atten-
tive audience. Fifteen bishops and over two hundred priests
assisted at the impressive ceremony. About sixty priests of the
Cleveland diocese were also present to witness the consecration of
their new chief pastor. Among the most interesting spectators in
that vast audience was the venerable mother of the Bishop-elect,
who immediately after the consecration services were finished went
down to her pew and gave her his first Episcopal blessing. It was
a touching scene.
Bishop Horstmann arrived in Cleveland on Tuesday evening,
March 8, accompanied by about twenty-five priests from Phila-
delphia, and a large delegation of his own priests, who had gone to
Alliance during the afternoon of that day to meet him. The splen-
did ovation that was given to the new bishop was a revelation to
Catholics and Protestants. Although the weather was unpropitious
for parading, or for any outdoor demonstration, yet the streets,
from the Euclid Avenue station to the Cathedral, were crowded
with a vast concourse of people, welcoming to the echo the succes-
sor of the sainted Rappe and the valiant Gilmour.
In the presence of nearly one hundred and fifty priests, and an
immense audience, the installation ceremony of the Rt. Rev. Dr.
44 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Horstmann, as the third Bishop of Cleveland, took place in the
Cathedral on the following morning. He pontificated and Bishop
Foley, of Detroit, preached the installation sermon. At the con-
clusion of the ceremony Bishop Horstmann addressed the clergy
and laity present in very feeling words. The full text of his
eloquent and paternal address will be found in the first volume of
this work, on pages 165 to 168. It won the hearts of all his
hearers.
Immediately after his installation Bishop Horstmann took in
hand the work that awaited him. He found a well-regulated
diocese, a willing clergy, and a well-disposed, generous laity. By
degrees he familiarized himself with the condition of the diocese
and in a very short time realized that his two predecessors built on
deepj broad lines a diocese that was an honor to religion and to the
Church. For many months during that and the following two
years he was kept busy administering confirmation throughout the
diocese, thus at the same time coming in actual touch with all
parts of his widespread jurisdiction. Within less than three years
he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to over 30^000 of
his iiock. During all of the years since his consecration — well-
nigh ten — he has been incessantly and busily engaged in the dis-
charge of his various duties, which tax to the utmost his strength
and energy. As this is not the place to particularize in this respect,
the reader is referred to chapters VI and VII, as also to the
historical sketches of parishes and institutions, in the first volume
of this work.
The Rt. Rev. Bishop is a lover and an indefatigable collector
of books. His library, comprising over 5,000 volumes, contains a
very choice collection of the best in literature. It includes the
Greek, Latin, English, German, French and Italian classics. His
special aim is to gather the Latinists of the Restoration, of which
he has already a large collection. Besides these he has also a costly
and very select array of paintings, statuary and engravings, repre-
senting the best in art. His object in gathering these art treasures
is, to give pastors a choice of subjects for the artistic decoration of
churches, and many have already availed themselves of this
privilege. A few years ago he assigned his entire library to the
Diocese of Cleveland, to be known as "The Bishop's Library."
IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND. 45
Bishop Horstmann has also given large sums from his patri-
mony for the benefit of the charitable institutions of his diocese.
To these donations his venerable mother also added generous
sums. She likewise aided him in founding a free bed in each of the
following hospitals in Cleveland : Chafity Hospital, St. Alexis'
Hospital and St. John's Hospital. In her annual visits to her dis-
tinguished son, between whom and herself there was a most tender
afifection, she always remembered generously the orphanages and
other charitable institutions of the diocese. She also joined her
son in founding a scholarship for the education of a student in the
American College at Rome; it cost $6000. Mourned by all who
knew her, she died most edifyingly at Philadelphia, on March 2,
1896, at the advanced age of eighty-five years. Her impressive
obsequies were attended by her Rt. Rev. son, by many priests of
the dioceses of Philadelphia and Cleveland, as also by a very large
number of the laity. Archbishop Ryan preached a touching
eulogy on the sad occasion.
Bishop Horstmann is a fluent speaker. His sermons and
addresses are devoid of oratorical flights, or display; they are
earnest, practical and instructive, and show a wide range of read-
ing. He has also a facile pen, as is evidenced in his Pastoral letters.
They are not of an aggressive tone, but rather didactic, and full of
apt and telling Scriptural quotations. He has an excellent com-
mand of language, especially of the English, and is able to converse
also in German, French and Italian. Nowhere is he so much at
ease as in the company of his priests, who are made to feel by his
kindly, affable manner that he is rather their "elder brother" than
their bishop and superior. He does not impress so much by his
dignity of office as by his frankness and simplicity of manner. In a
word, he is democratic in dress, speech and action, and this has
made his presence and company sought. He is lithe, tall of
stature — over six feet — and of commanding appearance. He has a
sharp eye and a frank, open countenance that brooks no deception.
He governs his diocese with a gentle hand. May he long be spared
to those over whom Providence has placed him.
46 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. NICHOLAS C. ALTEN.
Mr. Nicholas C. Alten is a leading and successful hardware
merchant, of Lorain, Ohif), and a prominent member of St. Mary's
congregation of that city. His excellent traits, combined with his
business ability and public spiritedness, render him a successful,
well respected, and influential citizen. This high estimate of him is
entertained not alone by his Catholic neighbors but also by the
entire community in his adopted city.
He was born on a farm in Avon township, Lorain county,
Ohio, March 8, 1858. He received a very good high school educa-
tion, and continued on the farm until his twenty-third year. His
father, Clement Alten, died there December, 1897, and his mother,
whose maiden name was Miss Margaret Puetz, sister of the Rev.
Father Puetz, of Tiffin, Ohio, passed away January, 1900. Both
sides of the family are represented in the clerical and community
life of the diocese.
In 1881 he removed to Lorain and engaged in the very diffi-
cult work of settling the accounts of a hardware house there. In
less than six months he became the owner of the business, and he
lias since continued to systematically and profitably conduct it.
During the past twenty years he has given the evidence of his
business ability and enterprise, and the success that has attended
his efforts is an indication of his methods, and of the appreciation
of them by the public.
Outside of conducting his general hardware, plumbing, and
ship chandlery business, he has other interests to which he gives
attention. He was one of the promoters of, and is yet a director
in, the Lorain Savings and Banking Company. He was also one
of the founders of the First National Bank, of Lorain. He helped
in the organization of, and yet retains his interest in, the Automatic
Shovel Company, which is one of the local industries, giving
employment to more than two hundred men. The American Ship
Building Company's plant is another, the location of which at
Lorain he, as a director of the Chamber of Commerce, helped to
secure. This important enterprise gives employment to eight
hundred men, and its weekly pay-roll is $15,000. These important
facts are part of the enviable record of the subject of this sketch.
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 47
Mr. Nicholas C. Alten was married February 12, 1884, to
Miss Mary E., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Libs, of
Adrian, Michigan. She was reared and educated in that city and
enjoyed, both at home and in school, the sort of training which
fitted her to become a model Catholic wife and mother. Her home
life is, therefore, her pleasure and her pride, and the doves that
nestle around the family hearth are the seven sprightly children
who are her joy. Their names are : Alice, Florence, Walter, Lucile
and Corrine bom the same day, Thelma, and Geralda. They are
all bright and promising, and with the exception of the last born,
the baby, are attending St. Mary's Parochial School.
For over twelve years Mr. Alten served as one of the council-
men of St. Mary's Church, and during the erection, in 1895, of the
present splendid edifice, he was a member of the building com-
mittee. He has been foremost among the generous and regular
contributors in support of religion and education, and his liberality
yet continues with him as a habit. His good example is becom-
ing quite contagious under the administration of the present
pastor, much to the satisfaction of all the good members of the
congregation.
In justice to the subject of this sketch it ought to be men-
tioned that he performs his good works unseen of men — that is,
without ostentation or flourish. A sense of duty enlivened by
zeal for religion is the power that moves him. Hence he neither
looks for, nor desires, recognition or thanks for doing that
which he knows to be his duty. In keeping with his native mod-
esty are the facts that he avoids politics, membership in societies,
and office-seeking or office-holding. The one exception to his
desire to live a private life was his election to the office of town-
ship trustee over his strong protest. He, however, discharged
the duties of the office for the term of his election, but he gave
notice that he would again serve in no public capacity.
Mr. Nicholas C. Alten is fully aware of the noted absence of
generous and exalted aims in life. His experience has taught him
the great need society has of kindly traditions and shining personal
examples. Every community is more or less adversely affected by
the absence of these, and it may be that he has adopted his present
methods and formed his character by contemplating the require-
ments of an improved future even among Catholics everywhere.
48 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. ALBERT ANDLAUER.
The Rev. Albert Andlauer has, even if he does not glory in
it, the distinction of being the pastor of the oldest parish in
northern Ohio. The Church of St. Philip Neri, at Dungannon, in
Columbiana county, is the mother church of the Diocese of Cleve-
land, and the memories that cluster around it are a sort of holy
haze through vi'hich he may be seen as he patiently but persistently
and zealously pursues the even tenor of his vi^ay of duty.
Having been a member of the Capuchin Order during the
first eleven years of his priestly life, the negation of self thus
implied would seem a fitting preparation for him to stand on the
altar of old St. Philip's and take up and continue the good work
at Dungannon and at the mission at Lisbon, which was so faithfully
performed by his reverend predecessors. In obedience he assumed
the charge; in humility he performs his part; and he would prevent,
through modesty, the coupling of his name with these landmarks
of Catholicity were it not for the necessity and fitness of his being
mentioned.
He was born to Charles and Kunegunda (Zabler) Andlauer,
at Kappel am Rhein, Baden, October 31, 1856. From childhood
the ecclesiastical state was his choice of calling. In keeping with
his desire, he was sent to the gymnasium at Ettenheim and to that
at Freiburg, Baden, to finish his classics. The Franco-Prussian
war of 1870 closed these institutions, thus interrupting his plans,
and the Kulturkampf forced him, like thousands of others, to
leave his native land. During five years thereafter he engaged in
commercial pursuits in the city of Metz, after which he spent four
more years similarly employed in Switzerland.
His desire to devote his life to religion was always present
with him, a fact which inclined him to keep up his studies when-
ever opportunity offered. When, therefore, he emigrated to the
United States, in 1879, and entered the Capuchin College at Pitts-
burg, Pennsylvania, he was well advanced in his classics. Com-
pleting the required course in the Pittsburg institution, he was
promoted to the Seminary of the Capuchin Order, at Cumberland,
Maryland, where he made his divinity stiidies, and was ordained
priest by Cardinal Gibbons, December 23, 1884. During one year
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THE REV. CHARLES ANDLAUER ("^^^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 49
after ordination he devoted himself to study, aiming to perfect
himself for the better performance of the duties which are his to
discharge in the holy ministry.
As a member of the Order he spent six years in the State of
Illinois, principally in the city of Peoria, where he faithfully per-
formed pastoral duties, gave missions and retreats, and was also
spiritual director of two religious communities. He was similarly
engaged in the Diocese of Concordia, Kansas, during the follow-
ing three years, after which he spent one year in Wheeling, West
Virginia.
December 28, 1895, he was received into the Diocese of
Cleveland, and was made pastor of St. Michael's Church, Kelley's
Island, Ohio. He labored there during two and one-half years, or
until his appointment, September 1, 1898, to his present parish at
Dungannon, Columbiana county, Ohio. He built the new tower
and spire on the Dungannon Church, and otherwise improved the
property.
Father Andlauer is a philosopher and theologian of note. He
speaks German, French, and English, is a pleasing and fluent
preacher, and is as zealous for religion as he is capable in the
management of his congregation. He delights to be about the
business of his Father, but dislikes to have his activity heralded
abroad. His humility would have his light put under a bushel
were it not that it is written that it should so shine before men as
to glorify his Father, who is in heaven. It is in this sense, not
any other, that this mention is made of him.
THE REV. JOHN P. BARRY.
The pastor of St. Ann's Church, Youngstown, Ohio, was born
in Boston, Massachusetts, October 7, 1861. His parents were
Thomas and Ann (Ryan) Barry. They came from Ireland and
settled in Boston, where they became widely and favorably known
in the business, social, and Catholic circles of that far-famed "City
by the Sea." Mr. Barry died there January, 1892, and Mrs. Barry,
November, 1894.
Young Barry received his early education in the public
schools of his native city. Completing the course he was graduated
50 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
from the justly famed Boston High School. At the Jesuit College
in Boston, then under the personal supervision of that great
student and scholar, the Rev. Robert Fulton, S. J., he began his
classical studies. He remained in that institution two years, when
he went to Nicolet College, at .Nicolet, Province of Quebec,
Canada, where he graduated in June, 1881.
Having since early life evinced a vocation for the sacred
ministry, he began his theological studies under the direction of the
Sulpician Fathers, in the Grand Seminary, at Montreal, Canada,
an institution known throughout the continent as the nursery and
the school of hundreds of priests who have done nobly and well
the work of God in the United States and Canada. After three
years devoted to the study of theology, he was adopted as an
ecclesiastical student for the Diocese of Cleveland by the late
Bishop Gilmour, and was sent by him to complete his divinity
course in the Diocesan Seminary, where he was ordained to the
priesthood July 9, 1885, by the late Bishop de Goesbriand, of
Burlington, Vermont, who officiated on that occasion, in the
absence of Bishop Gilmour.
Father Barry's first assignment to duty was as curate at St.
Columba's Church, Youngstown, Ohio. He remained there until
December 23, 1887, when he was appointed pastor of St. Ann's
Church, Youngstown, which position he has satisfactorily filled
ever since — thus enjoying the unique distinction of having spent
the entire sixteen years of his ministry in the same city and prac-
tically among the same people. As curate at St. Columba's, Father
Barry endeared himself to the Youngstown people; but it is as
pastor of St. Ann's that his marked personal qualities and talents
have become fully known and appreciated. Of the work accom-
plished by him, often under the most discouraging financial
conditions, the mere subjoined statement of facts will be sufficient
to indicate the character of the man.
Entering upon his duties as pastor of St. Ann's he found a
debt of $2,000. Having paid this, he built a school and parochial
residence at a cost of $7,000. The Catholics of Girard then formed
part of his care, and with an eye to their future needs he bought
property for church purposes which cost $1,800. On this property
he built, at a cost of $12,000, the present beautiful Church of
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 51
St. Rose. Wisely judging that St. Ann's first Church was too far
removed from the populous center of his parish, and too small, he
purchased the new site, at Youngstown, at a cost of $5,500, and
there erected his present beautiful new church, 132 feet in length
by 60 feet in width, with a large, airy and lightsome basement
under the entire building. He finished and occupied the basement
in 1896. This structure, in its present state of completion, cost
$25,000. To this outlay he added $8,000, the cost of the new
school building and the new parochial residence.
While these facts show the tangible ends attained, there is
other work no less difficult of accomplishment and certainly more
far-reaching in its effects. In no department of his work does the
priest take greater pride than in that which directly concerns the
the little ones of his flock; and it is in his school, among the
children, that the Rev. Father Barry gives strong evidence of his
character both as priest and guide. No day passes, if at all possible,
that does not find him there, not paying a merely passing visit, but
rather showing a deep practical interest in each individual child. In
the test of examination his children give evidence of the thorough
training received at his hands, and this training extends not alone
to religious but also to secular science. As far as possible he keeps
his school abreast of the best in every useful and modern improve-
ment. He associates with the children, aids and encourages them
in their labors, and cheers them in their sports and games!
Although intimate with them, he always commands and receives
their respect and affection. Into the minds of the children he early
instills those qualities of uprightness and candor, so marked in
himself; for in these children he sees the hope of the future Church
and State. His interest follows them long after their school days
are over ; for he is always able to even go into details concerning
the lives of the young men and women who some years before were
boys and girls in his school. This implies in part that, under his
pastorate, his parish has become thoroughly organized and
complete. He actually knows every nook and corner in it.
Father Barry's devotion and attention to the sick and the
aged, and his charity for God's poor and the afflicted are proverbial
in Youngstown. His particular and earnest devotion to the Sacred
Heart of Jesus, to the Mother of God, and to the helpful Saint of
52 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Padua, has, like some holy contagion, affected his people to m
small degree. "From their fruits, ye shall know them," so spak
the Master many years ago. Equally true are His words today, ani
upon this divine declaration the pastor of St. Ann's might well b
content to stand. But when to these fruits of his priestly labor
are added the influence of a personality and character clear a
crystal and devoid of all sham and pretense; an ability not ordi
narily to be met with ; musical talent of exceptionally high order
strikingly neat in his personal appearance, and exacting in hi
demands for neatness and order about God's house, as well as in al
other affairs subject to his care and direction; straightforward an(
outspoken almost to a degree of seeming bluntness ; and having :
heart confiding as a child's and tender as a mother's, one can easil;
understand the esteem, love, and popularity which Father Barr
enjoys among all classes and creeds in Youngstown.
If an appreciation for the beauty of God's house, and for th
solemnity of God's service is no uncertain mark of the earnest an(
true priest, then most fittingly might the Rev. John P. Barry b'
quoted as saying with the Psalmist : "The zeal of Thy House hatl
eaten me up."
THE REV. SERAPHIN BAUER, D. D.
A short account of his many labors and of the chief distinc
tions received by him during the nearly forty-three years of hi
priestly career thus far (1858-1900) is made the principal part o
this sketch as well to serve the purposes of history as to aid ii
forming an intelligent estimate of the character and great abilit
of the Rev. Dr. Bauer, rector of St. Joseph's Church, Fremont
Ohio. Ordained and held ever afterward in loving companionshi]
by the first Bishop of Cleveland, the saintly Amadeus Rappe
highly prized and signally favored by the succeeding Bishop, th
distinguished Richa;rd Gilmour; greatly appreciated, esteemec
and honored by the present Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Ignatius F
Horstmann, and by His Holiness, Leo XIII, it is impossible no
to adjudge Dr. Bauer a man of parts and a worthy priest of th
Catholic Church.
Descended of an ancestry uniting good old German stoc
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THE REV. SERAPHIN BAUER, D. D.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 58
with Spanish blood, the seeming paradox of his Teutonic stead-
fastness and philosophy combined with the brilliancy, activity, and
fervor of the Celt is thus most happily and completely accounted
for. Hence his manly and convincing outspokenness in defense
of truth and right on all occasions, and also the magic charm of his
matchless and logical method of defending; hence his devotion
to duty and his loyaltj^ in friendships as well as his dignified indifif-
erence to misled or poorly-equipped enemies; hence his living
forth in broadest daylight the great fact that the priest dwells also
in the man, the citizen, the patriot, four-square to every beholder,
and to be circumscribed by no mere small-minded, angular limita:-
tions. In Dr. Bauer is fully realized that other fact that the leader,
not those to be led, leads; that the teacher is not to be taught. The
plain name. Father Bauer, stands for all it means spiritually in
every home in Fremont, and to its priestly significance is added
by even the simplest citizen the temporal notion also of neighbor,
friend, benefactor. The late President Hayes, for many years
Dr. Bauer's neighbor and admirer, thus recognized it ; so have the
local and State officials, and so also did President McKinley, who
was his long-time friend. There is no mistaking or wonderment
touching the garb, personality, or calling of Dr. Bauer. All know
both him and his mission. All know his principles, and where and
when to find the flag under which he does battle.
He has never withheld the light he might shed on political
issues. Patriotism being a matter of conscience, one's political
stand should also be of conscience. Since no true man fears to say
and do the right, so no good citizen shirks his political duties.
Dr. Bauer is not a partisan, for he holds that parties are not to
propound questions, but to openly answer them. Parties ought
not to make questions, but questions should make parties. In this
light he has participated in politics, sometimes on this side, some-
times on that, according to the issues or the merits of the candi-
dates. Over and above all party issues he is and has always been
for the Union and the Government, and for the brave men who
risked all in defense of both. Accordingly he is the ideal, so to
speak, of the local Grand Army of the Republic. He has delivered
numerous memorial addresses for them, notably two in his own
church, one in 1892 and the other in 1900. Thither flocked the
54 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
rank and file to join with this priest and the CathoHc Church i
honoring patriotism, and to be honored in turn by them. Th
following paragraph is taken from one of his Memorial Day dii
courses to the veteran soldiers in his own church :
"St. Paul found in Athens an altar dedicated and inscribed
'To the Unknown God.' In our National cemeteries we meet Ion
lines and immense circles with the inscription : 'To the Unknow
Dead.' Here unknown soldiers, in unnumbered companionship
sleep the sleep of that peace that fell upon their eyes, when th
Angel of Death closed them in the tempest of destruction. 'Wh
were they?' is the question uppermost in the mind of the visitini
pilgrim as he stands there mute and with awe in the presence of th
sacred dust. No headstone mentions a name, no epitaph give
even a meager record ! As silent as is that dust below, so silent i
the world above. No mother or sister kneels beside the grave t'
whisper down the name of son or brother! The unknown dea<
soldier died a most complete death — the death of the body and c
individual memory! His country mourns him, but it does no
know him. The universal natural desire to be remembered is bori
of the instinct of immortality. Man may despise the life of th
body ; none wants his name blotted out from memory. The ric'
suicide provides a monument to himself; and thousands hav
sought destruction for the purpose of becoming celebrated. Witl
unutterable grief and emotion let us pray the Judge of the world ti
let us once look into the book where the names and the deeds o
the unknown dead soldiers are inscribed in shining and indelibl
characters."
The Rev. Seraphin Bauer, D. D., was bom October 17, 1835
in the city of Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines, France, where his fathei
having left the army in Germany, resided for twenty-three years
When eleven years old he was orphaned by the death of his mother
His father then returned with him, his only child, to his old hom^
in Griessheim, county of Staufen, Grand Duchy of Baden
Germany. There young Bauer continued his studies, a remarkabl
feature of which was his mastery of the German language in :
marvelously short time. The pastor at Griessheim took th'
greatest interest in the studious boy and soon gave him free acces
to his library. A sign of this child-scholar's progress in learning
and of his vigorous mentality was his reading with keenest zest, ii
his fourteenth year, the historico-political papers of the celebratei
Gorres.
Having received a solid education, and after mature reflection
THE REV. SBRAPHIN BAUER, D. D.
(Delivering a Memorial Day discourse before the local G. A. R. in his church, at Fremont.)
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 55
in Avhich he was aided by the advice of his confessor, the renowned
Father Philipi, who became later a member of the German Reichs-
tag, Seraphin Bauer resolved to enter the priesthood and devote
his life to the Church. He found an obstacle in the Kulturkampf
which then raged in the ecclesiastical province (Freiburg) of the
Upper Rhine. The Archbishop of Freiburg, Hermann von Vicari,
regretted very much that he could not receive him under existing
conditions, as the government of Baden had threatened to close his
seminary and disperse the students. He, therefore, advised the
young man to seek in free America that which was denied him in
his father's country. Fortunately our young hero had a friend, a
former neighbor, in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, Ohio, in the
person of the late Rev. Jos. Lais, of Masillon. Through this dear
and close friend he was received by Amadeus Rappe, the great
Missionary Bishop and Patriarch of the Diocese of Cleveland.
July 1, 1854, the emigrant youth presented himself to his old
friend in the Cleveland Seminary, and later to his new friend, the
Bishop. He was well received by both. The following October he
entered St. John's College, newly established in Cleveland, to learn
English, which he quickly mastered, and to otherwise prepare him-
self for his theological course. He soon became the prefect of the
institution, and also assisted in teaching. In the autumn of 1855
he entered the Diocesan Seminary, and, in 1858, was singled out to
go to the famed St. Sulpice, Paris, with the late Rev. F. A. Sulli-
van, to take an advanced course of studies. Scarcity of priests,
however, forced Bishop Rappe to ordain him for the missions,
which he did June 13, 1858. Rev. Seraphin Bauer was one of the
youngest priests ever sent out from St. Mary's Seminary to labor
in the missions, being at the time of his ordination only twenty-two
years and seven months old. While in the seminary he was teacher
of ceremonies, and was first master in the Cathedral during those
years.
The first appointment of Father Bauer was to St. Joseph's
Church at Maumee City, in Lucas county, Ohio, where he
remained from July 1, 1858, to September 13, 1862. In the
extreme northwestern part of the diocese a priest's life was truly
missionary in that early time. The work in that entire district was
divided between the Rev. Father HoefTel, then of Defiance, and
56 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
the Rev. Father Bauer. In recounting the hardships of their
missionary labors these two priests could weave in many interest-
ing episodes as to how they often had to pick their way through
wilderness and trackless, sandy waste to the homes of the scattered
Catholics, where now there are numerous flourishing congrega-
tions, of which these two pioneers laid the foundations.
September 21, 1862, the Rev. Father Bauer was made pastor
of St. Joseph's Church, Fremont, Ohio, where he still resides,
having labored there successfully nearly thirty-nine years. At the
time he took charge the congregation was small, deeply in debt,
with resources barely sufficient for the scantiest common expenses.
The ground on which the church stood, and which was all the con-
gregation owned at the time, was so limited that it was impossible
to erect decent buildings on it for school and residence purposes.
However, the receipts of the parish were soon increased, ground
for a cemetery was bought, and in the course of time five pieces of
the finest and best property were purchased at an outlay of thous-
ands of dollars, extending the old contracted lines and making
the grounds of St. Joseph's of today very valuable and exceedingly
beautiful. In 1864, the Rev. Father built the pastoral residence,
which was greatly enlarged and improved in 1900. In 1878, the
new school house was erected. In 1890, the magnificant new
church of St. Joseph was finished and furnished, and on the day of
its dedication, July 9, 1893, the congregation had no debt. Few
other congregations, if any, have been privileged to rejoice in such
successful financiering. In 1893, the old church was changed into
a hall, with a stage ; and, in 1898, a fine house was constructed for
the sexton. The people of St. Joseph's earnestly pray that their
reverend pastor may be spared long enough to finish some other
edifices which they have in view, and thus give the finishing touch
to his great work in Fremont.
The Rev. Father is noted for his extraordinary capacity for
work and for most assiduous study in almost all lines of mental
accomplishments. To be able to thus constantly apply himself
there is need of physical robustness, and he is not now the strong
man he used to be. Infirmity causes him to travel at times. After
a severe sickness, lasting from 1868 to 1872, he voyaged February
5, to November 28, 1872, visiting Greece, Asia Minor, Palestine,
IN NORTHERN OHIO. •, 57
Egypt, Italy, Switzerland — making the 471st ascension of Mont;
Blanc, as recorded at Chamonix, August 20, 1872. While in
Jerusalem he was created a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, and was
adorned with the cross of the Order. The Patriarch of that city,'
Valerga, invested him with the distinction, to which was added the
honor of having for the space of one day and one night full charge
of the Holy Place. This Order is the mother of all other knight-
hoods, is the highest in character and mission, and requires the
most exacting conditions as to family, nobility of lineage, vocation,
character, etc., in its members. There are few members in this
country. From Jerusalem he traversed Italy,. Germany, France,
Spain, England and parts of Ireland, seeing almost everything of
note or interest in those countries. In our own country he has
visited all parts and is acquainted with its famed and historic
localities.
When he returned from his extensive travels November 28,
1872, his entire congregation celebrated the day in a manner that
will be ever memorable in Fremont, their hearts overflowing with
love and gratitude toward their pastor. June 13, 1883, the Rev.
Father celebrated his silver jubilee in the priesthood ; September
21, 1887, he commemorated the 25th anniversary of his pastorate
in St. Joseph's; November 27, 1894, in acknowledgment of his
attainments in ecclesiastical and sacred learning, he was created
Doctor of Divinity by His Holiness Leo XIII ; February 7, 1895,
he was invested with that distinguished honor amid grand sol-
emnity, the Rt. Rev. Ignatius F. Horstmann, Bishop of Cleveland,
officiating; June 13, 1898, he solemnized his ruby jubilee — forty
years in the priesthood. On all those feasts and solemnities the
people of St. Joseph's evidenced their high appreciation of their
deserving pastor.
In 1876, he was elected Secretary of the Board of the Infirm
Priests' Fund of the Diocese of Cleveland, which office he has held,
with the exception of one year, up to the present. He might well
be called the father of that great beneficent fund. He spoke for it
in the Synod of 1865 ; he helped frame its first "Rules and Regu-
lations"; he assisted in the revision of the "Rules" in 1876; he
drafted the "Constitution" of July, 1882 ; he prepared all its books,
forms, and papers; he worked for the fund with singleness of
58 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
purpose. As is generally acknowledged, very much of the credit
is due to him that the fund is so prosperous. In 1877, he became a
member of the Board of Examiners of the Seminarians, to which
he still belongs. In 1886, he was appointed a member of the then
organized Diocesan School Board. In 1887, he was appointed
president of the said Board by Bishop Gilmour. In 1887, he wrote
"The Consitution and By-laws for the Government of the Parochial
Schools of the Diocese of Cleveland." In 1888, he wrote
"The Rules and Regulations for Examinations and Reports by
District Boards." August 15, 1889, he published "The Conspectus
of the Subject-Matter of Examination for Diplomas of Competence
to Teach in Parochial Schools."
Time and again the Rev. Father was a member of the "Board
of Census Revision," the rules of which he mainly originated, as
also the form for the work. In 1886, he became a member of the
Bishop's Council and is still a member. In 1889, he was selected
by Bishop Gilmour as one of his theologians for the 5th Provincial
Council of Cincinnati. In the Synod of January 3, 1889, the Rev.
Father was proclaimed by Bishop Gilmour an Irremovable Rector.
After having been named, January 2, 1885, Examiner of the Junior
Clergy — the first examination was held January 15th and 16th,
1885 — the Rev. Father was raised to the dignity of Synodal Exam-
iner in the above mentioned Synod. He had been a member of the
"Commission of Investigation" since 1878, but in the said Synod
of 1889, the "Commission" was replaced by the "Curia for Criminal
and Disciplinary Causes of Clerics," and he was sworn in as Pro-
curator Fiscalis of this Court, which office he yet holds. The office
of Procurator Fiscahs, as is well known, is far more laborious in its
secret than in its open work, and for eleven years the Rev. Father
has had what some call "enough to occupy him" in that field. As
lawyer for Bishop Gilmour, he won, in 1890, against Dr. S. B.
Smith, the late celebrated canonist, the Primeau case, in the
Archiepiscopal Court of Cincinnati. Nearly a half century of
labors and honors is his record in the Diocese of Cleveland.
Now in the sere of life, and in the evenfall of days, the Doctor
prays that the few years wanting for his golden jubilee may be
granted to him, to which petition there is a grand chorus of amens
in the Diocese of Cleveland.
' m.
\m
<■ ■^ / 1 ^> THF RFV PFTFR RFPKFP #iJ*«fc*^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 59
THE REV. PETER BECKER.
The close of the nineteenth century marks the completion of
the sixty-sixth year of the life, and the thirty-third of the labors
of the subject of this sketch as a priest of the Diocese of Cleveland.
To John and Catherine (Kraus) Becker, of the village of Herbis-
heim. Province of Alsace, France, were born nine children, the
sixth oldest of whom is the Rev. Peter Becker, pastor of Holy
Trinity Church, Cleveland, Ohio. His natal day was November
25, 1834. The family emigrated to the United States in 1843, four
years before the establishment of the diocese, and located in the
city of Cleveland, Ohio. With limited advantages the boy, Peter
Becker, made an heroic struggle to acquire an education. After
what might be termed a desultory and long continued preparatory
training, he entered St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland,
where he pursued both his classical and divinity studies until his
ordination by Bishop Rappe November 16, 1867. ■
Immediately after ordination he began his priestly labors as
pastor of St. Mary's Church at Edgerton, Ohio, with several
missions and stations in the northwestern section of the diocese
attached. With the unflagging zeal of the newly ordained priest
he faithfully ministered to his scattered flocks during sixteen
months. Not having a knowledge of the French language, which
was generally spoken by a large number of his people, he was at
his own request relieved of the charge and was transferred to
Youngstown to^ organize the (German) congregation of St. Joseph.
He accomplished his task, built a church, remained sixteen months
and, under the administratorship succeeding Bishop Rappe's
retirement, was appointed pastor of St. Joseph's Church at
Maumee City in Lucas county. He labored there during eight
years and nine months. He was next placed in charge of Holy
Family parish, now known as St. Edward's, in the city of Cleve-
land. After one year and four months, the parish being composed
of people of several nationalities, he was commissioned, in 1879,
to organize for the Germans in that territory. Holy Trinity con-
gregation, of which he has since continued as pastor. He built
the church and school and later the commodious pastoral resi-
dence, which are fair samples of his taste and work elsewhere.
60 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Temporalities, however, have not always appealed to him with
so much force as have spiritualities. Hence the record of his labors
is not so much in monuments of stone and brick as in the good
lives of those who hearkened to his teachings and followed his
bright example. He has unceasingly striven to lead his people in
the way of a truly Christian life, in which good work he has been
-most successful. The true ecclesiastical spirit may be said to have
marked from the beginning the career of plain Father Becker. At
no time has he yearned for human distinctions or parochial prefer-
ments. His consuming ambition has always been to perform well
his part as a Christian teacher and guide. His love for the people
both in and out of the fold has never stood in need of the teachings
of pastoral theology to fan its flame. He possessed that love from
his childhood. It influenced him when a youth of nineteen to lead
in building the first church at Millersville, and this, too, before he
even knew that such a system was in existence to inspire and direct
his zeal.
It has always been Father Becker's custom to give attention
to details, to look after little things. He has never deemed it wise
to attempt to push over a distant hill while an impeding boulder
remained unremoved in the way. Sufficient for the day to him has
always been the work of performing his immediate duties. The
reflex efifect of quietly laboring in corners of the Vineyard unseen
of men has stamped itself on his character. Hence he is humble,
unfailingly courteous, considerate and kind, having great charity
for the weaknesses of humanity.
MR. JOSEPH BIECHELE.
It is fitting that Mr. Joseph Biechele, of St. Peter's parish,
Canton, Ohio, should be mentioned in this work; the reasons
justifying it will be found in his record. He was born in Baden in
1833. When he was eighteen months old his father, Leopold
Biechele, died; and when he was ten years old he was doubly
orphaned by the death of his mother, whose maiden name was
Caroline Egely. He hved with an uncle thereafter until he was
eighteen, and received a common school education. He emigrated
to the United States, in 1851, and landed in New York City July
IN NORTHERN OHIO, 61
2:nd of that year. He went direct to Canton, where his three
brothers resided. He made his home with his oldest brother,
Charles, and for nearly three years devoted himself to learning the
business of soap and candle making. In 1854 he went to Cin-
cinnati, where he spent eighteen months perfecting himself in his
trade, after which he returned to Canton and continued in charge
of the business for his brother Charles.
The next important event in his life was his marriage to his
present wife, Apolonia M., the daughter of J. B. Bernard, of
Canton. To their union were born six children, one of whom,
Emma, has passed away. She was the wife of Charles F. Bachel
of Canton. The surviving members are : Emma T., the wife of
E. Reinkendorf, director of the G. A. R. Band, Canton; Minnie E.,
the wife of Earl Clark, foreman of the Aultman Works, Canton;
Ida P., wife of Edmund A. Balm, manager of the Illinois Roofing
and Supply Company, Chicago; Anna M., who is the wife of Attor-
ney N. P. Whelan, of Cleveland, and Joseph Victor Biechele,
assistant manager of his father's soap works.
After his marriage he associated himself, in 1850, with his
brother Charles as partner in the soap business. Ten years later
he purchased his brother's interest, and continued the business in
his own name. His energy and capacity brought a yearly increase
of trade until today (1900) the annual output exceeds $125,000.
October 1, 1897, his large interest in the Berger Manufacturing
Company, of Canton, which does an annual business of nearly
$1,250,000, caused him to assume the presidency and treasurer-
ship of that concern. His time being wholly occupied by the
duties of these ofifices, he turned over the management of his large
soap business to his son-in-law, E. Reinkendorf, and his son, Jos.
V. Biechele. In their hands it continues to be pushed as before,
with a number of traveling salesmen who keep it before the people
of nearly every State in the Union.
It is not alone because of the large business interests owned
and controlled by Joseph Biechele that he is well known and popu-
lar; it is rather because of his character. He has always been indus-
trious, courteous, and devoted to his religion. As such he has the
confidence of all and is respected by all. Even the veterans of the
Civil War take to him kindly. They elected him president of the
62 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
grand soldiers' and sailors' reunion, held in Canton in 1880,
which position entitled him as the personal escort of the late Presi-
dent Hayes, who was present. Later he was chosen officer of the
day on the occasion of the State encampment, and at this writing
(1900) he is treasurer of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Fund.
AH this is most remarkable in view of the fact that he himself has
not served in the army.
Assisting, if not leading, in all undertakings for the advance-
ment of Canton and its institutions, his worth has called him to
fill numerous positions of honor and trust. He is first vice-
president of the Central Savings Bank of Canton^ vice-president
of the board of trustees of the Aultman Hospital, a director of the
Canton Board of Trade, and for eight years he has been a member
of the board of trustees of the Ohio Institution for the Education
of the Blind, at Columbus. He is at the head of all movements
and demonstrations by the Catholics of Canton, whether as
societies or congregations. The interests of education and religion
are as close to him as is his business, and for the advancement of
both he is a zealous worker and a generous contributor. During
the years of greatest effort in making improvements in St. Peter's
parish, he was treasurer of the building committee and a leading
adviser touching all its undertakings. Non-Catholics, as well as
his co-religionists, respect and trust him, conscious that his years
of faithfulness and his character entitle him to both honor and
confidence.
To enumerate his many society affiliations and tell of his
devotion to the public service of the Church in his capacity as a
musician might perhaps exceed not only the limits of this mention
but also the proprieties. Enough, however, has been recounted,
as has been promised above, to entitle Mr. Joseph Biechele of St.
Peter's parish. Canton, to honorable mention in this work. This
recounting has been done, as much to credit his honorable career
and high character to his co-religionists and fellow citizens, as to
pay a tribute of respect to himself personally; for his career has
been the exemplary living out of the advice of Jean Ingelow:
"Set your pride in its proper place, and never be ashamed of any
honest calling."
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 63
MR. JAMES M. BLOOMER.
In the city of Toledo there are few more distinguished citizens
than James M. Bloomer, editor and founder of the "Daily News,"
an independent journal of that city. He is an unassuming but
faithful member of St. Francis de Sales' parish, and as such a short
sketch of him will be appropriate in this volume.
December 10, 1842, he was born to the late Thomas and Jane
(Dunn) Bloomer at Zanesville, Ohio. He was educated in the
public schools of his native city until his eighteenth year, to which
he subsequently added a commercial training in a business college
at Cincinnati. He learned the trade of a machinist and followed
that calling for some time. He then devoted himself for several
years to landscape painting, in which he met with noted success.
In 1873 he removed to Toledo, where, during two years, he was
principal of St. Mary's high school. Studying law during his
leisure hours, he devoted all his time to it from 1875 until 1876^
when he was admitted to practice. Continuing in that profession,
he was elected city prosecutor on an independent ticket, in 1879.
At the close of his term of ofiSce, in 1881, he declined a second
term and engaged in journalism, which he has followed ever since.
He then founded the News, of which, until recently, he has con-
tinued as editor.
The Daily News marked a new era in Toledo journalism
inasmuch as it has ever been independent, an advocate of high
ideals, a champion of the rights and interests of the plain people,
and an opponent of those vices that by many are regarded as
popular in public and social life. The editor of the News has for
years been a close student of economic questions, and is surpassed
by few as a writer on social science and industrial problems. He
wrote several articles on these and kindred topics that have had a
wide reading and which have been quoted extensively. Besides
these, he wrote, in 1880, a work on "Industrial Co-operation and
Profit-Sharing" that had an unparalleled sale, and which is yet in
demand. As might be expected from his companionship of the
interests of the working people, he took a deep interest in the
success of the Knights of Labor, and was the first State Master
Workman for the Order in Ohio. He was an honor to the cause.
64 A HISTORY, OF CATHOLICITY
James M. Bloomer, mechanic, artist, teacher, lawyer, journal-
ist and champion of the plain people, cuts a unique figure in public
life. He has enemies, but like other great men, he is loved the
more by the appreciative masses because of the character and
methods of these enemies. He is no respecter of persons; and
whether in the press or on the platform he has fearlessly meted out
chastisement to all who deserved it. He loves the democracy of
the Catholic Church, where white, black, brown or yellow, rich or
poor, all stand on a common level. As such, he is against classes,
and to a degree against political parties, especially when they
degenerate into classes. He is for the weak as against the strong,
the people as against their would-be masters.
Editor Bloomer has been prosperous in business and can
retire at any time with a competence. In 1898 it was known that
he invested largely in gold mining stock. He is now one of the
principal stockholders in the Dahlonega Consolidated and the
Standard Gold Mining and Milling Companies of Georgia, repre-
senting $10,000,000 capital.
But Mr. Bloomer is today the same that he was when his
dollars were few and his influence small. Independence of thought
and action and correct principles have now, as heretofore, the same
claim on his conscience and judgment. Money cannot change
him, nor has poverty been able to unman him. He has had
experience in both conditions and yet, like the foundations of the
earth, he remains the same. To his mind money, and government,
and law were made for man, not to buy him, tyrannize over him,
or cheat him out of his inherent or acquired rights. The man comes
before money and property. He is above all price, and it is the
delight of James M. Bloomer to defend humanity under all cir-
cumstances, to be a champion of the rights and liberties of men.
With George Banks, the poet, he can truthfully say :
"I live for those that love me,
For those who know me true,
For the Heaven that smiles above me,
And awaits my spirit, too;
For the cause that lacks assistance,
For the wrong that needs resistance
For the future in the distance,
And the good that I can do."
^■■M
THE REV. CHARLES BOEHM
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 65
THE REV. CHARLES BOEHM.
This prominent and very zealous priest is tlie organizer and
pastor of St. Elizabeth's Hungarian (Magyar) congregation, of
Cleveland, Ohio. It is the first parish organized exclusively for
Catholics of that nationality, not alone in Cleveland, but also in
the United States.
Father Boehm was born in the city of Selmeczbanya, Hun-
gary, June 13, 1853. His father's Christian name was Felix, and
the maiden name of his good mother was Julia Urbanszky. Both
have passed away. After his preparatory training he entered the
gymnasium in his native city, where he spent six years as a
student of the humanities. He then devoted two years to the study
of philosophy in St. Stephen's Seminary in Esztergom (Gran).
Following this he resided as an ecclesiastical student in the
Pazmany Institute, in Vienna, Austria, from which he attended the
great university there during four years. Completing his theo-
logy he was ordained priest by His Eminence, the Cardinal-
Archbishop and Primate of Hungary, Mgr. John Simor, July 16,
1876.
Entering on his labors at once, July, 1876, he was appointed
curate of the Church of the Blessed Virgin, at Maria Nostra, where
he ministered until 1882. From that date until 1888 he was pastor
of St. Michael's Church at Nagy Modro. During his pastorate
there he accompanied the Hungarian pilgrims, November, 1887,
to Rome to appropriately celebrate the Pope's jubilee. The follow-
ing four years, 1888-1892, he served as pastor of the Church of the
Blessed Virgin, the first charge to which he was appointed imme-
diately after ordination. While there he also attended the Penal
Institution for Women for all Hungary. In 1892 he came direct
to Cleveland, Ohio, having been called and received by Bishop
Horstmann. His mission was to look after the spiritual needs of
the Catholic Hungarians in the diocese. He at once organized
his present parish, the first for Catholics of his nationality in the
country, in which good work he has been signally successful. He
built St. Elizabeth's Church in 1893, and now (1900) he is com-
pleting, at a cost of $30,000, a fine brick school building in which
to educate the more than three hundred children of school age in
66 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
his parish. For some time after his arrival in this country this
priest had spiritual charge of all the Catholic Hungarians from'
Bridgeport, Connecticut, to San Francisco, California.
The Rev. Charles Boehm both ably edits and publishes the
Magyarorszagi Szent Erzsebet Amerikai Hirnoke, "The American
Messenger of St. Elizabeth of Hungary." It is a weekly publica-
tion in magazine form^ intended for the religious instruction of
Hungarians all over the United States. It has a wide circulation,
is productive of much good, and is now in the sixth year of its
existence. It tells of the zeal and ability of its reverend editor, and
of the willing co-operation of the people of his nationality in this
country. Having been sent and received as a sort of apostle to his
countrymen who have emigrated to the United States, it would
surely be supposed that a man of parts and great earnestness would
have been selected for the work. The supposition is not only
reasonable but is also founded on fact, for Father Boehm is all
that might be looked for in view of the situation. He is learned,
zealous, obedient and humble. He is constant in his efforts and
tireless in his labors for the spiritual and temporal advancement of
his people. As such he is esteemed and welcomed as a worthy,
accession to the valiant army of soldiers of the cross who fight the
good fight and keep the faith in this quarter of the world.
Father Boehm is a gentleman of culture, refinement and
generous impulses. His every-day life is an exemplification of his
strong faith, his remarkable zeal, and his great love for humanity
as God's children. The little ones of his flock appear to be his
special care. Not only his commodious school building, but also
its excellent management, attests his deep concern for the spiritual
and temporal welfare of the children of his parish. They are
taught the English language in connection with the Hungarian
tongue, and are proficient in its use. They are instructed in the
Christian doctrine also in that language, a wise provision for the
day and for the future.
In all respects the pastor of St. Elizabeth's exhibits such zeal,
wisdom, and fatherly solicitude as to have recognized in his
character and career the Christian glories of his native land.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 67
THE REV. HENRY E. BOESKEN.
If beauty of soul and brilliancy of intellect manifest themselves
in mildness, illumination of countenance, and comeliness of person,
then the attractive physical appearance of the Rev. Henry E,
Boesken, pastor of St. Peter's Church, Loudonville, Ohio, is the
evidence of the many fine qualities with which Providence has
endowed him. A glance at the expressive portrait of him on the
adjoining page will indicate this.
Who cannot read in the sum of his features and in his cranial
development, as there represented, the evidences of a high order of
intellect, pronounced spirituality, love for justice and humanity,
fine feeling, gentleness of manner, and manliness? Not much
scrutiny will be required to recognize in him not only these
qualities,, but also the evidence that the proverbial enthusiasm
natural to the young priest is beginning to be superceded in him
by a calm fixedness of purpose, and that back of his youthfulness of
appearance can' be seen much strength of character ennobled by
religion and the obligations of duty.
Continuity, determination, and forcefulness of character are
not always accompaniments of a lowering brow, coarseness of
features, or severity of facial expression. These harsher outcrop-
pings are but too often the evidence of a weak, struggling spirit
condemned to earthy things through an unfortunate organization.
The happy balance, therefore, of the spiritual, mental, and physical
forces in the yoimg ecclesiastic in question would be his redemp-
tion even if he were not musically gifted ; but having a soul for
melody and harmony, and a practical acquaintance with both, his
spirit finds delight in higher flights, thus preserving the charm of
those interior qualities which are reflected in his countenance.
Father Boesken was born in the city of Cleveland, Ohio,
March 11, 1869. His early studies were made in St. Peter's parish
school, and in the Cleveland Spencerian College, where he ac-
quainted himself with the commercial branches. Thus prepared,
he entered the Canisius (Jesuit) College, at Bufifalo, New York.
In 1889 he graduated from that institution in the classical course.
In that year also he was admitted to St. Mary's Theological Sem-
inary, Cleveland, Ohio, where, during the succeeding five years,
68 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
he cleverly pursued his divinity studies. Through his recognized
musical ability he was appointed organist of the Seminary, which
position he held during his stay in that institution. October 18,
1894, he was ordained priest by Bishop Horstmann.
Immediately after ordination he was commissioned as one of
the assistants at St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland, which position he
held for less than a week ; for, on the death of Rev. L. Goebbels,
he was appointed his successor as pastor of St. Barbara's Church,
at West Brookfield, Ohio. He labored in that field with more than
average success for nearly six years. Through his business talent
and industry he kept the church property in good repair, paid ofif
all debts, and left a considerable surplus in the parish treasury
when he was called to take his departure to become pastor of the
church, at Delaware Bend, and missions, in Defiance county, Ohio.
He ministered there only one month, when the judgment of the
Rt. Rev. Ordinary decided to appoint him to his present charge as
pastor of St. Peter's Church at Loudonville.
In the management of St. Peter's parish he continues to
exercise those capacities that have characterized him elsewhere.
Considering the resources of the congregation his conduct of
temporalities smacks of business prudence, and of a husbanding of
the means at hand. Since his advent there the people have been
stirred in the line of their duty in support of religion, and they
have profited by it.
In the domain of the spiritual his accustomed earnestness
and zeal are always to the fore. As moral teacher apd guide he
feels more at home than when handling business matters. His
mission is in that field rather than in the sphere of the tangible,
and it rejoices him to find his labors bringing forth good fruits.
Father Boesken preaches eloquently in Enghsh and German ;
chants the public service most acceptably, and is, in all respects, a
worthy and useful priest. His many excellent qualities of head
and heart commend him to all who have been favored with his
acquaintance or blessed by his ministrations. He will doubtless
have lost none of his excellent traits and charm of manner when
riper years and wider experience shall have prepared the grape
for the wine-press.
-^"^M '^K THE RT. REV. MOR. FELIX M. BOFF, V. 0.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 69
THE RT. REV. MGR. FELIX M. BOFF, V. G.
"Eyes that grow dim to earth and its glory
Have a sweet recompense earth cannot know;
Ears that grow dull to the world and its story
Drink in the songs that from Paradise flow.
Growing old graciously
Purer ihan snow."
These words of a Catholic poet are pecuharly applicable to
the physical, moral, and spiritual condition of the distinguished
ecclesiastic who is selected as the inviting subject of this biography.
From his childhood both his eyes, his ears, and the door of his
heart have been closed to the allurements of the world and opened
wide to higher and holier things.
In his youth, the profession of medicine was selected for
Felix M. Boff, but he could not content himself with the prospect
of being a healer of mere physical ills. He had a higher ambition,
a nobler calling in view. It was vouchsafed to him from On High
that his was to be the vocation of a physician of the soul rather
than of the body. The "Follow Me," which is its sign, was written
in light in the horizon of his youthful sky. That sign has been
more constant to him in its guidance and inspiration than was the
Star of Bethlehem to the Magi. It never hid itself from him in
his youth, nor later when as spiritual physician he was called to
enter the palace of the rich or the hovel of the poor. Its efful-
gence ever illumined his way and filled his soul with a radiance
the reflection of which is the recognized spiritual beauty in his
countenance.
"He that has light within his own clear breast
May sit i' th' centre and enjoy bright day."
The Rt. Rev. Felix M. Boff, Vicar-General of the Diocese
of Cleveland, was born in Alsace, France, January 25, 1831. He
was educated in Savernne College near his native place. When
he had entered on his seventeenth year, he was well advanced in
his classics. In that year, 1847, he emigrated to the United
States and was accepted as an aspirant for the priesthood in the
then newly-erected Diocese of Cleveland. He was one of the first
students to enter what was the beginning of the present St. Mary's
70 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Theological Seminary. He patiently bore his share of the manj
hardships and trials connected with its early history, and the hope
and strength that were in his heart and life had a helpful and
inspiring effect on his companions.
He was ready for ordination long before the ripeness of his
years was abreast of his knowledge and virtue. However, Sep-
tember 5, 1852, deaconship was conferred on him, and thus his
talents and zeal were utilized by Bishop Rappe who sent him to
preach, baptize, and catechize in Holy Angels' parish, Sandusky,
Ohio. He labored in that field until the middle of May of the
following year, when he was called to Cleveland and was the first
priest ordained in the new St. John's Cathedral by Bishop Rappe,
May 26, 1853.
His first appointment as a priest was to the scenes of his
previous labors as a deacon — St. Mary's Church, Sandusky. He
ministered there in the capacity of pastor for about three months
when, in August, 1853, he was advanced to the pastorate of St.
Peter's Church, Canton. He there exercised the functions of his
holy ofifice till January, 1856, when he was again sent to Sandusky
for a short stay — a sort of preparation for his being called tc
Cleveland, March, 1S57, to fill a professorial chair in the diocesan
seminary. He taught in that institution till April, 1859, when the
needs of the Church in Toledo, St. Francis de Sales', constrained
Bishop Rappe to appoint him to that charge. From that date
until October, 1872, a period of over thirteen years, he labored
with great zeal in that field doing much good. He built the
present St. Francis de Sales' Church, the finest at that time ir
Toledo. He not only renewed and strengthened the faith of hi:
own people, but by his life and labors, as far as observed by them
he constrained the non-Catholic portion of the citizens to respeci
and reverence the Catholic Church to a greater degree than the)
had done before.
October, 1872, he bade good-bye to his loving congregatior
in Toledo and returned to Cleveland to assume the pastorship o
St. John's Cathedral, to which Bishop Gilmour, recently con
secrated, had appointed him. In the following May, 1873, he wa;
made Vicar-General of the diocese. He continued to discharge
most acceptably the onerous duties of both offices till July, 1876
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 71
and also that of Administrator of the diocese from 1874 tih 1876.
Again as Administrator he governed the diocese, in the absence
of Bishop Gilmour, from Jnly^ 1882, to February, 1883, from May
to October, 1885, and between 1891 and 1892. He was five times
Administrator.
Up to 1876 he had ah^eady been twenty-three years in active
spiritual and temporal work of the most trying and engrossing
character. His arduous labors began to tell on his physical
constitution. He was forced to resign and seek rest and recupera-
tion. After a few months he undertook a journey to the scenes of
his childhood, to Rome^ and to Palestine, returning, in 1878,
sufificiently recovered to undertake light work. This was provided
for him in the chaplaincy of the Ursuline Convent, at Villa Angela,
in the suburbs of Cleveland, the duties of which he continues to
discharge.
The saintly Bishop Rappe was grateful to Mgr. Bofif, as was
also Bishop Gilmour, for his many labors and great faithfulness.
Even Pope Leo XHI exhibited his appreciation of his loyalty and
devotion by conferring on him, in 1885, the rank and title of
Prelate of the Papal Household. Bishop Gilmour invested him
in St. John's Cathedral, November 8, 1885.
Mgr. Boff is the possessor of a kindly and exceedingly
emotional nature. His heart is as tender as a child's. He is an
intense lover of music, and from his violin, like Cardinal Newman,
he loosens prayer-sounds that are soothing to his soul. That soul
he pours forth in chanting the sublime preface in the Mass, the
music of which he links with that of the hymn which Christ and
His Apostles sang at the first Mass, which was the Last Supper.
Since this work has been in press he has entered on the
seventy-second year of his age and the fiftieth of his priesthood,
and with the trodden road of his long and laborious life stretching
far behind him, he can be thus approvingly and admiringly
addressed :
"Rich in experience tliat angels might covet,
Rich in a faith that has grown with the years;
Rich in a love that grew from and above it,
Soothing thy sorrows, hushing thy fears.
Growing old wealthily
Loving and dear."
72 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
CAPTAIN PATRICK BOYLAN.
Captain Patrick Boylan, of Cleveland, Ohio, is made the sub-
ject of this biographical sketch, not alone in recognition of his
stanch Catholicity, but also because of his honorable record, and
the prominence in Ireland of the family which he represents.
The Boylans trace their history in Ireland for five hundred
years. The}' were originally from the northern part of France,
and joined William the Conqueror in his invasion of England in
1066. After aiding in the conquest of England and participating
in the battle of Hastings they joined the enemies of Ireland, took
the Pale, and settled in that country. They soon "became more
Irish than the Irish themselves." Accordingly four of the Boylan
brothers, great-grandfathers of Captain Patrick Boylan, bore
arms with James II in defense of Ireland, and took part in the
battle of the Boyne. Thomas was severely wounded in the first
day's fight, and was borne to his castle, at Hilltown, in the county
Meath; but the others continued even to the siege of Limerick.
Their prominence in the struggle, together with the fact that one
of them slew the Duke de Schomberg, occasioned the confiscation
of their estates by the English king. The sword that killed the
Duke is yet a relic in the family in Ireland, while the only other
relics of the battle of the Boyne, taken by the government from
Boylan castle, three flags and three flint guns, are now in the
British Museum.
The father of the only representative of the family in Ireland
was the richest man and the most extensive land owner in that
country. When O'Connell was arrested in Dublin and Thomas
Boylan was sent for to bail him out, he found on his arrival at the
capital that the great Agitator had already secured bail. Boylan
thereupon appeared on the balcony of the Queen's hotel and in a
speech to the vast crowds assembled said : "I am worth four
million pounds sterling in gold ($20,000,000), besides my estates
not measured in acres, but in miles. All I possess and also myself
in person are at the disposal of Daniel O'Connell for the freedom
of my country."
Thomas Boylan, of Hilltown, in the county Meath, is yet
one of the richest men and largest land owners in Ireland. There
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 73
are but four members of the family living, and one of them is
Captain Boylan, of Cleveland, Ohio, between whom and this great
wealth there is but one heir. He has already registered his
ancient lineage and immediate descent from the Boylan family
who owned estates, not only in Meath, but also in every other
county in Ireland, except three.
Captain Patrick Boylan, of Cleveland, Ohio, the noted sailor,
was born at Baltray, county of Louth, Ireland, about the year
183.3. His father and grandfather, Christopher, and Nicholas,
were the first branch pilots of the port and harbor of Drogheda on
the river Boyne. They owned a pilot boat called the Gazelle, of
sixty-five tons, the only one at that port. As a boy our hero first
went to sea with his father in the ship Gazelle, in 1845, remaining
with the vessel until 184-7. From the Gazelle he went to serve
his apprenticeship in the full rigged brig Lady Florence. Later
he spent part of his time on the schooner Lord Byron. From
the Byron he was sent on board the bark Jeanette, in 1848,
loading railroad iron at Cardiff, Wales, for Boston, Massa-
chusetts. From there he went to St. Andrews and loaded lumber
for Drogheda, Ireland. He then returned to the brig Lady
Florence, and remained on her until 1850. He next shipped on
the brigantine Isabella, loading railroad iron at Newport, Wales,
for New York, and arrived there in June, 1850. At Brooklyn,
New York, he helped load a cargo of Indian corn for Belfast,
Ireland, and arrived in Belfast, October 10, 1850. He then went
back to the brig Lady Florence where he finished his apprentice-
ship in 1851. He became mate of the vessel, which position he
held until January 3, 1852, after which he was made mate of the
schooner Monkey. He shipped at Liverpool, March 15, 1852, in
the full-rigged ship Joseph Walker, for New York, the vessel
carrying six hundred and fifty passengers to America.
Leaving the Walker at New York, he went to Oswego, where
he shipped before the mast in the schooner Oregon. Then he
went to the schooner Mary Francis, and to the brig Halifax, both
m the same year. In 1853 he became mate of the schooner
Elizabeth. In 1854 he sailed as mate of the brig Arabian, leav-
ing her in July to become master of the schooner Elizabeth. This
vessel was lost December 5th of that year through springing a
74 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
leak off Long Point. Lake Erie. In those years he was the onl;
Irishman in Cleveland who owned and sailed his own vessels.
Captain Boylan sailed the schooner Albian in 1855, and th
brig Arabian in 1856. The Albian was in the service of the Britis]
as a gunboat against Commodore Perry on the Lakes. He pui
chased the Arabian three years later and sailed her for eight yean
He then sold her and bought the schooner E. P. Ryerse, spendini
the next eight years on board that vessel. The Ryerse, in Septem
ber, 1874, collided with the schooner Bahama, off Dunkirk, anc
was lost. Captain Boylan libeled the Bahama for the loss of hi
vessel and won the suit, receiving the Bahama in return. H
sailed the Bahama until the fall of 1879, when she went ashore ii
a storm at Sand Beach, Lake Huron, with a cargo of coal fo
Racine. He abandoned her to the underwriters as a total loss
received the insurance of $7,500, and, in 1882, he purchased i
half interest in the schooner Orontcs. Disposing of his interes
in her that fall, he purchased the schooner Arcturus, the follow
ing year. He sailed the Arcturus until 1888, when he sold her
and retired. And thus on the ocean, and on the Great Lakes, hi
was sailor, ship-owner, and master for forty-three years.
Captain Boylan was married, January 29, 1855, to Miss Juli;
Curran, of Cleveland. Their children are: Margaret J., wife o
Joseph Meehan ; Annie, wife of Manly Tello ; Nicholas J. anc
Thomas E., coal merchants; Mary Francis; and Christopher, wh(
is an oil merchant in Cincinnati, Ohio. Mrs. Boylan died in 1866
and in 1884 Captain Boylan married Miss Mary Prendergast, ;
native of Cleveland, Ohio.
The Captain is a large man physically. Lie stands six feet
and is well preserved. His heart is generous and patriotic, and hi
is true to Church, to country and to friends. He is the type o
gentleman of the old school. His memory for dates, places
and names is remarkable. His education consists more in at
acquaintance with facts obtained through observation, travel, anc
tradition than through books. Although nearly seventy year
old, his intellect is as bright and his memory as reliable as whei
he was less than fifty. He has never been sick, and an accompany
ing spiritual blessing, which he has always enjoyed, is the habit o
soul which never fosters secret or open displeasure at the welfan
or prosperity of his neighbors.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 75
CAPTAIN GEORGE F. BRADY.
The city of Norwalk, Ohio, can boast of no better citizen than
Captain George F. Brady, and the Diocese of Cleveland has few
better Catholics than is he. To know him is to respect him.
He was born at Eyrcourt in the county of Galway, Ireland,
January 19, 1831. His father, Mr. Martin Brady, married the
daughter of a wealthy English family. Her maiden name was
Miss Jane Banbury. She was disinherited and disowned by her
family and friends because of her matrimonial alliance with "a
mere Irish Catholic." In consequence, when their son George, the
subject of this sketch, was in his seventh year, they emigrated to
the United States, taking up their abode in Cecil county, Mary-
land, where they remained two years, and where the elder Brady
passed away.
The family then removed to Wilmington, Delaware, where
later young George was indentured to learn the business of a
tobacconist. In 1847, when in his seventeenth year, he enlisted in
Company A, 11th U. S. I., and served bravely during the Mexican
war. In 1849 he re-enlisted in the U. S. Dragoons and remained in
the regular army until 1854. Returning to civil life, he located in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he was married to Miss Ellen L.
McNamee by the Rev. Father Cantwell in St. Philip Neri's Church,
August 4, 1854. He was then well acquainted with the present
Rt. Rev. Bishop of Cleveland, who, at the time, was a youth
a^ftending the local schools.
Mr. Brady remained in that city until 1858, when he removed
his family to the town of Elyria, Lorain county, Ohio. On the
breaking out of the War of the RebelHon, in 1861, he enhsted as
first lieutenant in the 42nd O. V. I., the late President Garfield's
regiment. He served with his regiment until 1862, when he was
transferred by Governor David Tod to become captain of Com-
pany H, 103rd O. V. I. He remained actively at the front until
June 9, 1863, when disabilities received in the line of duty forced
him to resign his command.
Returning to Elyria to recruit his shattered health, he
remained there for some time. He then visited Philadelphia, and
finally decided to make the city of Norwalk, Ohio, his home. He
76 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
removed there in 1875, and has since been identified with the place.
In 1889 he was elected as a Democrat to the State Senate and
served with distinction in the 60th General Assembly. He is now
a member of the Norwalk board of equalization and revision, and,
although in his seventieth year, is most active and energetic.
Mrs. Captain Brady died in Norwalk, August 29, 1897. The
three children born to Captain and Mrs. Brady are: Anna, who
is Mrs. Thomas Dowd, of Oakland, California; Martin B., residing
at Oakland, California ; and George F., Jr., who is engaged in busi-
ness in Norwalk. Captain Brady's ancestors for seven hundred
years suffered persecutions for faith and country in Ireland. His
grandfather, Bartholomew Brady, was engaged in the rebellion of
1798, and was brutally treated after he was taken prisoner by the
British at the battle of Ballinahinch. The Captain is full of their
patriotism, fire, and love of liberty. He is both a soldier and a
statesman, and on every occasion has exhibited the courage of his
convictions. He esteems physical fear as the "virtue of slaves/'
while an unjustifiable right-about-face he regards as cowardice
both physical and moral. He is most decided in character, is
tender of heart, and loyal to faith, to country, and to friends. In
all respects he is a manly man who may always be found in the
open, fighting under the flag across whose folds are inscribed his
principles and his convictions, which, in political life, are those of
Andrew Jackson: "Equal rights to all and special privileges to
none."
In matters religious, and touching Church discipline. Captain
Brady is a soldier in his faithfulness, obedience, and bravery. He
is devoted to the cause, is prompt in fulfilling commands and in
carrying out instructions, while in the battle against vice and in
behalf of virtue he almost anticipates the orders of his General. His
humility is not inconsistent with his bravery, nor is his readiness to
obey at all in conflict with his intelligence. He is a faithful, prac-
tical Catholic, is generous in support of religion and education,
and at all times gladdens the heart of his pastor by his exhibition of
good will, and his soldierly zeal for God's honor, the spread of
religion, and the salvation of souls.
m
IHS)
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THE REV.
CHARLES JOS. A. BRASCHLER
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 77
THE REV. CHARLES JOS. A. BRASCHLER.
The Rev. Charles Jos. A. Braschler, pastor of Holy Trinity
Church, Bucyrus, Crawford county, Ohio, was born at lachen, on
the Lake of Tarich, Switzerland, October 30, 1842. He is the only
survivor of an interesting family of eleven born to Jacob and Eliza-
beth (Baechtiger) Braschler. When twelve years of age he was
sent to work in a large cotton mill, where he continued four years.
By applying himself during his spare hours he had, when sixteen
years old, acquired the rudiments of an excellent education. He
subsequently attended a normal school for a year, studied Latin,
and otherwise prepared himself for college. At the age of seven-
teen he was admitted to Maria College, at Einsiedeln, conducted
by members of the Order of St. Benedict, where he studied four
years. Later he attended the college at Fribourg one year, and
during the following two years he studied philosophy and physics
at Monza, Italy. He accompanied Bishop Rappe, in 1867, to
America, having been accepted by that prelate for his diocese, and
at once entered St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where he studied
theology three years. July 17, 1870, he was ordained priest by
Bishop Mullen of Erie, Pennsylvania, who ofificiated in the absence
of the Rt. Rev. Ordinary.
Father Braschler began his pastoral labors at Edgerton, Wil-
liams county, Ohio, where for three years he had charge of six
missions, extending over three counties. He was appointed, in
1873, to Upper Sandusky as pastor of St. Peter's Church. He
erected there a splendid brick church, 60 x 140 feet in dimensions,
and also a commodious parsonage. In the autumn of 1888 he was
transferred to Ft. Jennings, Putnam county, as pastor of St.
Joseph's Church, where he faithfully exercised the functions of his
holy office until May, 1899, when his fourth field of labor became
his present charge — Holy Trinity Church, Bucyrus, Ohio.
Father Braschler possesses a strong, harmonious character.
He is firm, but con.siderate and kind. While serious, as his sacred
calling requires him to be, he is not averse to that which now and
then is relished by the best of men — a little nonsense. In fact his
phrenological organ of mirthfulness is well developed, while his
large faculty of comparison, after doing service as an aid in
78 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
practical instruction, is also of use as a mirth-provoker by compass
ing those contrasts that show the droll and the ludicrous sides.
The congregations over which he has presided as a priest, anc
the thousands who have been cheered and bettered by his minis
trations and example are a unit in testifying to his devotion tc
duty, his fatherly care for those placed in his charge, especially th(
children, who soon learn to run to him rather than from him, anc
whose characters develop under the mild influence which he know;
well how to exercise, just as the tender plant grows in the warmth
and brightness of the sunlight. Not only the older people bul
even these children know how to distinguish as to his character
They know there is nothing of weakness connected with it, bul
everything that means strength. They know that where he lead;
they are safe to follow, and when he commands theirs is the duty o:
obedience. Hence the confidence, respect, and reverence thuj
begotten are to a degree the measure of the character of the Rev,
Father Braschler.
These considerations, independent of his character, would
indicate a spiritual wisdom and constancy in this good priest. Thej
imply that, while at times mirthful and enjoying the lighter things,
his life is serious, and the powers of his soul are rapt to higher
flights than worldlings can conceive of. His life and record
would indicate his adoption of the thought in the lines of the
Catholic poet, Christina G. Rossetti, that,
"The wise do send their hearts before them to
Dear blessed Heaven, despite the veil between;
The foohsh nurse their hearts within the screen
Of this familiar world, where all we do
Or have is old, for there is nothing new;
Yet older far that world we have not seen;
God's presence antedates what else hath been;
Many the foolish seem, the wise seem few."
N-^ \ ^„E REV. JOHN OTTO BREDEICK
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 79
THE REV. JOHN OTTO BREDEICK.
The late Father Bredeick was the founder and pastor of St.
John's congregatiofi, Delphos, Ohio. He ministered there from
1844 till his death, which took place August 10, 1858. In 1848
he established also the parish at Ottoville, in Putnam county, and
attended it from Delphos during the last ten years of his life. That
little settlement was dear to him since he called it after one of his
own Christian names. His great labors at Delphos for fourteen
years, and at Ottoville during ten years, are evidenced by the
developments made on the foundations which he laid. Much of
the prosperity of the city of Delphos itself, and of St. John's con-
gregation in particular, is due to him.
Full of the wisdom of the Church he anticipated the future in
everything he did. On his arrival in northern Ohio, he purchased
a large tract of land, in what was known as "Section Ten," from
the government. A part of this land is now the site of the flourish-
ing city which he called Delphos. St. John's Church and school
property, which he donated to the people, is the most extensive
in the Diocese of Cleveland. The church property at Ottoville
he also presented to the few who, at the beginning, comprised
that congregation. With his own private means he bought and
paid for these lands, thereby saving to the present generation a
large amount of money, and much of the worry and labor con-
nected with the raising of money even in the present prosperous
times. In truth, what he saved to the people of Delphos of today
is duly appreciated by them.
He built St. John's first Church and also the pastoral residence
at Delphos at his own expense. He never accepted his salary, to
which he was entitled, from either of the congregations where he
labored. On the contrary he spent his private funds, and also him-
self, for religion's sake and in the interests of the people. He
shared the hardships and privations of pioneer life with his
associates and fellow citizens. When these complained or became
disheartened he spoke glowingly to them of the future both in time
and eternity, and encouraged them to persevere and to labor. He
established an order of Sisters to teach in the schools, and he paid
all the expenses out of his own purse. When death called him, in
80 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
1858, he had the happiness of seeing well developed and in dail
increase the things which he had undertaken for God's sake. H
saw the triumph even with his own eyes, and he heard his nam
gratefully spoken on every hand as a household word.
The Rev. John Otto Bredeick was born at Verl, in th
province of Westphalia, Germany, January 22, 1789. He wa
ordained a priest at Osnabrueck, Hanover, in 1822. Consequent!
when he died he was in the seventieth year of his life and the thirt)
sixth of his priesthood. Twenty-two of these latter years h
devoted to the labors of the ministry in his native land, where h
attained to various ecclesiastical distinctions. One of these wa
membership in the Cathedral Chapter at Osnabrueck. He le:
these and also a degree of comfort at home for trying missionar
and pioneer life in America, to the performance of the arduor
duties of which he felt himself called. That Providence had to d
with directing his steps few acquainted with the results of hi
labors will question. Much of the spiritual and temporal pro;
perity of the southwestern section of the diocese is generousl
credited to his efforts and his foresight.
He was a man of great force of character, which exhibite
itself even in little as well as in great things. He was contente
in the midst of toil and complained not even when suffering mult
plied discomforts. Much of the time when he did not choose t
fast he would prepare his own scanty meals. His humility an
simplicity evidenced not only the spiritual and the moral in th
man but also the strength begotten of these. He was equal t
imparting that strength to others. The well-disposed readil
experienced it, while even the indifferent were not unimpresse(
Hence this good priest was a leader and guide to those about bin
He was the director and inspirer of the people of Delphos, mar
of whom have vivid and pleasant recollections of good, generou
zealous Father Bredeick.
This humble priest, judging from his character and caree
might be supposed to have used these words of Browning as
prayer :
"Maker and High Priest,
I ask Thee not my joys to muhiply,
Only to make me worthier of the least."
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IN NORTHERN OHIO, 81
THE REV. JOHN B. BROUN.
In Lorraine, near Metz, in the diocese of Nancy, Rev. John B.
Broun, pastor of St. Bernard's Church, Akron, Ohio, was born
March 2, 1834. His parents were Nicholas and Catherine (Noel)
Broun. He was but thirteen years old when he came to this
country. Father Broun began his classical studies under the
Basilian Fathers in Assumption College, at Sandwich, Canada.
After considerable progress in that institution he entered St.
Thomas' College, at Bardstown, Kentucky, where he continued as
a student for more than two years. He then returned to Assump-
tion College, at Sandwich, where he received minor orders, and
later was ordained priest, at Ste. St. Marie, by Bishop Baraga,
August 30, 1863.
His first appointment, immediately after ordination, was as
pastor of the Church of the Holy Redeemer, at Eagle Harbor,
Michigan, Diocese of Marquette. In fact, his charge consisted of
three churches and sixteen missions. His robust health and zeal
were tried by his labors in that field. Many Indians were among
his people. Most of these knew French, their parents having been
taught by French missionaries; and as Father Broun's native
languages are French and German — the tongues of Alsace and
Lorraine — he was understood by his people both in pulpit and
confessional. He labored there nearly three years, doing much
good.
In June, 1866, he was received into the Diocese of Cleveland,
and Bishop Rappe appointed him, July 19th of that year, pastor
of St. Bernard's Church, Akron. He at once took possession of
his charge and at this writing, the last days of the 19th century, he
is in the thirty-fifth year of his continuous pastorate in that city.
He enlarged the old church when the increase in his congregation
demanded it, and later he built the substantial and imposing parish
school. He is now (1900) preparing for the erection of the new
St. Bernard's Church, at a cost of $100,000. In architectural style,
dimensions, and appointments it is to be the finest church edifice
in Akron, and will be a credit to both pastor and people.
Rev. John B. Broun is a splendid specimen of manhood and a
true representative of the good old stock. He is tall, robust, and
82 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
proportionately developed — a large man who possesses b(
mental and physical energy. He has never had an assistant i
does not need one today. Although in his 67th year, he is yet a
to do much hard work. His high sense of duty and his zeal h;
such a backing in the forcefulness and naturalness of the man tl
he has succeeded in making his people practically one in parocf
temporalities, just as he has kept them a unit in the faith. T
implies not only great moral power^ but also the kind of ability tl
gives a practical turn to every-day affairs among men. He i;
controlling and directing force among his people. He has been
their midst so long that the old and the young not only know h
well, but love him for his constancy, his devotion, and his untiri
energy in their interests. They, too, are well known to him, a
by the exercise of his directive and executive abilities all obstac
to their harmony and enterprise as a congregation are speedily a
happily removed.
Where great force of character and robustness are distingui;
ing traits in a pastor, one as a rule rarely looks for those finer a
milder quahties which seem to be the inheritance of many 1
forceful and vigorous ; but when these seeming opposites are n
with an agreeable surprise is the result. This is exactly the exp
ience of many who have learned to know the pastor of St. B
nard's. The paradoxical in his manner and character perple:
while it pleases. It invites a closer scrutiny of the man, whi
when attempted by one not well acquainted with him, requires
be very exact and peering to get a clear insight as to the numb
balance, and character of his mental and moral qualities. WhiL
strong man in every respect — firm, decided and stern — there is ■
a wealth of mildness, gentleness, and Christian tenderness to
found close to the surface in the veteran pastor of St. Bernard's
He wisely considers rational man, and created things in th
entirety — the whole universe
"A gracious instrument on whose fair strings
We learn those airs we shall be set to play,
When mortal hours are ended."
Jf<:. ,'»
THE REV. JOHN B. BUERKEL
'*'\:^;^#^'
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 83
THE REV. JOHN B. BUERKEL.
The parents of the reverend gentleman selected for this sketch
were Francis and Catherine (Weiss) Buerkel. They were natives
of Lorraine, France. The former died in 1870, and the latter in
1855. Father Bnerkel was born at the village of Danne, in
Lorraine, France, June 7, 1842. Following his preparatory train-
ing he spent four years in the college at Sarreburg, and three years
in the Petit Seminaire at Pont-a-Mousson, where he completed
his classical education. He then emigrated to the United States.
and, in 1864, was accepted as a theological student in the Cleveland
diocesan seminary. Having fulfilled all the requirements, he was
ordained by Bishop Rappe, May 18, 1867.
.Speaking French and German he was in demand in congrega-
tions made up of these nationalities. It was fitting, therefore, that
his first appointment was to St. Nicholas' Church, Berwick, in
Seneca county, where for four years he preached to the people in
both these languages. He was next placed in charge of the French
congregation worshipping in the Sacred Heart of Jesus' Church at
Harrisburg, Stark county. He remained there over seven years.
His third appointment was as assistant priest in St. Mary's
CGerman) Church, Massillon, from which, after one year, he was
removed to become pastor of St. Joseph's Church, Maumee City,
Lucas county. After three years there he was made assistant at
Sti Peter's Church, Canton, where, with his usual zeal, he minis-
tered to the people for the long period of fourteen years. Finally,
in 1896, the people of St. Paul's Church, New Berlin, Stark county,
were blessed by his being sent to them as their pastor. He is there
at this writing (1900), having been active on the mission for nearly
thirty-four years.
Not only from observation, but also by reputation, the Rev.
John B. Buerkel is known as a most deserving priest. Even his
very instincts are ecclesiastical. Hard labor constantly and faith-
fully performed has always marked his career. The earnestness
and simplicity of his manner and life have made him friends every-
where, as well among non-Catholics as among his own people.
To the latter he has much endeared himself by his constancy, his
devotion to their interests, and by his kind, generous, and friendly
84 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
disposition. Of the thousands yet living, who have known hi:
both as a man and as a priest, there is not one who has not a kir
word to say of Father Buerkel and who is not delighted to mei
and greet him.
THE RT. REV. EDMUND BURKE, V. A.
This distinguished ecclesiastic and zealous missionary w;
Vicar Apostolic of Nova Scotia from July 4, 1817, till his death ;
Halifax, December 1, 1820.
If it be enquired why he should be biographically and pictor
ally presented in this work, it can be answered that he was the fir
resident pastor in the territory now comprising the western sectio
of the Diocese of Cleveland, and as such he certainly has stron
claims to recognition. There are those yet living who are said I
have from the lips of several who saw and heard him many thinj
regarding his manner and character and also touching his recori
especially during the two years 1795-1797, which he devoted 1
the sowing of the good seed in northwestern Ohio. For a tim
however, that record was lost sight of, but, about 1880, it was di
covered and revived by Bishop Maes, of Covington, Kentucky.
Providence surely had to do with sending him to minister 1
the white residents and the unsettled Indians on the banks of tl
Maumee, for his services to both were much needed at the tim
and, doubtless, were welcomed and keenly appreciated. He w;
the connecting link between the time of the desultory labors of tl
Jesuit Fathers, who left northern Ohio, in 1751, and the arrival, :
1817, at Dungannon, in Columbiana county, of Father Fenwic
who later, 1821, became the first bishop of Cincinnati.
The Rt. Rev. Edmund Burke was born in Ireland about tl
year 1743. It is said that the major portion of his education w
obtained in France, and that after ordination he labored in t
native land for several years. He emigrated to Canada, May 1
1787, and was parish priest at St. Pierre, and at St. Laurent, h
Orlean, from 1791 till 1794. For a short time in the latter me
tioned year he held a professorship in the theological semina
at Quebec. His ability and erudition eminently qualified him f
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 85
the position, but his desire for missionary work militated against
these and rendered him somewhat discontented.
Accordingly, at his own request, he was sent by the bishop of
Quebec to the Indian missions in Michigan and northwestern
Ohio. After a wearisome and tedious journey, but with his mis-
sionary spirit exulting, he arrived at his destination. He was the
first resident pastor of St. Antoine de la Riviere aux Raisins (now
St. Mary's Church, Monroe, Michigan). He later resided or
rather made his headquarters near Fort Meigs, on the east bank of
the Maumee river, adjacent to the town of Perrysburg, in what
is now Wood county, and just across the river from what is called
Maumee City, or South Toledo. He ministered to the Indians
and the scattered whites in that section from February, 1795, tih
after February, 1797. In the latter year he was sent to Fort
Niagara, New York, where he remained till 1803. He was then
transferred to Halifax, Nova Scotia, to become the first resident
pastor of that place. He labored there about seventeen years,
receiving, in 1817, the Vicarship Apostolic for that territory, in
token of merit and as a favor from the Holy See. He filled this
high office most acceptably during three and one-half years, when
death put an end to his great labors in about the seventy-seventh
year of his age.
His unique garb and his finely-chiseled features, as seen in
the accompanying portrait, discovered through the untiring efforts
of Bishop Gilmour, will incline the reader to attempt to form
estimates of his manner, character, and ability. It may be a
help to say that he was both dignified in bearing and truly eccle-
siastical in demeanor, and that he exemplified the true Irish mis-
sionary spirit. He spoke more than one of the tribal or Indian
dialects, also the French, and, of course, his native tongue, and
the language of the Church, the Latin. He was forceful in every-
thing, exhibited both moral and physical courage, and capped all
his fine qualities with the crown-sheaf of great zeal for God's honor
and glory and the salvation of souls.
In the earlier years of the Diocese of Cleveland the labors and
character of the Rt. Rev. Edmund Burke were lost sight of, but on
discovery later were much discussed. Doubtless, as far as known,
his career there and elsewhere has been a source of edification and
86 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
encouragement to many priests who felt themselves sorely tried (
the mission. His life and labors helped them to think that, if
those early days there were men who blazed the way, surely subs
quent generations could furnish others to walk in that way at
keep it clear of great obstructions, even if brambles and thor:
must ever be present.
Such men have been and are now to the fore in those part
and the lessons taught by the lives of the Burkes, the Fenwick
the De Goesbriands and the Rappes have borne good fruit. The
record and bright example are inseparable from the history of tl
spread of religion in northern Ohio and the Diocese of Clevelan
They constitute an encouraging inspiration and a pleasing retn
spect, for,
"Looking back along life's trodden way.
Gleams and greenness linger on the track;
Distance melts and mellows all today — looking back.
Rose and purple and a silvery gray;
Is that cloud the cloud we called so black?
Evening harmonizes all today — looking back.
Foolish feet, so prone to halt or stray;
Foolish heart, so restive on the rack!
Yesterday we sighed, but today — looking back."
MR. RICHARD A. BUTLER.
The subject of this sketch is the superintendent of ti
Cleveland, Ohio, house of correction. He was born at Lansinj
burg, Rensselaer county, New York, January 21, 1855, and w;
educated in the township schools until his fifteenth year. He
the oldest of a family of nine. His father was Mr. William
Butler, a native of Ireland, having been bom in Limerick, Augu
10, 1829. His mother's maiden name was Miss Catherine Lowre-
Both died in Columbus, Ohio, the former in 1893, and the latti
in 189Y.
The Butler family removed to Columbus, Ohio, in 1870, c
the introduction in the penitentiary of the manufacture of brushe
a business his father and grandfather conducted on two continen
for three generations. Mr. Richard A. Butler continued thei
for about three years, after which he spent one year in Pittsbur
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 87
doing journeyman's work. Following this he introduced the
brush making business in the Cincinnati house of refuge, where
he continued until 1877. He then accepted the position of foreman
in the Cleveland house of correction. He remained in Cleveland
until 1891, when he was appointed to the superintendency of the
Southern prison, at Jeffersonville, Indiana. He conducted that
institution until 1893, when, under Mayor Blee's administration,
he was tendered the superintendency of the Cleveland house of
correction, which he accepted and which he held until 1895. He
then engaged in business for himself, but, in 1899, he was again
called to be the superintendent of the same institution, which
position he yet holds.
Mr. R. A. Butler is a man of rare intelligence, mechanical
skill, and great executive ability. The forcefulness of his character
is evidenced both in his countenance, his voice, and his physique.
He stands six feet and four inches. His orders are issued in such
manner and tone as to impress and require ready and prompt
obedience. Even his facial expression is commanding without
being severe. He is capable as a ruler of men, and when occasion
requires he can both lead and direct. His knowledge of human
nature is not confined to its criminal aspect alone ; it includes also
its higher and better side. The promptings of the heart are known
to him. He almost divines the encroachments of appetite and
passion on the moral nature, and these he counteracts as best
he can by aiding the teachers of religion in the institution, and by
enforcing tidiness and cleanliness, strict discipline, and good order.
He has the will and the abiHty to carry out the work of reform and
general betterment for which the institution which he governs was
estabhshed. Because of these things he is credited with being the
best superintendent the Cleveland house of correction has ever
had.
Independent of his calling, and in the domestic and social
orders, Mr. Butler exhibits many agreeable traits. His pride is in
his family and in the large number of his friends who have learned
to know and appreciate him. Among these stands first his good
wife whose maiden name was Miss Margaret O'Connor, of
Cincinnati, Ohio. They were married November 12, 1889. Of
three children born to them only one, Richard A., Jr., survives.
A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE HON. THOMAS E. CALLAGHAN.
The judge of the Insolvency Court of Cleveland and Cuya
hoga county, Ohio, is selected as the subject of this mention, a:
well because of his personal worth and prominence as because h(
is the first Catholic elected to a county judgeship in the Westert
Reserve. Judge Callaghan well deserves the distinction.
He is a native of the city of Cleveland, and is the seconc
oldest of a family of five born to Jeremiah and Bridget Anr
(Hefifernan) Callaghan. His birthday was August 21, 1865. Hi:
father is a native of Ireland, and his mother was born in Canada
Since 1872 the elder Callaghan has been engaged in the busines;
of manufacturing sheet and metal ware, stoves, and furnaces. H(
has succeeded well, for it has always been his aim to do honest
work, and to deal fairly with his patrons.
Prizing education highly Mr. Jeremiah Callaghan saw to ii
that his children enjoyed the best educational advantages. Accord-
ingly, Judge Callaghan as a boy was sent to the Cathedral school
where he made good progress. This he followed by a course ir
literature and law at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana. He
graduated with honors, and was admitted to practice in 1885
November, 1901, he was elected as a Democrat to the Insolvency
bench of his native county. He triumphed by 2,000 majority
which, in a county normally Republican by 4,000, meant a change
of 6,000 votes. This certainly was a great personal honor to Judge
Callaghan.
Through his practice, and as a close observer, he saw the
great needs for a juvenile court to try youthful offenders and lool<
after the wants of unprotected youth. He originated the bill
creating that court, and took care that the spirit of the law would
be reformatory, looking especially to the work of providing official
parents or protectors for the fatherless, neglected, or delinquent
minors of Cleveland and Cuyahoga county. The bill was passed
in 1901; the law went into effect in June, 1902, and he became
the judge of the court thus created. It is nesedless to say that, foi
his successful efforts in that direction, he has the thanks of the
entire community, and that he himself can not be other than con-
scious of the great good he has done and is daily accomplishing.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 89
If nothing else stood to his credit his work in this respect alone
would be enough to commend him to all Christian, thinking men
regardless of sect or party. In truth he is one of the most
deservedly popular men in northeastern Ohio.
Besides being a good lawyer, Judge Callaghan possesses the
judicial temperament, and is far from wanting in breadth of view
and intellectual compassing capacity. Although but thirty-seven
years of age, he is a man of mature judgment, remarkable prudence,
great conservative power, and force of character. His mental
balance and quiet disposition preclude the exhibition of any un-
becoming vehemence in speech or act, and his high sense of justice,
coupled with his keen discernment, bandages tight the eyes of the
goddess, thereby shutting out all encroachments of passion or
special interests in the determination of causes. A just judge
is, indeed, an ideal character, and it ministers to Judge Callaghan's
fame, as well as to the satisfaction of his army of admiring friends,
to find him ever striving for the realization of the ideal — ever
holding high before all the people the balance in which he weighs,
with exactness and nicety, the human nature of the children and
the older litigants, the facts, the law, and the circumstances.
Although new in the judicial office he has given no little
satisfaction by his promptness, fairness, and great firmness. His
reputation, in the sense of fame, has spread considerably, and is
being daily added to by good friends who lose no opportunity to
sound his praises, forgetting, however, in their benevolent enthu-
siasm, that, "Fame has no necessary conjunction with praise; it
may exist without the breath of a word, — it is a recognition of
excellence which must be felt, but need not be spoken. Even the
envious must feel it." And this is true in the case of the excellent
gentleman in question. His qualities do not need a crier, nor does
his success depend on praise. Justice meted. out and duty done
are all an intelligent public requires to fix the status of a faith-
ful public official.
Judge Thomas E. Callaghan was married, August 3, 1898, to
Miss Marie Antoinette Voltz, of Bufifalo, New York.
90 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. ANTHONY CARLIN.
Mr. Anthony Carlin, of the Cathedral parish, Cleveland, Ohio,
is prominent among the leading and notably successful business
men and manufacturers of northern Ohio. Unaided he accom-
plished the great things that stand to his credit today in the
business world. His remarkable success, instead of rendering him
imperious or heartless, has had the opposite effect, and has even
broadened and liberalized the man — that is if such qualities native
to the true Irish gentleman can be heightened.
He was born at Tonduff in the county of Donegal, Ireland,
August 2, 1857. His parents were John and Mary (McGlynchey)
Carlin. In 1872 he emigrated to the United States, selecting the
city of Cleveland as his place of residence. At once he bestirred
himself in the way of selecting a calling, and learned the practical
side of the iron-foundry business. As early as 1881 he embarked
in the moulding business for himself, establishing, with limited
means, what was then known as The Viaduct Foundry. Being
honest, practical, and industrious, he prospered. In 1885, his enter-
prise became The Standard Foundry and Manufacturing Company.
To it he added, in 1897, The Standard Steel Range Company, and
this year (1900) he completed his large plant by compassing
also The Standard Register Company. Besides considerable valu-
able and improved real estate he is the sole owner of all these indus-
tries, which give employment to over four hundred hands. His
manufactured products find a market in nearly every State in the
Union, and his several enterprises call for a large outlay of capital.
October 11, 1892, Mr. Anthony Carlin was married to Miss
Mary Angela Daly, a native of Cleveland, the youngest daughter
of the late Peter and Margaret (McManus) Daly, of the Cathedral
parish, who were among the pioneer Catholics of that city. Their
marriage has been blessed with three children, whose names are:
John Elmer, Clarence James, and Mary Colette Carlin. Mrs.
Carlin was educated in the Ursuline Convent in her native city.
She gives the evidence of her culture not only by her brilliancy
but also by her refined manner, agreeable disposition, and
domestic traits. Few women in Cleveland are better or more
deservedly esteemed and loved than is she, because of her gracious-
ness to all, and her charitable considerateness of those conditions
MR. AND MRS, ANTHONY CARLIN.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 91
and situations which, as lights and shades, serve to set forth the
personality and quahties of others. The Hon. Mrs. Norton had
Mrs. Carlin's prototype in mind when she wrote :
"And the lady dreamed
Of succor to the helpless, and oif deeds
Pious and merciful, whose beauty breeds
Good deeds in others, copying what is done,
And ending all by earnest thought begun."
Mrs. Elizabeth Browning, with equal fitness and generous
truthfulness might be quoted in point as follows :
"Her air had a meaning, her movements a grace;
You turned from the fairest to gaze on her face;
And when you had once seen her forehead and mouth.
You saw as distinctly her soul and her truth."
Some of the personal characteristics of Mr. Anthony Carlin are
honesty and directness of speech and act, simplicity of manner,
kindness and generosity, and a marked respect for the convictions
and opinions of others. As well because of his own tolerant nature
as because his experience attests the fact, he is proud to be able to
state that his Catholicity, though well known, has never been a
hindrance to him in his business, but that, on the contrary, it has
always been a great aid. Naturally honest, his religion imparts to
that virtue a supernatural character, and it at the same time enables
him to have the credit of it even among non-Catholics. He there-
fore enjoys a twofold advantage, the reflex effect of the virtue on
himself, and the direct effect which it has in the way of his reputa-
tion in business. He therefore concludes that no Catholic business
man in this day and country need fear to suffer in trade because
of his faith. If he suffers loss it will not be because he is known to
be a practical and consistent Catholic.
These thoughts are Mr. Carlin's, casually expressed, and they
imply more than the reader may gather at first glance. They hint
that the man who conceives them must necessarily be an observer
of both men and situations. He must have a clear, fair, logical
mind. Fortunately Mr. Carlin is of just such mental make-up. He
has succeeded in business more because he is a thinker than be-
cause of his muscle, or his practical skill as a mechanic. Through
numerous assistants he personally conducts his large business, a
feat which requires pronounced directive and executive ability.
92 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE VERY REV. ALEXIS CARON.
It is fifty-two years since the late Father Caron was adopted
into the Diocese of Cleveland, 1848-1900; it is twenty-seven years
since he passed to his reward, 1873-1900; and yet there are large
numbers of Catholics in Cleveland, Sandusky, and other places
where he labored, who are mindful of him and who bless him for
Ills great zeal and his many good works. This fact means much
both for the character of that good priest and for the individuals
who have not forgotten him.
Alexis Caron was born, December 8, 1802, at Bilquem, in the
Diocese of Arras, France. His parents, as if inspired, marked him
from the first for the priesthood. From earliest childhood he, too,
took kindly to the notion of the ecclesiastical state, and was docile
and assiduous during the years of his college course. After finish-
ing his humanities in the Petit Seminaire of St. Omer he took up
his theological studies. Joining the religious order now known
as the "Fathers of Mercy," he finished his divinity course and
was ordained priest in 1827.
Father Caron's pastoral career in France may be thus out-
lined: The revolution of 1840 scattered the members of the
religious society to which he belonged, and they sought homes
and fields of labor in various parts of the country. The subject of
this mention continued with the bishop of Arras, who appointed
him curate in a small parish at Flechin in the Canton of Fauquem-
berg. Later he was transferred in like capacity to minister at
Wimille. After over twenty years of labor in his native France,
the opportunity was afiforded him of carrying out his long-
cherished desire of joining the American missions. Accordingly
he ofifered himself and was received into the Diocese of Cleveland
by Bishop Rappe. The date of his arrival was November, 1848.
His record in his new field began with his appointment as
superior of the diocesan seminary. He remained in charge of
that institution until June, 1856, seven and one-half years, when
he was granted a six months' leave of absence to visit his native
land. On his return, January, 1857, he was appointed pastor of
Holy Angels' Church, Sandusky, wli€re he labored during more
than four years. In May, 1861, he went to Painesville to reside
w'
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 93
with Father Coquerelle, who was then pastor. Although assigned
to no regular charge, he volunteered to attend Ashtabula, where
he ministered to the people, 1861-62. He was Administrator of
the diocese during Bishop Rappe's visits to Europe, 1862-67, and
from November, 1869, to August, 1870. He was, for about twenty
years, one of Bishop Rappe's Vicars-General. From 1869 until his
death, December 21, 1873, he resided at Charity Hospital, Cleve-
land, where he acted as chaplain whenever he was able, during his
last illness. His remains are interred in St. John's Cemetery,
Cleveland, where a monument erected by his brother priests marks
his last earthly resting place.
The Very Rev. Alexis Caron was a very zealous, devout, and
prayerful man. His faith was as remarkable as was that of Bishop
Rappe, and his charity, in the sense of love, was quite consuming.
He surely loved his spiritual children as he loved himself, which
was an earnest of his great love for God. While not lacking in
strength of character, he was noted for his gentleness and tender-
ness, and for his great desire to have the youth properly instructed
in the truths of religion and inspired with a love for its Divine
Founder. Those priests who knew him intimately as superior of
St. Mary's Seminary and on the mission, and the laity to whom he
ministered, bear testimony to his good life and deep piety, and to
all those qualities of head and heart which are expected to adorn
the character of the true priest. Plain, prayerful Father Caron
will not soon be forgotten in the Diocese of Cleveland. The sweet
aroma of his saintly life will be wafted from generation to genera-
tion, evidencing the truth of the saying that the just shall be in
evenasting remembrance.
"In life our absent friend is far away;
But death may bring our friend exceeding near,
Show him familiar faces long so dear,
And lead him back in reach of words we say."
94 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. AND MRS. JOHN CARR.
The degree of satisfaction afforded several by having their
parents deemed worthy of biographical mention in this work, is
measurably heightened in the case of the author of this volume
by his enjoying the opportunity and pleasure of recognizing, not
only their career, but also some of the qualities which were
prominent in the character of his progenitors.
The late Mr. John Carr, of Toledo, Ohio, was a native of
the county of Longford, Ireland. His parents were Patrick and
Nancy (Hughes) Carr, who reared a numerous and creditable
family. When he was twenty-one years old he was married, at
Cloonfannon, Leitrim county, to Miss Ann McGuiness, a young
lady reared and educated there. Her parents were Edward and
Nancy (Kinney) McGuiness. She, with a sister and one brother,
comprised the children. The sister having been provided with
her marriage portion, the elder McGuiness was free to divide
his land equally between the remaining daughter and son. He
did so, and thus that daughter's husband, John Carr, became a
county Leitrim farmer.
Mr. and Mrs. John Carr for a time enjoyed moderate
temporal prosperity, and in the natural order they were happily
mated. They reared a family of six, three sons and three
daughters. Li the order of birth they were christened : Bridget,
Catherine, James M., Edward, Michael W., and Annie L. After
the emigration of the family to this country, Bridget became Mrs.
James McPartland, of Toledo, Ohio ; Catherine, Mrs. James
Malloy, of Indianapolis, Indiana; and Annie L., Mrs. Edward J.
Phillips, of Toledo, Ohio. All have passed away except Mrs.
Phillips and the writer.
The "bad times" of 1847-50 in Ireland, occasioned largely by
the failure of the crops, had a maddening effect on the landlords,
thereby rendering the condition of their serfs, the tenantry, cor-
respondingly deplorable. Many thousands were dispossessed of
their land holdings through their inability to pay the rackrents
demanded, and John Carr was among this large army of
unfortunates. In addition, his stone dwelling, erected by himself,
was razed to the ground by the "Crowbar brigade," lest his family
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 95
should later find shelter in it ; and a further evidence of landlord
malice was the feudal ukase that, under pain of eviction, forbade
the undisturbed tenantry to harbor or aid the evicted families. In
consequence more people were without food and shelter in Ireland
during- those years than at any other period of its checkered history
since English domination. American vessels were in the Irish
offings freighted with supplies for the starving and landlord-cursed
people, but the British local authorities delayed or red-taped the
distribution of relief until the highways were strewn with the
carcasses of thousands of men, women, and babes who died from
starvation and exposure, that landlord rapacity might be sated,
and indirect religious proscription gratified.
Confronted with such a sad state of affairs, and tagged, as
were others, as "a mere Irish Catholic," what was John Carr to do!
Husbanding his very scanty means, which were derived in great
part from the sale of what personal belongings remained to him,
he left a modicum to keep the wolf from the cabin door of his
young family, and with the remainder he set out, in company with
his two brothers, Thomas and James, for America. A younger
brother. Captain Michael Carr, had preceded them, and was
engaged in sailing a line of boats out of Toledo, Ohio, on the
Wabash and Erie canal. The Carr brothers, with the exception
of James, who went to Chicago, and yet resides there, joined in the
business and continued it until the Wabash railroad, as a rival
carrier, rendered it unprofitable. Captain Michael Carr died at
Lafayette, Indiana. He was unmarried. Captain Thomas Carr
reared a family and died in Toledo, where also the subject of this
sketch passed to his reward August 23, 1885, when he was
seventy-five years old.
With the first money earned by John Carr in America he
paid the passage to this country of his oldest daughter, Bridget.
This of course was in addition to his providing for those who
remained behind. He soon was able to bring to him his second
oldest daughter, Catherine. It was not, however, until 1861, that
he was able to save money enough to bring out the balance of
the family. Accordingly, June 21, 1861, he had the happiness of
seeing himself surrounded by his wife and six children in Toledo,
where a home was provided, and a kind Providence made ample
96 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
requital for all the sufferings they had endured at the hands of
alien rulers in their native land.
If John Carr showed himself worthy of his trust and responsi-
bility as the head of a family, from which family fortune early
turned away its face, he was more than ably seconded in his efforts
by her, of happy memory, who was his helpmate and the faithful
Christian mother of his children.
"She never found fault with him, never implied
His wrong by her right; and yet men at her side
Grew nobler, girls purer, as through the whole town
The children were gladder that pulled at her gown."
She was a peace-loving, kind, and motherly woman, from
whose eyes was never shut out by darkest cloud the bright star
that both pointed out the way of duty and inspired love and hope.
Her gentle heart was a fountain of wifely and maternal affection
and tenderness. She was never known to speak uncharitably or
even unkindly of a neighbor ; and if this can be said of her touching
the outside world how truly considerate and loving must she have
been to those who were bone of her bone and flesh of her flesh.
A man may respect, honor, and revere his good father, but for
such a woman as Ann (McGuiness) Carr, it is impossible for her
son not to recall with tenderest emotion the picture of her beauti-
ful life, and the aroma of the many virtues which adorned her
character. She was an humble, prayerful, and intensely Catholic
woman. She passed away at her home, in Toledo, July 4, 1877,
when she was sixty-four years old.
John Carr might be said to have been a fairly well educated
man. He was a very interesting conversationalist and a voracious
reader of good books. He delighted in controversial works.
Aside from these "The Primacy of the Apostolic See Vindicated"
was his favorite textbook. Few laymen were his equals in discuss-
ing the groundwork and history of the Catholic Church and its
incontrovertible claims to primacy and Apostolicity. To him,
even in the aspect of a human society, it was the greatest organiza-
tion in the world, while in its spiritual character and mission it was,
indeed, divinely established, guided, and preserved. His devotion
to the Church and his solicitude for everything connected with it
were so marked that he grew impatient when those whom he
regarded as quite incapable essayed an explanation of its doctrine
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 97
It was a favorite aphorism with him to repeat, if not verba-
tim, at least in substance, that, "The nearer a person attains to
immunity from passion, the greater is his or her power for good."
This he would follow with its corollary that, "Anger is as weak as
grief, since both mean that we have been wounded and have suc-
cumbed." The practice of a certain local priest to invite non-
Catholics to lecture on moral and semi-religious topics before his
congregation always met with Mr. Carr's disfavor, if not his
positive opposition. He held that, "What a man does not know
and practice he can not teach effectively to others." Because of
such things he was often angry in the sense of being indignant,
but never was his anger a soul distemper. He was neither vindic-
tive, nor given to defense of himself. On the contrary, his nature
was unselfish, genial, and social, and it was his custom to salute
everyone, even in the streets.
John Carr was a charitable, patriotic, manly man. He was
very handsome; and the regret is that his portrait can not be
presented here, because, owing to his notion of modesty, he always
refused to sit for a picture.
MR. CHARLES D. CARROLL.
The capable and painstaking superintendent of the Catholic
cemeteries, of Cleveland, Ohio, is very appropriately mentioned
here in the person of Mr. Charles D. Carroll. For nearly twenty
years he has been in charge of Catholic burial-places in Cleveland.
He has always proved himself a valuable lieutenant to the Rev.
Chancellor George F. Houck, who has been the efficient manager
of St. John's and St. Joseph's cemeteries since 1878, and of Calvary
cemetery since 1893. Through the directive and systematizing
ability of Father Houck, and Mr. Carroll's faithful discharge of
his duties as superintendent, these cities of the dead have been
made places noted for orderly arrangement, system, and beauty.
They are veritable parks, beautifully laid out, and studded with
monuments whereon the imagination fancies angel fingers as hav-
ing written the epitaphs of the departed.
The subject of this sketch is the second oldest of seven
children born to Thomas and Annie (Denine) Carroll, at Lowell,
98 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Massachusetts. His natal day was April 15, 1840. He receive^
an excellent education at Cambridge, and was intellectually abreas
of his cousin, the late Rev. Frank A. Quinn, of Fall River, Massa
chusetts,and of his brother, the Rev.W. H.Carroll, S. J., of George
town; D. C. He subsequently became a silk hat manufacturei
a business which he followed in St. Louis, Missouri, and Chicago
Illinois. In 1S72 he removed to Cleveland, Ohio, where he con
tinued in his line of trade until called to his present position.
In 1874, at East Cambridge, Massachusetts, he was unitei
in marriage to Miss Mary Hawkes, a young lady of culture an(
good family. Returning to Cleveland their union was blessed, ii
later years, with a family of four, three boys and one girl. Th'
boys, enjoying the advantages of excellent home training and goo(
education, have grown up a credit to their parents. Charles F
has chosen law as his profession ; William K. is a dental surgeon
Thomas J. is engaged in commercial pursuits ; and Miss Helei
Antoinette is a teacher in the high school, at Conneaut, Ohio
Miss Carroll is a capable instructor who combines with intellectua
ability and great conscientiousness the quality of being able t(
govern well, and at the same time retain the respect and love o
her pupils.
Mrs. Carroll is a lady of refinement, practical good sense
and marked domestic qualities. In the rearing of their childrei
she has not only been an aid to her husband in the work o
developing their character, but in many respects also her influence
and motherly sway have been most potent in smoothing the littL
asperities and rounding off those angularities which are insepara
ble from the early life of all children. By her happy methods an<
knowledge of human nature she has mildly restrained them, an(
at the same time impressed them with both the duty and becoming
ness of obedience, and the necessity of respect for superiors am
reverence for rehgion. The results of her teaching and exanipl
are happily evidenced in their lives.
Superintendent Carroll is a gentleman of excellent charactei
many attainments, unquestioned integrity, and marked faithful
ness. He brings to the discharge of the duties of his responsibl
position an equipment which, from the beginning, assured hi
signal success. Being agreeable, prompt, and reliable, he ha
MR. AND MRS. DAVID J. CHAMPION.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 99
given satisfaction not only to the manager of the cemeteries, the
Rev. Father Houck, and to the several pastors, but also to those
whom bereavement has brought into business relations with him.
This close and very satisfactory relationship has continued since
the day he became superintendent, and it bids fair to continue so
long as his health and strength will enable him to fill his position,
which it is hoped will be for many more years. That position
adds to Mr. Carroll's native thoughtfulness, renders tender his
sympathies, and makes more manifest his religious fervor. With
the poet he can truly say:
"Though a veil of shadow hangs between
The hidden life and what we see and hear.
Let us revere the power of the unseen,
And know a world of mystery is near."
MR. DAVID J. CHAMPION.
The subject of this sketch is of such consequence as a prom-
inent Catholic of Cleveland, and as an extensive manufacturer, he
being the president of The Champion Rivet Company, that not
only himself, but also his ancestors, deserve mention in this work.
Since the days of Cromwell of unsavory memory, Mr. David
J. Champion's ancestors on his father's side stood high in the
county of Tipperary, Ireland. They early became connected with
the Established Church of England in Ireland, and were in great
favor with the ruling class and the nobility. His grandfather was
an educated man who for years expounded the new catechism of
King Henry and Cranmer to his Sunday school class. By teach-
ing others he taught himself also, for he found himself investigat-
ing theological and historical questions. He kept on delving and
thinking until by the force of his logic, aided by God's grace, he
abandoned the heresy of the Established Church of England, and
with his wife and their eight children was baptized into the
Catholic Church.
Grandfather Champion fully realized his position and the
consequences it entailed. It was temporal success on the one hand,
or eternal loss on the other. He nobly sacrificed all his worldly
prospects and adhered to the truth. He was the agent of one of
100 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
the leading landlords, and had the use of twenty acres of land, ren
free. He was entitled to carry firearms, which was a high privileg
in that day. He stood well with the governing and influentia
class; but lo! as soon as he forsook the new doctrine by becominj
a Catholic he lost all temporal and social favor. He was dispos
sessed of his land, was deprived of the privilege to bear arms, am
was, moreover, disfranchised and practically expatriated. He hai
to begin life anew in his fifty-fifth year, and to do this he emigrate
with his family to the United States, locating at Springfielc
Massachusetts.
One of Grandfather Champion's sons, Thomas by name, wa
married at Springfield, Massachusetts, to Miss Bridget Tobir
They removed to Cleveland, in 1847, and took their place amonj
the pioneer Catholics of that city who then attended the firs
Catholic Church there, old St. Mary's on the "Flats." Th
youngest of five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Champio:
is Mr. David J. Champion, who is here mentioned as a fittini
representative of the family.
He was born April 27, 1861, and is now in the vigor of hi
manhood. He was educated in the Cathedral schools, and in th
Cleveland Spencerian College, where he compassed the commei
cial course, including phonetic writing, in which he excelled. H
connected himself with the Telegraph Supply Company, and late
with the engineering department of the Lake Shore and Michiga
Southern Railroad. Finally he entered the employ of the Clevc
land Rolling Mill Company, which company he served for ove
nineteen years both in the office and as traveling representativt
In April, 189.5, he organized the Champion Rivet Compan}
associating with him Mr. Wilson B. Chisholm and Mr. E. S. Pagt
Mr. Page has since withdrawn, and Mr. Champion and Mi
Chisholm are the sole owners of the business. The Champio
Rivet Company manufactures all kinds of rivets and is the onl
enterprise of its kind in the United States. It bids fair to ran
among the most prosperous business ventures of the day.
Mr. David J. Champion was married. May 15, 1888, in S
John's Cathedral, Cleveland, by Mgr. Thorpe, to Miss Rose, th
second oldest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Peter Daly. Lik
himself she is a native of Cleveland, and like him, too, she ws
baptized in the Cathedral, and there also made her first Hoi
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 101
Communion. Mrs. Champion was educated in the Ursuline
Convent in her native city, where she took the degree of Bachelor
of Arts. Her training and culture, backed by good sense, have
served to substitute the practical for the theoretical in her life. She
is charmingly domestic, finding in her home duties and surround-
ings that sweetness and satisfaction which can be found nowhere
else. To Mr. and Mrs. Champion have been born four children :
David Joseph, Rose Ethel, Eleanor Marie, and Thomas Pierre.
The characteristics of Mr. David J. Champion are such as to
commend him to the appreciative. He is plain, but practical, and
is more cautious than venturesome. Reliable, steady, and conser-
vative, he exhibits those qualities which are solid and lasting and
which win success independent of "good fortune." Sound business
principles faithfully adhered to and carried out appeal to his
judgment as far outranking the whims of so-called "good luck."
He believes that nothing can be accomplished without labor, and
that money taken and not earned can not be honestly retained.
In other words, he holds to the principle that full measure and
good value must be given to both do and retain business. This
is honesty in tangibilities. In the higher sense he is equally honest
and loyal. With him the ties of home, of friendship, and all the
moral and social obligations hold with such force of duty and con-
viction that neither opposition nor temptation can disturb them.
The conscientiousness and decision of character which ennobled
the life of his grandfather, and which blessed his father with a
contented spirit, appear to be reflected in the subject of this
personal mention.
THE REV. CHARLES VINCENT CHEVRAUX.
The pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, Toledo,
Ohio, the Rev. Charles Vincent Chevraux, was born in the little
hamlet of Mandeure, in the eastern part of France, January 22,
1848. His parents, August and Justine (Poinsot) Chevraux,
emigrated with their family to the United States, in 1854, and
settled near Louisville, in Stark county, Ohio. It was there, in
his sixth year, that the lad Chevraux began his American citizen-
ship, and it was there also that he subsequently laid the educational
foundation for his career as a priest of the Diocese of Cleveland.
102 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
The local schools afforded him his primary training. Hi
later continued his advanced studies in Louisville College, fron
which he graduated in the classics in 1870. In September of tha
year he was received into St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleve
land, where he pursued his philosophical and divinity course;
during four years. At the close of the term of 1874 he was
declared ready for ordination by the director of the seminary
Bishop Gilmour was then sojourning at St. Mary's Academy
Notre Dame, Indiana, where he was convalescing from a seriou;
illness. The young seminarist journeyed thither and was ordained
priest by that prelate in the chapel of the Academy, August 8
1874.
Full of zeal and anxious for hard work he was at once commis-
sioned as assistant priest at St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland. He
found there during ten and one-half years a wide field for the
exercise of his abilities. During those years he was recognized a;
a preacher of great force and eloquence, and as a chanter of the
public offices of the Church than whom there have been few more
masterly and soulful in the diocese. His voice has been pro-
nounced a baritone by some, but it might be more properly callec
a robust tenor, compact and clear, which, once heard in chanting
the preface, is never forgotten by those not deficient in the musica
sense. During his long stay at the Cathedral thousands fiockec
to hear him sing, not merely through curiosity, but rather to enjo}
the devotional effects of his almost inspired vocalization.
January 7, 1885, he was appointed pastor of St. Mary's
Church, Norwalk, Ohio. The parish needed a new church anc
Father Chevraux set about the work of erecting one at once. Hi
accomplished his task and the result is that the present St. Mary':
of that city takes high rank among the most beautiful edifices in thi
diocese. It cost $33,000 to complete it, but its beauty of architec
ture and finish are worth much more than that sum. When he lef
Norwalk, September 16, 1897, to assume the duties of pastor o
St. Ann's Church, Fremont, Ohio, his departure was a sore tria
not only for the people of St. Mary's, but also for the citizens o
Norwalk, who respected and loved him more than any other rhai
of any denomination who ever labored among the Christian peopli
of that city.
"Father Chevraux," says the Norwalk, Ohio, Press, o
-^j^ , *> THE REV. CHARLES V. CHEVRAUX. ^"Vm^
^'-S'^ -s^-^Vsir** "^V "^^-^^ii?
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 103
September 17, 1897, "is a man of high culture and broad ideas. He
is an untiring worker to whom is due the growth and strength of
St. Mary's congregation. In the pulpit he impresses his hearers
with his eloquence, ability, and sincerity; and outside the church he
has won the respect and admiration of all classes by his genial and
sympathetic disposition. We can say without exaggeration that
Norwalk has never had a clergyman who was more popular both
within and without his congregation. Father Chevraux' departure
from this city will be personally regretted by all our citizens."
"The Rev. Chas. V. Chevraux, of Norwalk, Ohio," says The
Toledo Bee, "sang solemn high Mass at St. Francis de Sales' Church
Wednesday morning. Father Chevraux is considered to be
and undoubtedly is the most celebrated vocalist in the American
priesthood, and the people of St. Francis de Sales' parish
were delighted to have an opportunity of hearing him. A voice
of superb 'timbre/ a clear, powerful baritone of such volume
that his notes could be often heard even outside the church, the
lofty vaulted ceiling seemed alive with charming music. A cul-
tured auditor remarked : 'Thei'e ! in the sanctuary for once
Madame Machen has found her match in church music' Come
again, noble-voiced Monsieur, and give our thousand cultured
Toledo people due notice of your coming!"
At Fremont Father Chevraux devoted himself to the general
advancement of St. Ann's parish, the improvement of the schools,
and the giving of new life to the church choir. He later adopted
the question-box method of instruction, which proved very popular
and beneficial. Catholics and non-Cathohcs had their questions
answered from the pulpit, and an unusual light began to shine for
all, through which many found their way back to the right path,
and all experienced the satisfaction of having either their faith
strengthened or their doubts removed. From Fremont, November
37, 1900, Father Chevraux was advanced to his present important
charge, the Church of the Immaculate Conception, in Toledo. His
departure, just as it was in Norwalk, was a source of regret to all
the people, particularly to his beloved parishioners of St. Ann's.
The Rev. Charles Vincent Chevraux is a man of modest
bearing, kindly disposition, earnestness and great zeal in the per-
formance of his duties. Descended of Celtic stock, he might be
expected to be sanguine in temperament. On the contrary he is
rather inclined to be phlegmatic — just enough to be self-possessed
and resolute beyond the power of obstacles or opposition to thwart
104 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
or change him. His judgment directs him aright, and then he
moves forward not impulsively but steadily and constantly. The
good to be accomplished is the inspiration of his povv^ers. He
labors with equal efifectiveness in the temporal as in the spiritual.
He consei-ves all the interests of his people, and is always found to
l)e the same sort of man, faithful, loyal — the true shepherd of his
flock.
THE REV. JAMES CHRISTOPHORY.
Since this work was ready for the press the Rev. James
Christophory passed to his reward, August 31, 1902, leaving foot-
prints that tell of his zeal, humility, obedience, and piety. His
life was not exactly an open book, but to such as could interpret
his manner and character was revealed a picture both complete
and inviting. The lights and shades were strong, and clearly
outlined his numerous prominent qualities.
His diocesan record and some characteristics of the late pastor
of the Church of St. Boniface, Oak Harbor, Ottawa county, Ohio,
might be presented as follows :
He entered St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland, in
the autumn of 1873, and was ordained priest by Bishop Gilmour
June 15, 1878. From July 1, 1878, until June 15, 1881, he was
in charge of St. Michael's Church, North Ridge, Defiance county,
Ohio, with Mud Creek as a mission. He secured subscriptions to
the amount of $3,000 to build the church at North Ridge, and
established the Catholic school there. He bought the altar, the
pews and bells at Mud Creek, after having paid the debts on the
church.
He was pastor of St. Patrick's Church, St. Patrick's Settle-
ment, Seneca county, from June, 1881, until September, 1887.
While there he began the erection of the mission church at
Liberty, purchased the pipe organ, and had the present slate roof
put on the church at St. Patrick's Settlement. From September,
1887, until January 1, 1888, he was in charge of the Church of
St. Francis Xavier, at Medina, having in addition four missions to
attend to. He furnished the parish church and pastoral residence,
and paid some of the old debts on the mission church at Wads-
IW/'/
■^/•Ai'- v«
/'«fe'^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 105
worth. He resigned as pastor of Medina, and during the succeed-
ing eight months was curate at St. Peter's Church, Cleveland.
By permission of the Diocesan Authority, and at the urgent
request of Bishop Fink, of Leavenworth Kansas, he faithfully
labored in that diocese from August, 1888, until January 1, 1891.
His knowledge of both theFrench and German languages rendered
his services most valuable to Bishop Fink. At Greenleaf, a place of
only eighteen poor Catholic families, he built and paid for a church
that cost $4,000. At the close of his labors in Kansas he was
given leave of absence for eight months to recruit his health in
Europe. Returning to his own diocese, August, 1892, he spent
four months as assistant priest at St. Stephen's Church, Cleveland.
December 27, 1892, he was appointed to his late position, that
of pastor of the Church of St. Boniface, Oak Harbor, Ottawa
count}', with the mission at Toussaint also in his charge until
1895. He always improved the church property wherever he was
stationed.
The above facts and general record would indicate a laborious
and useful career, in which zeal is coupled with marked obedience.
Father Christophory never needed an argument to make him
conscious of the fact that wherever he was sent the object in view
was that he might do the work of the Master among the people.
Hence he was content to labor in any part of the Lord's Vine-
yard to which he was appointed, and he did so with a good will
and to the best of his ability.
The ancestors of Rev. James Christophory were originally
Italians. His grandparents on his mother's side spoke only the
language of Italy, and spelled the family name after the old fashion,
Cristofori. His parents were Michael and Mary (Boniface)
Christophory. He was born to them in the village of Merl, near
Luxemburg, April, (Good Friday), 1848. From boyhood he had
the intention of becoming a priest. His preparatory training com-
pleted, he entered the Athenaeum, at Luxemburg, where he studied
seven years and graduated in the classics. He then spent two
years in the military academy, after which he was appointed
lieutenant in the Belgian army and saw active service during the
year 1870-71. He emigrated to the United States, in 1873, and
began his divinity studies and career in the Diocese of Cleveland.
106 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JAMES D. CLARY.
A plain business or professional man quietly pursuing tV
even tenor of his way is often likened to the buried granite bloc
that when quarried takes on the highest polish. This figure hole
in the case of the gentleman selected as the subject of this mentioi
for in a sense he has been buried from public view through h
active and confining calling, but when out of his business hauni
his social and higher qualities are found to be of the sterling kin(
Mr. James D. Clary was born in the county of Clare, Irelanc
March 3, 1842. When a mere boy he came with his parents t
this country, and, from 1850 to 1861, he attended school in Nc
York State, in Duchess county, on the Hudson. In 1861, h
attended the High School at Painesville, Ohio, and, in 1865, h
graduated in the commercial course from the Eastern Nation;
Business College, at Poughkeepsie, New York. He became
permanent resident of Cleveland in that year, and accepted th
position of bookkeeper for Mr. Morrison Foster, whose busines;
after various changes, became what is now The Bourne-Fulle
Company of that city, a concern that does a large wholesale jot
bing trade in iron and steel.
Mr. Clary is the only member of the original firm remaining
He early acquired an interest in the business, and, on the incoi
poration of the company, was made one of its directors and also it
secretary and treasurer. He is at present one of the board c
directors and also treasurer. Ele has a thorough knowledge c
the business of the company, is master of his department, an'
brings to the discharge of his duties a willingness and capacit
which his associates have not been slow to gratefully recognize an
appreciate.*
In 1869, the 12th day of October, as the matrimonial record
of St. John's Cathedral will show, Mr. James D. Clary was unite'
in marriage to Miss Julia Norton, of Cleveland; the late Fathe
Gallagher performed the ceremony. Mrs. Clary, like her husband
is a native of Ireland, having been born in the very garden of tha
•Since this work has been in press Mr. Clary retired from active business, after
prosperous and laborious career of over thirty-five years.
i
\ III III
i;,i ,:iilil
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 107
country, the county Tipperary. To Mr. and Mrs. Clary have been
born several children, only two of whom, a daughter and a son, are
living. The daughter is now Mrs. J. W. Moran, of Cleveland, and
the son, Mr. John F. Clary, is connected with The Bourne-Fuller
Company.
Mr. James D. Clary has been, with the exception of a few
months, a member of the Cathedral parish since 1865, and for
years has been one of the councilmen of the congregation. He is
quiet and unassuming, and takes a deep interest in the Catholic
religion and the education which it fosters. Being a man of
principle, he is mindful of his native land and links it with his
religion. He never obtrudes either, but, as becomes a true
American, he has no apology to offer for exercising his freedom of
conscience or his right to his opinion, and he demands none of
others. Back of his calmness and quiet bearing — just as the deep
river is beneath the smooth surface — are a steadfastness and
strength of character not met with every day. One might as well
attempt to push a hill over as to change plain James D. Clary from
his convictions and what conscience tells him is right.
THE REV. FATHERS CONLAN AND DILLON.
The late Very Rev. James Conlan, V. G., and the Rev. John
Dillon, pioneer priests in northern Ohio, were both natives of the
county of Leitrim, Ireland. The former was born in the town of
Mohill, and the latter at a place called Drumcunny. Father Con-
lan's birthday was August 22, 1801, and Father Dillon's was in the
year 1807. They were both ordained on the same day, September
20, 1834, at Cincinnati, Ohio, by Bishop Purcell, and both were
destined to labor later in the See city of the Diocese of Cleveland.
Immediately after his ordination Father James Conlan was
appointed by Bishop Purcell to be the assistant to the Rev. James
Reid, pastor of St. Martin's Church, in Brown county, Ohio. After
a few months he was transferred to become pastor of the church at
Steubenville, whence he attended to the spiritual needs of the
scattered Catholics in the adjoining counties. A journey of fifty
or more miles to attend the sick or to say Mass was among the
ordinary occurrences of his missionary life. Neither the season,
the distance, nor any degree of hardship militated against the
108 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
cheerfulness and promptness with which it was his wont to respon(
to every call for priestly aid. He resided at Steubenville from 183'
till 1842, when he removed to the more central and thickly popu
lated section at St. Paul's, near the present site of the village o
Dungannon, in Columbiana county.
In October, 1849, two years after the erection of the Diocesi
of Cleveland, Bishop Rappe called him to the city of Cleveland
During four years he lived with the bishop and ministered at thi
Cathedral. For years he was Vicar-General of the diocese, and wa:
always a staunch advocate of the virtue of sobriety. November
1853, he was appointed the first resident pastor of St. Patrick';
Church, in that city, which charge he held until his death, in 1875
He enlarged and improved the old church, built two school build
ings, and the present splendid church, erected in memory of th<
patron saint of Ireland, was undertaken and placed under roof b}
him. During the more than twenty-two years of his pastorate ir
St. Patrick's he was incessant in his labors touching both spiritua
and temporal things. The people caught the inspiration of hi:
laborious and truly Christian life, and, as a consequence, his yean
were blessed with progress and piety, both for his parish and foi
himself. What he lacked in eloquence he more than compensatec
for by his wisdom and his dove-like gentleness.
He died at St. Vincent's Hospital, Cleveland, March 5, 1875
when his age was seventy-three years, six months, and fourteei
days. The sad event was a great shock to the thousands who lovec
him for his great zeal and beauty of soul, and who respected anc
revered him as well for his many merits as for his thorough eccle
siastical spirit. He was kind, gentle, patient, forbearing, charitable
and truly fatherly in everything. Merited praise and holy praye:
are yet associated with his name by the present generation wh«
have learned of him through parents and friends.
The Rev. John Dillon labored in Cincinnati and vicinity fron
liis ordination, in 1834, till early in 1835, when he was transferre(
to Cleveland by Bishop Purcell. He organized the first congrega
tion in that city. A few of the old residents yet remain who. recal
the "astonishing occurrences" of Father Dillon's saying Mass ii
what was then well known as "Judge Underbill's office," a smal
room on Spring street; next on "Main Street Hill," oppositi
f.
1
^4^ ^.^^f" .^;^
I-N NORTHERN OHIO. 109
Union Lane; then again on Prospect street in "Farmer's Hall," in
the Mechanics' Block, which later became the "Prospect House."
Father Dillon took up a subscription for the erection of the
first Catholic church in Cleveland, known after his day as "Old
St. Mary's on the Flats," but he had not the happiness to begin its
construction. He died October 16, 1836, as the first resident priest
of the "Forest City," in the third year of his sacerdotal career.
It is to be regretted that there is no picture or likeness of him
extant. In his last illness he was attended by Father Badin, the
first priest ordained in the United States. He was beloved by the
citizens of Cleveland, irrespective of creed, and his life and record,
even though short, were potent in allaying the asperities and sec-
tarian animosities which were the plague and the bane of those
early days.
Not only in his acts of devotion and in the administration of
the sacraments did his great piety evince itself, it even gave tone
and sweet flavor to his eloquence. His zeal for religion and the
salvation of mankind was not limited by his waning physical
strength; it went beyond this, for while on his death-bed this
saintly young Levite was prayerfully mindful of those whose
spiritual interests were entrusted to his care.
Having passed to his reward in his twenty-seventh year, his
mortal remains were interred in the "Old Erie Street Cemetery,"
for at that time there was no Catholic burial place in Cleveland.
But on the completion of St. John's Cathedral, in 1852, Father
Dillon's body was transferred there and entombed in one of the
vaults beneath the main altar. Thence, again, on the death of
his beloved friend and classmate, the Very Rev. James Conlan,
March, 1875, they were interred in the same casket with his, and
now rest under a monument erected to the memory of both
in St. John's Cemetery, Cleveland. It was the dying request
of Father Conlan that the remains of his dear friend. Father Dillon,
be entombed with his.
Although many years were vouchsafed to the one and but
comparatively few to the other, they yet were actuated by a com-
mon consuming zeal, a deep piety, and a gentleness of spirit so
inviting and tender as to render their memory a cherished inheri-
tance and a blessing in the Diocese of Cleveland and northern
Ohio.
110 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. THOMAS F. CONLON.
The subject of this biography is the Rev. Thomas F. Conlon
assistant priest at St. Mary's Church, Tiffin, Ohio.* He was bon
at Ashtabula, Ohio, November 10, 1869. His parents are Fehj
and Ann (McDermott) Conlon, natives of Ireland. They ye
reside at Ashtabula. With the proverbial concern of Irish parent;
for the education of their children, which concern is heightenec
touching those of them that manifest a desire to study for th(
priesthood, Felix and Ann Conlon did what they could for thi
intellectual advancement of their son Thomas. Their limitec
means alone stood in the way of their doing greater things fo:
him.
Appreciating both the situation and the efiforts of his parents
and at the same time evidencing his vocation and great determina
tion, Thomas F. Conlon, when a youth, served for five years in thi
capacity of a dry goods clerk in his native city, in order to aid ii
paying his way through college. He spent six years in Assumptioi
College, Sandwich, Canada, a house of learning conducted by thi
Basilian Fathers, and was prominent in the graduating class. H-
made his philosophical and theological studies partly in tha
institution and partly in St. Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, Mary
land, where he was ordained for the Diocese of Cleveland by Hi
Eminence, Cardinal Gibbons, December 17, 1898.
Returning to his native state and diocese, he was appoints
assistant priest at St. Joseph's (German) Church, Tiffin. H
served the congregation during five months, his zeal, ability an^
engaging manners endearing him to all the people. The Englis'
speaking congregation of that city being much in need of hi
services, Bishop Horstmann transferred him to St. Mary's, where
in the capacity of assistant to the Venerable Father Healy, h
labored most faithfully.
The difference between a young priest and an old one i
simply that of years and experience and, possibly, what is implie
by such. It is most becoming, therefore, in the youthful clerg]
no matter how great their abilities, to be obedient to, and show th
'Since this work was ready for the press Father Conlon was appointed, June 30, 190
to Girard. This was revoked and he was made pastor ol the Church of the Immaculal
Conception, Grafton, July 14, 1901; and, June 14, 1902, pastor of St. Paul's Church, Saler
r.
\\
■^^■- ^i THE REV. THOMAS F CONLON
■v ■\Cf >^ z'*^- '^\, ''^'^•'
IN NORTHERN OHIO. Ill,
utmost respect for, their ecclesiastical superiors. Father Conlon is
a shining example of this beautiful spirit. Its good effects are both
direct and reflex. It gladdens and mellows the hearts of those
exercising the governing authority. By emphasizing the oneness
of that authority it serves to unify both diocese and congregation,
while at the same time it presents the young Levite before the
people in the best possible light.
The young priest, in obedience to a native and laudable am-
bition, would be Chief in wider field, solely for the good he would
thereby hope to accomplish ; and yet, he would decline the too soon
r61e of leader through a patient, prayerful biding of his time. He
would, and would not, — all depending on the work to be done,
and the wisdom directing ; and with duty and obedience balancing
ambition and zeal, he oft might find himself soliloquizing thus :
"When I reflect how Httle I have done,
And add to that how little I have seen.
Then, furthermore, how little I have won
Of joy, or good, how little known or been,
I long for other life more full, more keen.
And yearn to change with such as well have run;
Yet reason mocks me, — nay, the soul, I ween,
Granted her choice would dare to change with none."
It is in just such light that the young clergyman here men-
tioned continues in the strict performance of his priestly duties.
His splendid talents not only attract general attention, but
produce the best results for religion. Recovering from the effects
of long years of study, he utilizes his moderate physical strength
and his more than ordinary mental powers in doing the work of
the Master. This work he does well in the pulpit; well in the
public service on the altar; doubtless well in the confessional, where
God alone is the judge; and well where all can see it, in the
management of temporalities. Father Conlon ranks high among
the younger native clergy of the diocese. The future is full of
promise for him. This promise is not to the ear — empty, but is
predicated on his talents and his good will. It is such as he who
are the hope of the Church of the future. It is from the lives,
ability, and bright example of such that the laity will receive both
encouragement and inspiration.
112 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. CORNELIUS CRONIN.
One of the best known and highly respected CathoHc cit:
zens and business men of East Liverpool, Ohio, is Mr. Corneliu
Cronin. He is a member of St. Aloysius', the only Catholi
Church in his adopted city, and in business he is secretary ani
treasurer of The Standard Pottery Company, which is one of th
largest of the many pottery plants in East Liverpool. He is prac
tical in the business, having passed from the workman's bene!
to the management of the financial department of his company.
He was born near the city of Cork, Ireland, December 12
1861. When eighteen months old he, with the other member
of the family, was taken by his parents, John and Johanna (Hickey
Cronin, to this country. The family pitched their tent at Eas
Liverpool, in 1863, and have since been a fixture there. The elde
Cronin connected himself with the Cleveland and Pittsburg Rail
road. He died in 1876. His wife survives him and is now ii
her sixty-sixth year. Her declining years are gladdened by th
excellent record, social standing, and business prosperity of he
children.
To the matrimonial union of John and Johanna (Hickey
Cronin were born six children. Honora is the wife of Mr. D. E
McNicol, of East Liverpool ; Daniel P. is a resident of Salem
Ohio; Cornelius is the subject of this sketch and the last bori
to them in Ireland ; Johanna passed away in 1896 ; Ellen is Mn
Luthinger; and Mary, the youngest, also passed to her reward ii
1889.
Mr. Cornehus Cronin was married August 31, 1886, to Mis
Mary A. Stephens, who was born in East Liverpool, in 1863. He
family is well connected and is of importance in Columbian
county, Ohio. Her education was of the proper kind, looking b
domestic afifairs and to the discharge of those duties which de
volve on a Christian wife and mother. To Mr. and Mrs. Coi
nelius Cronin has been born a family of six. The first born wa
christened John. He was claimed by the angels when he wa
a babe of seven months. The other five are: Daniel M., John S
William Kress, Cornelius, and Harold who is the baby. Noth
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 113
ing can be said of the qualities of the individual members of a
family so young, but it can be assumed that, owing to the appre-
ciation and affluence of their parents, no advantage for educa-
tion, social position, .or business will be denied them.
Mr. Cronin is a man who takes a broad, practical view of
things. He does not underestimate the value of education, or of
those agencies that make for the formation of character. His judg-
ment is that while money is power and is always a great conveni-
ence, yet it is not the highest good, not even when rightly used.
At best it is but an agent, a means that may not always be prop-
erly and wisely employed. He would place conscience, intellect,
and character highest, and to illuminate, brighten, and develop
these he would bend his energies and expend his wealth.
Convictions and sentiments such as these are the index to his
own character and scope of mind. His temperament disposes
him to thoughtfulness and to not a little philosophizing. He
thinks much but speaks seldom. As might be expected he is of
a modest and retiring disposition, is anything but impetuous, and
he crowns his numerous good cjualities by trying to be just in
his estimates of, and in his dealings with, his fellow men. With
limited education outside of his particular vocation it is most cred-
itable to him to have attained to such excellence of judgment,
height of character and affluence. It is also to his credit that at
no time has he been lacking in devotion to the Catholic Church.
The setting forth of these facts and deductions may mean
little to the thoughtless and the unambitious, but to those who
observe and weigh matters they mean much in the lesson which
they teach and in the inspiration which they afiford to those who
have placed their mark high upon the wall of business success and
social and religious standing. Especially do these considerations
appeal to the young and to those who have the desire to get along
in the world ; for they, too, may reasonably conclude that what
some have accomplished is not in the way of the impossible for
them.
114 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JAMES A. DAILEY.
Mr. James A. Dailey, of St. Francis de Sales' parish, Tolec
Ohio, was born in the city of Dunkirk, New York, February '.
1856. His father was James Dailey, who died there April 27, 18!
The maiden name of his mother was Hannah Hallanan. She a]
died in Dunkirk, January 1, 1885. Both were natives of Irelai
Young Dailey was trained both secularly and religiously in t
parochial schools of his native city. Completing his preparatc
education, he entered the Dunkirk Academy, from which
graduated in the commercial course, in 1873. Being then oi
seventeen years of age it was much to^ his credit that he v,
esteemed as quite competent in the science of accounts.
Immediately following his graduation he removed to Tole
to take the position of assistant cashier in the Lake Shore a
Michigan Southern Railway offices in that city. He held t\
important position until 1895, a period of over twenty years, wh
he was elected supreme secretary of the Catholic Knights of Oh
The duties of that office required his undivided attention a
time, and in order to the full and satisfactory discharge of 1
obligations as such officer, he resigned his position with t
railway company. Enjoying a wide personal acquaintance
Toledo, and having the confidence of the community, his frier
induced him, since he had to open up an office, to conduct throu
assistants the business of real estate and general insurance al
He did so, and he yet continues in it as his regular calling.
Mr. Dailey was married February 8, 1882, in his native ci
Dunkirk, to Miss Mary Toomey, also of that city, a most excell(
lady whom he had known from childhood. They have since mj
the city of Toledo their permanent home, where eight childi
have been born to them, two of whom have passed away. The
living are : Mary Florence, Margaret Teresa, Grace Cecelia, He
Anastasia, Regena Loyola, and one son, who is named Paul. 'M
Dailey is a noted organizer of Catholic societies. She is '
president and also the spirit and life of the local Ladies' Cathc
Benevolent Association, and was its delegate to the National O
vention at Asbury Park, in 1899, and at Detroit, in 1901. She '
two sisters who are nuns.
The death of their little son Joseph, May 21, 1899, on the v
MR. AND MRS. JAMES A. DAIL.BY.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 115
day he was to have made his first Holy Communion, was the sorest
trial of the family; but since on the day preceding he made that
Communion, for which he was so well prepared, and to which he
looked forward so longingly, he must have, in the language of his
pastor, witnessed greater things than would have greeted his
mortal eyes had he been spared to be present with his class in the
church. He was the best beloved boy in St. Francis' school,
inheriting the temperament and traits of his father, whose many
natural and supernatural virtues mark him as a typical Catholic
father and gentleman.
James A. Dailey is intensely Catholic. During all his life he
has been devoted to the furtherance of Catholic interests, notably
in the line of education. On this account he was beloved by the
late Rev. Dr. P. F. Quigley, pastor of St. Francis de Sales' Church,
Toledo. He was for years, and continued as such until the death
of that priest, his confident and bosom friend. He served ten years
as a member of the councilmanic board of the congregation,
acting at the same time as its secretary.
What he has been in devotedness and zeal in parish work he
is also in the work of Catholic organizations. He is a member
of the Catholic Knights of Ohio, the Knights of Columbus, the
Ancient Order of Hibernians, and also of other societies. He has
always represented in the capacity of delegate one or the other of
these orders in their conventions, and has succeeded, by his
courage and wise counsel, in effecting such legislation as befitted
the occasion and the society. Being a gentleman of information,
earnestness, and evenness of temperament, he often accomplishes
without friction what on trying occasions others could not bring
about without leaving behind the sting of harshness or of sore
disappointment. His methods and manner have always com-
manded both endorsement and respect, and facts will verify the
averment that he is among the most highly respected and best
beloved of the Catholic laity of Toledo.
We can fancy Mr. Dailey saying with Charlotte Bronte : "The
longer I live, the more plainly I see that gentle must be the strain
on human nature ; it will not bear much."
116 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. CHARLES A. DAINZ.
Mr. Charles A. Dainz, founder and head of the Dainz Electr
Company, of Cleveland, Ohio, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsy
vania, May 9, 1850. He is the only son — the only child — bor
to Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Dainz, who were natives of German;
When he was only three years old his parents removed t
Juniata county, Pennsylvania, where they engaged in farminj
The local schools afforded young Dainz the only education V
received, and carpentry, as practiced in the neighboring town
appeared to offer the most promising field for his budding mechan
cal genius. He, therefore, learned the trade, and followed it thei
until 1867, when he removed to Akron, Ohio. In 1869 he too
unto himself a wife at that place, and then went east, to Ogden;
burg. New York, where he remained two years.
Ohio at that time was regarded as a western state by th
easterners, and the ''star of empire" wooed many, among thei
Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Dainz, to seek prosperity in the direi
tion of the setting sun. Accordingly they removed, in 1872, t
Cleveland, Ohio, then a city of much promise, and there the
have since continued to abide. During the succeeding four yea:
Mr. Dainz followed his trade. He then connected himse
with the Telegraph Supply and Manufacturing Company, out (
which grew the Brush Electric Company. He remained with tf
latter company until 1880, at which time he embarked in tf
business on his own account.
Mr. Dainz modestly admits that while connected with ti:
enterprises referred to, partly as a student of the electrical bus
ness and partly as a worker, he knew nearly as much about it as 1
does now, even 'though the experience of twenty additional yea
has been his portion. It would certainly be pardonable to mild
gainsay this in view of his reputation as an electrical constructc
and also because of the character and amount of business whi(
he controls. The most prominent churches, public buildings ar
residences, not alone in Cleveland but in northeastern Ohio, ha^
been electrically fitted out by him, and in each instance unqualifi(
approval of his work has been unstintingly expressed. In fact h
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 117
professional knowledge and record, backed by his honesty, are
guarantees that appear to be satisfactory to all concerned.
It is true he may not now know any more about the natvire
of that imponderable force called electricity than he did twenty
years ago when he was a tyro in harnessing it; but who does?
Does Mr. Edison? But he does know more about its habits and
the phenomena caused by it. He does know more about how to
deal with it, more about the laws that regulate its action when
static or dynamic, than he did, and the proof is in his success.
Mr. Dainz is descended of Lutheran ancestors, and he knew
no other form of Christian practice until he married Miss Susie A.
McCann, a Catholic young lady, of Akron, Ohio, formerly of
Ogdensburg, New York. He learned from her, and also by attend-
ing the Catholic Church with her, that that Church is the mother
of all churches, the True Church. He made his profession of faith
at Ogdensburg, New York, in 1871, and was then and there bap-
tized into the Catholic Church. His six children have been reared
in the faith, and are practical Catholics. Eva, the first-born, is Mrs.
Joseph Naftel. Her promising little son, Joseph Dainz Naftel,
has added the proud title of grandfather to the endearing names by
which the subject of this sketch is known. The others are Lucy,
who is Mrs. George Pinard; Mazie, who is Mrs. Robert A.
McCann; and the Misses Lottie, Edna, and Ella, who are a unit
with their excellent mother in the work of keeping the Dainz
home a model in all respects — the dearest, sweetest place on earth
to members of the family.
Mr. Charles A. Dainz is prominent in Catholic associations,
such as the Knights of St. John, the Knights of Columbus, the
Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, the Catholic Benevolent
Legion, and others. He is active besides in practical parish work.
For six years he was councilman of St. Bridget's Church, when
he resided in that parish; and now that his home is in South
Cleveland (South Brooklyn) he is one of the councilmen of the
Church of the Sacred Heart of Mary, which is the parish church
there. He is a citizen of unquestioned integrity, a Cathohc whose
daily life is along correct lines, and a neighbor who rejoices the
community in which he lives.
118 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. PETER DALY.
The late Mr. Peter Daly, of the Cathedral parish, ClevelaiK
was a very unassuming, charitable, liberal, and successful mai
Notwithstanding his retiring disposition, he was prominent amon
the early Catholics who attended old St. Mary's, the first Cathol
Church in Cleveland, and later among those attending St. John
Cathedral, which edifice he helped to build.
He was born in the county of Cavan, Ireland, and whe
a youth of eighteen, in 1848, he came to the United State
and selected Cleveland as his home. He began in an humble Wc
to earn a livelihood. Experiencing the need of an education, I
attended the night sessions of the Rockwell street school in h
adopted city, and also the day sessions during the winter month
From being employed by others to do teaming and care for horsi
he soon became ambitious enough to engage in a small way in tt
hauling business for himself. He was employed by the old firm i
Stone, Chisholm & Jones, better known later as the Clevelar
Rolling Mill Company. He had the implicit confidence of M
Chisholm and was given the contracts for unloading the company
vessels and railroad cars, carrying iron ore, coal and coke to tl
furnaces. He continued in the contracting business, took stoc
in the vessels, invested in real estate, and became prosperous.
Mr. Peter Daly was married, in 1854, to Miss Margar
McManus, a native of the county of Cavan, Ireland. The
nuptials were among the first solemnized in St. John's Cathedr
by Bishop Rappe. Four children were born to them, all of who
are residents of Cleveland, where each received a good educatic
in the Catholic schools and convents. The oldest daughter, Elle
became Mrs. Hugh C. Quigley; Rose, Mrs. David J. Champio:
and Mary, Mrs. Anthony Carlin. Peter J., the fourth of tl
family, is the only son. Mrs. Daly was an exemplary woman
good common sense. She knew the art of good housekeeping ai
taught her daughters to practice and prize it. She was very kin
hearted. She passed away December 7, 1888, only to be follow(
by her husband November 17, 1894. They were happy in th«
MR. AND MRS. PETER DALY.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 119
home life, and in their charity and kindness they gave liberally
that others might be happy also. Representatives of religion
and friends of the orphans calling at the home of the Dalys were
never allowed to go away empty-handed or unrewarded. Many
priests and members of religious orders have borne testimony to
the generosity, liberahty, and kindness of heart of both Mr. and
Mrs. Daly.
Mr. Peter Daly was remarkable for his simple, abiding faith,
his unassuming manner, and for those characteristics of his Celtic
nature which rendered him respected and loved by all who knew
him. Although not a total abstainer from intoxicants he never
tasted wine or liquor of any kind in a saloon or drinking place.
Notwithstanding the fact that he was liberal, he yet was what some
called "stingy to himself"- — self-denying. He gave to everyone
who asked, his liberality evidencing the generosity of his heart.
He lent to struggling families to pay for their homes and received
the money back in small amounts without interest. He kept no
record of such things. Since his death not a few have paid to his
executors money borrowed from him, and of which debts there was
no record. He did not know how to refuse. From this may be
inferred the fact that having been promiscuously liberal he was
specially so in aid of the Church. Many instances could be cited
where his check for a considerable sum would be sent to some
priest even without being solicited.
While the sphere of his influence was not very large nor his
horizon very extensive, yet in his humble way he made others feel
the measure of his many good qualities. His example bore fruit,
and today his memory is cherished not only by his children and
their marital relations, but also by a considerable number of Cleve-
land's citizens who knew him intimately, and who were cognizant
of his natural virtues and merits. He excelled in simplicity,
generosity, and candor.
Although success and a measure of contentment were his to
enjoy in life, he ever remembered the truthful statement that "Life
is so constructed that the event does not, will not, match the
expectation."
120 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JOSEPH DANGEL.
The superintendent of the Akron, Ohio, branch of th'
American Hard Rubber Company is Mr. Joseph Dangel, who i
here mentioned to the credit of St. Mary's parish and the Cathoh^
community of Akron. He is a man of excellent character anc
marked mechanical skill. His directive capacity is implied by tb
position he holds, for the large factory in which he is a stockholder
and of which he is the active head, employs over five hundrec
persons and is one of the most important hard rubber plants ii
the country. By his unaided efforts Mr. Dangel has advanced t(
his present important position and high standing.
Joseph Dangel was born in Germany, December 19, 1860
He emigrated to the United States, in 1881, locating at Butler
New Jersey, where for two years, as an ambitious and observing
young man, he had his first experience in hard rubber manufactur
ing. He next spent a year at Hoboken in the same business. Ii
1883, he removed to Morrisville, Pennsylvania, where he continue(
in his calling until 1887, when he went to Akron, to become fore
man for The Goodrich Hard Rubber Company previous to it
absorption by the amalgamated rubber interests. From 1894 unti
1895 he was assistant superintendent, and in the latter mentionec
year was made superintendent.
In 1887j in New York, he was married to Miss Ameli;
Schafer, who, like himself, is a native of Germany. A brigh
family of five has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Dangel. Th
names of the children are as follows: Anna Emily, Carolina Teresa
Maria Ludowicka, Rosa Matilda, and Franz Joseph Dangel. Th'
home life of the family is what Catholic teaching and practic
would be expected to make it — a life redolent of the virtues, witl
parental and filial affection ever to the fore. The characteristics o
Joseph Dangel are faithfulness to duty, capacity to compas
situations, keenness of observation, and ability to accomplish wha
he undertakes. What he knows he has acquired by experience am
study, and what he possesses he has honestly earned. He i
generous to worthy causes, and always supports religious am
educational work by contributions and personal efforts. H
rented the first pew in the present St. Mary's Church, and has beei
MR. AND MRS. JOSEPH DANGBL.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 121
councilman and secretary of the congregation since 1887. He is a
member of the Young People's Union of the parish, was financial
secretary of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, and presi-
dent of the Catholic Central Association of Akron.
If Mr. Dangel is intensely earnest in anything it is in his deep
solicitude and untiring efforts for the advancement of the Christian
and practical education of the rising generation. He judges the
needs of the day and of the future from his own experience, and he
is pained beyond measure when, through neglect or indifiference,
he sees these needs unmet. His watchwords are. Christianize !
Educate! for he is convinced that the Church and the school are
the salvation of the race, and the stay of the nation.
He is respected by all who know him as a good citizen, a good
neighbor and friend, and as a consistent Christian gentleman. It
can be truthfully said of him that he is the architect of his own
fortune, a man who, by his own efforts, has advanced himself from
the level of a poor emigrant boy to his present high standing, both
in business and social life. He sees more the need young men
have of encouragement than he feels the satisfaction which his
own success affords him. Having experienced, in his own days
of sore trial, the deadening effect of a drooping heart, he can the
more readily sympathize with those who are victims of despon-
dency. He knows well what it means, and he can forecast its dire
effects. But if an emigrant boy, having to learn a strange lan-
guage and sustain himself, can get along and even daily advance
in knowledge, business, and character building, surely those not
emigrant strangers, with the language of the country native to
them, ought to be able to progress and ultimately attain success.
It has been Mr. Dangel's experience that "Reflection is the
result of feeling; from compassion for one's self springs a deeper
sympathy for others, and from a sense of our own weakness arises
a disposition to be indulgent, to forbear, and to forgive — or at
least it ought to be so." He judges the condition of others from
what his own has been, and in thus sympathetically interesting
himself in his fellow men he exhibits both his nature and his ster-
ling character.
122 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. BENEDICT DANNEMILLER.
The late Mr. Benedict Dannemiller, of Canton, Ohio, was not
only among the most prominent Catholics in that city and Stark
county, but he was also one of the leading business men of hi;
day in that section of the state. He was an active and exemplar}
member of St. Peter's, his parish church, and was the founder and
developer of various enterprises, including the large wholesale
grocery business now conducted by his sons.
He was born in Alsace, France, December 22, 1813, and was
the second child and oldest son of Benedict and Magdalena
(Bechel) Dannemiller. When sixteen years old, he emigrated tc
the United States, and located in Canton, November 28, 1830. Hi;
parents and their entire family of seven children emigrated to this
country eight years later and settled on a farm in the vicinity o
Canton. Having learned the trade of a blacksmith, he embarkec
in the business for himself, and continued it from 1834 until 1855
Subsequently he engaged in the grain trade, meeting with gooc
success.
The best and most fortunate undertaking of his life was
his marriage to Miss Barbara Scheiber, in Canton, December 31
1838. They lived in happy wedlock for forty-eight years, or unti
Mrs. Dannemiller's death, July 31, 1886, when she was sixty-nin(
years old. Mr. Dannemiller was himself called to his reward
April 24, 1897, when he was aged eighty-three years. To thei
union were born ten children, eight of whom survive. They an
named : Clara, who is the wife of Joseph Deville, of Canton
William; Helen, the wife of Martin Neuhausel, of Toledo
Augustus, Rose, Edward, Julius, and Mary, who is the wife o
W. A. McCrea, of Canton.
In 1869, the elder Dannemiller bought the wholesale grocer
house of Thomas Kimball & Brother, of Canton. His two son
William and Augustus were with him in conducting the enterprise
In 188Y, he retired and divided his property among his children
Since then his four sons have continued the grocery business
which at this writing (1900) exceeds a million dollars annuallj
This figure does not include their large coffee interests, which Mi
Edward Dannemiller, now residing in New York City, is conduct
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 128
ing there. That department alone exceeds three quarters of a
milHon dollars annually.
The large estate accumulated by Mr. Benedict Dannemiller,
and now being maintained and added to by his heirs, is as much
the evidence of their as of his industry and business ability, for,
"When a thing does not waste, it gathers ; and there is one thing
more important than action, and that is growth." While he
accumulated a large property, he was generous not only in support
of the Church, but also in aid of public enterprises. He was honest
in his dealings, faithful to his word, and at all times intent in
setting a good example for his children. They have benefited by
his methods, for today, in Canton and elsewhere, the name Danne-
miller is respected by all, and those who bear it have maintained
it in honor and influence.
MR, TIMOTHY H. DEASY.
A gentleman in whom devotion to religion and education
abounds; whose patriotism was tried during the Nation's peril,
1861-65; and whose worth as a citizen has been known and appre-
ciated both in Cleveland, Ohio, and elsewhere, is selected in the
person of Mr. Timothy H. Deasy as the subject of this biographical
mention. For nearly a third of a century he was a skilled workman
and operator of blast furnaces, his practical knowledge serving as
the forerunner of the present chemical and mechanical advance-
ment so essential to iron making. From 1872 till 1895 he was in
charge of the Cleveland Rolhng Mill Company's blast furnaces;
and since his retirement from that responsible position he has been
postmaster of the South Cleveland sub-station.
His parents, James and Ellen (Scannel) Deasy, were natives
of the county of Cork, Ireland. In 1836, they emigrated to
Quebec, Canada. Two years later they left that city for the
United States, locating in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. It
was there that Timothy H. Deasy was born on the Gregorian
intercalary day, February 29, 1840, an incident as to modern
calendar time which allows him but occasional returns of his natal
day. He had a birthday as late as 1896, but will not have another
till 1904. Later returns need not be discussed.
Having spent twenty-two years in Pennsylvania, where the
124 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
elder Deasy died in 1850, the orphaned family removed to Miner;
Ridge, Mahoning county, Ohio, where Timothy, then a youn
man, entered the employ of the Warner Furnace Company an
took his first lessons in the blast furnace business. He continue
there only a short time, or until the breaking out of the war c
1861-65. He tried to join the 8th Ohio regiment, but, ever
company having its full quota, he was refused. He enlisted in hi
twenty-first year, April 25, 1861, in the Carroll Guards at Young;
town, Ohio, taking the three months' service. Being a dashin
young fellow and an apt student of military affairs, he attracte
attention both by his progress and bearing. On the expiration c
his term of service, he at once enlisted for three years as a membe
of Company G, 26th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was with the Arm
of the Cumberland most of the time, and was made corporal, o
account of merit, in 1863.
There were five sons in the Deasy family, three of whom wer
soldiers of the Union. Besides Timothy H., Patrick went to th
front and returned at the close of the war, but Cornelius died th
death of a patriot in Andersonville prison. The other two son
were James and Daniel. The latter died when a youth. On
daughter, Mary, passed away early in life, the other, Margare
lives with her stepfather, Mr. James Kent, in South Clevelanc
During the war the family removed to Cleveland, and thithe
Corporal Deasy went after his honorable discharge from the armj
at Chattanooga, Tennessee, Julv 25, 1864. He has since remaine
.1 citizen of that city.
In 1866, Mr. Timothy H. Deasy was married (by Fathe
Daudet) in Holy Rosary Church, Cleveland, to Miss Mar
Bambrick, a sensible and promising young lady, whose earl
training and virtues are evidenced in her wifehood and mothei
hood. To their happy union have been born nine children, one c
whom, a boy^ died in infancy. Mary, who for years has been th
organist of Holy Name Church, became the wife of Mr. Hug
Shannon, of Cleveland; Cornelius J., the second oldest, i
unmarried ; Sadie L. is the wife of Mr. John M. Mulroone}
president of the Marine Review Pubhshing Company, c
Cleveland; Margaret, who is married to Mr. Charles A. Pattersoi
of the Patterson Foundry Company, of Cleveland ; Catherine, wh
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 125
is unmarried and aids her father in conducting the South Cleve-
land post office ; Helen, who is a teacher in the public schools ;
James, who is connected with the J. B. Savage publishing house,
and Edward, who holds a position under his father in the post
office. Each has been given a good education, the girls all
receiving a convent training. The intellectual and domestic
training of the Deasy family is creditable to their parents.
In person, as may be gathered from his portrait. Corporal
Timothy H. Deasy is a fine appearing, well preserved man. He is
positive and decided in character, as becomes a soldier who fought
in seventeen battles and in as many more engagements, bravely
doing and daring much in the war for the Union. Among the bat-
tles in which he participated might be mentioned Mission Ridge,
Shiloh, Stone River, Chickamauga, Siege of Chattanooga, etc. He
is quite companionable, and in his home life and social relations
is both genial and entertaining. Few men, considering" his advan-
tages, are better informed than is he. His information, character
and record have made him prominent, and his public spirit occa-
sions his being requisitioned to direct and shape both public and
local affairs in his vicinity.
In poHtical matters he is a strict partisan only when his sense
of patriotism and his idea of the public good call into activity the
intensity of his nature. Once he is convinced that a certain
course is right, he not only regards the matter as beyond debate,
but he holds it to be his bounden duty to walk in that way, no
matter at what cost, or who opposes. Fortunately he is generally
sure he is right before he moves, and, therefore, his mistakes, like
his regrets, are few. This implies both excellent judgment, great
forcefulness, and decision of character.
Corporal Deasy is a man of courage, both physical and moral.
In religion he is more sincerely practical than pious. He may look
backward since his honorable career invites retrospection ; he looks
forward in obedience to his sanguine temperament; but he never
fails to look upward through his Catholic faith. In these respects
he is the prototype of his late admiring friend. Gen. W. S.
Rosecrans, under whom he fought for the unity of his country.
126 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. MICHAEL DECHANT.
The year of the estabhshment of the Diocese of Cleveland
1847, Joseph and Eva (Klingshirn) Dechant, with their family
emigrated from Bavaria to this country and settled on a farm in the
township of Avon, in Lorain county, Ohio. Their household con-
sisted of themselves and nine children, the fourth-born of whon
is now the devoted pastor of St. Mary's Church, at Millersville
Sandusky county, Ohio, and the subject of these lines.
He was born June 23, 1832, and made some of his preparator)
studies in Bavaria, where he lived until his fifteenth year. Ir
preparation for carrying out in this country his resolve to become
a priest, he studied for a time under the Fathers of the Sanguinis'
Order at their institution in Mercer county, Ohio, and latei
privately with secular priests of the Diocese of Cleveland, amon^
whom was the late Father Hackspiel, of Randolph, Portag(
county, who was young Dechant's long-time professor.
In 1860, he was pretty well advanced in his studies, at least sc
thought his friends. Accordingly, he offered himself to thi
diocesan authorities for examination looking to his fitness fo
taking up his ecclesiastical studies. He was successful. He wa
thereupon admitted to St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleve
land, and after a course of three years in philosophy and theolog;
he was ordained priest by Bishop Rappe, June 28, 1863.
Father Dechant's first appointment was as pastor of St
Michael's Church, Findlay, Ohio, where he labored enthusiasticall;
from July 17, 1863, until June 1, 1867. He was then transferrec
to take charge of the Church of St. Clement, at Navarre, whicl
place was then known as Bethlehem. He ministered to th
Catholics there during more than four years, or until August, 187]
when he was placed in charge of St. Peter's Church, Norwall
What is now the Church of St. Paul in that city was attached t-
St. Peter's as a mission. He attended both for one year, when hewa
relieved of the former, becoming thereby the first resident pastor c
the latter. He purchased the site of the present St. Paul's Churcl
and remained in charge during twelve months. December, 187i
he was commissioned as pastor of St. Alphonsus' Church, s
Peru, in Huron county. He remained there fourteen vears an
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 127
two months. He built two school houses for the congregation,
one of them being distant four miles from the church. Every
Wednesday he said Mass there for the accommodation of the
people of that locality.
January 5, 1888, he was appointed to his present charge as
pastor of St. Mary's Church, Millersvilie, Sandusky county.
During his pastorate there, which has now (December, 1900)
continued for over twelve years, he has been active in the interests
of his people, both spiritually and temporally. He frescoed the
church, furnished it with new pews and altars, and also placed
therein the hot-water system of heating. In 1892, he built the
mission church at Kansas, in Seneca county, and, in 1893, he
established the church at Gibsonburg, in Sandusky county. From
that date until 1897 he performed double service each Sunday,
saying Mass and preaching both at Millersvilie and at one or the
other of the missions at Gibsonburg, Kansas, or Bettsville. He
never missed a Sunday service, when in health, during the past
thirty-seven years, and he never took a vacation since he became a
priest.
Father Dechant, when he came to Millersvilie, in 1888, found,
to his astonishment, that the children of the parish, with few excep-
tions, could neither read the catechism in English nor say their
prayers in that language. After some difficulty, he changed these
conditions, radically changed them, for today he preaches in
English each alternate Sunday and Holyday.
The pastor of St. Mary's is now in his sixty-ninth year. He
is a man of philosophical turn of mind, of few words, and quiet,
easy manner. These characteristics may be attributed as much to
his phlegmatic temperament as to his training and long years of
experience. His natural and acquired habits of silence, thought-
fulness, and deliberation have not only precluded precipitancy of
action and speech, but have been the evidences of his appreciation
of the aphorisms, "Make haste slowly," "Silence is golden." Since
his ordination, he has worked hard on the mission, at times
plodding his weary way along the humbler path which he
considered best in keeping with his abilities and the needs of those
among whom he found himself called to labor.
128 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JOSEPH DICK.
Mr. Joseph Dick, of Canton, Ohio, founder and proprietor (
Dick's Agricultural Works, is the oldest of a numerous famil
born to the late Joseph and Mary Ann (Messmer) Dick, of Star
county, Ohio. The elder Dick was twenty-seven years old whe
he emigrated from Alsace, and, in 1836, located in Stark count;
Ohio. His wife was a native of Baden.
Joseph Dick H was born on his father's farm, about seve
miles from Canton, Ohio, May 28, 1840. His early schooling cor
sisted of only four months in the year, and to enjoy the advantag
of a catechetical training he had to journey seven miles. When h
was seventeen he began to learn the art of making models fc
inventors in Canton. He pursued this calling until 1861, when h
found employment in his line in an agricultural implement work;
also in that city. He continued there for two years, and then wer
back to help his father on the farm. After a stay of eight month
(1863) he started out in his twenty-third year to make a living fo
himself. He drifted into Canada and found employment in a larg
agricultural works in Ontario, where he industriously applie
himself as a skilled mechanic and as more than a novice in inveni
ing, designing, and drafting. He remained there, despite muc
local opposition and intrigue, for eleven years, or until the factor)
through business collapse, closed its doors, in 1874.
In 1866, he was married there to Miss Rosanna McKittrick,
native of Rochester, New York. She had enjoyed early educa
tional advantages and was more than a mere amateur in the field c
art. In domestic affairs, too, she had not been without instructior
as her home life has since given the proof. Three sons and thre
daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Dick. Their names are a
follows, in the order of birth : Emma, now Mrs. George Murra)
of Canton; William J., who is with a large manufacturing estab
lishment in Pennsylvania; Charles F., Francis J., Agnes T., am
Laura L. Dick.
In 1874, Mr. Dick and family returned to Canton, where, in
very limited way, he began what has since developed into Dick'
Agricultural Works, wherein on a large scale are manufacture!
Dick's Patent Truck and Sack Holder, Dick's Famous Paten
Feed and Ensilage Cutting Machinery, and other products of hi
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 129
invention. In the early days of this enterprise the annual output
did not exceed $1,500, but by perseverance and honest work it
grew until today (1900) a large number of hands are constantly
employed, some of them having a record of twenty-two years in
the factory, and an annual business of over $100,000 is done. Mr.
Dick is the inventor of all his own machinery. He is up with the
times and abreast of the best in the land. Even combined capital
has not been able to undo him or supplant in the market the
product of his inventive genius. From a small room, 25 x 40 feet,
which sufficed for his works in the beginning, the business has
increased until 40,000 square feet of floor room are now required.
The character and rating of Mr. Joseph Dick are high. He is
strictly honest, faithful, and of unquestioned integrity. He has
from childhood been a devoted member of the Catholic Church.
Even when in the hotbed of Orangeism in Canada he quietly but
persistently maintained himself both socially and religiously.
St. John's Church, Canton, is indebted to his munificence for a
beautiful marble altar, and also for a constancy in liberally con-
tributing to the support of religion and education.
He stands well in the estimation of his fellow citizens. He is
a member of the Canton Board of Trade, and is vice-president of
the Canton Savings and Loan Banking Company. Notwithstand-
ing his pronounced views in favor of Christian education — the
school inseparable from the Church — he has, for six years, been an
elected member of the Canton School Board. To the intelligent
the religion of Catholics is not a hindrance but a help to the
development of those qualities which make good citizens. Joseph
Dick's record and career have been such as to emphasize this fact.
What excellences are his by nature have been strengthened and
ennobled by his rehgion. His neighbors know this, and as a result
they respect both him and his faith. When such is the case in
Canton there can be no ground for the opposite elsewhere except
it be in the individual himself.
If it were not foreign to the scope of this sketch, a more
complete pen picture of Mr. Dick would fit in here. Instead let
it be simply said that his temperament is even, his manner agree-
able and modest, his intellect of a high order, and his family,
abiding in one of the finest homes in Canton, is fit to be copied
after by all who aim in the direction of the ideal Christian home.
13Q A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE HON. MICHAEL DONNELLY.
The judge of the Common Pleas Court of the third judiciai
district of Ohio is the Hon. Michael Donnelly, of Napoleon. He
was born August 18, 1856, on a farm in Henry county, of which
county his adopted city is the seat of justice.
More than half a century ago his parents, Peter and Alice
(O'Hearn) Donnelly, natives of Ireland, began their married life in
that part of Ohio. Peter Donnelly was then a laborer employed in
building the Wabash and Erie Canal through that section. With
the first hundred dollars he was able to save he purchased from the
Government the eighty-acre farm on which he subsequently made
his home and reared his family. Besides the subject of this sketch
two other members of the family, James and Peter, are practicing
physicians in Toledo, Ohio.
Judge Donnelly as a boy and later as a youth aided his father
in clearing and cultivating the land, and in providing for the
family. His primary education was obtained in the township
school, and later he himself became a teacher in the county, which
vocation he followed for several winters. Aiming at a higher
education than was then within his reach, he concluded to bestir
himself in the way of providing funds to pay his way in college.
Accordingly he sought and obtained work in a neighboring stone
quarry. After toiling all day he would work with the night-gang
until midnight, thereby earning double wages. His pay-envelope
he would deliver unopened each week to his mother, who was the
treasurer of the family. With the money thus earned and saved
to pay his way he entered the Normal University, at Lebanon,
Ohio, where, after a four years' course, he graduated, in 1878,
when he was in his twenty-second year.
The profession of the law early attracted him, and, having
been offered an opportunity of preparing himself for that calling
he accepted, and entered the law office of the Hon. Justin H
Tyler, of Napoleon, to prosecute his studies. With his usual
energy and determination he labored day and night, evidencing
on all occasions not only his intellectual aptitude but also his
loyalty to the interests of his admiring preceptor and friend
These qualities were later appreciated and fully requited by Mr
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 131
Tyler; for, a short time after young Donnelly had presented him-
self for examination before the judges of the Supreme Court, at
Columbus, in December, 1880, when he was admitted to the bar,
his kind preceptor took him into partnership. This Mr. Tyler
himself proposed, even at a time when the preferment was sought
by many — a fact which was creditable both to himself and to his
promising young partner.
Judge Donnelly continued as the junior member of the firm
until 1887, when, as a representative member of the Democratic
party, he was elected to the ofifice of Probate Judge of Henry
county. He ably and faithfully discharged the duties of the ofifice
for the full term of three years. His administration was unquali-
fiedly endorsed by the taxpayers, and the people demanded that
he serve them for a second term. He consented to again stand
for the position, and he was triumphantly re-elected. His six
years as Probate Judge he followed by five years of close attention
to his growing practice and his multiplying business interests.
Then, in 1898, he was elected to the Common Pleas Bench, which
honorable position he fills to the satisfaction of the bar and the
public. He is well fitted by nature and training for the judicial
ofifice, a fact which, since this work was in press, was recognized
by his being nominated by the Democratic party for the ofifice of
judge of the Supreme Court.
Being a man of afit'airs, to whom the tangible always appeals,
Judge Donnelly has grown in prominence and business importance
not alone in his city and county but also in northwestern Ohio.
He has always been to the fore when public interests demanded
that he act. He took an active part in bringing the Lima
Northern Railroad, now the Detroit Southern, to touch at
Napoleon, and when others failed in the accomplishment of the
project he took it up, in 1895-'96, and carried it through success-
fully. As the owner of three thousand acres of the best land in
his native county, he attests his faith in the soil, and he evidences
through his success in handling realties and equities his apprecia-
tion of the tangible sources of wealth. He is the principal owner
of the Citizens' Bank, which is the strongest and oldest financial
institution in his city and county. Among his possessions also is
his interest in the Home Telephone Company, of Napoleon and
132 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Henry county, of which company he is president. His latest enter-
prise is his connection with the Anchor Fire Insurance Company,
of Cincinnati, Ohio, of which company he is hkewise president.
Judge Donnelly is a strong, self-made man, who is among
the most prominent in his section of the state. While retiring and
modest he is nevertheless recognized as in the front rank of the
notable Catholic laymen of Ohio. As an American of Irish extrac-
tion it has never appeared to him that his rights of conscience
are his to exercise through mere sufferance. While he never
obtrudes his religion, and never questions that of others, he can
see no reason why his Catholicity should be a bar to him in any
legal or laudable undertaking. He has no. apologies to offer in
this respect, and no criticisms to make of others. He conscien-
tiously performs his duties, not only as a citizen and a Christian
member of his community, but also in his official station as
judge. He hews close to the line of duty regardless of men, and
as a result the people respect both him and his religion, and
esteem him as among the most reputable citizens of northwestern
Ohio.
July 5, 1887, Judge Donnelly was married to Miss Grace,
the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matthew McGurk, of Sandusky,
Ohio. A family of seven has been born to them. Their names
are : Grace, Ulalia, Cyril, Gerald, Justin, and Edwin. The third
oldest, Irene, passed away in April, 1890.
THE REV. PATRICK C. N. DWYER.
The Rev. Father Dwyer, pastor of the Immaculate Concep-
tion Church, Grafton, Ohio,* was born near Listowel, county of
Kerry, Ireland, June 2, 18.58. He was orphaned by the death of
his mother, Johanna (Carroll) Dwyer, when he was five years of
age, and by that of his father, Daniel Dwyer, when he was in his
thirteenth year.
With an older sister he emigrated to this country, in 1872,
making his home at Bay City in the State of Michigan. Being an
industrious, energetic lad, he soon found employment, and in less
than one year he had his earnings invested in real estate. .His
*Since this work has been in press the Rev. Patrick C. N. Dwyer was appointed,
July 14, 1901, pastor of the Church of Our Lady of Mt Carmel, Warren.
ft:
^!
X
X
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 133
investments proving most fortunate he doubled his money and
continued to work. He was so successful as to be able to pay his
way through college, and even when ordained he yet owned some
of the property he earned when a boy.
In 1874, while living for a time in the city of Chicago, and
before he began his studies for the Church, among other notables
Ke formed the acquaintance of the wife of the late lamented Presi-
dent of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Mrs. Lincoln
greatly admired Mr. Dwyer's qualities, and esteeming him as the
peer of a large class of excellent young Catholic men, gave him,
unsought, a letter of recommendation, which is in part as follows :
"Chicago, 111.,
September 28th, 1874.
This note is to certify that Patrick Dwyer is an industrious,
intelligent, conscientious young man. *****
Mrs. a. Lincoln."
He then began his classical studies, which he completed at
Assumption College, Sandwich, Canada. His theological course
he made in St. Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, Maryland, and in St.
Thomas' Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota, where he was ordained by
Bishop Ireland, June 18, 1886. He labored more than three years
in the Diocese of St. Paul proper, when its division, by the erection
of the See of Winona, placed him in the new diocese, presided over
by Bishop Cotter. He remained there until 1895, making nine
years in both dioceses, during which time he made a record that
does not often fall to the lot of a priest. He paid off the debts on
eight churches, built one, and completed two others.
Indulging his business talent as an investor in real estate he
amassed property to the value of $10,000, including what he had
when ordained, all of which he donated to paying the debt on St.
John's Hospital and Asylum, an institution distant 150 miles from
his parish, and for which he was agent, without accepting any
remuneration, at a time when he was charged with the labor of
attending to four churches. For this munificence he received a
glowing letter of thanks from Bishop Cotter, the closing words
of which are these :
"I thank you most gratefully and joyfully for myself and for
our beloved clergy and laity. May generations of God's children
134 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
rise up in this His vineyard and bless your name and call you great
amongst the chosen and worthy pioneers of this diocese.
"Devotedly and gratefully yours in Christ,
* Joseph B. Cotter,
Bishop of Winona."
His multiplied efiforts in behalf of religion and education, and
the exposure incident to his calling, together with the severity of
the climate, so impaired his health that he was forced to comply
with the persistent advice of his physician to seek another field of
labor. With mutual regrets Bishop Cotter and Father Dwyer
parted company.
After a short period of rest he was received into the Diocese of
Cleveland the same year. He was at once commissioned as
assistant at the Cleveland Cathedral, where he remained from
September, 1895, until the same month the following year, when
he was appointed temporary pastor of the Church of the Good
Shepherd, Toledo, Ohio, during the enforced absence, through
illness, of the pastor, the late Father Barry. He labored there
three months, in which time he paid of¥ more than $1,500 of the
debt on the church.
Following his labors in Toledo, he was appointed temporary
pastor of St. Mary's Church, Clyde, Ohio, where he also paid off
$1,000 of the debt without having recourse to the agency of either
fair, subscription, or assessment. January 11, 1898, he received his
appointment as pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church,
Grafton, and in a little over two years he freed it from its debt
of over $3,000.
Rev. P. C. N. Dwyer is a nervy, energetic man of wonderful
endurance, considering his delicate constitution. He possesses
indomitable perseverance, and has an accurate knowledge of men
and business which he puts to good uses. This knowledge he had
before he became a priest, and it has been his stay in many trying
circumstances on the mission.
In the foreground of the portraiture of his character is seen
the ecclesiastic, in the background the man of business. Over
fourteen years ago he forsook the latter for the former calling,
and now uses his knowledg^e of the world only as an aid in his
spiritual work. The labors he has performed and the success that
has attended his efiforts characterize him as a priest worthy of
religion, his Bishop and the Diocese of Cleveland.
IN NORTHERN OHIO, ISE
MR. PETER R. FAHEY.
Those are reckoned more than provincials whose intellect and
views are broad, whose judgments are generously and universally
just, and who are equal to impressing themselves on the times and
the localities in which they live. Mr. Peter R. Fahey is of this
type of men. He has been a resident of the city of Cleveland only
since 1889, but so active is his bright mentahty, so earnest and
intense is his life as a CathoHc and a citizen, and so capable is he,
both professionally and socially, of living a long time in any
place in a few years, that he is entitled to take rank among the
oldest and best laymen who are biographically mentioned in this
volume.
He is the head of the firm of Fahey and Company, investment
bankers and brokers, of the city of Cleveland, Ohio. The company
in the firm consists of two faithful employees whose worth in his
eyes entitled them to the advancement. This concern began
business originally as the house of Herbert Wright & Co., in 1893,
with its present head as its salaried manager. Although always
the active director of the establishment he was not admitted as a
profit-sharing member until 1895. Since this work has been in
press, January, 1902, the change to the present style of firm went
into effect. Because of its former record under Mr. Fahey's
management, and its present status, it is entitled to the credit of
doing the largest volume of business of any other house in its line
in the metropolis of Ohio.
Fahey and Company handle all kinds of stocks, bbnds and
securities. Their annual transactions reach up into the millions of
dollars. From a beginning so small that one man and one room
sufficed, to proportions so large that twelve men and eight rooms
are now required, are facts so suggestive as to need no coloring or
elaboration. As head, manager, and active director, Mr. Fahey
was to the fore in every department of the original firm. He was
telegrapher, stenographer, typewriter, bookkeeper — four distinct
professions, of which he was and yet is master. His motto at all
times has been that, "If a thing is worth doing at all it is worth
doing well."
Fie began, in 1881, his professional life in a minor capacity on
136 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
the floor of the Corn and Flour Exchange, of Baltimore — the
Board of Trade of Maryland — and before he was twenty years of
age he held there the position of assistant superintendent of the
Baltimore and Ohio Telegraph Company. At that time he was, and
is yet considered to be, one of the finest expert telegraphers in the
country. In 1887, he served the Toledo, Ohio, Grain Exchange,
and later, the Chicago Board of Trade from 1888 to 1889. In the
latter year he went to Cleveland where he has since continued to
reside and do business. For a season there he was the agent and
correspondent of the Associated Press, and was temporarily con-
nected with various brokerage concerns. Because of his talents
and early training, his long experience in different exchanges,
and his exceeding promptness and mental activity, he has always
been found to be rich in practical business suggestions. Even
when a youth he was never regarded other than as a valuable
adjunct in his particular lines.
Mr. Peter R. Fahey was born at Monkton, Baltimore county,
Maryland, February 19, 1867. He is one of seven brothers born
consecutively to John and Catherine (Ryan) Fahey, who emi-
grated from Ireland in 1855. The elder Fahey was a contractor
and builder of railroads. He died in 1874. The boy Peter had the
advantage of only a country school education. He did such work
around the farm as was suited to his years as a boy and to his
physique. When the weather or the season prevented, or when
(here was nothing else to do, he went to school.
The one thing in which he was most punctual and steady was
his serving Mass once each month in the old mission church in his
native place. He looked forward to the recurrence of these occa-
sions with no little interest, and when he fulfilled his task of serv-
ing at the altar he felt he had performed a duty which had bound
him to its discharge both spiritually and physically.
In 1881, his widowed mother with her family removed to the
city of Baltimore. It was there as a youth that he laid the founda-
tion of his present prosperity and prominence^ and developed those
characteristics and business talents which stand him in good part
today.
In 1889, Mr. Peter R. Fahey was married to Miss Sadie I., the
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Toole, of the West Side, Cleve-
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 137
land. They were among the pioneer Cathohcs of the "Forest
City." As a native of Cleveland, Mrs. Fahey enjoyed good edu-
cational advantages, a prominent feature of which was her early
Christian training. Because of this she is devoted to works of
charity and mercy and is prominent among the Cathohc ladies of
Cleveland who are noted for their zeal and practical efforts for the
furtherance of rehgion and education. Her husband's liberality
in aid of these things is an incentive to her, and jointly they are
credited with doing much good. To their union have been born
seven children, whose names are Mildred, Ethel, Charles, LesHe,
Ralph, Margaret, and Agnes.
Mr. Fahey's calling, requiring as it does both a clear head,
good judgment, and instant decision, inclines him, in the way of
diversion and rest, to indulge in light reading and to exercise his
native muse in writing comic verses.
"But those that write in rhyme still make,
The one verse for the other's sake;
For, one for sense, and one for rhyme,
I think sufficient for one time."
Some of his efforts are far from mediocre and evidence
marked poetic talent. When these will not wholly suffice for his
recreation he has recourse to the club, although by nature he is
not a club man, but is more inclined to the home life. However,
he belongs to the Century and the Iroquois clubs for social inter-
course, to the Chamber of Commerce and the Stock Exchange for
business associations, and the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association,
and the Knights of Columbus for fraternal purposes. Outside of
business and the demands of the clubs and associations mentioned,
he belongs to his family and to himself as a reader, and as a versifier
of no mean ability. Much that he has written is well deserving of
praise and, indeed, would read well in print, while quite a number
of his verses are of a high order of merit in both thought, arrange-
ment and diction. Evidently he was born under a rhyming planet
and came by his muse honestly. Of such Channing was generous
enough to say :
"Most joyful let the poet be;
It is through him that all men see."
138 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JAMES FARASEY.
Th.e late Mr. James Farasey, of Cleveland, Ohio, was amor
the first Catholics to settle in what has been, since 1847, the Si
city of the Diocese. In fact there were few of the old faith eithi
there or along the southeastern shore of Lake Erie when 1
arrived, in 1827. He cHed in 1894, after spending almost sixt;
seven years in efforts to act well his part as an humble citizen i
Cleveland and as a faithful Catholic head of a family.
He was born at Queenstown, in the county of Cork, Irelan-
in 1816. The tide of emigration from Ireland beginning to set i:
he was brought to the United States when a boy. Having fe
advantages, and but little to rely on as a young man, except h
remarkable physique, he sailed on the great lakes from his elevenl
year for fifty years. During most of this time he had interests i
vessel property, and finally drifted into the business of loading an
unloading the craft arriving at, and clearing from, the port (
Cleveland. He continued in that line of business, added to h
possessions, and became a well known figure among vessel owner
He was in his day the most powerful man, physically, in Clev
land, his expansive chest, brawny frame, large head, and mih
good-natured countenance exciting in all who saw and knew him
species of wonderment blended with admiration. This was esp*
cially the case on the occasion of a certain St. Patrick's day parac
in Cleveland. A white horse was provided for Mgr. Thorpe to ric
in the procession. The unexpected occurred when Mr. Jam(
Farasey lifted the priest, as a mother would her infant, and place
him gracefully in the saddle.
As is generally the case with large, powerful men, Mr. Farase
was slow to anger, and was unusually kind, jolly, and generous ; bi
once aroused by what he deemed an insult, or an injustice, few hs
the temerity to gainsay or oppose him. His strength was pn
digious, and he often employed it to chastise the villifiers of boi
his nationality and his religion.
In 1848, he was married in the first Catholic church in Clevi
land, old St. Mary's on the "Flats," to Miss Anna King, a mode
and comely young lady who was also a native of Ireland. She di«
in 1898. Mrs. Farasey was typical of her race in virtue and dev(
MR. AND MRS. JAMBS FARASBY.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 139
tion to religion. She was a good, kind neighbor, a true friend, and
unusually sympathetic. She was blessed as the mother of fourteen
children. Five of them are yet living and are residents of Cleve-
land. They are Michael H. ; Celia, who is Mrs. William Cooper;
James D., William J., and George E. They are all talented, indus-
trious, and reliable, and enjoy the confidence and respect of their
fellow citizens.
The reader will not go far amiss by referring to the accom-
panying portrait of Mr. James Farasey as an aid in forming a
correct estimate of his character. No man with his countenance
and phrenological development could be either small, insincere, or
disloyal to his friends. He was the very opposite, his generosity in
giving and his braven.^ in defending having been known to all the
older residents of Cleveland. He could forgive a fallen foe, or even
an ingrate, but he was ever mindful, to their sorrow, of those who
joined in the prevailing custom in those early days of speaking
contumeliously of the Catholic Church, the priests, or the Sisters.
Next to the Church he felt himself bound to defend Old Ireland
and her sons and daughters ; and not a few found opportunity to
bathe freely in the Cuyahoga river for venting, in words or acts in
his presence, their hatred of either his religion or nationality.
The reader will not regard it improper to have these things
recited as if in praise of the subject of this sketch. We may be far
enough advanced today to frown down the unjust and scurrilous
things that excited and nerved Mr. Farasey to act robustly ; but in
his day the means of redress, which he so effectively employed,
were the only ones at hand, or at all reliable. Since then, however,
few effigies of St. Patrick, wearing a string of potatoes around his
neck, have appeared suspended in the streets of Cleveland, and
fewer still have been the insults to religion and its ministers.
It is not so much to glory in such radical measures of redress,
needful in Mr. Farasey's day, that reference is here made to them,
but rather to help outline a picture of this plain, robust, honest
citizen. We have already given more than the outline; the spirit
and the manner of the man are more than hinted at, and scarcely an
additional touch of the pencil is needful to complete the portrayal
of the virility of his character, the kindness and sincerity of his
heart, and the nobility of his great soul as it despised the
oppressors of the poor and chastised the bearers of false witness.
140 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JAMES D. FARASEY.
The proprietor of the Teachout Boiler Works, of Clevelanc
Ohio, and the secretary of the Boiler Manufacturers' Associatio
of the United States and Canada, is the gentleman whose nam
gives title to this sketch. His prominence as an extensive mam
facturer and as a man of affairs is no more noteworthy, perhapi
than is his standing as a citizen and as a deserving son of the lat
James Farasey who was a pioneer Catholic of the city of Clevelanc
If the elder Farasey was noted for his simple life and sterling chai
acter, his mindfulness of his native land, and his unswerving devc
tion to the Catholic faith, he surely left a prototype in his so
James (D.) Farasey, II.
This prototype, this son, is the third oldest of a family of foui
teen, born in the city of Cleveland to the late James and Ann
(King) Farasey. He first saw the light December 11, 1856. H
was baptized in the first Catholic church in Cleveland, old Si
Mary's on the "Flats," and there as a boy he served Mass and mad
his first Holy Communion. He was cross-bearer and led the gran^
procession of Catholics, in 1871, when the ceremony of dedicatin:
St. Malachy's Church was performed by Archbishop Purcell. H
later became a member of St. Patrick's congregation, which hi
served not alone in the capacity of councilman, but also in that c
a staunch financial supporter. He was married there, in 1886, t
Miss Mary, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas O'Laughlir
who, like himself, is a native of Cleveland.
Mrs. James D. Farasey is nowhere more fittingly and happil;
at home than when at her own hearth-stone, for her nature an(
training render her specially domestic. She is such, not merely ii
the sense of appreciating the philosophy of the poet's declaration
"There is no place like home," but more particularly in that she i
convinced that it is within the sacred confines of home, at the fire
side — where woman is both queen and mother — that virtu
abounds and the young receive their most lasting impressions
She believes with Longfellow that, "The bird is safest in its nest.'
To Mr. and Mrs. Farasey have been born a family of six, fou
boys and two girls. One of the latter, little Bessie, passed away ii
her third year. The remaining five in the order of birth ar
MR. AND MRS. JAMES D. FARASBY.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 141
named James, George, Mary, Neal, and William. The secular and
religious education of each is being carefully attended to.
The public schools, imperfect as they were in his day, were the
chief sources of Mr. James D. Farasey's secular education. He
early began his business career in the capacity of clerk. This he
followed by an attempt to learn the trade of a machinist, which did
not agree with his health. He next became a steamboat clerk,
which ultimately brought him into the lake transportation busi-
ness. In 1886, he sold his interests in that line and engaged in the
boiler manufacturing business as a partner in the Cleveland Steam
Boiler Works. Seven years later he sold out his interest in that
enterprise, and purchased the business which he yet continues to
successfully conduct under the original name of the Teachout
Boiler Works.
As a man of affairs his energy and business capacity have
been the great sources of his success. Of course his honesty and
reliability have also been factors, for without these no man can
be successful with an approving conscience. Mr. Farasey is on
the best of terms with that monitor, and having reaped according
to his sowing he can be said to enjoy his prosperity, not alone
in the sense of possession, but also in that there are none to dis-
pute the righteousness of his methods or the validity of his title
to what he has. It is in these respects that honesty proves itself to
be the best policy. It wears longest, affords the greatest satisfac-
tion, and is the seasoning and flavoring element that renders
palatable the after-thoughts which in moments of retrospection
the mind feeds upon. Business may be business, but commercial
honesty and integrity are business essentials.
The gentleman here discussed is blessed with a bright mind,
and with a temperament as tranquil as the summer sea. Whatever
the source of his excellent disposition, its mildness, evenness and
gentleness, coupled with his high sense of honor and justice, have
merited for him the good will and respect of all who have had social
or business relations with him. His sterling worth, his generosity
and kindness, his decent regard for the opinions and rights of
others, constitute a happy setting for the diamond center-piece of
his personality and Catholicity.
142 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JAMES J. FARRELL.
The principal facts in the career of the Rev. James J. Farrel
pastor of St. Joseph's Church, Alliance, Ohio, may be plainly se
down as follows :
He was born in the county of Kilkenny, Ireland, October li
18G0. His parents were Patrick and Catherine (Treacy) Farrel
who were also natives of that part of the country. He began earl
in life to prepare himself for the priesthood. His parents seconde
the promptings of his heart and afforded him every advantage i
their power, not the least of which was a good example. Whe
sufiRciently advanced in years and knowledge, he entered th
famous monastery of St. Kierans, in Kilkenny, and there mad
his more advanced studies.
In 1880, before he had attained his majority, the missionar
spirit impelled him to emigrate to the United States. On applica
tion he was received into the Diocese of Cleveland as an ecclesiasti
cal student. To complete his divinity studies he entered th
Diocesan Seminary, and, after a four and one-half years' course, h
was admitted to Holy Orders by Bishop Gilmour, January 8, 188J
Well equipped and full of zeal he began his missionary labors
at Elmore, in Ottawa county, Ohio, his first appointment assignin
him to the charge of St. Patrick's Mission Church at that plac(
He remained there from January until October, 1885, when he wa
transferred to St. Mary's Church, Hudson, in Summit count]
He ministered there during four years. September 1, 1889, he wa
appointed pastor of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a
Ravenna, in Portage county. From Ravenna, after a pastorat
of over ten years, he was advanced, February 18, 1900, to hi
present charge as pastor of St. Joseph's, the only Catholic churc
in the city of Alliance.
His advent to Alliance has proved a blessing to St. Joseph
congregation. Under his wise direction and prudent manag(
ment both spiritual and temporal interests have been advancec
The church needed attention, a new school has been provided, th
old pastoral residence rebuilt as a commodious residence for th
Sisters who teach in the schools, and also a residence for the sextoi
All this has been done to meet pressing needs and in order to pn
:'; 7/
r,^'
^
■-^i'' . 4.1.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 143
pare for the future enlargement of the church and the erection
of a new pastoral residence.
If these mean anything they imply the true ecclesiastical spirit,
and also the zeal, prudence, and philosophy essential to success-
ful pastoral work. One, evidently not without experience and
the wisdom which it teaches, has wisely said that: "Opposing
duties, though sometimes talked about, do not exist. That which
God does not require is not duty; and He never requires exertions
inconsistent with each other. What is needed is wisdom to draw
correct Hnes, and then vigor to fill them up with all our might."
Duty embraces little as well as great things. It includes the
temporal as well as the spiritual. If it is duty for a pastor to visit
the sick, it is no less his duty to be concerned about the well ones
of his flock. And since in our day the material interests of a
congregation demand attention, the discharge of that obligation
is regarded as no less a duty by Father Farrell than is the require-
ment that he instruct the children in Christian doctrine, or preach
a sermon on Sundays and Holydays.
Father Farrell's sixteen years spent thus far (1900) on the
mission in northern Ohio have not been barren of good results.
Wherever he labored he won the affections of his people ; and the
prayers and well wishes of former parishioners have always accom-
panied him as helps and sources of consolation. His constancy
and assiduity in the performance of his duties, coupled with his
quiet manner and even temperament, have had the effect of
keeping his people well disposed and of one mind, as well in
temporalities as in spiritualities.
He is regarded by competent judges as a forcible and pleasing
speaker, whose sermons and discourses are replete with good
thought. The close observer, too, can read in his phrenological
developments and countenance, as seen in the accompanying excel-
lent engraving of him, the evidences of traits of character becom-
ing to the priest. Among these are large spirituality, prominent
intellectual faculties, reverence, benevolence, firmness, and con-
tinuity. Equipped thus by nature, prepared by education, and
aided by grace^ it may be said of him, not so much in prophecy as
by inference, that in the future as in the past he will continue to
be a faithful and profitable servant of the Master.
144 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. PATRICK FARRELL, D. D.
The parents of the Rev. Dr. Farrell, of St. John's Cathedr;
were born in Ireland. His father, William, came from near tl
city of Cork, and his mother, Anne Darragh, from Antrim. Thi
were married in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1850, by the la
Bishop Michael O'Connor. They reared a family of eight, foi
sons and four daughters. The subject of this sketch is the iif
child.
Mr. William Farrell located, in 1851, in the village of Ea
Liverpool, Ohio, where he was associated with the pioneers
Catholicity in that now thriving pottery town. He served in tl
Civil War in the 115th Ohio regiment. He was councilman of tl
church from the organization of the parish, in 1876, to the time •
his death, in 1894. His widow survives him.
The Rev. Patrick Farrell, D. D., was born in East Liverpoc
Ohio, October 28, 1862. He was graduated from the high scho<
of his native town before he had completed his seventeenth yea
The class, one of the first of the school in point of time, numbere
only-three. One of them is now a prominent and wealthy bus
nessman of East Liverpool, the third being a leading minister i
the Methodist Protestant Church in California.
In 1881, he entered St. Charles' College, Maryland. Mt. S
Mary's of the West was closed at that time, and Bishop Gilmoi
sent all his boys to Ellicott's Mills. The records of the colleg
show how the "western students;'' as they were called, succeede
in distinguishing themselves in the preparatory class-work. ]
Tune, 1885, Patrick Farrell finished his classical course with tl:
highest honors in a class of twenty-four.
In January, 1886, on the recommendation of his teacher
he was sent by Bishop Gilmour to Rome, Italy, to enter tl
American College for the course of higher ecclesiastical studie
In 1887, he took the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. July 2'
1890, he was ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Parrocchi i
the Church of St. Apollinaris. The title of Doctor of Divinity w;
conferred on him in 1891. Returning to Cleveland, he w;
appointed by Mgr. Bqfif, then Administrator of the Diocese, to tl
post of curate at St. John's Cathedral, in which capacity he coi
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 145
tinued until November, 1900, when he was placed in charge of
that important cong-regation ; and since this work has been in
press, he received the formal appointment as pastor of the
Cathedral, June 24, 1902.
During the pastorate of Father Vahey as well as that of Mgr.
Thorpe, Dr. Farrell took a prominent part in parish work. A
recognized authority on the liturgy of the Church, he is master of
ceremonies at all episcopal functions in the Cathedral and fre-
quently outside. The organization of the Marquette Club, a society
of young men, well known throughout the city, is a mark of his
zeal in behalf of the younger people of the parish. The frequent
exhibitions of musical and literary talent displayed by the members
of the club afford ample proof of the wisdom of proper direction
for them, and the present pastor of the Cathedral has been the
soul of the organization from its inception to the present.
Dr. Farrell was acting Chancellor of the Diocese from April
to October, 1895. For three semesters in 1898-99 he taught
Sacred Scripture in the Diocesan Seminary, fulfiUing his duties
as assistant at the Cathedral at the same time. In recognition of
his learning he was made a member of the Diocesan Board of
Examiners whose duty it is to conduct the examinations of the
seminarists as well as the junior clergy.
His priestly career of about ten years, whether as assistant
pastor, or professor, has been most successful ; ever gentle, kind
and forbearing, he has endeared himself to the people among
whom God has cast his lot. He is firm when firmness is required,
always direct and forcible in utterance, especially when preaching
the word of Divine Truth, but like the Master Whom he
followSj gentleness and amiability are the chords by which he
draws hearts to God. The head of the first church of the diocese,
which he administers with marked ability, bespeaks the confidence
of his bishop in placing one so young in such prominence. May he
long continue in the service of God as a true shepherd of souls,
is the prayer of his people.
146 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. FRANK V. FAULHABER.
There are few laymen better known or more highly respect
in the city of Cleveland and northern Ohio than is the subject
this sketch; while among his Catholic fellow citizens of the c
"Forest City" his name is almost a household word — a synonj
for loyalty, charity, friendship, and Catholic practice.
Mr. F. V. Faulhaber's affiliations with societies of Cathol
are numerous, and his positions in them have always been pro:
inent and responsible. He was state president for three years
the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, and of the Widows' a
Orphans' Fund of the Central Vcrein he is the national treasur
Besides his connection with the Catholic Knights of Ohio he
also a member of several parish guilds, notably St. Stephen's,
which he is treasurer. He has always been in demand as a
person to handle and care for trust funds, and his faithfulness a
strict honesty so impressed the citizens of the thirty-sixth Wc
in Cleveland that they elected him three times to serve them
the city council, where he acquitted himself with credit.
The calling which he has followed for the past seventeen ye;
embraces insurance, real estate, notarial and probate business, a
the management and settlement of estates. Previous to the est;
lishment of his present business he devoted four years to railrc
work, and eight to commercial pursuits. The F. V. Faulhal
Company, of which he is president, and which is incorporated i
der the laws of Ohio, is a prominent institution in Cleveland. 1
volume of its business is large, and its standing is the best. 1
Catholic people, and also the priests, highly prize its business m;
agement and have unbounded confidence in its reliability sol
through the personality of its president. The Greenwich Insurai
Company, of New York City, also prizes Mr. Faulhaber hig\
for it is to him all its agents in the city of Cleveland and Cu
hoga county make their reports.
Mr. F. V. Faulhaber is a native of Piqua, Ohio. He \
born July 11, 1856. His parents were Frank J. and Maria (Kul
Faulhaber, natives of Baden. His father died in 1880, and
mother resides in Cleveland. They removed to that city in 18
Young Faulhaber received his elementary training in St. Mai
—/
\
\C
MR. FRANK V. FAULHABER
OF
Mi,
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 147
parochial school, following which he was classically educated in
St. Charles' College, at Carthagena, Ohio. He graduated after a
four years' course. He has since exhibited his talents and acquire-
ments to good advantage. Inheriting marked qualities, his edu-
cation and training have fitted him for much usefulness, not alone
in business, but also in a moral and intellectual way among his
fellow citizens. He has contributed not a little to the good work
of dissipating the false notion that Catholics, as a body, are unedu-
cated and have "no mind of their own." The average Protestant
gentleman, after a conversation with Mr. Faulhaber, bears away
with him the contrary impression, and is convinced of the fact
that priests are not the only members of the Catholic Church who
know and are able to expound Christian doctrine. He is given
the proof that laymen, too, know the catechism, and while all may
not be able to explain it, as Mr. Faulhaber is, they know its prac-
tical lessons which, to say the least, are the basis of Christian
theology. These are some of the uses to which Mr. F. V. Faul-
haber incidentally devotes his intellectual and Christian training
and ability, and it must be admitted that they have borne good
fruits.
In 1879 he was married to Mary Gottwald, who passed away
in 1881. In 1883 he married Elizabeth Buhl, also a Cleveland
lady. They have four children whose names are Carl, Catharine,
Agnes, and Ernest. These are afforded rare educational advan-
tages and the elevating influences of a model Catholic home.
Amid books, music, and a moral atmosphere nothing is denied
them that makes for the goal which religion holds up to view.
Blessed with a father whose educational and sterling qualities are
the highest, and with a mother whose Christian piety and domes-
tic traits set them a shining example, nothing is left for them but
to act well their part and thus win the crown which is the wages of
right living.
Not alone natural affection but also a high sense of obliga-
tion and duty make the care of their children the chief object,
after their own salvation, for which Mr. and Mrs. F. V. Faulhaber
live and labor.
148 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. GEORGE FELTZ.
If success in life, in its business, its domestic, as well as ii
public features, is regarded as the measure of the energy, abilit;
and social qualities in the individual, and if excellence of characte
is foreshadowed by such, then it can be clearly and logical!
affirmed of the present auditor of Allen county, Ohio, that he is
gentleman of good parts, strongly marked traits, and distinctly
natural and spiritual endowments. His record shows that froj
early youth he possessed both the will, the judgment, and th
ability to put his talents to practical and commendable uses.
As student, teacher, choir master, organist, financier, publ:
ofificial, and head of an estimable Catholic family, he has given tl
tangible evidence of the truth of Robert Burns' saying that,
' "The rank is but the guinea stamp
The man's the gowd for a' that."
Mr. George Feltz, of Lima, Ohio, was born in Seneca count
in the same State, March 18, 1843. His father's Christian nam
was Florentz, and the maiden name of his mother was Miss Ma
garet Loefifler. The former was born at Strasburg, Germany, :
1803, and died in Mercer county, Ohio, in 1888, when he w;
eighty-five years and four months old. The latter also died the
when she was in her seventy-seventh yean Intellectual pursuits ar
music had a fascination for George Feltz even when a boy. ' E
studied hard amid difficulties, and finally when he had grown 1
be a yoimg man he attained to one of his ambitions, that of beir
a teacher. He taught for seven years at Fryburg, in Auglai
county, and at Sidney, in Shelby county.
In 186Y he selected the promising city of Lima as his futu
home, where he embarked in the insurance business" with the la
Mr. John O'Connor. Becoming the organist of St. Rose's Cath
lie Church he continued as such for thirty years, and he yet remai:
active as director of the choir. He estabHshed, in 1878, the Liv
Courier, a journal published in the German language, which ]
ably edited until 1892, a period of fourteen years. For near
thirty years he was the secretary and financial manager of tl
Citizens' Building Association of Lima, and to an extent tl
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 149
inspirer of other local building associations. He handled over
seven millions of dollars during that time, and never lost one cent
for the association or for the individual stockholders. When he
resigned to assume the duties of his present position as county
.auditor, to which he was elected as a Democrat, in 1899, one of
his sons was chosen to succeed him as secretary of the building
association.
And thus a high regard for the Feltz family through their
honored father^ and for the several members thereof on account
of the respective merits and ability of each, has been unfailingly
and unstintingly exhibited by the citizens and business men of
Lima.
In 1864 Mr. Feltz was married to Miss Elizabeth Holdgreve,
of Delphos, Ohio, who, like himself, followed in her young
womanhood the vocation of teacher. Her dowry to her husband
were her intellect, and the Christian virtues adorning her life. To
their union were born four sons who are now reputable business
men in Lima. Leander A. is secretary of the Citizens' Building
Association, having, as above said, succeeded to the position so
long and ably filled by his father. Arthur C. is first bookkeeper
in the Ohio National Bank of Lima, and Albin J. and Otmer J.
are the proprietors of the prominent dry g«ods house of Feltz
Brothers. All except Leander A. are happily married and have
added to the joys of their honored parents by furnishing them with
eight grandchildren.
The members of the Feltz family of Lima are prominent and
consistent Catholics. They are devoted to religion and creditable
to their co-religionists and friends. Their record has been taken
into account in selecting them for this honorable mention in the
History of the Diocese of Cleveland — a mention that is in itself a
monument, and that may serve to light the way to honor and
success for some youthful readers of the generations that are to
come.
Life-record completed, and also living examples are among
the best teachers. The one is permanent, having inscribed itself
among the ineffaceable monuments ; the other is making for com-
pleteness and permanency as Time's wheel records its lessons.
150 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. WILLIAM P. FINNEGAN.
A demand for a second edition of this work has already beer
made; and since the Finnegan Publishing Company, of Cleveland
Ohio, is to handle it, a sketch of the head of that house would
appear both proper and germane.
Independent of the excellent qualities for which Mr. Finnegar
is personally noted, he has strong claims to recognition because
of his calling and the potent influence for good which his house
has on the moral and religious sentiments of the Catholic com-
munities in Ohio and adjoining States. The Finnegan Publish-
ing Company handle no yellow-covered literature. On the con-
trary, approved Catholic works and those on patriotic, literary
and historical subjects comprise the great bulk of their trade
These works, in an intellectual and moral sense, may be said to be
standard, and they have given to that establishment a reputatior
which lifts it above the status of the average book agency thai
handles anything that comes from the press.
In this light Mr. Finnegan's house is a spreader of knowledge
and a teacher of truth in a wider sense than are many individual;
whose station may be prominent locally, but whose influence i;
necessarily limited in most instances to the community in whicl
they live. It reaches the home direct, places there permanentl)
approved works, and these books continue their mission of teach-
ing and elevating indefinitely. Each night is a day for them
and each Sunday is a working day in the fulfillment of their pur
pose. The power for good of the author is largely in the hand;
of the publisher and circulator, for without them he is merely j
"Pent-up Utica."
Mr. William P. Finnegan was born on a farm in Nichol town
ship, Wellington county, Province of Ontario, Canada, Februar]
24, 1874. He is the third youngest of a family of twelve. ■ Hi:
father, Thomas Finnegan, was a native of the county of Mona
ghan, Ireland, and his mother, whose maiden name was Mis;
Catherine McArdle, was a native of Canada. Both passed to thei:
reward in 1899, having celebrated the golden jubilee of their mar
ried life in June,- 1898. Mr. Finnegan was eighty-six years ol(
when he died. Having been reared in a Catholic community
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 151
young Finnegan enjoyed a parochial school training until his
seventeenth year. He then set out in the world to see things for
himself, and to make a living. He attended school in Boston,
Massachusetts, traveled extensively through the United States,
and finally settled in Cleveland, in 1899, where, with a two years'
experience, he established himself in his present business. His
success has been no more phenomenal than he has merited, for
he is an industrious young man, is careful in the selection of his
assistants, and always insists on doing business along such lines
as to insure a welcome when he, or his representatives, calls again.
Mr. Finnegan looks the ecclesiastic, which he is not, and does
not claim to be, while his appearance and manner breathe both
talent and no little cultivation. He possesses much force of charac-
ter, abounds in resources, and is a good judge of human nature.
His earlier experience in the book business was an education in
itself. He was forced to familiarize himself with that which he
handled, and at the same time to study human character. He
has, therefore, a knowledge of some books; and it can be safely
presumed that he is quite familiar with the various phases which
make up the panorama of every-day life. He can tell almost at
a glance the man who reads, or who would read if he had a chance.
To him the home of the cultivated and the intellectual is easily
singled out, just as is the individual who, for the sake of knowledge,
would go to some trouble to acquire it. He himself keenly
appreciates education, and it does not take him long to know a
scholar when he converses with him.
Having no slight acquaintance with both books and men, the
subject of this mention might be said to be pretty well informed
for a young man of twenty-eight. And having not only made a
living since his seventeenth year, but also established a business,
the evidence of his ability and character are strikingly to the fore.
While he is absorbed in his line of work, yet his calling does not
estrange him from either the knowledge or the practice of religion.
His early training and the lessons taught him by his good mother
would be his stay even if his intellect was unequal to drawing
correct conclusions. But, having both faith and knowledge, he
employs the latter in happy keeping with the former, and is thus a
Catholic whose life, to say the least, is no discredit to the Church.
It might be put more positively by saying that he is not only a be-
152 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
lieving Catholic but one whose daily occupation to some extent
advances the interests of religion.
Mr. Finnegan is of fine physical presence, remarkable self-
control, more than average ability as a conversationalist, and the
possessor of quaHties which indicate character of a high order.
The long list of his acquaintances might be said to be the roster
of his friends. The experience which has been his has been his
course- in the humanities, and the man, as he is found today, is a
graduate from the school of experience, and from that of books
perused without a teacher. Self-made is, therefore, the phrase by
which to qualify his sterling manhood, and "Excelsior" may in
later years be fittingly applied to him.
THE REV. STEPHEN FURDEK.
If one of the aims of a bishop governing his diocese is to have
his priests well in keeping with the present as well as the future
requirements of their respective parishes, then the continuance of
the Rev. Stephen Furdek in the pastoral charge of Our Lady of
Lourdes' (Slovak) Congregation, Cleveland, Ohio, is an instance
of the happy adaptation of recognized means to the above much
desired end.
To those acquainted with the situation, viz: the needs of the
parish, and this priest's capacity and ability to compass and meet
them, both the truthfulness and meaning of this averment will be
readily recognized, while to the general reader an additional light
is thrown on the case by the statements that the said parish of
Our Lady is one of the most important in northern Ohio, and that
it has grown to its present development, both temporally, numeric-
ally, and spiritually, while under the watchful eye and fostering
care of Father Furdek.
The parents of this priest were Stephen and Mary (Stopek)
Furdek. They were natives of Hungary, and there they passed to
their reward, the former in 1900, and the latter in 1898. He was
born to them in the town of Trstena, September 2, 1855. He was
afforded rare opportunities in both his classical and ecclesiastical
training which, with the exception of four months of the latter, he
finished in his native country and in Prague, Bohemia. He
emigrated to the United States, in 1882, spent four months in the
■J
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 153
Cleveland Diocesan Seminary, and was ordained priest by Bishop
Gilmour, July 1, 1882.
His first labors as a priest were performed in the capacity of
assistant at St. Wenceslas' Church in the city of Cleveland, Ohio,
from July 1, 1882, to May, 1883. In the latter mentioned month
and year he was appointed pastor of his present parish of Our Lady
of Lourdes, also in Cleveland, where he built the frame (wooden)
Church of Our Lady. The needs of a neighboring Cleveland parish
(St. Procop's), constrained the Bishop to transfer him to that field.
He fulfilled his mission there from July, 1883, to February 10, 1884,
when he was reappointed to his former charge, where he yet con-
tinues as pastor. From December, 1888, to August, 1890, he had
charge also of St. Ladislas' Church as a mission. He began the
erection of the present imposing Church of Our Lady in May,
1891, and although in an unfinished condition, it was first used by
the congregation the succeeding Christmas Day.
The priest in the man and also the manner and clement
disposition of the man himself are quite discernible. It would
appear to be an adopted aphorism with him that "We never regret
the kind words we have spoken nor the retorts we have left unsaid."
This means that there is philosophy in his gentleness and kindness;
that he is equal to saying No without oiTending; that he corrects
and reproves without leaving a sting, and that in his capacity of
spiritual guide he has the happy faculty of being able to win and
hold the respect and love of his people.
With the pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes' it is in part just as it
was with many Fathers of the Church who, beneath a lamb-like
gentleness and an exceeding approachableness, concealed the
qualities of the lion-hearted and the giant-minded, ready for effec-
tive use when occasion called. His gentleness does not mean
weakness, neither does his simplicity of manner mean lack of
intellectual parts. He is both learned and brilliant, and is credited
by those who know him well with being an eloquent speaker in his
native tongue. To this tongue he has added a knowledge of three
other languages, Magyar, German, and English. This list does
not include the Latin, which is almost native to the Hungarian,
and in which he excels.
Rev. Stephen Furdek is a man of fine literary attainments,
and is a believer in the broadest dissemination of knowledge, both
154 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
secular and religious. To this end he finds time in the midst of his
onerous parochial duties to ably edit the "Jednote," a Catholic
journal of wide circulation among his co-nationalists and co-
religionists. Both his tastes and his priestly obligations incline him
to labor for the enlightenment of the intellects of his people while
he ministers to them spiritually. Nothing displeases him more
than to have it said, with some showing of truth, that Catholics
are lacking in education. He, therefore, labors unceasingly that
his people may have not only religious but also secular knowledge.
Especially is he devoted to the work of educating the children,
for he sees the great need of knowledge to maintain them in the
faith and in their proper station in life.
MR. THOMAS GALLAGHER.
The late Mr. Thomas Gallagher, of Cleveland, Ohio, who
was the second Catholic undertaker to estabhsh himself in that
city, was born, at Newport, county of Mayo, Ireland, December 27,
1827. When nineteen years old, 1847, he, with the other members
of the family, emigrated to the United States and located in what
is now the metropolis of Ohio.
There were five brothers and one sister in the family. The
sister, Margaret by name, left Ireland as early as 183G, and was
among the first Catholics who chose Cleveland as their home.
She later became Mrs. Ferguson. The five Gallagher brothers
were named : Patrick, Edward, Denis, Thomas, and Joseph F.
Denis is the only surviving member; he lives in Cleveland.
Joseph F. became a priest of the diocese. He passed away
January 30, 1886, after devoting more than twenty-five years of
his life to religion. Thomas is the subject of this mention.
For a short time after his arrival in his adopted city he fol-
lowed the calling of loading and unloading vessels at the port of
Cleveland. Later he connected himself with the Michigan Central
Railroad or transportation company, and did a hauling business.
At one time in his career he was a fellow laborer with Mr. John D.
Rockefeller the multi-millionaire. In 1866 he engaged in the
undertaking business, which he followed for over twenty-one
years, or until his death in 1887. It is yet continued by his family.
MR. AND MRS. THOMAS GALLAGHER.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 155
Mr. Thoma,s Gallagher was married, February 2, 1857, in
St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland, by Bishop Rappe, to Miss
Catherine Reeves, a young lady born and educated in the city of
Limerick, Ireland. She yet lives in Cleveland and is now in her
sixty-fourth year. She is a woman of considerable force of
character, whose practical ideas are as pronounced as are her
quahties as a wife and mother. She has been a true helpmate, and
she continues her deep interest in her family. Two of her children
died in infancy, and the remaining five are : Margaret, who is
Mrs. James J. Malone, of Toledo; Joseph F., Mary E., Catherine,
who was Mrs. P. H. Lavan, Anna J., and Genevieve E. The family
yet owns the old home on Lake street purchased in 1847.
Mr. Gallagher in his day in Cleveland was a representative
Catholic. He made no parade of his religion, but was an enemy
to every approach to wrong-doing. Impulsive and old-style in
his way, he was instant in decision, and fixed in his purposes. No
power could sway him to go counter to his convictions. Hence,
in politics he was a leading Democrat but not a politician or
office-seeker. He would vote for a suitable man, regardless of
party, or for a personal enemy, for the sake of his party, but he
could never brook corruption, faithlessness, or disloyalty on the
part of either individuals or political parties.
His temperament was the nervous-sanguine, which accounted
for his generous impulses, his great hopefulness, and his remark-
able kindness of heart. Religion ennobled the many natural
virtues which endeared him to his neighbors and to a large circle
of friends and acquaintances. He is yet kindly remembered in
Cleveland and, doubtless, his memory will be kept green for many
years to come.
It is the purpose of this sketch, not only to take his excellent
qualities into account, but also to perpetuate his memory, and to
keep active as a moral force the example of his plain but consis-
tent Christian life. Touching that life, it would not fully express
it to say that he was the opponent of error and vice of all kinds ;
he was also a doer of those things that make for good morals and
that foster religion and virtue. He did these things privately
and unseen, in most instances, of his neighbors, for his nature was
averse to any parade, even of good deeds.
156 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
JOHN VINCENT GALLAGHER, M. D.
The medical profession in Cleveland, Ohio, has, among iti
younger members, no more promising, conscientious, or able prac
titioner than Dr. John V. Gallagher. He is a physician anc
surgeon by nature and education, and creditably reflects both th<
ethics and the dignity of his calling. He was born in Cleveland
Ohio, July 19, 1865. His father vi^as Neil Gallagher, who, in 1852
emigrated from the west of Ireland to the United States anc
located in Cleveland. He died in 1886. His mother's maidei
name was Catherine Gallagher. She yet lives and is a representa
tive of an ancient Irish family.
Dr. Gallagher received his preparatory training in th(
Cathedral parochial schools, and also in the public schools, when
he afterwards taught for one year. After a five years' course in th(
Niagara University, he graduated in the classics, in 1888, anc
received the gold medal for scholarship and excellence in clas
work. He next spent one year in the Wooster Medical College
after which he made a two years' course in the medical departmen
of the Western Reserve University, graduating from that institu
tion, with high honors, March 4, 1891. This he followed later b^
raking a post-graduate course in New York medical colleges.
Immediately after being admitted to practice his professioi
he was appointed house phj'sician in St. Alexis' Hospital, Cleve
land, which office he held for nearly two terms. He was nex
appointed on the regular staff of the hospital as visiting physician
Two years later he became visiting surgeon, a position which hi
yet holds, and is now the first president of the recently organizec
Alumni Association of the Resident Physicians of the hospital
In his practice during a period of over ten years, and as ;
member of the American Medical and the Cleveland Medica
Associations, and also as a student of the late Dr. R. A. Vance, h
has abundantly fulfilled the high expectations that have been enter
tained of him both by the profession and his friends. He ha
acquired a lucrative practice and enjoys an enviable reputatioi
both as a professional man and as a citizen.
Dr. Gallagher was united in marriage, in 1893, to Miss Edit!
Cullen, of Wheeling, West Virginia. To their union have beei
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 157
born six children, four bo}'s and two girls. Their names are :
Vincent Alexis, Thorpe Augustin, Leonarda Agnes, Leo Arthur,
George Vahey, and Edith Matilda Gallagher. Appreciating
the worth of an education, he is most desirous that its benefits be
fully extended to his children. To that end his home is a sort of
graded school, accommodated to the capacities of the little ones.
Of this school he is principal, while Mrs. Gallagher is the all-around
teacher, who puts in the long hours and never forgets the great
truth that secular education alone is not always a blessing; hence
her solicitude for their religious training also.
The accompanying portrait of Dr. Gallagher is eloquent as to
the character of the man. He possesses a fine physique, while his
countenance is indicative of many excellent qualities of both head
and heart. If, as Fowler says, "Phrenology goes below actions
to their main springs and discloses innate proclivities," then the
cranial exhibition of Dr. Gallagher's faculties, as modified by his
nervo-bilious temperament, means not a little in manifesting his
character and powers. His finely shaped head prominently pre-
sents his large individuality, cautiousness, and continuity, with
causality and comparison by no means lacking. In the moral
group will be found well developed his conscientiousness, venera-
tion, and benevolence, all of which tells of a happily balanced
nature and a character quite remarkable for nobility, generosity,
and force. As a result of his education and experience he takes a
broad view of things, is considerate, generous, and charitable ; and
notwithstanding its weakness, he has an abiding confidence in
human nature.
Aside from his classical acquirements, Dr. Gallagher takes
great pleasure in the field of the diagnostician and also in the more
exact and scientific domain of the surgeon. In the latter he has
had considerable experience during the past few years and is
reputed to possess a degree of skill which is much to his credit.
His practice is by no means confined to his co-religionists or to
Catholic institutions. All creeds and classes are represented
among his patients. Being a native of Cleveland, he is well and
favorably known to the great majority of the people, and his pro-
fessional reputation has kept pace with his social popularity and
his standing as a representative Catholic gentleman.
158 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JOSEPH STEPHEN AUGUST GERARDIN.
May 4, 1844, at Riche, Departement de la Meurthe, Frana
was born to John Stephen and Teresa (Toussaint) Gerardin th
youngest of their seven children, who is the subject of this bic
graphy, and who for the past twenty-two years, 1878-1900, ha
been the pastor of the Annunciation Church, Cleveland, Ohio. H
began his Latin studies in the Petit Seminaire at Pont-a-Musso
when he was thirteen years old, and continued them until Apri
1864, a period of seven years.
The death of his parents — that of his mother, in 1863, and c
his father, in 1864, just eight months apart — was a severe blow t
him in two ways ; first, his great loss ; and, secondly, the fact tha
although but thirty miles distant, he was not informed of these sa
events until after their burial. These so saddened the tende:
hearted young man that he could not bring himself to return to h
home — no longer a home to him, bereft of its loved ones. In coi
sequence he joined a missionary band of seven young men who, i
April, 1864, accompanied the late Father Hoffer to this country t
become priests of the Diocese of Cleveland. He entered St. Mary
Theological Seminary on his arrival in the See city of the dioces
and after a three and one-half years' course, was ordained priest t
Bishop Rappe, December 16, 1867.
Immediately after ordination. Father Gerardin was appointe
chaplain of Charity Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio. He there exe
cised the functions of his holy office until April 14, 1868, a peric
of five months, when, having acquainted himself with the Germa
language, he was sent to Upper Sandusky, Wyandot county, 1
temporarily take the place of the Rev. Father Reinhart, who hi
been accidentally killed on the railroad. The following Septemb'
he was transferred to become the pastor of St. Joseph's pans
Gallon, Crawford county, where he built St. Patrick's Churc
which with other missions was also in his charge. He labored
that field until April 8, 1878, when he was advanced to his prese;
station as pastor of the Annunciation Church, Cleveland. He bu
the present beautiful parish church, aided by a united congreg
tion, the great majority of whom were French, and to whom 1
preached in their language. Latterly such changes have taki
y -?>
^W'
^ Sf^ ^is^
S.«-S^
^^^^^^ ;/
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 159
place that the language of the parish is now English. However,
by delivering occasional sermons in the French language, and
being able to hear confessions in German, the reverend pastor is
equal to accommodating himself to all the local requirements.
In 1885, after an absence in America of twenty-one years, he
returned to France, saw again his birthplace, and visited the tomb
of his parents. He experienced both gladness and sadness. Again;
in 1899, the impaired condition of his health requiring it, he crossed
the Atlantic and revisited the scenes of his childhood and young
manhood. Returning much improved, he continues his labors in
the field in which he has been so long and faithfully exerting him-
self in the interests of his flock, both spiritually and temporally.
Father Gerardin has not been spoiled, as some have, by his
long residence in "This Country of Ours." He has lost nothing of
the old spirit of Catholic France, nor have his amiableness and
courteousness sufifered by close contact with our comparatively
"rude world." Naturally a man of refinement, his calling has en-
nobled his fine qualities. The plain people have observed this and
are wont to speak of this good priest as an approachable, genial.
Christian gentleman, whose kindness of heart and whose readiness
to oblige and serve have won the affections of all who know him.
While the priestly character may stand independent of the man
and may command respect and reverence because of itself, God-
given as it is, yet when that Christ-like character becomes the man,
fits him and ennobles him, even unbelievers are anxious to do him
honor. Not one has yet been met with who, knowing him, does
not love and reverence Father Gerardin both as a priest and as a
man.
Touching his calling, then, and the religion which he teaches,
the words of Greenwell are apropos : "It is among the ignorant,
the out-of-the-way, the commonplace, that the Christian teach-
er's daily lot is thrown; and their appeals are to him as sacred as
those which come more seldom and with louder knocking at the
gate. That Christianity should fit in with the ordinary and medi-
ocre has always seemed a proof of its crowning excellence.
'A little child shall lead them.' "
160 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. HENRY J. GERHARDSTEIN.
The excellent engraving on the adjoining page is more expre
sive than words in indicating the characteristics of Rev. Henry
Gerhardstein, pastor of SS. Philip and James' Church, Can;
Fulton, Ohio.* Many pages would be required to tell what :
there seen at a glance — without study. The beholder almo;
instantly forms a comparatively correct estimate of the natur;
qualities and capacities of this good priest, perhaps without bein
able to tell how he does it.
At any rate, the reader will judge the original of the portra
to be a generous, tolerant, kind-hearted man; one who is nc
lacking in firmness, but who is more inclined to be lenient an
merciful. He will declare him to be a lover of music, if not
musician — one whose spiritual and better nature is thrilled by th
concord of sweet sounds. He will say that both the rational an
the animal are well developed in him, but that the moral and inte
lectual faculties ever hold him with heaven-erected face. His sel
esteem will be estimated as of like degree with his firmness, an
therefore never in conflict with his respect for authority, his lov
of order and his spirit of resignation. His loyalty in friendship
will be found on the same plane with his devotion to duty and hi
high sense of his obligations both in honor and conscience.
Agreeing with these observations, which both the reader an
those who enjoy a personal acquaintance with him will testify to s
generally true, a very good idea of the natural man having
spiritual mission may be had. Father Gerhardstein was born c
German parents in the town of Sherman, Huron county, Ohi(
July 4, 1859. His father, Mr. John Gerhardstein, passed away i
1889; and his mother, whose maiden name was Miss Catherin
Host, went to her reward in 1890. When sufficiently advance
to take up his classics, young Gerhardstein was sent to th
Canisius (Jesuit) College, at Buffalo, New York, where he gradt
ated with distinction in 1889. In the autumn of that year h
entered St. Mary's Theological Seminary in Cleveland. He ther
•June 30, 1901, after thla sketch was in type, Father Gerhardstein was appointed
his former place as assistant to the rector of St. Peter's Church, CleTeland.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 161
completed his divinity course in a little over three years, and was
ordained priest by Bishop Horstmann, December 17, 1892.
His first appointment was as assistant priest at St. Peter's
Church in the city of Cleveland. He labored there during six years
with the late Father Westerholt, the veteran pastor of the congre-
gation, and for six months additional with the succeeding rector,
Father Pfeil. June 28, 1898, he was commissioned as pastor of
SS. Philip and James' Church, Canal Fulton, Ohio, where he has
accomplished much good.
Father Gerhardstein's musical capacity enables him to chant
the public offices of religion in a pleasing and masterly way. His
talent as a preacher in both German and English is quite pro-
nounced, the matter of his sermons being in happy keeping with
his fluency of speech and his graceful delivery.
Since taking charge of the church at Canal Fulton, he has
been enabled, through the co-operation of the congregation, to pay
off nearly all the parochial obligations, those of the church proper
as well as those for the maintenance of the school. To him, as to
all good priests, the church comes first, but since Christian educa-
tion is the handmaid of religion, the church and the school are one
to be supported, defended, and utilized for the betterment of the
people. In this good work Father Gerhardstein has always
exhibited both zeal and ability.
What has been said above will be taken amiss by the reader
if the idea is not conveyed that Father Gerhardstein is a priest
whose personality and efiforts conduce to the removal of spiritual
dryness, and the impressing on those among whom he labors of
the infinite consolation and sweetness found by carefully weighing
the meaning of the words, "the Divine Will." Aside from his
sacred calling, his nature and personality, smacking of kindness,
plainness, and gentleness, invite to higher things, and render well
disposed those to whom he brings the message of peace and love.
If he is to be judged by the earnestness and success of his labors,
the finding is already in his favor, for even his personality exer-
cises a tonic influence for good.
162 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. FRANCIS J. GIEBEL.
A man is said to bear acquaintance well when he either hoi
or increases the esteem in which he was originally held by 1
neighbors and fellow citizens. When either of these stands
his credit he is generally regarded as the possessor of sterlii
quahties and an excellent character.
If the gentleman who is the subject of this mention
weighed in this balance he will not be found wanting, and, thei
fore, it will not be an empty or unreasonable assertion to say tl
he justifies the judgment which would give him prominence
this work both as a citizen and as a practical Catholic.
The Giebel family has been favorably known in northe
Ohio since the establishment of the Diocese of Cleveland. T
elder Giebel, whose Christian names were given to his son, w
a native of Hesse Cassel. He emigrated to the United States
1847. His wife was a native of Bavaria, which country she L
for America in 1839. Her maiden name was Miss Marie
Duerr. Their son, here mentioned, was born to them in Fremoi
Ohio, March 14, 1851. He was there educated in both t
parochial and common schools, and there he began the indi
trious and successful career in which he still continues.
Positions of trust and responsibility appear to have had
great attraction for him. Hence, at the early age of eighteen
was a trusted clerk in the ofhce of the treasurer of Sandus
county. From that preferment he passed to a like position in t
auditor's ofifice, and finally after four years of service the peo]
elected him to the auditorship, and re-elected him. Later
filled by appointment an unexpired term as county treasur
From the treasurership he stepped to the position of assists
cashier in the Farmers' Bank; then to assume a like responsibiU
and later that of a director, in the First National Bank; a
finally, in 1890, he became a director and the cashier of the F
mont Savings Bank, the duties of which he continues to dischar
In addition he held the office of city clerk, was a member of 1
city council two terms, and also a member of the educatioi
board of the city of Fremont from 1885 to 1891. There :
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 163
numerous other evidences of his activity and worth in official and
business stations in his native city and county.
These facts are luminous in indicating the capability and
character of Mr. Giebel. They tell of his reliability, his faithful-
ness to his trusts, and also of the esteem in v^^hich he is held by his
fellow^ citizens, and especially by his neighbors who have known
him since boyhood. He is honest by nature and through the
teachings of the Catholic Church. He is capable through the
cultivation and exercise of his faculties, and the laudable pride
which is native to him impels him to be in reality what he is
universally esteemed to be — what he claims to be — and to do what
he does in the best possible way.
Mr. Francis J. Giebel's temperament is happy and even, its
phlegmatic nature smacking of the philosophic. He arrives at
conclusions calmly and readily, but not so impulsively as to
require reviewing to assure him of the correctness and soundness
of his judgments. This characteristic is found to be a factor in all
his relations— in business, in friendships, in domestic affairs, and,
it might be said, in religion also. While faith is the basis of his
Catholicity, it must be said that not a little of the logic of mathe-
matics enters into it also. It is well that it is so, for Catholic teach-
ing, in an intellectual sense, is nothing if not logical. Mr. Giebel
is aware of this, hence he is what he is through faith and right
reason, and through a guiding Providence that "shapes our ends,
rough-hew them as we may."
The Rev. Dr. Bauer, rector of St. Joseph's Church and his
pastor since Mr. Giebel's boyhood, has been kind enough, in
response to questions by the writer, to thus express himself in
point :
"Mr. F. J. Giebel has always been, and is now, one of the
best members of my flock— St. Joseph's. He is a man of the
stanchest Catholicity, loyal to the core, not only in a general
way, but also in all particulars where the interests of religion, the
claims of the Church, and the religious and moral behests of him-
self and his family are concerned. There are many Catholics loyal
in a general way, fewer so in a particular way ; Mr. Giebel belongs
to the latter class. He never shrank from his devotion to his reli-
gious convictions in his public manifestations of the same, nor in
his life as a public man. In elections and in office he was no time-
server. Bigotry never scared him, nor did sacrifice deter him.
164 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
He is honored today, even by the enemies of the Church, for hi
manly and robust churchism.
Mr. Giebel is bom honesty. His word is his voucher, an^
his promise is his sign-manual, his handwriting. He is truste
by all. In St. Joseph's Church, his position is most enviable. H
is the president of the St. Joseph's Society of men for Cathoh
interests, a society affiliated with the Roman society of the sam
name. He has been and is the right-hand man of the rector of Si
Joseph's Church, on whom the rector leans in all troubles and i
all undertakings. He is a pillar par excellence, kind, polit*
religious, honorable, and true. Leaning on him, the rector care
little for the temporizing lukewarmness of others.
The members of Mr. Giebel's family pattern after thei
father; and, when his last hour strikes, he may say, in Schiller'
words : 'No dear head is lost !' "
This tribute, by his pastor, is the justification of what th
writer has attempted to say touching the character and career c
Mr. Giebel. It is a confirmation of the high estimate of hiir
entertained not merely in his home city, but throughout norther
Ohio. It also attests the truth of the averment that he is
representative Catholic gentleman, whose life and record reflec
Christian teaching and are an honor to both his pastor and hi
co-religionists.
It is one of the purposes of these sketches of laymen, wh
have been selected for their excellent record, to bear testimon
to the influence of Catholic teaching, and to indicate that tru
manhood and good citizenship are always conserved and advance
by the Catholic Church. The many samples of worthy layme
set forth in this work are the evidence of the potent influence c
religion.
January 27, 1874, Mr. Francis J. Giebel was married to Mi;
Clara Ochs, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ambrose Ochs, of Fn
mont, Ohio. Seven children were born to them, three havin
died in early infancy — Arthur A., Irene E., and Walter J. Anothe
Urban A., the second oldest, passed away August 31, 1900. H
was twenty-one years and nine months old, was educated in S
Ignatius College, Cleveland, was in the bank with his father, an
was the hope and pride of his pastor and his parents. The othei
are: Hedwig, Estella R., and Olive A.
"^^pfl^*-*^^
MR. AND MRS. JOHN A. GIEDEMANN.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 165
MR. JOHN A. GIEDEMANN.
Mr. John A. Giedemann of St. Mary's parish, Sandusky, Ohio,
was born, December 24, 1850, at Kappel-am-Rhein, near Offen-
burg, Baden, in one of the most beautiful and picturesque districts
along Germany's most famous river, the Rhine. He is the only
son of John Giedemann and Theresa Faist, and has but one sister,
Mrs. Sophia Buerkle, of Sandusky, Ohio. When he was one year
old, the Giedemann family regretfully left their native country for
the United States, and took up their permanent residence at
Sandusky. John A. Giedemann's father, a shoemaker by trade,
served as a patriotic citizen in the U. S. Army during the Civil
War, was honorably discharged at its close, and lived with his
family, at Sandusky, till his death, September 27, 1882.
Mrs. Theresa Giedemann, John's mother, is yet living, a
venerable lady of seventy-eight years. She, like her husband, is a
pioneer of St. Mary's congregation and has at all times been an
active and generous supporter of her church. She happily belongs
to a numerous and thoroughly Catholic family, whose members
always bore the highest reputation among their fellow citizens in
the village of Kappel for the iideHty with which they clung to the
principles of Catholicity, true piety, and self-respect. Mrs. Theresa
Giedemann has three brothers and fifteen sisters. All of them are
married and have proved themselves worthy children of noble
parents. Four of her sisters live in Sandusky, Ohio, and are not
only among the pioneers of St. Mary's, but also rank among the
foremost benefactors of their parish church. Two of her sisters live
in Chicago, whither their reputation as practical Catholics happily
preceded them. Her brothers and other sisters remained in their
native village of Kappel, Baden.
A pleasing trait in the character of Mrs. Theresa Giedemann,
and the same must be said of her sisters, is her sunny and genial
disposition, her deep piety and true matronly conduct. These
qualities endear her to all with whom she comes in contact and
command their esteem and respect.
Mr. John A. Giedemann was joined in wedlock to Miss
Katharine Homegardner, in St. Mary's Church, Sandusky, Ohio,
August 12, 18Y5. She was herself born at Sandusky, March 19,
166 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
1851, and died there November 20, 1901. She was the daughti
of John Homegardner and Mary Loeblein. Her father, a nati-\
of Switzerland, is one of the oldest pioneer Catholic settlers ;
Sandusky ; her mother was born in Hanover. The Homegardn(
family have always been prominent in Catholic circles. The unic
of Mr. and Mrs. Giedemann was blessed with .five children, i
whom three are living, namely: Cora, aged twenty-two; Id
eighteen ; Katie, fourteen.
At the early age of twelve he commenced his business carei
as cash boy in the dry goods store of Converse & Son. When th
firm was succeeded by Geo. Marsh & Bros, he remained as clei
for six years ; after the change of the firm to that of E. H. & R. A
Wilcox, he remained seven months. In 1871, he embarked in th
shoe business as a partner with W. Koch & Co. and was connects
with the house till 1878, when, in company with John Homegan
ner, Jr., his brother-in-law, he bought out the old firm and estal
lished the Giedemann & Homegardner shoe store. This busine;
is still existing and is one of the most flourishing establishments i
Sandusky. Mr. Giedemann is likewise connected with the follov
ing business enterprises : the Homegardner Sand Co., of whic
he is vice-president; secretary and treasurer of the Co-operati\
Foundry, of Sandusky; director and appraiser of the Sandusk
Building & Loan Association ; director of the Sandusky Telephor
Co.; member of the Board of Means and Ways of the Chamber (
Commerce; agent of the Teutonia Fire Insurance Co., of Daytoi
Ohio; financial secretary of the C. M. B. A. No. 27; ex-treasun
of St. George Court C. O. F. He served one term as treasure
of the Sandusky Board of Education. He was elected councilma
of St. Mary's Church in 1896, and has since served in that capacit
to the full satisfaction of both the pastor and the congregation.
Personally Mr. John A. Giedemann is a gentleman in tl
fullest sense of the word, a practical Catholic, and one of th
honored citizens of Sandusky. His prudence, honesty, an
thoughtfulness in business transactions have won for him the coi
fidence of the people, and his kindness, generosity, and gooc
natured disposition, which he has inherited from his mother, ha\
enabled him to hold a high position in the circle of his many frienc
and acquaintances.
TN NORTHERN OHIO. I67
MR. WILLIAM P. GINTHER.
Church and school architecture in the Diocese of Cleveland,
especially during the last decade, has shown a decided improve-
ment in style and finish. The proportions, an essential in the
Gothic, are more faithfully observed, and where the Romanesque
or other styles are employed a degree of attention to detail is
clearl}'- evidenced.
During the past fifteen years it has been the ambition of the
subject of this article to bring about such results. How well he
has succeeded can be inferred from the number and character of
the structures which are the work of his genius. In his own city,
Akron, the new St. Bernard's Church is a sample, also St. Vincent
de Paul's school. In Toledo, the new Church of the Good Shep-
herd speaks his praise. So do St. Mary's Church, Norwalk;
St. Columba's, Youngstown; St. John's, Defiance; Mother of
Sorrows', Ashtabula; Sacred Heart, Shelby Settlement; and the
Annunciation, Cleveland.
Outside the diocese beautiful examples may be found in such
structures as St. John the Evangelist's Church, Columbus, Ohio;
St. John's, Logan; Holy Name, Steubenville; St. Mary's of The
Springs; St. Andrew's, Roanoke, Virginia; St. Mary's Church,
McKee's Rocks, Pennsylvania; St. Philip's, Crafton, and St.
Patrick's, Erie; when to these are added such educational institu-
tions as St. Rose's parish school, Lima, Ohio; St. Joseph's, St.
John's, and the chapel-school of the Immaculate Conception,
Canton; the Ursuline Academy, Tiffin, and the Ursuline Convent
at Youngstown, the beholder who is a judge of architecture will
recognize at once the great advances made.
The diocesan authorities and the clergy are well pleased with
these improvements, a fact that must be a source of satisfaction
to Mr. Ginther, whose skill in his calling is abreast of the best
enlightenment of the day. He has been for a quarter of a century
engaged in architectural pursuits, while the past fifteen years he
has devoted to giving form and substance to his own conceptions.
To better fit himself for his work he made a tour of Europe and the
Continent, in 1889, and closely inspected the great architectural
168 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
piles in Rome, Milan, Venice, Cologne, Paris, London, Berlir
Vienna, and the other noted centers. The information acquired h
has put to practical use, and in consequence he is credited with
degree of taste and skill which commends him to those chargei
with important building improvements.
Perhaps there is no temporality connected with religion tha
merits as much attention as does the work of designing and erect
ing houses of worship. These houses, besides their use as ;
convenience and a source of comfort to the people, have both ai
educational and an inspiring mission to perform. If the Catholii
Church has been the mother and preserver of the arts, she sureb
is entitled to be honored by that which she has created anc
fostered. It, therefore, follows that her temples should be typica
of the best in art, and that they should shadow forth, even in thei:
exterior symmetry and grandeur, the completeness and importanc(
of the mission and teaching of the Church. Consequently, to hav(
men like Mr. Ginther devote their lives to giving concrete expres
sion to these things, entitles them to both honors and emoluments
They are teachers by their art — teachers whose lessons are ver}
important and which can be enjoyed by taking the slight troubh
of gazing on the more recent monuments erected, to rehgion ir
the Diocese of Cleveland.
Mr. William P. Ginther is the son of Stephen and Man
(Horning) Ginther. His father has been a resident of Akron foi
fifty-two years, and is now seventy-two years old. His mother is ii
her sixty-eighth year. He was born March 21, 1858, and wa:
married, in 1892, to Miss Emma E. Wohlwend, also a native o
Akron. Four children have been born to them, only two o
whom, Julian B., and Mary, survive. He received his educatior
in the local schools and in Buchtel College in his native city
From boyhood he evinced a talent for drawing, and was induced b)
his friends when a youth to take up architecture. He has foUowec
it in all its departments, and has attained in it a high degree of art
Beside the satisfaction of knowing what he knows, he also enjoy:
the reflex effect of pleasing others by what he does. In additior
to this he derives a pleasure from being able to manifest high ar
in designing temples to be dedicated to the Great Architect of al
things.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 169
MR. FRANCIS H. GLIDDEN.
As one prominent among the laity of the Diocese of Cleveland
Mr. Francis H. Glidden, a long-time resident of the See city, has
been selected as a fit subject for a biographical sketch in this work.
He is the founder and president of the Glidden Varnish Company,
of Cleveland, a concern that is abreast of the great manufacturing
and commercial enterprises for which Ohio's metropolis is noted.
He was born at New Castle, Maine, May 24, 1832. His father
was Joseph Glidden, and the maiden name of his mother was Emily
Harrington. Her family were residents of Thomaston, Maine.
His education was obtained in the common schools and also in the
academy of his native village. In early life he followed the sea.
Miss Winifred Kavanaugh Waters, also of New Castle, became his
bride, in 1854. Her parents were James Sinclair and Margaret
(Kavanaugh) Waters. They were among the early residents of
Damariscotta Mills in that State. The grandfather of Mrs.
Glidden was James Kavanaugh, who, in 1803, was the prime mover
in the erection of St. Patrick's Church at that place. The church
is yet in a good state of preservation and is of note, not alone
because it is the oldest Catholic Church in New England, but also
because of the picturesqueness of its location and the memories
that cluster around it. It was dedicated by Bishop Cheverus, the
first bishop of Boston, who later returned to France and was
created a Cardinal. Visitors in that section always make it con-
venient to attend old St. Patrick's. Mrs. Glidden is therefore
descended of good old Catholic ancestors, both immediate and
remote, while Mr. Glidden himself embraced the Catholic faith
three years after his marriage. He has since continued happy in
his religious convictions.
In 1866, he visited Cleveland, and was so much impressed by
its business outlook and its educational advantages that he
removed his family to that city, in 1868. The thousands who have
since adopted the "Forest City" as their home can attest the
soundness of his judgment as to what Cleveland has in store for
all who, as its citizens, have their own and its welfare at heart.
The vast wealth of that great city is now largely in the possession
of these energetic, appreciative, and pubhc-spirited men. During
170 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
the nearly thirty-three years that Mr. Glidden has been a citizen oi
Cleveland he has been closely identified with the varnish manufac-
turing business. In 1875, he established the nucleus of the present
extensive plant of the Glidden Varnish Company. From a small
beginning he has w^itnessed its growth to its present large propor-
tions, his energy and executive ability as its founder and president
developing and guiding it from the first. At its inception its
business sky was somewhat overcast, but it soon cleared up until
scarcely a cloud appeared to darken the bright sun of its growing
prosperity.
It may be that mere business success is the acme of some
men's hopes and efforts, but it is not altogether thus with the
gentleman here mentioned. If what he has accomplished were to
be measured at all, other fields than those of business would have to
be traversed. Happily the native ability by which he has attained
to material success he has found by experience to be equally
potent in other and higher fields. The social conditions of men,
the educational and religious needs of the time, and how best to
advance and elevate the masses, have received his attention, and in
a quiet way his aid and support. He has traveled some, has at
least turned over some of the pages of history, has rubbed up
against art, and is by no means indififerent to literature and music.
He possesses a large fund of information, and is able to communi-
cate what he knows. He well deserves the reputation, which is
his, of being a pleasing conversationalist, not alone in the sense of
fluency and elegance of speech, but also and especially in that when
he speaks he says something. In his character and manner Mr.
Glidden combines much of the dignity, polish, and courtesy of the
old-school gentleman with the alertness and business energy of the
modern man-of-ai¥airs.
The social and domestic side of Mr. Glidden's life has been
marked by unalloyed happiness. He has many friends and
admirers who are both appreciative and sincere. Naturally, the
first and best of these is his good wife, a gift to him from the
Lord. Because of the many excellent qualities which adorn her
wifehood and motherhood, the intervening forty-six years since
their marriage have been a season of uninterrupted conjugal
devotion and contentment. Well might they say : "How friendly
''SS,
4'*"
■^
%M^
■'■^•fc'--
ay^''-' J U G^
i&22i.^i^^^^^=^"V
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 171
to our higher nature are all things that are simple, kindly, homely,
as opposed to such as are factitious and conventional."
Mr. and Mrs. Glidden have been blessed with eight children,
iour sons and four daughters, all of whom, with one exception, are
living and are residents of Cleveland.
THE REV. JOSEPH P. GLODEN.
The Grand Duchy of Luxemburg has contributed a number
of priests to the Diocese of Cleveland, and not the least of these, in
point of excellence, is Rev. Joseph P. Gloden, pastor of St. John's
Church, Defiance, Ohio. He was born in Remerschen, Luxem-
burg, January 12, 1842, and made his preparatory and classical
studies, and also philosophical course, at Bitche, St. Augustin's
College, and in the Grand Seminary at Metz. When, therefore,
he came to the United States, in 1866, and entered St. Mary's
Theological Seminary, Cleveland, Ohio, he made his theological
course and studied the language of the country. His stay in the
Seminary was considerably shortened, for, in 1869, September
oOth, the records tell of his ordination to the priesthood by Bishop
Rappe. In fact he enjoys the distinction of being the last man
ordained in the diocese by that great missionary bishop.
The notably active and varied career of Father Gloden in the
Diocese of Cleveland for the past thirty-one years is the best
evidence of his zeal and his remarkable capacity to adapt himself to
peoples and circumstances. Besides the language of the classics,
he began his career with a knowledge of German, French and
English, and was therefore welcomed by peoples speaking these
tongues, and was in demand among them as a preacher and con-
fessor. He commenced his priestly labors in a German congrega-
tion, St. Peter's, Cleveland, Ohio, where he took temporary charge
in the absence of the regular pastor, the late Father Westerholt.
He remained until May, 1870, a period of eight months, when his
failing health, due to his years of close application to study, neces-
sitated a vacation. He visited in his native land for one year, and
on his return was placed in charge of the Church of St. Nicholas,
at Berwick, in Seneca county. There he built the school, and also
the Church of Our Lady of Consolation, at Carey, which was one
172 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
of his missions. For this church he obtained from Rome man;
privileges, the chief of which are a proper feast with a prope
office, and the extraordinary favor of a plenary indulgence even
time a person visits it. If not the first, these favors were among
the first granted by the present Pontiff, Leo XIII, to any churcl
in the United States. Father Gloden was in charge of Berwicl
and missions for nearly fifteen years.
In May, 1886, he was transferred to Fostoria, where hi
enlarged the church, St. Wendelin's, and built the parish school
He remained there until 1891, when he was appointed to St
Joseph's Church at Randolph, in Portage county. In Novembei
of that year he was commissioned pastor of St. John's Church ai
Defiance, and it was there he performed his greatest work. WitJ
his parishioners of one mind, he directing them, the labor of build-
ing the present magnificent church was undertaken. The Rt. Rev
Bishop Horstmann laid the corner stone, and the edifice was com-
pleted in 1895. It is value for over $35,000, but, because oi
excellent business management, it cost the congregation not over
$23,000. The convenience of the structure, its architectural style
and dimensions and its plainness in neatness are features that
render it remarkable. Another is its cost as distinct from its value,
for in the difference ($12,000) is found the evidence of business
ability in the pastor and in the building committee who aided him.
During the many years which Father Gloden has spent on the
mission he has labored among various peoples and encountered
many obstacles. The obstacles he overcame and used as stepping
stones to future progress, while his former parishioners are always
rejoiced to meet him and recall his fatherly concern for their
spiritual and temporal welfare.
Not alone on account of his venerable personal appearance,
which is heightened by his flowing white beard, is he, in kindly jest,
i-eferred to by his brother priests as the "Patriarch of the Diocese,"
but also, and indeed in real earnest, by the laity also, because of his
manner and quiet, thoughtful bearing. He is by nature a self-
possessed and tolerant man. He is more inclined tO' gentleness
than to anything approaching the harsh or severe, and is noted in
consequence as possessing the qualities of a true spiritual father.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 173
MR. JOHN GOEBEL.
Since this work was sent to press the subject of this men-
tion passed away, at his home in Lima, Ohio, May 22, 1902. He
was in his eighty-third year and was one of the early pioneer
CathoHcs of his adopted city. He aided in building the first
Catholic church in Lima. After working all day to provide
bread for his little ones, he would labor at night, often until two
or three o'clock in the morning, making by hand the door and
window frames and the sash and doors for the new house of God.
All was a labor of love with him, for he neither asked for nor re-
ceived any remuneration whatsoever. And long before that event
he befriended all the missionary priests, and was the stanch sup-
porter of every Catholic pastor who labored in that field during
his residence there of half a century.
When put to the test he was never found wanting. In 1853,
when the "Knownothing" movement was inaugurated in this
country, and for years appeared to be a part of our body politic,
its nefarious aim did not dismay honest, sturdy John Goebel. That
aim at first was ostensibly to keep foreigners out of public office,
but the underlying purpose, as the history of the movement later
developed, was the proscription of Catholics. In those years,
when bigotry and intolerance were so prominent in many localities
that it was at the risk of life itself to be known as a Catholic, John
Goebel and his faithful spouse never for a moment wavered in
their faith and practice, but in their constancy and zeal for religion
suiifered social ostracism and endured the derision and sneers of
"friends" and acquaintances in preference to turning their back
on their holy religion — a religion in whose cause untold thousands
of martyrs have ofifered up their lives. Fully apprised of these
things Mr. and Mrs. Goebel always gave their tithe to help pro-
pagate the work of the Master in their newly-chosen home, and
they left their sturdy descendants to take up the good work
in which they labored so zealously and faithfully.
Mr. John Goebel was born at Kirchheim, Bavaria, February
23, 1820. In 1846, he was married to Miss Mary Anna Borst, who
was born at Kleinrinderfeld, in the same country, August 17, 1820.
She passed to her reward at Lima, August 10, 1898, when she
174 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
lacked but one week of completing her seventy-eighth year. Sh(
was a devoted Catholic mother and a model of all the domestii
virtues. Her life was truly Christian.
In 1847, Mr. and Mrs. Goebel left their native land, arriving
at Quebec, Canada, after a tedious ocean voyage of four months
Making only a short stay there, they came to the United States anc
took up their abode at Rochester, New York. After a few year;
they pushed farther west, into Pennsylvania, locating at Carlisle
near Harrisburg, where Mr. Goebel engaged in farming pursuits
Again in 1851, they removed to Kenton, Ohio, and thence in 1852
to Lima in the same State, where they made their permanent home
Mr. Goebel worked at his trade as a cabinet maker, in whicl
calling he was an adept. He later embarked in mercantile pur
suits in which he was successful. At the breaking out of th(
rebellion of 1861-65, he joined the 81st Ohio Regiment to dc
battle for the Union. He served for about one year, when he wa<
honorably discharged on account of disabilities received in the
service. Having recuperated after the close of the war, he was
twice elected a member of the City Council, in which capacity hi;
ability and honesty were highly appreciated by his fellow citizens
He was also a member of the Board of Trade for several years.
To Mr. and Mrs. Goebel was born a family of six, one o
whom, Louis F. X., passed away in 1888. The surviving mem
bers are five sons and one daughter. The daughter. Miss Anna M.
for seventeen years has been a practicing physician in Lima. Afte
her preparatory training in the local schools she finished he
literary education at the Ursuline Convent in Toledo, and subse
quently taught school. She pursued her professional studies at thi
University of Michigan, where she graduated with honors, taking
the degree of Doctor of Medicine. She then took a post-graduati
course in the Woman's Medical College, of Philadelphia, and, sinc<
1885, she has been in continuous and successful practice in Lima
Dr. Goebel is a woman of strong convictions and sterling
worth. She has added to her natural endowments by much trave
in her native land and in foreign countries. In 1899, she journeyec
extensively in Europe visiting the hospitals in many of the prin
cipal cities, the great cathedrals, the shrines, and the art galleries
including the Vatican at Rome.
Of the sons, John G. joined the 81st Ohio Regiment with hi
MR. AND MRS. .JOSEPH HACKMAN.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 175
father, when he was only fourteen years old. Later he was trans-
ferred to Company H, 1st Missouri Light Artillery. He fought
in seventeen of the principal battles, including that of Shiloh,
Corinth, Chickamauga, etc. He was the youngest soldier who
participated in "Sherman's March to the Sea." He served
faithfully during the war and now resides at Chattanooga, Ten-
nessee. Andrew N. is in the government printing office at Wash-
ington, D. C. With these exceptions all the others, the Doctor,
Joseph, and Philip, reside in Lima.
The Goebel family has always been highly respected in Lima.
The individual members have, since childhood, been noted for
their Catholicity, their patriotism, and their industry. They
were early impressed by, and drank in, the beautiful example of
their parents; and today, while the memory of Mr. and Mrs.
Goebel is green in the hearts of the people of Lima, the surviving
members of the family have added to their own merits the credit
of the good Christian lives of their progenitors.
The standing and record of the Goebel family and of
thousands of other Catholic families in northern Ohio are the stone'
wall against which the waves of sectarian prejudice and false wit-
ness spend their force and fury to no purpose. Even those who
run may read and draw conclusions.
MR. JOSEPH HACKMAN.
Since this sketch was originally written Mr. Joseph Hackman,
an early Catholic pioneer, passed to his reward at his home in
Cleveland, Ohio, December 7, 1901, having attained to the ripe
age of eighty-one years. His journey to the other shore was
preceded by that of his faithful wife who died October 10, 1899,
when she was in her seventy-sixth year, she, too, having been
ranked among the early Catholic pioneers of Cleveland.
Mrs. Hackman's maiden name was Miss Margaret Schwartz.
She was born in Germany, in 1824, and when ten years of age was
taken to this country. She resided in Cleveland continuously for
upward of sixty-five years. Her home and her children were her
constant care, and in these respects she evidenced her domestic
176 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
traits, which happily chimed with the lessons taught by religior
As a Catholic mother her virtues were many.
Mr. Joseph Hackman was also a native of Germany. He wa
born in 1820. When a young man, in his twentieth year, h^
emigrated to the United States, selecting Cleveland as his per
manent home. This was in 1840. At the time of his demise h
was in the sixty-second year of his continuous residence in th'
See city of the diocese. He witnessed the erection of the firs
Catholic church in Cleveland, old St. Mary's on the "Flats," anc
in later years, in his capacity as a practical building contractor
he himself erected more than one of the fine churches, hospitals
and institutions which are the evidences of the zeal and liberality
of the Catholic people, and are monuments to religion. He wa:
also among the generous givers, and from his considerabb
means, which he acquired by honest industry, he contributec
liberally in aid of religion and Christian education.
Mr. Hackman was too much of a "family man" to be activ(
in society work, or in politics. It is not known that he was ai
officer or even a member of any society. In politics he simpb
voted according to his convictions, seeking no preferment what
ever. The position of councilman for his city he held for but on(
term, and he coud not be induced to stand for re-election. Thing;
partisan were not to his liking. He was noted for his kindl)
nature and for probity and simplicity of character. He was ar
exemplary Catholic and a most excellent citizen.
To Mr. and Mrs. Hackman was born a family of six, only twc
of whom survive. One died in infancy, and one in early childhood
Joseph A., who was a building contractor, died May 5, 1899, anc
Frank F., November 2, 1901. The two remaining are Margaret A.
who is Mrs. Pfister; and Herman H., who is proprietor of a larg(
leather and shoe findings business in Cleveland. The Hackmar
family has always been well respected, and in the character of eacl
of its members have always been found those qualities whicl
religion and patriotism inspire. Among these might be promi-
nently mentioned honesty in business, respect for the rights o
others, and the strict observance of those rules which make foi
peace and good order in the family, in the social relations, and ir
the community.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 177
MR. DENIS J. HALLARAN.
A man of very considerable prominence in Catholic and
business circles in Cleveland, Ohio, was the late Mr. Denis J.
Hallaran of St. Bridget's parish. He was born in that city Novem-
ber 14, 1854, and died there September 4, 1895. His parents,
Patrick and Johanna Hallaran, were among the early settlers.
Although comparatively young when he passed away, he yet had
accomplished much.
He was given a fair education in the local schools, after which
he learned the lithographic art. For manj' years he was connected
with, and financially interested in, the firm of W. J. Morgan & Co.,
of Cleveland, and was, up until his death and for a long time pre-
viously, the superintendent and secretary of their large lithographic
plant. He was a man of recognized skill in his art, and his pride in
it as well as in whatever he undertook seemed to have been the
forerunner of his numerous and very creditable successes.
When the diocesan organ, the Cleveland Catholic Universe,
stood in great need of reorganization in its business department,
Mr. Hallaran was among the leading spirits who nobly undertook
the work and carried it through successfully. Both his own
money and that also of several of his friends were invested in the
enterprise, not with an eye to dividends or interest — they never
received either — but rather to maintain for the Diocese of Cleve-
land an organ which should speak its bishop's mind and fearlessly
defend Catholic truth. If that journal has since accomplished
much good, the merit of it, in the minds of many, should not and
can not be entirely disassociated from the public-spiritedness, busi-
ness capacity, and true Catholic aim of Mr. D. J. Hallaran and his
numerous co-operating friends.
The same spirit which Mr. Hallaran manifested in his success-
ful efforts to sustain the diocesan organ he also exhibited touching
the establishment and perpetuation of what might be called
Catholic and patriotic associations. He labored that such might
be instituted and live, and he continued to remain a member, and
often an officer, of not a few of them. Having a large acquaintance
both in and outside of his native city, and being a man of generous
178 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
impulses, magnestism, and more than ordinary intellect, hi
influence for good was both felt and gratefully acknowledged.
Mr. Denis J. Hallaran was married in Cleveland, Novembe
14, 1888 — his thirty-fourth birthday — to Miss Katharine A
O'Connor, an accomplished young lady educated in that city, bu
a native of Newark, New Jersey. Her parents, Patrick and Ellei
(McKee) O'Connor, removed with their family to Cleveland, ii
1875, where unexceptionable educational advantages were enjoyet
by their children. A son became the Rev. J. J. O'Connor of thi
Diocese of Leavenworth. He died in 1889. The daughter
Katharine A., who became Mrs. Hallaran, and who is a lady o
charming mannei's and personality, was educated at the Ursulini
Convent in Cleveland and finished her excellent musical training
partly in the Notre Dame Convent and partly under private tutors
Her talents and acquirements, which are of note, she has devoted
first, to the Church in choir work, and, secondly, to the entertain
ment of her many friends. Both as a vocalist and instrumentalis
she has been accorded many plaudits.
Of the little family of three, orphaned by the death of Mi
Hallaran, the youngest, a girl-baby, is named Ellen Grace ; the tw(
boys are Louis P., and J. Graham Hallaran. They are fortunatel;
well provided for in a worldly sense, and also in that they inheri
many of the admirable traits and qualities characteristic of thei
parents.
THE HANNAN FAMILY.
The members of the Hannan family of Cleveland, Ohio, hav
been quite prominent in that city for half a century, while fc
generations in Ireland their ancestors were of note as well fc
devotion to their native land and to religion as for the advance
education in which they always prided themselves.
The immediate progenitor of the present generation of tb
family, Mr. Michael Hannan by name, was a native of Barringto
Bridge, in the county of Limerick. He died there March 25, 185:
He held the office of postmaster, and his profession was that (
teacher in the national schools. The maiden name of his wi
was Miss Mary Fitzgerald. After the death of her husband si
emigrated with her children to the United States, in 1852, and too
THE HANNAN FAMILY.
Michael.
Edward
Patrick.
Rev. John.
James.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 179
up her abode in Cleveland, where she passed away August 28,
1885, when she was eighty-four years of age.
Mr. and Mrs. Hannan were blessed with a family of eight,
six boys and two girls. One of the girls, Ellen, died in Ireland
October 25, 1851. Her remains, with those of her father, rest in
Killmurr}'^ Cemetery, in their native coimty. The other children,
emigrating with their mother, became later well known in the city
of Cleveland. They were all more or less talented. The education
of each was far beyond the common.
On the death of the elder Hannan in Ireland, his son James
took his place both as postmaster and as teacher in the local
national school. He taught in Cleveland also, where he died
February 9, 1898. Patrick passed away also in the same city
May 3, 1898. Edward was 2nd sergeant. Company B, 8th Ohio
Regiment, in the war of 1861-65. He subsequently removed to
Indianapolis, Indiana, where he yet resides. Thomas was an
orderly sergeant in the 10th Ohio Regiment and was close to
Gen. Rosecrans during the war. He became a doctor of medicine
and for years was a practicing physician in Cleveland. During
the administration of Mayor Buhrer, 1872-74, he was in charge of
the Department of Health. He died in Cleveland May 11, 1887.
Mary became a member of the Ursuline Community in Cleveland.
Her name in religion was Sister St. Maxim. She passed away
September 14, 1883, and her remains repose in the cemetery of
the Community at Nottingham.
John, who was born May 4, 1842, became a priest of the Dio-
cese of Cleveland. He entered St. Mary's Seminary August 16,
1858, and was ordained in St. John's Cathedral by Bishop Rappe
June 25, 1865. He died at St. John's Hospital, in Cleveland,
November 28, 1896, when he was in the forty-ninth year of his
age and the twenty-sixth of his priesthood. His remains are
interred in the family lot in Calvary Cemetery. He was assistant
at St. John's Church, Defiance, from July, 1865, to August, 1866.
He was pastor or assistant by turns in various places in the diocese.
In May, 1896, he was appointed assistant at St. Colman's, Cleve-
land, which was his last field of labor.
Mr. Michael Hannan yet resides in Cleveland. He and his
brother Edward, of Indianapolis, are the only surviving members
of a family noted for intellect, patriotism, and devotion to religion.
180 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JAMES HENRY HALLIGAN.
The pastor of the Church of the Immaculate Conceptic
AVellsville, Ohio,* has been selected as the subject of this bi
graphy, not alone because he is representative of those acti
priests in the diocese who have attained to middle life, but mo
particularly because he is both energetic and zealous, and clevei
equipped for his sacred calling.
Father Halligan's parents were natives of Ireland. His fath(
whose name was William, was born in the city of Dublin. E
mother's maiden name was Miss Ann Faulkner. She was born
the city of Droheda, In 1842 they emigrated to the United Stati
Having providentially formed each other's acquaintance th
were married in Boston, Massachusetts, where they made thi
permanent home. It was in that city that their now reverend s^
was born to them March 18, 1859.
The Rev. James H. Halligan was educated at Holy Crc
College, Wooster, Massachusetts, and at Montreal, Canada. F
philosophical and theological courses he completed in St. Mar
Seminary, Cleveland, Ohio, from 1886 to 1890. In the lat1
mentioned year, March 7th, he was ordained priest by Bish
Gilmour, and was the last ordained, in the diocese or elsewhe
by that distinguished prelate.
Father Halligan's first appointment on the mission was
take the place made vacant through the illness of the then assists
to the pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, Clevelai
He remained there seven months, or until his appointment in a li
capacity to labor in St. John's Cathedral parish in the same ci
He continued in that field doing excellent work during sevente
months. He was then transferred to his present parish as pasi
March 16, 1893.
At Wellsville, where his is the only Catholic church, Fat!
Halligan has accomplished much good both spiritually and te
porally. Having enlisted the united co-operation of his parishic
ers, he has succeeded in paying off the greater part of a lai
indebtedness on the parish. At this writing a special movem*
•Since this work was sent to press, Father Halligan was appointed pastor of
Joseph's congregatoD, Ashtabula, June 14, 1902.
: ,^*-
^ 'im
W. ^ *;rv.
^:SS^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. Igl
on the part of his people is being made under his direction not
only to liquidate the remaining portion of the debt, but also to
make provision looking to the erection in the near future of a new
church which will be in keeping with the growing importance of
the congregation and with the central site already secured for it,
which is the finest in that city.
Besides his fitness to labor in the various avenues in which
the Cathohc priest is called in daily activity, Father Halligan
appears to be specially gifted, not only in the way of ability but
also through an agreeableness and charm of manner, to bring to
a knowledge of the Truth many from whom it has been shut out
through prejudice, early training, or environments. The num-
ber of these in Wellsville alone is thirty-six, and the leaven of
God's grace is yet working there through the ministry of this
good priest. Knowing himself to be but an instrument in the
hands of God, he is too sensible and humble to take to himself any
of the credit for the wonderful operations of grace. He is neces-
sarily well pleased with results and joins with the Psalmist in say-
ing: Non nobis, Domine, non nobis; sed nomini tuo da gloriam —
"Not to us, O Lord, not to us ; but to thy name give glory."
There are few priests anywhere who have a happier combina-
tion of intellectual faculties than has Father Halligan. His mind
is uniform in its activity and exhibits to good advantage his
powers of observation, generalization, and adaptation. AVithout
effort he appears to be both humorous and witty, having come by
both honestly, as his Celtic ancestors would say. The one he
often employs to teach a lesson by reaching the heart, and the
other to pave the way thereto by quick jocularity and the clean
exercise of the imagination. He can be serious without being
long-faced, mirthful and jocose without undue levity, and can make
melody in his as well as in others' hearts while his paths lead him
through the trials and tribulations inseparable from earthly life.
It would not be at-all extravagant to say of him that he is an
all-around, happily balanced man whose natural mood is that of
happiness, whose intention is ever to do good, and whose relations
both to the members of his flock and to his fellow citizens are
always those of kindness and benevolence. Such a man, inde-
pendent of natural ties, can be at home anywhere, for he is ever
in the midst of friends.
182 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. EDWARD HANNIN.
The reverend rector and founder of St. Patrick's parish
Toledo, Ohio, is a native of the county of SHgo, Ireland, havinj
been born there December 22, 1826. He is the third of eigh
children^ four sons and four daughters, born to Bartley am
Margaret (Tighe) Hannin. One of his brothers, Luke, alsi
became a priest. He died in Ireland in 1896.
The elder Hannin was an industrious farmer, who made ever
sacrifice to give his children a good education. He even erected
at his own expense and on his own land, a commodious schoo
building, in which the Irish National Educational Board placed ;
competent teacher. During three years the subject of this sketcl
studied there, after which he was sent to more advanced institu
tions, where he completed the commercial course and also a cours-
in civil engineering, architecture and mechanics. He graduate<
when he was nineteen. For a short time, in 1846, he was givei
Government employment as an engineer and superintendent o
public works in Ireland. The crop failures prostrating business o
all kinds, and he having completed his task, he sought and founc
employment in a large commercial house in Liverpool. Returning
to Ireland, in 1848, with the hope of finding business improved, hi
was confronted by even a worse condition of the "bad times," anc
so unpromising was the outlook for anything like success in hi
profession that he at once resolved upon quitting the countr
altogether and emigrating to America. He landed in New Yorl
City, May 20, 1849. From there he subsequently removed to the
central part of the State, where he spent eighteen months doint
such work as he could find.
The advice of some priests, whose acquaintance he hac
formed, inclined him to study for the church. He accordingly
in 1850, at his own expense, took up the study of Latin and Greek
He completed his course in Geneva, N. Y., in 1853. Having beei
previously well educated in the English branches, with a habit fo
study, and great determination, he readily compassed the requirec
classical course in three years. Bishop Rappe, of the Diocese o
Cleveland, was then in great need of energetic young men of thi
irts) H
'H.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 183
class to which Edward Hannin belonged, and when the young
man presented himself he was accepted by the bishop, and at once
entered St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland. Devoting
eleven hours each day to the study of philosophy and theology, he
was ready for ordination in less than three years, and was elevated
to the priesthood by Bishop Rappe, June 1, 1856.
His first appointment was as assistant priest in St. John's
Cathedral, Cleveland. The following year he was made the
bishop's secretary. St. Patrick's Day, 1857, he began his public
labors in behalf of total abstinence, which he has continued to this
day. For over sixty-one years he has kept most faithfully the
pledge he took from Father Matthew in Ireland, October 20, 1839 ;
and during his long priestly career he has induced thousands to
adopt and practice total abstinence. In 1862 he was commis-
sioned by Bishop Rappe to organize a parish in the southern half
of the city of Toledo. He did so, calling it St. Patrick's. The
corner stone of its first church was laid shortly after, and it was
ready for occupancy before the close of the year. It cost $30,000.
In 1866 he built St. Patrick's Academy, and, in 1874, he erected
St. Patrick's Institute, on the top of the front wall of which,
standing upon a portion of the Rock of Cashel, is an heroic
statue of St. Patrick himself. In 1870 Father Hannin was made
Administrator of the Diocese, the See having been made vacant
through the resignation of Bishop Rappe. He ordered the affairs
of the diocese wisely and well until the appointment of the late
Bishop Gilmour. In 1872 he returned to his beloved St. Patrick's
to continue his labors for religion, education, and sobriety. In
1892 he began the exection of the present St. Patrick's Church, a
stone edifice that is a monument to reHgion and incidentally to
himself, for he is inseparable from St. Patrick's Church and institu-
tions. April 14, 1901, this splendid edifice is to be first used by the
congregation.
During all the years of his eventful life. Father Hannin has
been a man of untiring energy and many labors. Next to his
devotion to religion he has been the patron of education, and the
apostle of temperance in Toledo and the Diocese of Cleveland.
He is the oldest living total abstainer among the priests of the
United States, and is now, in his 74th year, a striking example of
184 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
the blessings of sobriety. The good he has accompHshed in thi:
field is known in part to his parishoners, to the citizens of Toledo
and to the diocese, but the recording angel keeps the best record
He has fought the good fight and has kept the faith. His course
however, is not yet finished, and it is the prayer of his people, anc
the hope of large numbers in Toledo and elsewhere who are no1
of the faith, that the Rev. Edward Hannin be spared for manj
more years to enjoy the fruition of his great labors.
If a man may be judged by his works, as the tree is known bv
its fruits, there can be no mistake as to the qualities and capacities
of Father Hannin. Once his hand is put to the plough there 1.=
for him no such thing as turning back. Onward and upward has
ever been his motto. His course once staked out his constant
effort is to push on to the goal of success. His portrait on the
adjoining page will indicate to the reader — what a personal
acquaintance of thirty-eight years has to the writer — the great
strength of character and remarkable qualities of the man. There
can be read robustness of constitution, toughness of fibre, resist-
ance to disease, great force of mind, and remarkable personal
magnetism. With a head larger than the average — a mathemati-
cal head, having the upper frontal and coronal regions largely
developed — it is impossible not to note the intellectual faculties of
causality and comparison, with paradoxical mirthfulness super-
added. In tracing analogies he never goes astray. In analysis and
induction he is at home. Human character and nature are open
books to him. His firmness and combativeness, coupled with
a strong personality, and his clear conception of moral duty, equip
him for the work of valiantly defending the truth, and, in the
language of Pope, "Vindicating the ways of God to man."
For forty-five years he has been a priest of the Diocese of
Cleveland, and during those years his labors in the cause of
religion, education, and sobriety have made his name honored and
loved in Toledo and northern Ohio. In the estimation of non-
Catholics he stands very high, especially in his city, where he has
lived so long, where he has performed his greatest work, and
where he is so well and favorably known by all.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 185
HON. GILBERT FRANCIS HARMON.
Judge Gilbert Francis Harmon, of Toledo, Ohio, is of note in
the intellectual and legal world. He is descended of an old colonial
family: and, as a com^ert to the CathoHc faith, happily exemplifies
what grace can effect in the way of moral courage, steadfastness,
and humility. He became a Catholic at a mission, or series of
sermons, instructions, and devotional exercises, conducted in St.
Francis de Sales' Church, Toledo, by the late Father Dahmen,
S. J., in the spring of 1870. He has since exhibited a loyalty to
his religious convictions that is not only creditable but also far
beyond that of the average neophyte.
He is the third born of a family of seven to the late Elias and
Mary (Moulton) Harmon, at Thorndyke, Waldo county, Maine.
His natal day was March 30, 1834. His father died in 1872 when
he was aged about sixty-five years; his mother, in 1862, when
she was fifty. His great-great-grandfather on his mother's side
was Colonel Moulton, who was active at the siege of Louisburg
in 1745. His grandfather on his father's side was a soldier in
Washington's army of the Revolution. He bravely entered the
service when a youth of fourteen and came out at twenty-one.
He saw active service at Valley Forge, Trenton, Princeton, and
other engagements. The Harmons were evidently in the mind
of Whittier when, in Mogg Megonn, he wrote these lines :
"And Harmon came down the sands of York,
With hand of iron and foot of cork."
Judge Gilbert Francis Harmon received both a common
school, an academic, and a collegiate education. He graduated
With high honors from Tuft's College, Massachusetts, in 1863.
This he followed by his law course, and he was admitted to the
bar of York county, Maine, in 1866. After practicing there two
years he removed to Toledo, Ohio, in 1868, where he has since
continued in his profession. The only interruption in his practice
during the past thirty-four years was when judge, for five years, of
the Common Pleas court of the first subdivision of the fourth
judicial district of Ohio. As judge he has been classed among the
186 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
ablest and most conscientious of those who have presided witl
distinction in the courts of that district.
In 18Y0, October 11th, at West Topsham, Vermont, he wa
married to Miss Lucie C. Watson, the accomplished daughter o
Oramel and Electa (Foster) Watson, natives of that State. T(
their union have been born a family of three: Esther, Lucie, an(
Watson. Like their parents, the children of Judge and Mrs
Harmon have been carefully educated.
The subject of this mention is a man of a high order of intel
lect and a finished education. He is an ornament to his profession
not only from a scholarly point of view, but also in the purity o
his life and the record he has made as an honest, conscientiou;
counselor and advocate, and as an incorruptible judge. The trick;
practiced by some, to the dishonor of the legal profession, he ha;
not failed to discountenance and condemn, his high sense of justici
and honor being always his defense against the allurements o
temporal success attained by questionable practices. He wouk
i-ather be just and right than win a case that ought not to be won
and this he provides for in advance by taking no case, and advisinj
against the bringing of a suit, where justice and the law do no
warrant the proceeding and a verdict.
Judge Harmon is well equipped mentally. He has remark
able discernment and judgment. He is a man of ideas, a thinker
and a reasoner. Few are his superiors in these respects. H(
seems always to remember that,
"To have ideas is to gather flowers,
To think is to weave them into garlands."
By association of ideas his fund of information and his knowl
edge of facts, rulings, decisions, and laws are to the fore fo;
immediate use. From his extensive reading are culled, seemingh
without effort, suitable illustrations, or happy retorts. The trenc
of an argument, and often a word, will call to his mind something
that has been said, or that he has known or read, and in every cas(
it will be germane and will exactly fit the case or the situation
His aptitude in this respect appHes also in argumentation. Hi;
logical mind measures the bearing and force of facts and laws
His use of these is as systematic and regular as is the laying o
stone upon stone by the mason. Hence, he is an able jurist, anc
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 187
as a judge his decisions have been just and according to the law
and the facts.
With such acquired and natural talents it is not to be
wondered at that, even irrespective of grace, he became a Catholic.
"I hold it truth, with him who sings
To one clear harp in divers tones.
That men may rise on stepping stones
Of their dead selves to higher things."
Nor could it have been otherwise than that he should have found
peace and sweet content in a religious system, which, by the
consistency of its teachings and the solidity of its dogmas, appeals
to his intellect and judgment. Having a mind trained to recognize
authority and the right to delegate its exercise, and being
skilled in tracing logical connections and in discovering flaws
where they occur in the line of argumentation, it is an easy task
to account for the serenity of soul and the intellectual satisfaction
which are the foundation for Judge Harmon's spiritual content-
ment. As an observer he recognized these things at work in the
case of his old friend and fellow lawyer and convert to Catholicity,
the late Hon. Frank H. Hurd. He has been accustomed to say
of Mr. Hurd that he was a theologian, and also the greatest lawyer
in northwestern Ohio; but in this respect he was but unwittingly
repeating what Frank H. Hurd often said touching Gilbert Francis
Harmon.
It was a brother lawyer and judge, himself of no mean parts,
who once quoted Longfellow in support of Judge Harmon's
strenuous and successful efforts to attain to intellectual and pro-
fessional heights as follows :
"The heights by great men reached and kept
Were not attained by sudden flight,
But they while their companions slept
Were toiling upward in the night."
Both gentlemen have been an honor to the Lucas county bar,
and Judge Harmon continues in the high esteem of his fellow
citizens.
188 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. WILLIAM J. HART.
Among the members of the Cuyahoga County Bar, in thi
city of Cleveland, there are few harder working, abler, or mor^
successful attorneys than Mr. William J. Hart. This averment i
proved by the number and character of his cases, and the triumph
that have attended his efforts, not alone from a legal point o
view but also financially.
By adaptability and choice he is what is called a trial lawyer
It is said of him that he would rather try a case than eat whei
hungry. He is also credited with winning more suits than man]
others of his profession in Cleveland. It is asserted of him, more
over, that, as a classically educated man, he has great advantagi
over most of his brother attorneys ; that his trained mind readib
compasses every legal intricacy; that it surmounts all obstacle
in view of the delight he takes in protecting his clients' interests
and in teaching some law to the "attorneys for the other side."
Mr. Hart was classically educated in Mt. St. Mary's College
Cincinnati, and in the old St. Aloysius' Seminary, at Columbus
Having finished his course he devoted some time to the editoria
profession, and later to pedagogy. Having removed, in 1878, t(
Cleveland, Ohio, from his native city, Columbus, in the sam(
State, where he was born September 17, 1857, he became principa
of St. Malachy's parochial school. In that position he remainec
five vears. During those years he studied law between time;
under Mr. Henry C. Ranney, and was admitted to practice n
1882.
The pleasure and profit of practicing his profession wen
denied him for several years, owing to his having been elected ;
justice of the peace in 1883. He was re-elected to the same offic<
in 1886. He declined, in 1889, to be a candidate for a third tern
through his desire to engage in his chosen profession. Accord
ingly he launched into general practice, for which, at the time, hi
was both ardently enthusiastic and thoroughly equipped.
Business came, and he gave it close attention. With busines:
and success additional recognition followed. In consequence h(
was the standing choice of the minority political party (Demo
cratic) in Cleveland, at one time for judge of the City Court, a
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 189
another for judge of the Probate Court, and at still another for
representative in Congress. He made the canvass in each case and
evidenced his ability as an eloquent and popular speaker. He
usually received more votes in the elections than any other candi-
date on the ticket.
In 1882, Mr. Hart was married to Miss Theresa V. Connolly,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Connolly, who were among the
pioneer Catholics of Cleveland. Her primary education was
obtained in the local schools, and she finished her studies in the
convent at Windsor, Canada. Her religious and secular train-
ing has happily fitted her to be charmingly domestic and to become
the joyful Christian mother of seven children. Their names are :
Clara V., Agnes, Ignatius A., William J., James P., Louis E., and
Thomas Francis.
Mr. Hart, like his wife, is also descended of a pioneer Catho-
lic family. His father, Martin Hart, was among the few who in
early times constituted the little Catholic colony in Columbus,
Ohio. He died in 1882. His mother's maiden name was Miss
Ellen Farrell. She is now in her eighty-fifth year, and in his home
she is the object of both his care and filial devotion. This exhibi-
tion of his tender regard and affection for her who watched over
his childhood, and who bears to him the sweet relation of mother,
IS the very best evidence of his qualities both as a son and as a
man. No one who loves and provides for his aged parents can
lack much in any of the essentials of true Christian manhood and
good citizenship.
Inheriting the characteristics of his Celtic ancestors, Mr.
William J. Hart is brilliant, eloquent, generous, hospitable, and
to a degree aggressive and independent. He has not held himself
aloof from those organizations that make for the advancement of
religion and patriotism. On the contrary, he is in the ranks of the
workers and contributes his share of personal effort to the general
success. Among his affiliations are his membership in the
Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, the
Knights of Equity, the Knights of St. John, the Ancient Order
of Hibernians and others. With Jean Ingelow he thinks rather of
the work than of the praise — more of the good to be accomplished
than of the acclaim of victory.
190 A HISTORY OP CATHOLICITY
THE REV. MICHAEL HEALY.
In these last days of the nineteenth century the Rev. Father
Healy, pastor of St. Mary's Church, Tififin, Ohio, enjoys the dis-
tinction of having been, since 1849, a witness of the growrth of the
Diocese of Cleveland and a participant in its development since
1851. He ScLW it in its infancy, and nov^f he sees it in the glory o:
its prime. The contrast between then and now, and the conscious-
ness of his having been privileged for so long to take an effective
part in rendering that contrast so marked, inclines him witli
Simeon of old to ask for peaceful dismissal, his eyes having beheld
the great things for which, since 1847, three bishops and a valiani
priesthood have zealously labored. The second day of April,
1901, this faithful priest attained the year of his golden jubilee in
the priesthood.
The celebration of the event was made additionally memorable
on account of the presence of the Rt. Rev. Bishop Horstmann and
a large number of priests, each of whom heartily entered into the
spirit of the occasion. Many of those in attendance, having beer
cognizant of most of the venerable jubilarian's career on the mis-
sion, brought forward in their congratulatory remarks the
prominent fact that Father Healy was ever a worker, but nevei
boastful of the success of his labors. They also emphasized theii
references to his faithfulness, happily pictured the simplicity o
his life, and glorified the consecration by him of his multipliec
years to the service of God and the salvation of souls. Few have
been privileged to celebrate such an event in the Diocese of Cleve-
land, and still fewer of these occasions have been more fittingl}
obsei-ved. The jubilee of the venerable pastor of St. Mary's wai
a recalling of the trying scenes of earlier days when confidence ir
God alone afforded glimpses of the future. It was the realizatior
in the triumph of today of the things hoped for, and prayed for
and labored for in the spring-time of his youth. It was an occasiot
for rejoicing, for recognizing Divine Providence, and for renewing
faith in God.
Father Healy was born September 26, 1823, near the towi
of Ardfert in the county of Kerry, Ireland. His early training
attended to, he was sent, May, 1841, to Tralee, in his nativ'
^\
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 191
county, where he entered a classical school, remaining seven years.
Having finished his course he spent one year additional in All
Hallowrs College, near Dublin. He then came to this country,
and w^as received as a student for the Diocese of Cleveland by its
first bishop, the Rt. Rev. Amadeus Rappe. He at once entered
St. Mary's Theological Seminary, and was ordained priest April
2, 1851. The places and times of his ministry thus far in the
diocese are as follows :
From April, 1851, until the following October, he was assist-
ant at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Wooster, Ohio.
From the latter date until June, 1852, he was pastor at Wooster,
with charge also of the church at Doylestown. At his own request
he was then transferred to St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where
he remained one year. During that time he assisted at the
Cathedral each Saturday and Sunday. His next appointment was
to Elyria, LaPorte, and Wellington. He built St. Mary's Church
at Elyria, in 1854, and St. Patrick's Church at Wellington, in
1857. February, 1859, he was made pastor of his present church,
St. Mary's, Tiffin, the parish at that time having a debt of $6,000.
He paid off the debt, and, in 1862, had the church consecrated,
and very appropriately, too, on the Sunday within the octave of
the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Assisted by the late Rev.
J. L. Bihn, he was instrumental in bringing the Ursuline Sisters
to Tiffin. In 1864, he opened a parochial school in which they
were teachers. He built St. Mary's pastoral residence in 1870,
and, in 1878, he purchased five acres of ground for cemetery pur-
poses. In 1884, he purchased the present St. Mary's school from
the Tiffin school board, and, in 1885, he renovated and improved
the church.
Now in the fiftieth year of his priesthood, the Rev. Father
Healy is regarded as a Nestor among the priests of the Diocese
of Cleveland. He has labored long and faithfully. He was never
known to be indifferent or inattentive in his mission. It has been
his choice to pursue the quieter way, claiming little but working-
much. In this, his seventy-eighth year, which advances him well in
the evening of life, plain Father Healy can say that he has thus
far fought the good fight and kept the faith. He will, in God's
own good time, finish his course. Wept, honored, and sung, he
will pass to his reward, prayerfully anticipating the welcome:
"Well done, thou good and faithful servant."
192 IN NORTHERN OHIO.
MR. JAMES HICKEY.
Mr. James Hickey, of Olmsted Falls, Ohio, one of
oldest settlers and Catholic pioneers in that section, is the
of Michael and Mary (Bums) Hickey of the county of Kild;
Ireland. He was born in that county, October 15, 1826, and ce
with his parents to this country in 1843. For several years thi
after the family lived in Brooklyn, New York. Shortly after tl
arrival young Hickey, who had nearly completed his apprent
ship as a stone cutter and mason in Ireland, found employm
at his trade on the New York and Erie Railroad.
He came West, in 1849, and located at Olmsted Falls, a sub'
of Cleveland. He was the second Catholic to settle in the pk
the first was Mr. John Reynolds. Being at the time a first-cl
mechanic and a faithful, sturdy young fellow, he got work in
bridge department of what is now the Big Four Railroad. In ]
than a year thereafter, being then about twenty- four years of a
he was made foreman on the big bridge contract on the v,
branch of Rocky river. After the completion of the structure
engaged in contract work for himself and built several bridges ;
did other work for both the Big Four and the Lake Shore R
road Companies, and also for Cuyahoga and other counties.
In 1850 Mr. James Hickey was married to Miss Mary
Fitch, a native of Cuyahoga county. Her deportment and exi
lent character commanded the respect and admiration of the cc
munity. Being a non-Catholic, she was happily baptized i
married on the same day, the Rev. Father Feudeprat, tl
residing at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, performing
rites. Twelve children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hickey.
these, three have been called to their reward. The nine who
live and rejoice the hearts of their parents are named : Michael
Mary A., Catherine S., James E., Esther J., Teresa V., Francis
Gertrude E., and Vincent P. Not only on account of their f
ents' record, but also because of their own merits, are they \
thought of by their neighbors and associates.
About the year 1860 he began to invest his earnings in fa
lands in the vicinity of Olmsted Falls. He owned at one time
many as one thousand acres. As prices advanced and opportur
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 193
offered he disposed of some of the land, and yet has over three
hundred acres in his vicinity. For over fifty years he has resided
in his present abode, his neighbors without distinction of creed or
class always finding him deserving of their confidence and friend-
ship. His warm Irish nature reciprocated every kindly recogni-
tion, until today ties of neighborly feeling and esteem bind the
hearts of the community to his. The fact is he is beloved by all
as an honest Christian man, whose record for two generations is
pointed to as a character test by many.
Mr. Hickey, when twelve years old, took the total absti-
nence pledge from Father Matthew in Ireland. He has faithfully
kept the obHgation for the past sixty-two years. In this, as in othci
respects, is seen his faithfulness and fixedness of purpose. He was
beloved by the first bishop of the diocese, the Rt. Rev. Amadeus
Rappe, who would go out of his way to greet Mr. Hickey. A
bond of the sincerest friendship united them, and the zealous mis-
sionary bishop of northern Ohio was accustomed to say that it
did him good to shake the hand of honest, sober James Hickey.
In truth it did the bishop much good, for he recognized in Mr.
Hickey numerous sterling qualities which he knew would be force-
ful in impressing others, not only with the excellence of the virtue
of sobriety, but also with the beauty and consistency of Catholic
practice. This friendship of Bishop Rappe also had a good effect
on the subject of this sketch, for he felt it to be not only an honor,
but also an encouragement to persevere in the practice of his reli-
gion, and to be faithful to his obligation as a total abstainer. For
a plain mechanic to be thus held in esteem by his bishop, and to
have his humble qualities and station utilized for the advancement
of high and holy causes, could not but have had an inspiring effect
on James Hickey. Even now, in his old age, he looks back with
great satisfaction to those days, and he confesses that whatever of
merit has in any way been his was owing to the good influence of
Bishop Rappe's example, and his warm and sincere friendship for
him and for his wife and family.
194 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE VERY REV. JOHN AUSTIN HILL.
One hundred and twenty-three years ago, 1777, was born
England the reverend gentleman who, in 1824, became the fii
resident pastor of St. John's, the only Catholic church at that tin
in Canton, Ohio. Not on account of these things alone is 1
written of here, nor because of the unusual fact that he w
married before he became a priest, but more particularly
recognition of his many good qualities and rather uncommc
career both as a man and as an ecclesiastic.
The parents of John Austin Hill were of distinction ai
wealth in their locality in England, and were members of tl
Established or Anglican denomination. He was reared at
trained according to the tenets of that sect. In his immedia
vicinity in early youth he had few opportunities of learning an
thing about the Catholic Church. This was changed somewh
when he was sent to the college of St. Omer, in France, to cor
plete his classical education. He there saw and learned enou^
to set him to thinking and comparing the empty claims of tl
sects as against the mother church which is Catholic. It
evident that he had even then made up his mind that the Tn
Church was not the Anglican, nor any one of the other sects.
Having finished his collegiate course he returned to Englar
where he joined the army. Not finding the life of a soldier to h
liking he asked for and obtained his release from military servic
Shortly thereafter he married an estimable lady and was baptiz(
into the Catholic Church. The old faith, although new to hii
brought to his soul the paradoxical blessing of spiritual conteri
ment coupled with the unrest of a consuming yearning for tl
ecclesiastical state. Already obligated by marriage the situati(
was most trying for him. He did not desire to become a prie
simply for the honor of filling the lowest office in the hierarchy, '
to get rid of a wife. No. It was the care of souls that appean
so admirable to him and that so stirred what might be called 1"
spiritual emotions. In the language of another, he wished "
instruct the little ones, preach the truth to the elders, and remn
both of their duties and their last end." He desired to be all thin:
to all men for the sake of Him who loved mankind even un
A$-^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 195
death. Pie wished to become a priest in order to be an instrument
in God's hands to free souls from the bonds of sin, and to offer
up the August Sacrifice of Calvary.
What was he to do to attain his soul's ambition — to follow
his vocation? He sincerely and completely unbosomed himself to
his wife and to his father confessor with the happy result that
the latter conditionally encouraged his aspirations, while the
former nobly seconded his every effort to comply with the spirit
tliat moved him in the direction of a more perfect state, to which
state she was convinced he was called. She herself, in proof of
her honesty of intention and her zeal for religion, entered a convent
in Belgium where she spent the remainder of her life as a nun.
Mr. Hill completed all arrangements for entering a theolog-
ical seminary in France to fit himself for Holy Orders. Before
crossing its threshold, however, he was made a prisoner by the
French government, and was held as such during two years. On
being released he returned to England and entered the college
at Old Hall Green where he remained two years. He then went to
Rome and entered the Dominican Convent of the Minerva. In
1821 he received the habit of the Order and was ordained a
priest. Having triumphed over the many obstacles which had
beset his path he was correspondingly happy.
Consumed with the desire to labor in the American missions,
]:is superior gratified him by sending him, in 1822, to St. Rose's,
a house of the Dominican Order in the State of Kentucky. The
Rt. Rev. Bishop Fenwick had just been consecrated Bishop of the
newly-erected See of Cincinnati and was much in need of priests.
To him Father Hill was sent. He remained for some time at
Cincinnati. Six months thereafter his worth was recognized by
the Bishop who made him Vicar-General of the diocese. In 1824
he was sent to northern Ohio to take charge of the missions and
stations in Columbiana and Stark counties, with his residence at
the Dominican Convent in Perry county. He labored there with
great zeal, suffered many hardships, and continued the good work
until November, 1824, when he was appointed the first resident
pastor of St. John's Church, at Canton. He remained there until
his death which took place September 3, 1828, when he was in the
eighth year of his priesthood and the fifty-second of his age.
Father Hill was much attached to, and was correspondingly
196 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
respected and loved by, the people of Canton, and especially by the
congregation of St. John's. It was his wish and also his dying
request that his body repose in their midst. Accordingly his
mortal remains were given sepulture beneath the eave of the
south side of old St. John's Church which was built under his direc-
tion. Some years later, when improvements required the change,
his ashes were removed to the center of St. John's cemetery
which is adjacent to the church, and where a marble tablet was
erected to his memory. Lettered on the marble slab was a classic
reference in Latin to his life and record by Father Henni who later
became the first Bishop, and died as Archbishop, of Milwaukee,
September 7, 1881. The following is a liberal poetical transla-
tion of Father Henni's tribute : —
"A soldier left the sounding camp.
For holy thoughts came o'er him;
And gallant men with martial tramp
Unenvied marched before him.
Minerva's sacred shade he sought,
Then loosed the sword that bound him;
And war was hushed in silent thought
And priestly robes were round him.
In Dominic's holy steps he trod.
His father's rules he cherished;
And raised his suppliant voice to God,
To save us e're we perished.
Through him, in woods and deserts wild.
For ages undiscovered,
The tear was wiped from sorrow's child.
The dove of mercy hovered.
In life beloved, his virtues flung
A sacred halo o'er us.
And thoughts came burning from his tongue
And faith walked pure before us.
Oh! hallowed earth, here lightly tread,
Till time's last trumpet wake him;
Till light from heaven his relics bless.
And He that made shall take him."
The Very Rev. John Austin Hill was a man of commanding
presence. His early as well as his military training gave him a
stately gait and appearance ; but withal he was both humble, con-
'-' 7 , ' \ THE REV. ALOYSIUS 1. nOEFFEL ("n!?^
7/
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 197
siderate and tender of heart. His firmness and decision of
character were not incompatible with his spiritual fatherhood, or
with those qualities which stamped him with the marks of the
true Christian gentleman. His soul was enamored of the beauty of
the Catholic Church as the mouth-piece of God on earth. He was
instant and able in its defence and was credited with being among
the keenest of controversialists. He was scholarly and eloquent,
and it was happily said of him that as a priest he was "a living
example of sacerdotal virtues." His career of less than eight years
as a priest was productive of much good for those among whom
he labored. The sacrifices he made in preparation for the priest-
hood attest the reality of his vocation. He sufTered much ; he loved
much ; and he deserves to be in continued and prayerful remem-
brance among the Catholics of northern Ohio and the Diocese
of Cleveland.
THE REV. ALOYSIUS I. HOEFFEL.
In point of continuous years of service, if not in other respects
also, the Rev. Aloysius I. Hoefifel is regarded as the good shep-
herd of the southwestern section of the Diocese of Cleveland. He
is the rector of St. John's Church, Delphos, and was born at
Lutzelbourg, Lorraine, Diocese of Nancy, May 14, 1832.
In early life he enjoyed educational advantages. He made his
preparatory and some of his more advanced studies at Courtray,
Belgium, where his brother, Joseph, who died in 1898, was a
college professor for upwards of forty years. Having spent five
years in the college, he devoted four years additional to studies in
Fenetrange and at Pont-a-Musson, France. Having completed
his classical education, he emigrated to the United States, in 1854,
and at once set about the carrying out of his resolve to become a
priest. January, 1855, he was received into St. Mary's Theologi-
cal Seminary, Cleveland, where, after a three and one-half years'
course, he was elevated to the priesthood by Bishop Rappe,
June 13, 1858.
July 2, 1858, he was appointed to labor in the first church and
parish at Defiance, Ohio, with missions in the six adjoining
counties. His knowledge of the French language was put to good
uses among his people in the missions, especially in Paulding,
198 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Henry, and Fulton counties. They welcomed him for his accom-
plishments in that respect and loved him for his zeal in their
behalf. Not a few of the older people of these counties yet recall
his visits and his services. At Defiance and in the immediate
vicinity he was in great demand as a speaker of German and
English. He spent ten years ministering to the Catholics of
Defiance, Paulding, Williams, Fulton, Henry, and parts of Lucas
and Putnam counties. In visiting his widely scattered flocks he
learned to manage horses as well as men. As a horseman, his first
experiences, as related by himself, are most amusing. But he
profited by them and by the necessity of inuring himself to the
many hardships and exposure incident to the performance of his
duties in his wide field of labor.
He was appointed pastor of St. John the Evangelist's Church,
Delphos, Ohio, January 28, 1868, where he yet continues. His
mission work at an end, he had time to devote to the material
interests of his new congregation. He built, in 1870, a school
which is now devoted to the German department of his educational
system. The Sisters' house he caused to be erected, in 1872. A
new organ was purchased, in 1875, and the old wooden church
was pulled down in 1879, to give place to the present imposing
brick structure, the corner stone of which was laid with imposing
ceremonies by Bishop Gilmour, June 15th of that year. The parish
or high school proper, together with a chime of bells, were subse-
quent improvements. The substantial work accomplished since
the advent of Father Hoeffel to Delphos exceeds in value the sum
of $130,000, every cent of which has been paid, except a little over
$3,000.
Father Hoefifel's silver jubilee, followed by a trip to Europe,
took place in 1873. This was the only relaxation of any conse-
quence he had since he became a priest. For nearly forty-three
years he has been most faithful and zealous in his sacred calling.
He may well be styled the good shepherd of his section of the
diocese. His qualities and life record are such as to inspire in his
people a love for religion and education and a keen appreciation of
those things that appertain to good citizenship. Possessing an
agreeable disposition and manifesting, at all times, the true
ecclesiastical spirit, he" is deservedly respected by the public and
beloved by his own people.
'f^J^h
d'
THE REV. LOUIS HOFFER
f^:
Sf*
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 199
THE REV. LOUIS HOFFER.
A short outline of the hfe and character of this learned and
good priest might be compassed, as here attempted, in about a
dozen sentences; but anything approaching an exhaustive bio-
graphy of him would require a good-sized volume.
Father Hofifer was born at Phalsborg, Lorraine (France),
November 18, 1824, and he died at Louisville, Stark county, Ohio,
November 2, 1897, when he lacked but a few days of completing
his seventy-third year. Having from childhood exhibited the
marks of a vocation to the ecclesiastical state, his parents sent him
when a youth to make his more advanced studies in the diocesan
college in his native place. After completing his humanities, in
the prosecution of which he evidenced marked talents, he was
accepted as a student of divinity by the authorities of the diocesan
seminary at Nancy. With his usual energy and ability he finished
the required course, and was ordained priest by the Bishop of that
diocese, the Rt. Rev. Mgr. Mengaud, June 3, (Trinity Sunday),
1849. During ten years thereafter he labored both faithfully and
efifectively in his native France in the exercise of his sacred calling.
In the winter of 1859-60 Father Hofifer met the first Bishop
of Cleveland, the Rt. Rev. Amadeus Rappe, who was then in
France in the interests of his diocese. The good Bishop's recital
of the great needs of his comparatively new diocese, one of which
was a scarcity of priests, so touched his great soul that, on invita-
tion by the Bishop, he said "Yes !" and resolved to become a
laborer in the Diocese of Cleveland.
The following spring — in fact within a couple of months — he
set out on his journey to far-away America, and arrived in Cleve-
land, Ohio, early in the month of April. He was warmly received
and welcomed, and, after a few days of rest, was sent as assistant to
the Rev. L. Molon, who, at that time, had charge of St. Joseph's,
Fremont, Ohio. From there Father Hofifer attended the missions
at Toussaint and Greensburg, now Millersville, in the same county,
Sandusky. He continued to labor in that section till August of
that year, when he was appointed to fill the chair of dogmatic
theology in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. He ably discharged
his duties as professor from the autumn of 1860 till June, 1861.
200 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
During 1861, for several months, he found time to devote tc
the spiritual needs of the Catholic people resident at Louisville and
vicinity, in Stark county. July of that year he was transferred to
that place as pastor, which charge he held for almost thirty-six
years, or until his resignation through illness- — his last illness —
May 1, 1896. He lingered for eighteen months thereafter, showing
great patience in suftering. He purchased the parish property at
Louisville, built the present large and beautiful church of St. Louis,
the pastoral residence, and also, 1863-64, the diocesan college
there, the funds for the erection of which he collected largely in
France. He was greatly saddened when adversity overtook the
institution, which was dear to the heart of Bishop Rappe, but this
was in part compensated for and he was correspondingly glad-
dened when the building was turned to use as an asylum for orphan
boys, whose spiritual father he was, and to whose interests he
devoted his best endeavors.
Father Hoffer was a learned man. In many departments of
knowledge he had few superiors. He was a profound theologian,
an excellent Latinist, and a finished French scholar. His zeal
during the forty-eight years of his priestly life was most pro-
nounced. He was charity personified, not only in its active sense,
but also in its higher sense of love for God and for all human kind.
Whatever he had he was willing and ready to give, and this nearly
always without the asking. Hence, when he passed away, his
worldly possessions, after all his years in the ministry, did not
exceed in value the sum of six hundred dollars. Of this amount
he provided that half go to paying all his personal debts and the
remainder, as was his wont all his life, to charity.
This good priest had a consuming compassion for the poor
and the afflicted, and for those whose burdens were heavy to bear.
Among these latter were those of the saddened heart and the dark-
ened life — the widow, the orphan, the despised, and the calum-
niated. He was the friend of all such who came within his sphere,
and from both his charity and his priestly ministrations, his kind
acts and words, and his beautiful example, they were enabled to
drink in a measure of joy, of light, of encouragement and buoyant
hope, not only here but for hereafter. In view of these facts, it
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 201
would not strain the imagination much to fancy Father Hoffer, in
his great humihty and trustful recognition of Divine Providence,
as saying :
"Good is not a shapely mass of stone,
Hewn by man's hands, and worked by him alone;
It is a seed God suflfers one to sow,
Many to reap. And when the harvests grow,
God g-iveth increase through all coming years;
And lets us reap in joy, seed that was sown in tears."
MR. JOHN HOLLAND.
Mr. John Holland was born in the parish of Scull, county of
Cork, Ireland. When a boy, in the spring of 1847, he sailed from
Queenstown for Quebec, on board the ship Lady Flora Hastings.
He was accompanied by his two brothers who were older than
himself. In the summer of the following year he went to Cleve-
land, Ohio, which then had a population of about 16,000, and only
one small Catholic Church, St. Mary's, near the Columbus street
bridge, on the "Flats." Since then Mr. Holland has witnessed
the growth of his adopted city until it became the metropolis of the
State, and also the increase of the Catholic population from a few
thousand to considerable over one hundred thousand.
He began his career in Cleveland rolling barrels and doing
other work on the docks, at the rate of ten cents an hour. The
next year he took charge of the warehouse of a commission firm,
with which concern he continued four years. He was then ofifered
a clerkship on one of the lake propellers, which position he
accepted and held for about ten years. Following this he con-
nected himself with a commission house on the river as half owner,
and later, in company with two others, he organized The Forest
City Stone Company, and remained one of its owners for nearly
twenty years.
Mr. Holland has always been a Democrat in politics. He took
little interest in local elections owing to his living in a Republican
stronghold. However, the honor of the nomination for the office
of city treasurer was conferred on him unsought, in 1869, and he
came within about 120 votes of defeating Mr. Everett, who was his
opponent on the Republican ticket. This fact would indicate the
high esteem in which he was held by his fellow citizens of both
parties. Regarding Mr. Holland's voyage to this country he tells
202 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
a sad story, and thinks it of sufficient interest to make public :
this connection. Accordingly, he says :
"The ship was ten weeks on the voyage — Queenstown 1
Gross Isle, an island below Quebec, used as quarantine — and thei
landed thirty-five of her passengers out of a total of two hundre
and twenty-five she took on board at Queenstown. The rest (
those poor people found a grave in the ocean, my two brothei
among them. It is said that twelve thousand emigrants died o
this island during this famine period, and the A. O. H. talk (
erecting a memorial to these famine victims. The destruction <
life by famine, and emigration because of the famine, is estimate
ai one million and a quarter of the Irish people. Imagine a S(
called Christian government forcing a condition on the peopl
bringing about such a result. In no other European counti
would or could such a condition of things take place because of tV
failure of the potato crop alone; but the lives of the Irish subjec
of England were not worth considering. Indeed it would seem ;
if their destruction was sought for by that government. An edito:
ial in the London Times, which I read in the spring of 1848, i
Toronto, would confirm that idea, for in speaking of the loss of li:
by the famine the article wound up by saying with apparent sati
faction : 'the Celt is gone with a vengeance.'
At any rate the British government might be expected t
make some provision for the protection and safety of the thousanc
of emigrants fleeing from their famine-stricken country ; but notl
ing was done. Those ships carrying emigrants had neith(
doctors, nor medicines, nor anything else that would add to tl
comfort or safety of the emigrants. We were stowed away in tl
bunks in the hold of that ship, depending for fresh air and ventil;
tion upon favorable weather when the hatches could be openei
The few people surviving this terrible ordeal were landed on th;
quarantine island, and after a while, if their condition improve
were taken up to Montreal, where many got sick, and many did
The city of Montreal provided temporary buildings to shelter tl
poor people, and the good Sisters of Charity watched over ar
cared for them. Even at this late period I wish to express rr
gratefulness to those ministering angels and to the good city <
Montreal for their attention and care for myself and the other pO(
emigrants. Were it not for their care and assistance during n
.sickness in tho.se sheds, used as hospitals, I might not be he;
today to tell this sad tale."
The reader may gather from this the intensity of Mr. Holland
love for his kind and country, and his justified hatred of the
oppressors. He may also infer the calm, dignified determinatic
u
N^ /-^''J^^^V''^^-^',^^^^''*^^
!>i:^.^^-x
?/
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 203
if this quiet American citizen to be just toward men and nations
nd to hold both individuals and governments responsible for their
cts as well as for their omissions. In his quiet way he scans
luman affairs and looks for the accounting- time sure to come.
Mr. Holland was married, in January, 1861, at Ashland, Ohio,
o Miss Helen Luther. Their only child, Mary, is Mrs. Otto H.
3acher, of New York city.
THE REV. NICHOLAS W. HORST.
The reverend gentleman selected as the subject of this
nention is the pastor of St. Mary's Church, Vermillion, Erie
:ounty, Ohio, having charge also of the mission church of
3t. Peter at Huron, and of the station at Berlin Heights, both in
he same county.
Father Horst first saw the light of day October 17, 1864, in
he village of Weimerskirch (Church of Weimer), Luxemburg,
vhich is the oldest parish in that diocese. He is the oldest of
:hree children born to Henry and Elizabeth (Kreke) Horst, and
3y his calling and talents has upheld the dignity of his ancient
amily name. In the local schools of his native village he made his
preparatory studies, and his classical course he finished in the
Luxemburg Athanasum, from which seat of learning he graduated
in 1883. The following year he devoted to the special study of
shilosophy.
In company with the late Rev. Nicholas Moes, and bearing
■ecommendations from the Rt. Rev. John Joseph Koppes, Bishop
3f the Diocese of Luxemburg, he emigrated to the United States,
[uly 31, 1885, going direct to Cleveland, Ohio, where he arrived
\ugust 14th, and was received as a divinity student in St. Mary's
Fheological Seminary. He pursued his studies in that institution
intil December 21, 1889, when he was elevated to the priesthood
3y Bishop Gilmour.
He began his priestly ministrations the following year, 1890,
IS pastor of St. Patrick's Church, Wellington, Lorain county,
Dhio, with charge also of several tributary missions. He
:ontinued his labors there until November 12, 1893, when he was
ippointed to his present charge. Besides attending to his spiritual
204 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
duties, he found time to improve the church at Wellington
also the mission church at Wadsworth. A like spirit of enter]
has characterized his work at Vermillion and Huron. At
former place he preaches in English, at the latter both English
German are required, while at Berlin Heights, a station he \
once a month, his noted linguistic talents are taxed to the utt
in consequence of the varied nationalities represented there.
Although but thirty-six years old, Father Horst can be
to be a man of varied attainments. Naturally talented, he
proves his native abilities by a study of the masters in oratory
theology. He is a speaker of force, elegance, and eloquence,
those essential doctrines of the Catholic Church that are
always the most palatable to non-Catholics he has thehappyfac
of being able to present in such a way as to command for them l
respect and assent. Gifted in various ways, his popularity am
all classes could not be other than assured, especially sinc<
these talents he adds the virtues of prudence and charity. H
noted as being a broad-minded man, and the possessor of a pul
spiritedness which goes for much with men of all shades
opinion. All this and much more can be inferred from the
lowing pregnant saying of a prominent non-Catholic of Vermilli
"It would not add much to a man's popularity in our towr
exhibit even a moderate opposition to the good work wl
Father Horst is engaged in." Evidently the personal exan
and character of the pastor of St. Mary's are happily in harm
with "the good work" referred to.
MR. WILLIAM JOSEPH HORTON.
Mr. William Joseph Horton, of the Immaculate Concepi
parish, Youngstown, Ohio, was born in the city of Cheltenh
England, June 24, 1844. He was reared in the village of Cou
ton and, when a sturdy lad of about fourteen, was apprenticec
learn the business of a grocer in the city of Birmingham.
May, 1864, he emigrated to the United States and took
his abode at Ashland, Pennsylvania, where he engaged in the
goods business. Three years later, 1867, he removed to Your
town, Ohio, where, during the past thirty-three years, he has c
'"^'^
"ig^
MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM JOSEPH HORTON.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 205
inued to reside and do a profitable business in the dry goods and
Tocery lines.
In 1871, in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, Mr. Horton was
narried by the late Father Begel to Miss Margaret Jane Shehy,
, native of Mahoning county, Ohio. Her family has been dis-
inguished both in Ireland and in this country for devotion to
eligion and patriotism. The well-known Father Eugene Shehy,
if the city of Limerick, who recently paid Mr. and Mrs. Horton a
■isit while touring through this country, is a member of the Irish
)ranch of the family; and a member of the American branch was a
oldier under General George Washington in the Revolutionary
\.rmy.
There have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Horton seven child-
en. The three oldest boys, Francis Joseph, William Louis and
ohn Edward, are engaged in business with their father at No. 631
iimrod avenue. The remaining children are : Mary Elizabeth,
jeorge Henry, James Albert, and Clarence Alfred. All of them
lave been carefully educated and constitute a family that deserves
he marked respect which they receive in their community.
Mr. Horton served during two years as a member of the
:ducational board of the city of Youngstown. From 1892, until
lis resignation in 1900, he was a member of the councilmanic
loavd of the Immaculate Conception parish. Both as a practical
ratholic and as a citizen he has always deported himself most
;reditably, thereby setting good example to his family and his
leighbors. In parish work, Mr. Horton has been ably seconded
)y his excellent wife, who always found time to devote to the
leeds of the congregation and to works of charity.
William Joseph Horton's education has been of the practical
:ind. He is a business man whose daily experience has been his
hief teacher. He is therefore at home in the domain of facts and
:ommon sense. A homely philosophy, begotten of observation
nd contact with affairs, directs him in temporalities, while in
hings moral and spiritual an enlightened conscience always aids
lim in hearkening to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Thus
ircumstanced, he is, as here represented, a man of correct life and
^ood character, whose example will be a light to the feet of his
iescendants, from generation to generation.
206 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. GEORGE F. HOUCK.
The author of the first volume of this history is the subjec
this biographical sketch. He is the Chancellor of the Dioces
Cleveland and the Secretary to its Bishop, the Rt. Rev.
Ignatius F. Horstmann.
From not a few prominent citizens of Tiffin, Ohio, the plac
Father Houck's birth, from the records of the diocese, and f
several priests have been obtained most of the facts and date
here presented. What little of coloring is given to them is bu
approach to the high personal estimate of him by many who 1
known him both before and since his advancement to the impor
positions he occupies.
His natal day was July 9, 1847. His parents were John
Odile (Fischer) Houck. They were natives of Germany,
former was taken by his parents to this country when he was (
four years old, the latter by hers when she was ten. They \
married February 16, 1846, and were Americans in everytl
except the accident of birth. Their reverend son is thorouj
American both by birth and inheritance. For forty years J
Houck was a prominent shoe merchant in Tiffin. In his store
son, George F., when a youth of eighteen, gave evidence of
practicability; for, during two years when his father was ill, he t
complete charge of the business.
Father Houck received his preparatory training in
Joseph's parochial school in Tiffin. He subsequently spent
years in Heidelberg College in that city, an educational institu
of some note. When he finally resolved to seriously hearken to
continuous promptings of his heart to prepare himself for
priesthood, he entered Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati
1867. He pursued his studies in that institution until 1874. W
there'he had charge of the seminary account books, and was
assistant librarian for five years. He was then called by Bis
Gilmour to St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where, after one y
he was ordained priest, July 4, 1875, by Bishop Fitzgerald
Little Rock, Arkansas, then performing the duties of Bis
Gilmour, who was absent through illness.
Soon after his ordination Father Houck was commissione
IN NORTHERN OHIO.
207
pastor of St. Joseph's Church, Crestline, in Crawford county. He
zealously labored there until July, 1877, when he was appointed
Secretary to Bishop Gilmour, with the duties of the Chancellor-
ship superadded. So acceptably did he acquit himself in his new
station that, at the diocesan synod held, May, 1882, he was named
for the Chancery office also. The duties of these responsible posi-
tions are his to discharge today, for the present Rt. Rev. Bishop
reappointed him on his accession to the See, March, 1892. Hence,
for upwards of twenty-three years, 1877-1900, the Rev. Geo. F.
Houck has faithfully and satisfactorily performed the arduous
tasks which these offices impose.* His native ability, coupled with
his experience, is ground for the high compliment that has been
paid him — that he is the most painstaking, faithful, and efficient
Chancellor and Secretary that any other diocese in the country can
boast of.
When Bishop Gilmour called Father Houck to his present
official stations he but gave an additional proof of his accuracy
in estimating human character and his ability to discern specific
talents. He saw with peculiar distinctness — what even the average
observer might recognize, in part, in the Chancellor of the Cleve-
land Diocese — a remarkable development of the faculties of order,
system, attention to detail, and continuity, and also the fullness of
the intellectual and moral powers which direct and consecrate
these to the loyal and conscientious performance of duty. That
duty is primarily spiritual with Father Houck. He is a priest first
and a Chancellor and Secretary next. For seventeen years, 1877-
1894, he was chaplain of the Cleveland workhouse, a field of labor
requiring not only great versatility and a high degree of sympathy,
but also charity, the chiefest of the virtues, whereby we love our
neighbors as brethren for God's sake, nO' matter what their con-
dition. Many a one left the Cleveland workhouse during the
years of Father Houck's chaplaincy conscious that what at first
seemed a misfortune was really a blessing, for they were taught the
great value of their souls and the wonderful mercy of Him who
said: "Though his sins be as scarlet, yet shall they be made
*Since this work was sent to press Father Houck celebrated, July 24, 1902, his
twenty-fifth anniversary as Chancellor. Over one hundred and sixty priests, with the
Rt. Rev. Bishop Horstmann, were present to jubilate with him.
208 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
whiter than snow." He has also been chaplain of St. Vincei
Charity Hospital, Cleveland, since July, 1877.
Some of the Catholic cemeteries of Cleveland being much
need of reform and method in their operations, the Rev. George
Houck was appointed manager of St. Joseph's and St. John's
1878, and of Calvary Cemetery in 1893. He yet continues
charge. The former lack of system in the conduct of these bui
places has since given way to order and strict regulation, mi
to the satisfaction of the Catholic public. It is needless to say t
great labor and a high order of ability have been required to cai
to obtain, instead of the chaos of the past, the splendid system
the present. He has neither asked for nor received any compen
tion on account of services as chaplain of the hospital or wo
house, or as manager of the cemeteries.
In 1888, notwithstanding his multiplied duties, the R
Father Houck found time to write the life of Bishop Rappe, wh
was printed in pamphlet form. This he followed by a volume
about three hundred pages, in 1889-1890, entitled "1
Church in Northern Ohio," which reached a fourth edition. 1
amplification of that work, copiously illustrated and carefu
revised, with additional facts bringing the historical record do
to December 31, 1900, the last day of the nineteenth century, v
be found in the first volume of this work — a volume which ii
monument to religion in the Diocese of Cleveland, a model to
copied after by other dioceses, and a credit to the subject of t
sketch, who is its author.
A study of the strong, expressive countenance of Fatl
Houck, so aptly portrayed in the accompanying engraving, \
bear out what has just been said. That countenance evidences a
the happy blending of strength and vigor of mind with a mild 1
rigidly exacting manner. Moreover, it indicates that he will i
yield his convictions, except to authority and as an act of obe
ence, but that he wall go more than half-way that generous just
be done. His many pronounced qualities, however, and the see
ing intensity of his firmness and decision of character are
modified by the Christian graces as to apparently unite with(
distinction all his faculties in a harmonious and lovable personali
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 209
MR. JOHN HOUCK.
The late Mr. John Houck, of Tiffin^ Ohio, was born near
EttHngen, Grand Duchy of Baden, October 12, 1823, and died
at Tiffin, August 18, 1889, when he was in the sixty-seventh year
of his age.
He was twice married and reared a large family. Four of
his children are devoting their lives to rehgion. They are the
Rev. Geo. F. Houck, Chancellor of the Diocese of Cleveland and
author of the first volume of this work, the Rev. Frederick A.
Houck, curate at St. John's Church, Delphos, and two members
of the Ursuline Community at Tiffin, who are known in religion as
Sister Ursula and Sister Odile.
In 1828, when he was less than five years old, his parents
emigrated to the United States. They abode for about a year in
the city of Philadelphia, after which they removed to Hanoverton,
Columbiana county, Ohio. Thence again, in 1832, they journeyed
farther west, locating in Seneca township, Seneca county, in the
same State, where, as a youth, John Houck aided his father in
clearing the lands which he purchased from the government, and
which are now among the most productive portions of the soil.
Aspiring to commercial pursuits, he was apprenticed, in Tiffin, in
1843, to learn the shoe business. Three years later, 1846, he
embarked in that line of trade for himself, and from that time, until
his death, he was ranked among the prominent 'and successful
business men of his adopted city.
Mr. John Houck was of such character as to merit and hold
the esteem of his fellow citizens. Repeatedly he was honored by
them with positions of trust and responsibility. He held, in 18G2-
63^ the office of treasurer of the city of Tiffin, and later that of
member of the city council for three terms. Neither the duties
of these positions nor the demands of business prevented him from
closely connecting himself with the temporal interests of St.
Joseph's, his parish church. He aided in the building of the
first church, and he was to the fore in a substantial way in the
' work of erecting the present splendid edifice. During forty-six
years in the city of Tiffin, and over sixty in Ohio, he acted well
210 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
his part, and when called to his reward he was sincerely mourr
by all classes of his fellow citizens.
The subject of this mention, while thoroughly American, \
a typical Teuton, being industrious, intelligent, reliable, consci
tious, thrifty, and bluntly honest in word and act. It has be
said of him by one who knew him well, that "He was of a m
hospitable nature, to which fact his numerous friends among i
clergy and laity will testify." He was true to those friends, a
while kindly considerate, was firm. As might be expected,
was loyal to his faith, and at all times evinced a zeal in religii
which was the augury of those domestic and social qualities wh
adorned his life and set a beautiful example to others.
His constant aim was to train his children to be good Chi
tians and good citizens. In this as in other things his life wa
success. For over twenty years an infirmity, asthma, tested be
his endurance and his patience. He was equal to the ord<
however, and his cheerful resignation to the will of God was 1
best evidence of his faith and his truly Christian life.
The Rt. Rev. Bishop Gilmour bore testimony to the mei
of the deceased by assisting at his funeral and by delivering
appropriate discourse on the occasion. Upwards of thirty prie
also were in attendance joining with the large congregation
paying due respect to the memory of a good citizen, a gc
father, and a thoroughly sincere and practical CathoHc.
Although more than eleven years have passed since
demise, his lif§ and manner, as witnessed in Tiffin for forty-
years, are vividly recalled and almost daily spoken of by i
thousands who knew him well, and who now more than ever ;
impressed by his sturdy character and his faithfulness as a fathc
head of a family and as a citizen.
In hfe he fully realized that "Death is the justification of
the ways of the Christian, the end of all his sacrifices — the toi
of the great Master which completes the picture." Fortified w
the last Sacraments, he was ushered into real life, confider
hopeful of a favorable judgment and of hearing the welcom
words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."
-^^ii- ^.:.*?^^^ ^i-^^^^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 210a
THE REV. FRANCIS J. HOPP.
Among the younger priests of note in the diocese of Cleve-
land the pastor of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Shelby
Settlement (Vernon Junction), Ohio, is recognized as of -more
than average prominence. This holds as well touching his qual-
ities as a man as in his calling and equipment as an ecclesiastic.
He is a native of Akron, Ohio, and was born to Jacob and
Catharine (Klein) Hopp, February 23, 1873. His parents, natives
of Germany, always exhibited such devotion to religion as would
appear to entitle them to the distinction of having their talented
son advanced to his present high station as a priest of the Catholic
Church.
Father Hopp's preparatory education was received under
the watchful eye of his pastor in St. Bernard's parish school in
his native city. During his earlier years he gave promise of such
talent and virtue as to indicate his vocation. Accordingly he was
early sent to Canisius College, Bufifalo, New York, where, under
the care of the Jesuits, his progress was most marked. Meriting
and receiving high honors, he graduated in the classics in 1892,
and in the autumn of that year was admitted to St. Mary's Theo-
logical Seminary, Cleveland.
While pursuing in that institution his philosophical and
divinity studies he gave a very good account of himself ; was ever
studious, tractable, and obedient, and, completing the long course
of live years, was ready for ordination in 1897. That distinction
was conferred on him by Bishop Horstmann in St. John's Cathe-
dral, June 12th, of that year.
Father Hopp went to his native city to celebrate his first
Mass. The entire congregation was present to assist, and to
receive his blessing. An incident of note on the occasion was
the fact that Father Broun, the veteran pastor -of the parish
church, St. Bernard's, who baptized the youthful celebrant as a
babe twenty-four years and four months before, was in the sanctu-
ary as master of ceremonies at the solemn high Mass. Another
feature of consequence connected with the day was a public recep-
tion tendered to the young priest by the people of the parish, who
accompanied their congratulations by a well filled purse. And
210b A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
thus the long years of his successful student life were fittin|
recalled and requited.
The Rev. Francis J. Hopp's first field of labor as a priest ^^
in the capacity of curate at St. Patrick's Church, Cleveland. 1
ministered there from June, 1897, till January, 1898, when he w
appointed to his present charge as pastor of the Sacred Heart
Jesus' Church, at Shelby Settlement, otherwise known as Vern
Junction, Ohio. The parish is among the most important ru
congregations in the diocese. Its church is the finest in tl
section of the State, and while Father Hopp found it heavily
debt he has each year been enabled by a generous and unit
congregation to not only pay the interest but also to lessen t
principal very considerably. The ultimate wiping out of the de
is now an assured fact.
Being well equipped in the way of knowledge, zeal, a
health, he has accomplished great good in the Sacred Heart p;
ish. Barring the demands made upon him in the way of meeti
monetary obligations, his work is largely spiritual and education
This is well in keeping with his tastes and trend of mind, for t
Spirit-given qualities of the true ecclesiastic are certainly t
These qualities shine through his musical talents, his acceptal
and more than average ability as a preacher, and the ma
excellent traits which are elements in his character. His mode;
contrasts with his brilliancy, his youth with his ability, and '.
prudence with the multiplied trying occasions which, in the 1
of every priest, invite to rashness.
If in measured but simple phrase these things may be tru'
fully set down as hints touching the character and ability oi
priest not yet thirty years old, it will not be out of reason to lo
for greater things in the time which may yet be his to labor in
chosen calling. These will be in the line of good quietly acco
plished, but never heralded to the world. They may be unse
of men, and in- their estimation, if seen, may appear little ; but ji
as contact with a spark may kindle a great fire, so the spirit
tiame that illuminates and purifies souls may be caught from 1
zeal which burns in the heart of an humble rural pastor.
MR. AND MRS. MICHAEL J. HOYNBS.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 211
MR. MICHAEL J. HOYNES.
Mr. Daniel Hoynes and Miss Catherine Quinn, both natives
of Queen's county, Ireland, were married in New York State, and
removed to Ohio about 1847, selecting the village of Olmsted
Falls in Cuyahoga county as their abode. Mr. Hoynes secured
employment in an humble way with what is now known as the
Big Four Railway Company, with which company he remained
for about thirty years, or until his death, which took place May 23,
1877. To Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Hoynes were born a family of ten
sons, only five of whom are living. The fifth oldest is a member of
St. Edward's parish, Cleveland, is president of the Central Electro-
type and Engraving Company of that city, and is the subject of
this sketch.
Mr. Michael J. Hoynes was born April 5, 1860. Like other
boys in his native village he got his share of what was then termed
"schooling." Boylike, he early tired of school and study, and was
glad of an opportunity to be employed carrying tools, doing
errands, or serving water to the men employed in the local stone
quarries. When sixteen years old he began to exhibit both in-
creasing good sense and a degree of manliness. An opportunity
to learn the electrotyper's art presented itself, and he embraced it.
Before he attained his majority he was well skilled in both the
mechanical and the art sides of the business. Thus equipped, he
resolved to visit, in quest of further knowledge of his art, some of
the principal cities of the country. As a result he held responsible
positions in some of the largest electrotyping establishments in the
United States.
Returning tp his native State, in 1884, he located in the city
of Akron. There he established an electrotyping plant of his own.
He conducted it successfully during four years, when he sold the
business to the Werner Printing Company of that place, and
accepted the superintendency of it. He continued there twelve
years. While holding that position he organized, in 1896, in
Cleveland, the Central Electrotype and Engraving Company.
He became the president of the company, a responsible office
which he continues to hold, and to the discharge of the important
duties of which he began recently to devote all his time and energy.
212 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
In 1890, April 29th, Mr. M. J. Hoynes was married to IV
Florence M., the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Oscar E. Brownell
Akron, Ohio. She embraced the Catholic faith of her husba
and has since enjoyed that spiritual contentment begotten o
knowledge of the truth. To Mr. and Mrs. Hoynes have been bi
five children whose names are : Florence E., Daniel O., Mary
Paul Emmet, and Denis Francis. Mrs. Hoynes is a lady of
little culture, especially in music, the teaching of that art hav
been her profession before her marriage. Marked refinement c
many excellent qualities, the concomitants of a musical nature,
hers, and to these she adds the domestic grace of being a go
practical housekeeper. With the Hoynes family in their home
Slater street, Cleveland, resides Grandma Hoynes, now in ex(
lent health, in her seventy-fourth year. She is the old-style Ir
mother, faithful to her religion, devoted to her children and
friends, and blessed with a kindly nature. She is the link bind:
the simplicity of the hallowed past with the strenuousness of
present. As such she is of consequence to her children, but m
especially because of her maternal virtues and the filial love wh
her life has inspired in their hearts. Since this sketch was in ty
she passed away, November 4, 1902.
Mr. M. J. Hoynes is a gentleman noted for modesty ;
simplicity of mcinner, fewness of words, and marked tolerance
both men and conditions. He feels and thinks deeply, but he i;
no sense demonstrative. A smile announces a joyous emotion
a triumph in his life, but their opposites are scarcely evidencec
his countenance. His strength is in his gentleness and mildn
and those who would deem him weak because not outspoken ;
vehement would be poor judges of his nature. He is a good b
ness man, a master of his art in all its branches, and in ev
essential he is a man among men. If "life is a perpetual see-:
between gravity and levity," between tears and laughter,
neither descends far on the teeter side nor ascends far on
tawter side. He does not venture a great distance from the pi
upon which life's beam is balanced; hence his ups and downs
not very pronounced. His temperament is even, his nature is ki
He never offends, and, as a consequence, he has an army of friei
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 213
THE REV. VITUS HRIBAR.
The subject of this biographical sketch and accompanying
portrait, was born in Zgornji, Tuhinj, CarnioHa, in the southern
part of Austria, May 29, 1870. His mother's maiden name was
Agnes Zajec. His father, Martin Hribar, was a farmer whose
greatest ambition was to see his son Vitus a priest, and he actually
made the journey to this country, in 1893, to assist at the first
Mass celebrated by his reverend son.
Father Hribar made his preparatory and also his classical
studies in Ljubljana, in his native country. To classics alone he
devoted eight years. Those years were well spent, judging from
his scholarly attainments. Having been apprised of the great need
there was in the Diocese of Cleveland for a priest who could
speak the Slovenic (Krainer) tongue, on invitation, he set out for
the field of his future labors, bidding a long farewell to friends and
home. He arrived in Cleveland September 8, 1890, and the next
day entered St. Mary's Theological Seminary. The needs of the
diocese and his own ability combined in shortening his seminary
course. He was ordained priest in the Cathedral chapel, July 29,
1893, by Bishop Horstmann, and was at once appointed to
organize St. Vitus' parish, Cleveland, of which he is yet pastor.
It is the first parish comprised of Catholics of that nationaHty in
the diocese, and he is also the first and only priest speaking that
tongue and ministering to Catholics in Ohio.
The parish property consists of a spacious lot at the corner of
Norwood and Glass avenues, and the improvements are a commo-
dious and tasty frame church with stone foundation, and also a
pastoral residence. The whole cost many thousands of dollars,
and is practically out of debt. This fact is an evidence of the
executive ability and business capacity of the pastor. It also
implies those qualities which in a priest serve to unify his people
and inspire them with ardor for religion.
That he is a devoted, zealous, and capable man is borne out by
his reputation among his people and also by his character. In
addition to his native language^ Slovenic, he speaks also the
Croatian, German, and English tongues. Not only in the semi-
private labors of his calling, such as hearing confessions, visiting
214 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
the sick and teaching the children, is he zealous, but he is credits
by those who know, with combining that zeal with great abili
and eloquence in the pulpit. Being a musician of no little skill,
is equipped to conduct the pubhc service of the church mc
acceptably and becomingly, and the efl'ect of this on the congi
gation is quite marked.
The personal traits of Father Hribar are kindness, gentlene
and simplicity of manner. Notwithstanding these he is strong
his convictions and is resolute beyond change in all matters whe
duty and right demand him to decide and act. For a man of \
years and experience his mental and moral forcefulness is qui
remarkable. His strength and decision of character make :
assuring background to the picture that might be drawn of hii
the foreground of which would be softened and rendered mo
inviting by his many mild and agreeable qualities.
THE REV. FRANCIS J. HROCH.
The pastor of the Church of the Immaculate Conceptic
Port Clinton, Ottawa county, Ohio, with Marblehead in the sar
county attached as a mission, is the Rev. Francis J. Hroch. He w
born in the village of Kralova Lhota, near Prague, Bohem
September 13, 1864. His parents, Joseph and Mary (Stane
Hroch, with their family, emigrated to the United States when
was five years old and took up their permanent abode in Clev
land, Ohio. The elder Hroch died there April, 1899.
The preparatory training of young Hroch was had in t
parish school of St. Procop, Cleveland. Rev. Joseph M. Koudell
now pastor of St. Michael's Church in that city, was at that time
charge of St. Procop's. He' took note of the talents displayed 1
the boy and was so much impressed by them that he gave hi
private instructions in Latin for the space of a year. This w
followed by a two years' course in the Franciscan College, Chaj
street, Cleveland. He was next sent to the Canisius (Jesuit) C(
lege at Buffalo, N. Y., where, after a course of four years, he gra
uated in the classics in the spring of 1884. In the autumn of th
year he entered St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland, whe
,,^2^
¥li
^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 215
he studied for over five years, and was ordained priest by Bishop
Gilmour December 21, 1889.
St. Patrick's Church, South Thompson, Ohio, was his first
charge. His labors there began January 1, 1890, and continued
until January 24, 1892, when he was appointed to St. Joseph's
Church, Marblehead, to which, the following year, Port Clinton
was added as a mission. Father Hroch has labored in these two
fields until the present, the only change being the transfer of his
residence to Port Clinton, thereby making Marblehead a mission.
At the latter place he has built a fine residence, and is now en-
gaged in the erection of a splendid new church at the former.*
The Rev. Joseph M. Koudelka made no mistake when, over
twenty years ago, he saw in the boy Hroch the present useful,
talented priest. The promising youth is truly the father to the
great man, since to the close observer he exhibits those budding
qualities which develop under careful training and favorable
conditions, thereby improving his native talents and forming his
character. It has thus been the case with Father Hroch. He has
grown to be a man of parts in knowledge and language, and
possesses a character remarkable for its ecclesiastical trend.
Through his forcefulness and considerateness he is enabled to
wisely direct and successfully lead his people, not merely in tem-
poralities, but especially in spiritual things, which, after all, are
the prime essentials. Besides the Latin, he is acquainted with the
Bohemian, Slovak, Polish, German and English languages. He
has call for the use of five of these in dealing with his parishioners.
As a student, he does not fail to appreciate the advantages he
enjoys through the literature of these tongues, while his practica-
bility brings all to subserve the great work he is called to perform.
The becoming modesty and approachableness of Father
Hroch commend him to the public, and are a sort of stepping-
stone by which he is brought into communication with many he
might not otherwise reach. St. Paul is his favorite apostle, a fact
which can be inferred from his zeal and great earnestness. Every
straying sheep is to Father Hroch a second King Agrippa to be
addressed after the style of the great priest of the Gentiles so as to
reach his heart, convince his intellect, and gain him for Christ.
*Since this work was in press Father Hroch was appointed, October 1, 1902, to organ-
ize in Cleveland the congregation of St. John Nepomucene.
216 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
EDWARD V. HUG, M. D.
Among the professional men of note in the Diocese of Cleve
land the record and standing of Dr. Edward V. Hug, of St
Joseph's parish, Lorain, Ohio, are such as to entitle him t(
honorable mention in this work.
He was born at Navarre, Stark county, Ohio, May 12, 1869
He made his preparatory studies in the parochial schools and ii
the high school of his native place. Following this, he enterec
Mt. Union College, Alliance, Ohio, where he graduated in th<
summer of 1889. Returning to Navarre he became a teacher
which calling he followed for some time. Having made choice o
the practice of medicine as his profession, he entered the Jeffersor
Medical College, of Philadelphia, where he received the degree o
Doctor of Medicine in 1893. Succeeding in the competitive
examinations held under the city civil service board, he won hi;
appointment as one of the resident physicians of the Philadelphi;
Hospital, an office which he filled for nearly two years.
December, 1894, he removed to Lorain, where he has acquirec
both a large practice and more than local fame. He is president o
the Lorain County Medical Society, which society he helpec
organize. He holds membership also in the Northern Ohio Dis
trict Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society, and the
American Medical Association. He is the medical examiner foi
the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, and also for the Ladies
Catholic Mutual Benefit Association; is a charter member of th«
Knights of St. John, and is grand knight of the Knights oi
Columbus. He was honored with the nomination for the office o:
coroner by the Democratic party of Lorain county, and at present
holds the position of health officer of Lorain.
Doctor Hug is a conscientious and careful practitioner,
Besides being an up-to-date man in his profession, he has a natural
aptitude in the field of the diagnostician. No man is free to go
ahead, especially in medicine, unless, in Davy Crockett parlance,
he is sure he is right. It is, possibly, because he has nearly always
been correct in his diagnoses and prognoses that he has been so
successful in his cases. To say this may be somewhat unethical,
but it is nevertheless the truth and quite proper and germane to
(Fi -.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 217
the purpose and scope of this mention. Not only does medical
literature claim and receive his attention as a student, but even
general literature — the English and German classics — has a share
of his time. This would imply culture and wide information, both
of which stand much to the credit of a man so young as the subject
of this article.
Independent of his professional knowledge, the physician is
expected to be a man of education. This education, coupled with
bis special training, which implies a knowledge of pathology,
physiology, and kindred sciences, presupposes a big man intellec-
tually and professionally, and, indeed, also in the way of symmetri-
cal rounding out and finish. It is true this standard is a high one,
to which few attain in our modern money-loving country ; but the
gentleman here mentioned is well advanced toward the top of this
long ladder, and the progress he has made is the measure of his
talents, application, and determination.
In his early career he encountered many difficulties ; during
his college days they beset his path on every side ; and since his
advent into the professional world the way of his every-day life has
not always been fringed with sweet-smelling shrubs and flowers.
Summer-evening quiet was not expected by him, but rather the
closest application and the hardest of work. He had to fight to
gain the victory. He had to struggle to win the crown. Success
calls ever for efifort, and it is to the credit of the subject of this
sketch that he has fought the good fight, kept the faith, and
attained to far more than he expected in professional life thus far.
In the social order, too, his advances have been equally noted and
have ever kept pace with his merits.
The accompanying portrait of Dr. Hug will impress the reader
with his even temperament, self-possession, and thoughtful,
enquiring mind. He is a believer through grace and intellect, and
his deep drinking from the Pierian Spring but strengthens his faith
in the great truths of Revelation as taught by the Catholic Church.
218 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. HENRY HUGHES.
In Scott township, Sandusky county, Ohio, was born
December 16, 1866, the gentleman selected for this mention. Hi;
father was the late Michael Hughes, and the maiden name of hi;
mother was Catherine Connolly. Both were natives of the count;
of Tyrone, Ireland. Mr. Henry Hughes is, and for upwards o
eleven years has been, a citizen of the city of Fremont, Ohio.
The advantages of a country school education were all he hac
originally. When seventeen he began to teach school at Millers
ville, in his native county. He taught seven successive terms anc
declined an eighth appointment. He was elected assessor of Scot
township in his twenty-first year, and was re-elected. Developing
a taste for mathematics, he attended the Normal University at Ada
Ohio, where he graduated in civil engineering in 1889. He forth
with opened an office in Fremont, Ohio, for the practice of hi;
chosen profession. He was employed by the Standard Oil Com
pany for some years, and later made sufficient progress in hi;
calling to attract the attention of both the local authorities and th(
general public. In 1894 he was elected county surveyor, and, ii
1897, he was re-elected to the same office. He was appointed cit}
civil engineer in 1895, which position he continues to hold.
To have the citizens of Sandusky county and the officials o
the city of Fremont select him to set their metes and bounds, an(
to otherwise determine as to their important interests, is the ver
best evidence of his ability as an engineer and surveyor and alsc
of his character as a man. In this connection it is proper to sai
that Mr. Hughes recognizes no interest and no individual wher(
the mathematics and the justice of a case intervene. His lines an
straight, his measurements accurate, and no power, with his per
mission and sanction, can deflect the former or miscalculate thi
latter. It follows, therefore, that honesty, as well as professiona
accuracy, has a place in his practice and vocabulary, and soone
might the heavens fall than he depart from the straight line o
duty the width of the spider's thread in his theodolite.
Mr. Henry Hughes was married, in 1894, tO' Miss Mary E
Quilter who, like himself, is a native of Sandusky county, Ohic
She is a domestic and companionable person whose good sense am
• iill!
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liiliiiiii Gl !'''''■ 'III!
lllllllllll III III! iiiiju.!. :. ..i.iilll
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 219
simple, unaffected tastes harmonize well with her duties as wife
and mother, and reflect her high regard for the riches begotten of
religion, the affections, and the intellect, as distinct from those so
much loved by the world. Six children have been born to them,
the oldest and the second youngest of whom, Melvin and Harold,
have passed away. The names of the remaining children are :
Adrienne, Dawn, Elden, and Mildred. The Hughes family are
members of St. Ann's parish, and are recognized as representatives
of the best moral and Christian sentiments prevailing in the city of
Fremont. Mr. Hughes for years has been and now is one of the
councilmen of the congregation.
A closer scrutiny of Mr. Henry Hughes would discover many
qualities and capacities other than those which he calls into activity
in his profession, for he is generous, considerate, practical and
approachable, and loyal to his convictions. He has besides a
mathematical mind. Tangibilities and figures attract him more
than mere theories. From his acquaintance with the topography
and partly with the nature of the territory whose surface he
measures, he has been brought to take a deep interest in the oil
fields. That interest has greatly developed within recent years and
has become so profitable to him that many style him the "Oil
King," and the "Prince of Scott." His success in oil speculations
and telephone enterprises has been quite remarkable, but his
highest achievements have been and are in maintaining his reputa-
tion for honest manhood and in keeping himself "unspotted before
the world."
When a youth and just beginning to garner the first fruits of
his professional labors, it was his delight to furnish his mother
during her fatal illness with whatever he could afford for her
comfort. When later he became administrator of his father's
estate he faithfully discharged the trust and saved the property for
the heirs, to whom, in the language of his neighbors, "he became
both father and mother."
Mr. Hughes' palatial home on West Croghan street, corner
of Wayne, has recently been enlarged and beautified. It is, both
exteriorly and interiorly, the finest residence in Frem.ont, indicat-
ing not only the taste but also the affluence of its owner. His
neighbors of all classes rejoice in his prosperity, and wish both him
and his family long life and good health to enjoy the rewards of
his sagacity, professional ability, and industry.
220 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. FRANCIS L. HULTGEN.
The pastor of .St. Mary's Church, at Kirby, Wyandot county
Ohio, the Rev. Francis L. Hultgen, was born in Lorraine, France
April 3, 1864. His father, John Hultgen, who died in his nativ(
country, in 1886, was a member of the famous body-guard o
Napoleon HI, and was a true soldier and patriot. The maider
name of Mrs. Hultgen was Anna Weiland. She yet lives in hei
native Diocese of Metz, in Lorraine.
For generations in France the Napoleonic spirit was in the
air, and babes were not only called after the great Napoleon, bu1
they were early taught to copy after his martial spirit. A striking
resemblance to the first Napoleon is found in the facial expression
and cranial development of Father Hultgen. In not a few charac-
ter traits also is he like unto him, notably in his marked reserve,
his philosophical mood, his ability to plan and devise, and the
indomitable energy displayed in carrying his undertakings to suc-
cessful conclusions. Possessing these and employing them to
uplift men rather than pull them down is as praiseworthy in him
as it is fortunate on the other hand that he is entirely free from
Napoleon's lawless ambition, his tyrannical spirit, and the multi-
plied imperfections which stained his life and almost ruined his
country.
Francis L. Hultgen finished his classics in the gymnasium, at
Metz, when he was in his twentieth year. He had already been
accepted for the Diocese of Cleveland, and, having graduated, he
was prepared to depart for this country, but the late Father Moes,
better known as Old Father Moes, who was to escort him thither,
was not ready to set out at that time. Young Hultgen thereupon
devoted the succeeding six months to the study of philosophy at
Luxemburg, which was counted a full year for him later on in the
Cleveland seminary.
Father Moes, having finished the business connected with his
trip abroad, started with his charge for America, in 1885, and that
winter the young man found himself pursuing his theological
studies in the diocesan seminary in Cleveland. December 19,
1889, he was ordained priest by Bishop Gilmour, and was at once
appointed to the charge of his present church, at Kirby. The
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 221
following year he undertook the erection of the new St. Mary's
Church, a beautiful and imposing edifice. The corner stone was
laid June 22, 1890, and near the close of the succeeding year,
November 17, 1891, it was dedicated. It was a great work for the
young priest, and it remains one of the evidences of his energy and
zeal. In fact, he may point with a laudable pride to it as the great
work of his life thus far in the temporal order.
At this writing, having been eleven years on the mission, a
fair estimate of both the man and the priest in Father Hultgen
may be arrived at. As a man he is modest-mannered, but manly.
He possesses an even, happy temperament. By nature he is agree-
able, candid and obliging. He is a man of not a few parts and
speaks the French, German, and English tongues. His spare
hours he spends with his chosen friends, his pet doves, pigeons,
lambs, and bees. They come to him to be fed, the birds light on
his shoulders and hands and appear to appreciate his kindness and
gentleness.
When the ecclesiastical character is superimposed upon such
a nature as his, even an additional mellowing and refining effect
may be looked for. The expected is realized in him, and from this
again we are enabled to have an idea of the priest in the man.
That priest is faithful, zealous, active, always concerned about his
spiritual children. He is alive to their every need, and it rejoices
him to be about the business of instructing, training, guiding, and
consoling. His parishioners come in from the farm ; they come a
long distance, and being a people who have much to occupy them,
they get immediate attention from their pastor. A call from the
sick comes. He almost anticipates it, -so prompt is his response.
His people glory in the public service of the Church, and he adds
to their satisfaction by his decorum and his excellent singing and
preaching. It is true he is not so much an orator as he is a lucid,
fluent speaker, the appropriateness and reasonableness of the
matter of his discourses far transcending the merely rhetorical.
Father Hultgen and his flock dwell together in unity and
peace, and are of one mind touching parochial affairs, both
spiritual and temporal.
222 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE HON. FRANK H. HURD, LL. D.
The late Hon. Frank H. Hurd, of Toledo, Ohio, was
Christian gentleman, a great lawyer, an orator, a statesman, and
theologian. Although theology was not particularly in the line >
his calling, he was almost as well versed in that science as son
who make it their profession. He was not only the most prom
nent Catholic layman (a convert) in the Central , States of tl:
Union, but he also took high rank among the foremost men i
the Nation. It is fitting, therefore, since he was of the Diocese i
Cleveland during twenty-six years of the last and best half of h
life, to give in this work an outline of his career and characteristic
Moreover, it is a labor of love on the part of the author of th
volume, he having enjoyed a delightful acquaintance with hi:
for more than twenty-two years.
The parents of this distinguished jurist were Judge and Mr
R. C. Hurd, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio. The former died there in 187
and the latter in 1894. She became a Catholic, in 1889, much 1
the delight of her distinguished son. He was born to them
Mt. Vernon, Ohio, December 25 (Christmas Day), 1840, and w;
the fourth oldest of a family of seven. He was educated
Kenyon College, Gambler, Ohio, from which institution 1
graduated in 1858. From 1860 to 1862 he studied law in h
father's office, and shortly after attaining his majority w:
admitted to practice. Even then he gave promise of tl
greatness to which he afterwards attained. He was elected pros
cuting attorney of his native county (Knox), in 1863 ; was chos<
to represent his district in the State Senate, in 1866; and, in 186
was appointed to codify the criminal laws of the State. Wi
some amendments, his work in that field is now a part of t!
Revised Statutes of Ohio. In 1869, December 26, he was baptizi
a member of the Catholic Church. Through grace and study 1
prepared himself for the reception of that Sacrament, which w
administered to him in his native city by the Rev. Father Brent.
In that year (1869) he removed to the city of Toledo, Ohi
with a view to gratify his political ambition and to enjoy a wid
field for the exercise of his legal ability. He became the k
partner of the late Judge Charles H. Scribner, and served as ci
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 223
solicitor from 1869 to 1873. He was three times elected a mem-
ber of Congress from the Toledo district. While in Congress he
was prominent both as an orator, a free trade Democrat, and a
constitutional lawyer. He was chairman of the Judiciary Com-
mittee under Speaker Randall, and was a member of the Ways and
Means Committee under Speaker Carlisle. His forensic efforts
were always of great interest at the Capitol, especially during the
Hayes-Tilden contest for the presidency, when he literally over-
whelmed his opponents, notably the late James A. Garfield, who
afterward became president. His first great speech in Congress,
and the one which attracted to him the attention of the legal
minds of the countrj', was on a matter akin to the law of habeas
corpus. His father. Judge Hurd, had written a work on that
subject, which he, by revising later, had familiarized himself with.
This knowledge, coupled with his ability to apply it, enabled him
to make, on the topic then under discussion, one of the ablest
speeches ever delivered in the Lower House.
In 1877 the University of Notre Dame conferred on him the
degree of Doctor of Laws. He was a member of the Cobden
Club, the famous free trade organization of the world. He was
the senior member of the law firm of Hurd, Brumback & Thatcher
at the time of his death, which occurred in Toledo, July 10, 1896.
The sad event called forth from the press of the country columns
of laudation for both his character and ability. Among the
hundreds who sent tributes of condolence were ex-President
Grover Cleveland, President Wm. McKinley, Senator John
Sherman, Congressman R. P. Bland, ex-Secretary of the Treasury
Charles Foster, and Senator J. B. Foraker.
Frank H. Hurd possessed a great mind and much legal and
political learning. He was a noble advocate and a commanding
orator. But it was not alone in these respects that he was great.
His true greatness was in his character. His heart was greater
than his great intellect. His principles were grander than his
masterly advocacy of them. He loved truth and justice with all
the ardor of his being. He loved and ably defended the Catholic
Church as the very embodiment of these in the world. He did not
obtrude his Catholicity, but he felt greatly honored by being
publicly recognized as a member of the great Mother Church.
Next to his love for the Church and for truth and justice, was his
224 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
love for the plain people who suffer most through the clouding
misrepresentation of truth and the maladministration of just
He loved his army of personal friends, and he defended and hel
many of them long- after not a few became unworthy of even
notice. He was blamed because "publicans and sinners" v,
among his associates, and because he did not seek the compani
ship of those only who too often feasted sumptuously on illgol
gain and wore soft garments. His Christian democracy direc
him in these respects, and his towering spirit contemned h
ocrisy and the I-am-holier-than-thou assumptions of many,
manliness and character shone the brighter because of sc
minor failings, which we all inherit from Adam, and which w
his to correct and overcome.
His was a real, live faith that, since the day of his bapti
seldom suffered even the slightest indisposition through lack
works. His was a discrimination that saw and respected the pr
in the man when the man himself might not be of any too hig
standing. In unsettled points of law, not covered by the C
stitution, he never hesitated to declare his willingness to turn
light to the Catholic Church which gave to humanity the princij
of our Declaration of Independence and of our Constitution. 1
"Facit per aliuin facit per se" of his profession was to his mind 1
the corollary to the declaration of Christ : "He that heareth 3
heareth Me," and to the inspired exclamation of the Jews welcc
ing Jesus on that first Palm Sunday : "Blessed is He that com
in the name of the Lord."
Among his characteristics were devotion to principle, op
ness and simplicity, gentleness, sympathy, and faithfulness to
friends. He keenly appreciated situations, and while emotio
to a degree, was able to bear defeat with as much good grace
when victorious, he generously gave the credit to his friends ;
to the thinking public. His character was beautifully rounc
out, the little as well as the great things in his life affording
evidence. He was markedly respectful and deferential to worn
especially to those in religion. He seemed always to remem
that he had a mother and sisters, and also that he had a sweethe
in the long ago, who was torn from him by death, and to wh
memory he paid the tribute of living a single life. The trutl-
there have been few nobler, manlier men than Frank H. Hurd.
Ir-
h'
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 226
THE REV. GILBERT P. JENNINGS.
There are few priests in the Diocese of Cleveland who meet
more fully the various requirements of a Catholic pastor of souls
than does the gentleman here mentioned, and they are equally
few, indeed, who excel him in those amenities that sweeten life
and render tolerable for others the cares and annoyances that, at
times, crowd into the everyday experience of most people. He
g'oes about his affairs, whether spiritual or temporal, with stead-
fastness, order, and system ; his sereneness is seldom disturbed ; and
even when encouraging his people in the strict performance of
duty, his method is invitational rather than dictatorial. It has been
said of him by one in position to know and judge impartially that,
"He is a priestly priest, and a manly man."
The Rev. Gilbert P. Jennings was born at Ravenna, Portage
county, Ohio, October 25, 1856. He made his humanities as a suc-
cessful student in Mount St. Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati, Ohio,
and his philosophy and theology in the Cleveland Diocesan Sem-
inary, where he showed himself to be a scholar of no little ability.
July 6, 1884, in the chapel of the seminary, he was ordained a
priest by Bishop Gilmour.
His first appointment placed him in charge as pastor of St.
Joseph Calasanctius' Church, at Jefferson, Ashtabula county, with
St. Mary's Church, at Conneaut, as a mission. He continued
there from July 21, 1884, till October 15, 1889, when a reversal
of the then existing order took place and Conneaut became the
pastorate and Jefferson the mission. At Conneaut he built the
present beautiful Church of St. Mary and also the pastoral resi-
dence. He remained in charge until August, 1893. Meanwhile
he was entrusted with the preparatory work of organizing
St. Agnes' parish, in Cleveland. He devoted his week-days, from
April till August of that year, to the work, and in the latter men-
tioned month and year he took possession of the parish, where
he has since remained as pastor.
St. Agnes' parish, in its present prosperous condition, is the
rich fruit of Father Jennings' labors. He built the church and
pastoral residence, and, at this writing, is engaged in the work
of erecting a commodious and imposing parish school. Under
226 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY .
his direction the cono;re_a^ation has steadily advanced both spir
ually and temporally. Harmony prevails, the people are imbu
with an excellent spirit, and its future promises much in the
things essential in a congregation working in happy accord wi
its pastor for the good of religion and the uplifting of society.
Father Jennings possesses many natural and acquired talen
He is a pleasing speaker of much force and eloquence^ and
writer who combines strength with elegance. During the peril
in which he was an editorial associate on the Catholic Universe 1
writings were much admired for depth of thought and beauty
diction. The matter in his sermons is original and timely, excee
ingly appropriate, and happily in keeping with his consta
endeavors to instruct and elevate. His plainness of speech ai
clearness of enunciation, combined with his cogent reasonin
fervor, and finish, entitle him to be classed among orators.
What renders these qualities in this priest of greatest conj
quence is, that he devotes them most earnestly to the cause
Him in whose service he is enlisted. As has been said, he fills ;
the requirements of a Catholic pastor of souls. The intellectual
inclined find in him all thc)^ look for in mental scope and acume
the simple and believing ones are not beneath his level. T'
young as well as the old^ the rich and the poor, the sinner and t
samt, will not leave his presence, or depart from attendance
services conducted by him without each hearing something th
are glad to bear away with them in their hearts.
The greatest ambition of Father Jennings is to be what I
vocation demands — a faithful priest winning souls for God ai
love for the ecclesiastical character. By faithfulness in the d
charge of his duties, by exerting his powers and talents to t
end for which he has been sent, and by becomingly conductii
and acquitting himself in the various offices in which he is call
to act, he presents a picture which instructs and edifies, and whi
helps all, even those who are weak, to not only reverence religii
but also to have an abiding respect for those who speak in its nan
and in the name of its Divine Founder.
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 227
THE REV. JOHN JOHNSTON.
The diocesan records tell of the ordination of the Rev. John
Johnston by Bishop Horstmann in Cleveland, Ohio, December 17,
1892. They tell, moreover, that his first appointment, immediately
after his ordination, was as pastor of St. Patrick's Church, South
Thompson, in Geauga county, Ohio, with the mission at Madison
and the station at Geneva also in his charge. He continued to
minister to the Catholics at those places until January 15, 1895,
when Jefiferson, in Ashtabula county, was added to his territory.
The following May, the 15th day, he was appointed resident pastor
of St. Joseph Calasanctius' Church in the latter place, retaining
charge of the church at South Thompson as a mission. By the
terms of this latter appointment he was relieved from further
charge of Madison and Geneva. At this writing, the last days of
the nineteenth century, he continues as above, the resident pastor
of St. Joseph's, at Jefferson.*
He was born at Nenagh, county Tipperary, Ireland, August
30, 1868. He is the second oldest of a family, with which Provi-
dence blessed his parents. The local history tells of some of his
early ancestors having connected themselves in Ireland with the
Established Church of England. Through grace and enlighten-
ment the old faith claimed some of them later, and now a member
of the family, a priest of the Catholic Church, who is the subject
of this mention, is the evidence of the mysterious ways in which
Providence shapes the ends of all of us.
The Johnstons removed from their native place to Tuam, in
the coimty of Galway, the See city of him who, in his day, was
happily styled the "Lion of the Fold of Judah," the late Most Rev.
Archbishop McHale. There the boy Johnston received his primary
training, after which, October 16, 1880, he entered Tuam College
as a day scholar. During his boyhood he served Mass for the
great Archbishop and was the last to assist him in that capacity,
September, 1881. That prelate in his will made provision for a
burse or scholarship in Tuam College for the young man, which
benefit he began to use as a regular student August 28, 1882. He
♦Since this sketch was in type, the Rev. Father Johnston was appointed, July 28, 1901,
pastor of St. Mary's Church, Lorain.
228 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
continued his studies in that institution until his graduation, whi
took place in 1S87.
The next move was his transfer to St. Patrick's College,
Thurles, January 13, 1888, where he began his theological studi
which he continued until May 25, 1890. He then emigrated
the United States, spent two years in St. Mary's Theologii
Seminary, Cleveland, at the expiration of which he was elevat
to the priesthood. Father Johnston, during the eight years of 1
life thus far as a priest, has shown himself to be a hard-worki:
and prudent spiritual teacher and guide. He is watchful of t
needs of his flock and is zealous for their eternal and tempo:
welfare. He has made several necessary changes and improi
ments in the places under his charge, and has kept the chur
property in good repair. Considering the limited resources at 1
command^ and the difficulties he has had to meet, the results of 1
labors are much to his credit and to that of his people also.
As a young man who made good studies, who is the possess
of talents of no mean order, and who is remarkable for devotion
duty, he is entitled to a degree of recognition, against whi(
however, his retiring disposition makes strong protest. He preff
the quiet ways, shunning all publicity except as it becomes neci
sary in the line of his calling. His inclination is to work and stuc
a fact which promises much for his riper years.
Belonging to the light-haired tribe of the Celts, he evidenc
in his temperament and mental qualities the characteristics whi
have distinguished it for generations. Among these are an excee
ingly active mentality ; the quality of generosity, which is specia
Irish; and also appreciation, which in him partakes of the moi
sentiment of gratitude and of a desire to requite a benefact(
or even one actuated by good will toward him. Father Johnst'
has never been unmindful of favors, no matter by whom extende
To his ecclesiastical superiors he shows his gratefulness by fait
fulness and loyalty, and to the members of his congregation, w!
sustain him in his arduous parish work, he always returns 1
thanks and exhibits on all occasions his good will. These fac
mean much touching his own character^ and they also have thi
effect on those among whom and for whom he labors.
Donald A. Ruth E. Mary B.
MR. AND MRS. HARRY A. KEFFER.
Dorothy C. Hugh D.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 229
MR. HARRY A. KEFFER.
To say of a person that he is a prominent character is to
impute to, or recognize in, him some striking combination of
quaHties which set him apart from most men and picture him as
intently pursuing a course somewhat outside the common pathway
trodden by the multitude.
Mr. Harry A. Keffer, of East Liverpool, Ohio, is a gentleman
who might be regarded as just such a person. He differs from
most men in many respects, and is both philosophical and specially
individualistic. He is a man of prominence and influence in his
community, but his sway is not accounted for by any parade or
self-assertion. On the contrary his manner is quiet and his words
are few. He is a stranger to a contentious spirit, and contents him-
self with calmly contemplating life's eddying current as he steers
his bark clear of the rocks and shoals. While in the world, and of
it, he appears to stand somewhat aloof from it. He readily com-
passes situations, correctly estimates men and things, and logically
forms his conclusions regarding them. In truth he kicks the
world before him, at least respecting those trifles which annoy
the minds of most men.
He was born at East Liverpool, Ohio, April 8, 1861. In
early life he had few advantages other than those of a common
school education, and a good Catholic training. When fifteen
years old he began to learn the many-sided trade of a potter. He
mastered it, at least in its important departments. From the
bottom round of the ladder in The Potters' Co-operative Com-
pany's plant, at East Liverpool, he climbed until he became its
secretary and treasurer. He was with that company from 1876
till 1900, during which time he filled various positions, both
mechanical and executive. The last sixteen years of his connec-
tion with the company he discharged the duties of the high offices
of secretary and treasurer.
In 1900 he took stock in, and became the president of, The
Sevres China Company, one of the great pottery establishments of
East Liverpool. He continues in that important position, which
implies not only his executive ability but also his large interest in
the business.
The public spirit of Mr. Keffer, and also the esteem in which
230 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
he is held by his fellow citizens, are attested by his having- bee
elected a member of the board of health of the city of East Livei
pool, president of the board of waterworks trustees, director c
the City Hospital Association and also director of the Unio
Building and Loan Association. These distinctions were followe
by his fellow craftsmen electing him to the secretaryship of th
United States Potters' Association. It would appear moj
reasonable, therefore, to conclude from these facts that Mi
Harry A. Keffer is, indeed, a prominent character and a ma:
whose record and ability entitle him to recognition and honor.
May 15, 1889, he was joined in wedlock to Miss Cora N
Moore, a native of Columbiana county, Ohio. Six children ar^
the fruit of their union. Their names are: Donald A., Mary B.
Dorothy C, Hugh D., Ruth E., and Grace. Three of them an
attending school at the Ursuline Academy, Nottingham, Ohio.
Perhaps in his pride in his children, in which he is the riva
of his excellent wife, and in the provision he makes for them an(
for his home, Mr. Keffer also exhibits himself to good advantage
He sets his children good example, encourages them to do right
to persevere in study, and to revere religion. In the matter o
example they can see him to be a man of good habits, attentivi
to business, and possessed of a temperament that is mild an(
philosophical. The evenness of his life, the gentleness of hi
disposition, and the numerous manly and domestic traits whicl
adorn his character, will later form themselves into a picture whicl
his children will delight to scan and study with a view to renewing
in their minds the beautv of the Christian character of their father
MR. MICHAEL J. KELLEY.
The phrase "self-made" may be of questionable significance
according to its use at times, but in its modern acceptation it i;
quite applicable to the gentleman selected for this mention. In j
comparative sense, Mr. Michael J. Kelley, of St. Agnes' parish
Cleveland, is indeed a self-made man.
He was born in the county of Mayo, Ireland, September 5
1850. His mother's maiden name was Margaret Clarke. She died
when he was ten years old. His father, whose name was William
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 231
married a second time. He died in Ireland in 1887. The loss
sustained by the boy through the death of his mother was to some
degree compensated for by the interest taken in him by his uncle,
who was a teacher in the Irish National schools. He studied under
him until his seventeenth year. Being then a young man of no
little ambition, he emigrated to the United States, arriving in
Cleveland, Ohio, in the summer of 1868.
Mr. Kelley learned the trade of a mason in brick and stone,
and during ten years did journeyman's work. He was married, in
1875, in St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland, to Miss Margaret Corley,
a young lady reared and educated in Ireland. Their only child.
Elicia C, is Mrs. Peter Feiden. She was educated at Notre Dame
Convent in her native city, Cleveland. Having saved considerable
of his earnings, and nerved by his native energy and ambition, he
began his career as a contractor, in 1880. Being a practical
mechanic, and honest in his work and dealings, he made such
progress that he was in demand by those who desired their work
done honestly and well at a fair price. Among the buildings which
he erected in Cleveland, the following might be mentioned: St.
Wenceslas' Church, the Immaculate Conception rectory, the East
Cleveland Presbyterian Church, the Congregational Church at
Euclid and Logan avenues. No. 7 engine house, five of the public
schools, and St. Alexis' Hospital.
During Mr. Kelley's twenty years as a contractor and builder
he demonstrated his honesty and ability by the faithfulness with
which he fulfilled all his contracts. His reputation in his calling is
the best, and as a man and citizen he stands high among his
neighbors and fellow citizens. It is not alone among Catholics,
with whom he is joined in the leading Catholic organizations, that
he stands well, but also among non-Catholics who have the highest
regard for his excellent qualities and sterling character. That
character is seen to advantage in his unassuming manner, his
genial disposition, and his generous, charitable spirit. From
poverty and obscurity he has, by his own efforts, risen to his
present position of comparative affluence and prominence, and in
this sketch opportunity is taken to credit both himself and his
honorable career to his Catholic fellow citizens in northern Ohio
and in the Diocese of Cleveland.
232 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. ROBERT J. KEGG.
As one skilled in the art of raising flowers and also in Ian
scape gardening, Mr. Robert J. Kegg is of note in his adopti
city, Cleveland, Ohio. He is also of consequence as a man wl
holds public office and for years has been faithful in serving tl
Government and the people.
He was born of Irish parents at Hexham, Northumberlat
county, England, May 1, 1848. His father, John Kegg, follow(
the sea, and was drowned when the subject of this mention w
only three years old. He was a native of the county of Dow
Ireland, as was also his wife, whose maiden name was Sarah Men
gomery. She took her husband's place in providing for her famil
Having emigrated to the United States, she died in Clevelan
in 1889.
When a boy of eleven, young Kegg was forced to quit tl
parochial school in his native town to be indentured t® learn tl
calling of a florist. When he had attained his eighteenth ye
he was master of the art, and to improve his prospects he came
this country in 1866. For six years, in New Jersey, he followc
his calling, and at one time was gardener for Mr. J. V. Heckc
brother of the renowned priest, the Rev. I. T. Hecker. In 18'
he brought his mother to this country, and, in 1874, both becan
residents of Cleveland. In 1888 he was married to Miss Ma
McGrath, a native of Kingston, Canada. Eight children were bo:
to them, seven of whom are living. Their names are : Thomas ,
Sarah Colette, Robert D., John, Mary T., Francis, and Celestia.
Mr. Kegg soon became prominent in Cleveland, not only
business but also in politics. From the first he prosf)ered in floi
culture, and owing to his popularity and influence he found hir
self a leading Democrat. For fraternal purposes and to be in Hi
with his Catholic co-religionists he joined various organizatior
principally the Knights of St. John, the Cathohc Knights of Ohi
the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, and the Knights
Columbus. He was captain of Lafayette Commandery, Knigh
of St. John, and was its organizer and first president. He w
colonel of all the Knights of St. John in Cleveland for five yeai
was adjutant general of the First Brigade, and now holds the ofifi'
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 233
of inspector general. He was second vice-commander of the
national organization for two years.
His political preferments have been his election to the board
of aldermen of Cleveland, an ofifice which he filled from 1887 to
1889. In 1890 he was elected fire commissioner, from 1893 to 1901
he held the office of government inspector of customs in Cleveland,
and quitting that, Mayor Johnson appointed him superintendent
of parks, an ofifice which he yet holds, and the duties of which he
discharges to the satisfaction of his superiors and the public.
Having been a florist for thirty-nine years, and possessing
rare talent in his profession, he is accounted the leading man in
his line of trade in Cleveland. Recently he enlarged his floral
business, and besides his plant and flower store, at 452 Gordon
avenue, he has erected a range of green houses, in West Park
near Rocky River, which are his pride, and a culture-showing of no
small consequence in his city. He is an adept in the making of
funeral designs, and in the artistic wreathing and blending of
flowers looking to expressive and delightful efi'ects.
His having been amongst flowers all his life and close to
nature in the exhibition of its rarest beauties, the effects of his
surroundings and environments have had a mellowing and
heightening effect on his character. Personally he is a man of
gentle manners and quiet bearing. He speaks seldom, but con-
verses intelligently on topics in his line. Pie is a practical Catholic,
is devoted to his family, and to his hosts of friends he has proved
himself grateful, true, and loyal.
Mr. Kegg is an exceedingly plain and humble citizen, who
neither courts notoriety nor cultivates inordinate ambitions. He
is an every-day sort of man who finds it easy to be agreeable, but
most difficult to be angry or offensive. He is glad to be able to
do a kindness, to favor a friend, or to help one in need. Notwith-
standing his official and business engagements he is glad to go
out of his way to evidence friendship, or show how beautiful is
charity when, like the gentle rain of heaven, it descends to heal
wounds, to supply needs, and bring cheer to some hearts saddened
by losses, and broken by crosses — burdens seemingly too heavy for
mortals to bear. Mr. Kegg is not a loud proclaimer of his deeds
in these respects, but to a judge of character he will be said to be
in his element when doing good.
234 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE HON. THOMAS M. KENNEDY.
The judge of one of the city courts of Cleveland, Ohio, hai
been selected as the subject of this mention. The purpose is tc
pay a tribute to his personality and character as well as to recog-
nize his standing and position both as a citizen and as an ofificial
In these respects he enjoys an enviable reputation, and is credit-
able alike to his Catholic co-religionists and to his large circle oj
friends.
Judge Kennedy is a native of the county of Tipperary, Ire-
land. His birthday was May 26, 1859, and he is the youngest oi
a family of four sons bom to bless the matrimonial union of Johr
and Sarah (Costelloe) Kennedy. His primary education was
obtained in the national school of his native place. In 1869 the
family emigrated to Canada and for about ten years resided in the
Province of Ontario. In 18Y8 they came to the United States
.selecting Cleveland, Ohio, as their permanent home.
Thomas M. Kennedy, although then grown to young man-
hood, persisted in his efforts to acquire an education looking tc
his becoming a member of one of the learned professions. He
entered the Western Reserve University, where he took the classi-
cal course. Subsequently he read law during eighteen months^
after which he entered the Cincinnati Law School. He graduated
from that institution, in 1888, winning the degree of LL. B.
Returning to his adopted city he at once began the practice ol
his profession. In 1891 he was appointed assistant prosecuting
attorney of one of the city courts, an office which he filled during
three successive terms. He was then elected to the prosecutor-
ship, was re-elected, and for the third time in succession he was
chosen by the people to discharge the duties of that office. In
April, 1890, and before the expiration of his third term as prose-
cutor, he was elected judge of the court ; and since this work has
been ready for the press he was elected to the office of judge
of the Common Pleas Court of Cuyahoga county, an honor and
distinction which he well deserves.
Judge Kennedy's training, mentality, and temperament would
appear to eminently qualify him for the judicial office. He has
given general satisfaction as judge of one of the city courts oi
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 235
Cleveland, a position in which both discernment of character,
firmness, and broad charity are prime essentials. These courts,
like city courts everywhere, are regarded as veritable pit-falls for
judges who are weak men. This is not so much because of the
intricacy of the cases tried in them as because of the multiplied
demands made by interested persons and special interests for
favors, and the popular clamor often raised for or against accused
persons regardless of the facts, the evidence, or the law. It is
therefore creditable to Judge Kennedy to have it said of him
that he has been triumphantly successful in the administration of
justice notwithstanding such hindrances, and that he has well
earned the respect and confidence of the people.
He was among the first to show the great necessity for a
Juvenile Court in Cleveland, and before the present court for try-
ing juvenile offenders was authorized by statute his practice was
to save little truants, wayward tots, and juvenile pilferers from
having to plead "guilty or not guilty" to the mummery of formal
charges which their tender years did not enable them to under-
stand. Judge Kennedy took these tots on probation, separated
them from hardened criminals, and removed their fears by show-
ing himself to them as a kind father and friend. He reached their
hearts, and for very good cause and with good effect he reversed
the old, senseless order of proceedings, substituting therefor the
new, which in its reasonableness, righteousness, and mercy, should
endure
"Till the sun grows cold.
And the stars grow old.
And the leaves of the judgment book unfold."
Miss Ella F. Noonan, the amiable and accomplished daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. John Noonan, of Hudson, Ohio, became the wife
of Judge Kennedy, June 28, 1890. She is a lady noted for domestic
traits, and while not opposed to friendly calls and reasonable so-
ciability, she finds her greatest pleasure at home, where love, and
motherly devotion enchain her a willing prisoner. To their union
have been born five children, whose names are : Margaret Edna,
Josephine Clare, Thomas Emmett, Donald Francis, and Helen
Mary. From their excellent mother they inherit the seeds of a
strong Catholic faith, while to their father might in part be credited
the almost premature thirst for knowledge which appears to be
236 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
native to them. The combination in them of these and otl-
traits and budding qualities ought to enable them, under fav(
able home influences, to grow up good practical Catholics, ere
itable members of society, and sources of great consolation
their parents. Even now in their tender years they bid fair
develop in all these respects, and Judge and Mrs. Thomas ]
Kennedy are to be congratulated accordingly.
MR. PATRICK M. KENNEDY.
Mr. Patrick M. Kennedy, of Youngstown, Ohio, was a ba
of only three months when his parents emigrated from Ireland
the United States. He was born to them near Templemoi
county of Tipperary, May 2, 1854. The elder Kennedy, who
Christian name he bears, was a prominent and success!
contractor in Youngstown. He died in 1879. Mrs. Kennedy, 1:
wife, whose maiden name was Catherine Maher, yet lives ai
enjoys, in her declining years, the devotion and loving attentio
of her children.*
Leaving Ireland in 1854, the family located on a farm in t'.
State of New York. After about two years they removed
Youngstown, Ohio, where they have been permanent resider
since 1857. The members of the famliy have not only preserve
but have added to, the estate left by their father, and the oi
most active in this respect is the gentleman whose name captio
this article.
Mr. P. M. Kennedy is president of the Home Savings ai
Loan Company, and is a charter member of the Savings and Tru
Company, of Youngstown. He has farming interests in Mahonit
county, and is a large stockholder in the Excelsior Block Associ
tion, of which association he is secretary and treasurer, having \
headquarters in the association's block, "The Excelsior." i
served two terms in the city council, 1880-1884, is a promine
man of affairs, and is a leading member of St. Columba's parish.
Among the several claims which Mr. Kennedy has to reco
nition in this work might be mentioned his unquestioned integri
♦Since this sketch was in type Mrs. Catherine Kennedy passed to her reward, Januf
12. 1902, having attained to the ripe old age of seventy-seven years.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 237
and reliability. With these must also be reckoned his devotion to
the Church, his rare intelligence, and urbanity. Moreover, he is
of such generous make-up that it has always been his delight to
contribute both money and effort to the advancement of both
charitable and religious enterprises. He would feel guilty were
he to let pass an opportunity to lend his aid to any good work
in his city.
Besides the aid which it has always been his delight to give
to such noble causes, he has not failed to lend a helping hand to
worthy individuals. A local "enterprise connected with religion
and education, and which has been ably conducted by one of his
fellow citizens, received very substantial encouragement from Mr.
Kennedy. In fact the worthy and capable individual in charge of
the work is himself the source of the information.
It can, therefore, be said of Mr. P. M. Kennedy that among
his many virtues and good qualities are his charity, liberality, gen-
erosity, and public-spiritedness. He is happier in giving and
helping than are those who receive his generous and substantial
aid.
While the American motto, adopted from Shakespeare, "get
money," has its hold on him in the order of a pleasurable fascina-
tion, it does not warp his judgment or deaden his finer qualities.
Instead of being hardened by the money-getting spirit of the day,
he on the contrary retains his native generosity and takes more
real satisfaction in his efforts to advance religion and help a friend
than in tearing off coupons or making a profitable deal.
These things imply high character and a degree of benevo-
lence far beyond the ordinary. Even as natural virtues they are
quite desirable, but when elevated to the state of the supernatural
through Catholic teaching and practice, they both ennoble the
individual and commend his life and record as examples worthy of
emulation by his neighbors.
It is gratifying, therefore, to find many persons such as Mr.
P. M. Kennedy in the diocese, who are worthy of being presented
as every-day examples of excellent character and of the practical
effects of the teachings of Catholicity.
238 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. MICHAEL P. KINKEAD.
The priest whose career and character are here outhned Wc
born near Kilmallock, county Limerick, Ireland, September 2i
1851. From his earliest years he gave evidences of a preferenc
for the ecclesiastical state, and his education was regulated accorc
ingly. Having made his preparatory studies, and after som
advancement in the classics, he entered the College of M
Melleray, from which institution he graduated in the summer c
1871, when not yet twenty years of age. In August of that year h
embarked for the United States. Arriving in Cleveland, Septen
ber, 1871, he at once entered St. Mary's Theological Seminar
from which institution he emerged a priest October 8, 1875, havin
been ordained by Bishop Mullen of Erie, in the absence from th
diocese of Bishop Gilmour on account of illness.
His first appointment was as assistant priest at St. Malachy'
Church, Cleveland, where he labored for fourteen months. I
June, 1899, after a lapse of nearly a quarter of a century, he wa
selected as the eulogist on the occasion of the fortieth anniversar
of the ordination of the veteran pastor of that parish. So eloquen
appropriate, and finished was his discourse that it at the same tim
shadowed forth his own great ability, and marked characteristic;
two of which appear to be his constancy in friendship, and his grej
desire to be generously just in recognizing the merits of other:
From January 4, 1877, to August 20, 1899, a period of nearl
twenty-three years, he was pastor of the Church of Our Lady c
Perpetual Help, at Defiance, Ohio. On the latter date the demand
of the diocese and the Rt. Rev. Bishop's recognition of Fathe
Kinkead's zeal and ability required him to take charge of the mor
important parish of the Immaculate Conception, at Youngstowr
Having been faithful in few things. Father Kinkead was placed i
charge of many.
Every priest's vow of obedience and the needs of religion cor
template the probabiHty, some time or other, of his removal o
change of field of labor. They are few, indeed, among the clerg
who escape the operation of this missionary regulation, whil
possibly there are some who desire to be transferred. The gener;
impression prevails, however, that removal, even when it mear
■Xk
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''«:»-iiff lia^ /«i.
THE REV MICHAEL P. KINKEAD
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 239
promotion, is a sacrifice ; and to no one, or in no case, could it have
been greater than to Father Kinkead, he having, after so long a
pastorate, to say good-bye to his dear people at Defiance. His
big heart and generous Irish nature are not only warm toward his
spiritual children, but actually beget in them the sincerest recipro-
cation of his own kindly feehngs and sentiments, thereby making
their parting doubly trying. It is easy to estimate the closeness of
consanguineous and matrimonial relations, but they are few,
indeed, who are able to measure the binding force of those spirit-
ual ties that tie the pastor to his flock. The obligations of duty
and the highest charity are the welding materials that unite them.
The priest being a public man, and at the same time a private
citizen, is of all others a person whose qualities and capacity are
most easily recognized by the public. He is seen in every light
and under every circumstance, not only by his parishioners and
neighbors, but even by the passer-by. It will, therefore, be but a
recognition of the expressed and published judgment regarding
Father Kinkead to say that he is the typical priest as well in his
faithfulness to his priestly obligations as in his ability to discharge
them. He is a well-read, broad-minded, manly man ; is deeply
religious and zealous; has the habit of being hospitable, approach-
able and generous; is constant in active charity, and seemingly
without limit in the exercise of that virtue in its higher sense of
love. To appropriate in part the thoughts and some of the words
of Wordsworth, the charities that soothe, and heal, and bless, he
scatters like flowers at the feet of his fellow men and piles them
high wherever love sees need. This good priest's memory is
tenacious of kindly deeds, believing it to be base not to be mindful
of favors ; but for the unkindly in word or act he has no memory
at all, for religion teaches not only the forgiving but also, as far as
possible, the forgetting of injuries.
The Rev. Michael P. Kinkead is descended of an ancestry
whose constancy in well doing and whose loyalty to faith and
country are among the traditional glories of Ireland. Not in mere
fulsomeness, then, but rather in the spirit of rejoicing, let it be said
of him that he is a noble son of worthy sires — a Soggarth whose
notable qualities bring back the memory of other days.
240 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. DANIEL BARRY KIRBY.
The pastor of the Church of St. Francis Xavier, at Chicag
Huron county, Ohio, is the Rev. Father Kirby, who has be
ministering in the Diocese of Cleveland only since 1897. F
comparative recentness in that field is nothing to his detrimei
however, for his record tells of his activity elsewhere both as
student and as a priest, and later as a college professor.
He is descended of one of the oldest families of the county
Tipperary, Ireland, whose honorable record for loyalty to religii
and country is well exemplified in his own life thus far. The la
Archbishop Kirby, rector of the Irish College, at Rome, was
his kin, and both sides of the family have been and are well repr
sented in the priesthood and in the cloister. The zeal of his paren
touching his religious training, and his own aptitude as a boy, a
attested by the facts that he made his first Holy Communion wh(
he was ten years old, and that he was confirmed the same day 1
the late Archbishop of the Diocese of Cashel and Emly.
The subject of this mention was born to John and Ma
(Barry) Kirby, in the town of Emly, July 1, 1869. He received h
elementary training in the national schools of his native plac
after which he commenced his classical studies in St. Ailh(
Academy before he had completed his twelfth year. When fifte<
he was sent to Blackrock College, in the Irish capital, where 1
studied three years. He was then advanced to the universi
department of the same institution, and matriculated with hig
honors in 1890. Thence he went to France to pursue his studi
for the priesthood. At Morbihan, Brittany, he made one yeai
philosophy and one year's theology with the Fathers of the Ho
Ghost. Later he went to Paris, where he finished his course
the seminary of the same Order, and was elevated to the pries
hood, October 29, 1893, when he was in his twenty-fifth yes
After a post-ordination course of one year, in which 1
reviewed his studies and grounded himself in those attainmen
essential to one who teaches the higher branches of learning, 1
was appointed to a professorship in Holy Ghost College, Pitt
burg, Pennsylvania. His commission bore the date, Octob(
1894, and he at once entered upon the performance of his duti(
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 241
He held the professorship tor more than three years, or until
December, 189Y, when he resigned, and was received into the
Diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Horstmann, who forthwith
appointed him curate at St. Bridget's Church, Cleveland. Father
Kirby labored there with much zeal and sviccess until September,
1898, when he was advanced to his present charge as pastor.
Although somewhat foreign to the scope of this sketch, never-
theless it might be remarked, in passing, that the Catholics of the
town of Chicago, and also the general public there, are not only
not wanting in due appreciation of the worth of Father Kirby both
as a scholar and as a Christian gentleman whose mission is to
instruct, elevate, and ennoble, but they are, moreover, keenly sen-
sible of the success of his labors since he has been in their midst.
The qualities in the pastor of St. Francis Xavier's, which
evoke this endorsement, are his cultivated talents, his constancy
in well doing, and the generous, unselfish impulses which are
native to him. His equipment embraces, in part, his ability as a
preacher, no little excellence as a chanter of the public offices of
the Church, and a readiness to labor, not so much in obedience to
stern duty, as through an innate willingness to make himself useful.
His devotedness is most marked, while the higher charity, love, is
the brightest star in his spiritual firmament. The nobility of his
calling is a charge which appeals to his spiritual nature and to his
manhood to be maintained in humility, constancy, and faithfulness.
Independent of the higher obligations his nature makes him loyal
to his bishop by exhibiting always the well deserved heart-service
of true friendship.
In the social order, and in those relations where hospitality,
courtesy, and friendship exhibit his character, Father Kirby attracts
no little attention. He is kind to all, considerate of the demands
of his people, and is approachable and always within easy reach to
respond to calls, even by children. He appears to have hearkened
to the good advice: "Be ever ready to listen to the smallest of
little mysteries, knowing that nothing to childhood is too trivial
for the notice, too foolish for the sympathy, of those on whom
the Father of all has bestowed the dignity of spiritual fatherhood."
Even if he were to lack much in other respects, his gentleness and
mildness, and charity would go far in the way of filling the void.
242 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Having had little experience in handling temporalities, it
not expected that his record would embrace anything of cons
quence in that field; but, possessing and exercising the faculty
unifying his people and disposing them well toward any proje
in the interests of religion, it can be presumed that in due tin-
when opportunity offers, he will be equal to making a good sho^
ing under this unpleasant but necessary missionary regulatio
MR. CHARLES J. KIRSCHNER.
As a Catholic, a husband, a parent, and a citizen, Mr. Charl
J. Kirschner, of St. Mary's parish, Toledo, Ohio, has few equj
and no superior among the laity of the Diocese of Clevelan
From his attaining the age of reason until the present he has be(
constant in the practice of his religion, a fact which has heightem
the many good qualities which he has inherited from his excelle
parents. In consequence he is beloved and respected by the clerg
admired by his fellow citizens, and practically idolized by tl
members of his very happy family.
He was married, in Toledo, in 1865, to Miss Catherii
Heinrich, a native of Germany, and who for fifty years has been
resident of that city. Six children have been born to their unio
two of whom passed away in infancy. Of the four remainin
Mary M. has become Mrs. George J. Wideman; Gertrude "
Mrs. Philip E. Uhl; Barbara Clara, who is unmarried and liv
with her parents, and an only son, Charles Edward. Mr. Kirsc
ner's sons-in-law are engaged as partners with him in the businc
of handling real estate, rents, fire, accident and indemnity insuran
and surety bonds. As might be expected the firm of Kirschm
Wideman & Co. is reliable, prompt and painstaking, and recei-v
that large share of business to which its high reputation entitles
Mr. Charles J. Kirschner was bom in Baden (German;
January 1, 1844. When he was only two: years old his parer
emigrated to the United States, locating at Sandusky, Oh
In 1857 they removed to Toledo, where the subject of this menti
has continued to reside. To help his parents, who were poor, t
thrifty, young Kirschner started out in life as a newsboy and w:
only a limited education. He subsequently succeeded in leami
the trade of a printer and educating himself. He next became c
MR. AND MRS. CHARLES J. KIRSCHNER.
IN NORTHERN OHIO, 243
circulator for one of the leading daily publications of Toledo. He
was recorder of Lucas county, in which county the city of Toledo
is situated, from 1884 to 1887. He held the office of councilman
of St. Mary's parish nine years and then resigned. This does not
include a previous term which he served, 1875-1877. He was
chosen, in 1887, to the responsible position, which he yet holds, of
superintendent and secretary of Calvary cemetery, which is the
union burial-place for all the Catholics of Toledo. He handles
this very intricate work in such way as to give general satisfaction.
From what has been said it might be inferred that the high
standing and reputation of Mr. Kirschner are confined to his home
city. Even if it were so it would be more than enough to entitle
him to mention in this work to the credit of religion and his fellow
citizens. But, in 1891, a defalcation occurred in the treasury
department of the organization known as the Catholic Knights of
America, of which Mr. Kirschner is a member, just as he is of
the Knights of Columbus and other organizations. Whatever may
have been the cause, the affair shocked every Catholic community
in the whole country and, at the same time, compelled the members
of the society to bestir themselves with a view to putting the right
man in the important position of handling and caring for the large
benevolent fund of the Knights. The choice fell on Charles J.
Kirschner, of Toledo, who for six years held the office of treasurer.
When he completed his long term of office and accounted for
every dollar and all his acts, his was a triumph for every Catholic
Knight in America. To him it was no personal triumph, only the
discharge of his duties along the lines of the strict honesty incul-
cated by the Catholic Church and by his parents.
Two of the things most marked in the life of Mr. Kirschner
are his prefectship of the Men's Sodality of the Blessed Virgin, and
his great influence with the young men of St. Mary's parish,
which, of course, implies his devotion to their best interests. He
never obtrudes hackneyed good advice in out-of-the-way places or
at times inopportune. He is a young man himself while among
them, entering into their sports and games and seemingly most
desirous that they should enjoy themselves. In this way he has
gained their confidence and respect, and by his own life they get
practical illustration of what they, too, can accomplish by industry,
honesty, and correct principles.
244 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. PHILIP KLAUS.
Modesty and simplicity are often as potent factors of publi(
and prominence as are self-assertion and pompousness. In
former case the popularity thus begotten is lasting and honora
while in the latter it is usually ephemeral, its short-livedness be
accounted for on the ground of the dislike men have for all foi
of empty assumption and deceit. No better illustration of tli
truths can be found than that based on the personality and rec
of plain Philip Klaus, of Lima, Ohio, who, for the past forty-se
years, has been a model citizen, husband, and father in that v
important and thriving city.
He is a native of Germany, having been born at Nas;
.\ugust 26, 1833. His father's Christian name, like his own,
Philip, and the maiden name of his mother was Miss Mary C
trude Hoi?mann. He left his home for this country when he
in his twentieth year, and he celebrated his birthday on shipbo;
it being one of the forty-five days of his tedious voyage across
Atlantic. Landing in New York City, September 10, 1853, h
once pushed on westward and took up his abode in Richl
county, Ohio, where for about six months he was employed ;
laborer. He then removed to Lima, and found employment ;
laborer in the great work of building the P., F. W. & C. R. R.
continued to toil on the railroad for one year, after which
engaged in the butchering business, in which he yet contin
Prosperity attended his efforts from the beginning, and at
writing he is ranked among the wealthy men of Lima.
October 22, 1857, he was married by the late Father Meye
the town of Fryburg, in Auglaize county, Ohio, to Miss Elizal
Roth, a native of that county. She was a noble Christian wom
noted for her domestic traits and for unswerving devotion to
husband and family. She died February 17, 1895, the recipier
all the consolations of reHgion.
The twelve children born to Mr. and Mrs. Klaus are: C
erine, who is Mrs. Stelcer, of Bodkins, in Shelby county, O
Clara, who continues to abide in the home of her father; Josep
who is engaged in farming pursuits in Indiana ; Edward, who '
at Portland, Indiana, and follows the vocation of his father ; Fi
r
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 246
and Albert, who live with their father and are engaged with him in
business; Gertrude, who is the wife of Mr. Edward Schneider, a
farmer in Indiana ; Veronica, who is Mrs. Peter Eischen, an Indiana
farmer; EUzabeth, who died in 1878, when less than three years
old, also Elizabeth II, who was the next born, and who lives at
home, the companion of her next youngest sister, Matilda. The
twelfth child was named Margaret. She passed away in her ninth
year.
When Mr. Klaus came to Lima there was no Catholic church
in the town. He helped build the first, St. Rose's, and yet remains
a member of the congregation. He has been constant in the per-
formance of his religious duties and has ever been generous in
support of reHgion and education. Only as a contributor and as a
regular attendant at Mass has he been prominent, his retiring
disposition forbidding him from taking an active part in the tem-
poral affairs of the parish. He has no taste and no time for com-
mittee work, either as a leader or follower.
While always a staunch Democrat, he could not bring himself
to do more than make his contribution to his party and vote. The
one exception was his nomination, in his absence, by his fellow citi-
zens for the ofhce of township trustee. Not only was he elected,
but he received a larger vote than any other candidate for any other
office on the ticket.
Mr. Philip Klaus' character is such that he has never had to
exert himself to keep up appearances. He is the same at home as
m public, in business as in retirement. His characteristics of
honesty, simplicity of life, and plainness of speech are the test.
THE REV. JOHN H. KLEEKAMP.
The records show that the Rev. John H. Kleekamp is the
pastor of the Church of St. Wendelin, Eostoria, Ohio ;* that after a
five years' Seminary course in Cleveland he was ordained priest by
Bishop Gilmour, July 2, 1881 ; that his first mission was at West
Brookfield, 1881-1883, where he paid off the parish debt and
improved the church property ; that his second appointment was at
•Since this sketch was In type Father Kleeliamp was appointed pastor ol St. Rose's
Church. Perrysburg, July 7, 1901.
246 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Edgerton, Williams county, 1883-1887, where he built and paid
an $8,000 church at Blakeslee (Florence), there being at the ti
but thirty-six Catholic families in the place ; that his third chai
was at Bucyrus, 1887-1891, where he reduced the parish debt fr<
$11,000 to $5,000. In 1891 his fourth removal placed him
charge of the Immaculate Conception Church, at Raab, Lui
county, otherwise known as "Six-Mile Woods," from which he v
advanced to his present position December 3, 1899.
Father Kleekamp is a native of Germany and is about midi
life, having been born at Voerden, Hanover, February 20, 18;
In 1870, when a mere youth, he emigrated to the United Stat
After several years spent in private study, he completed t
classical course at Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati, and th
began his divinity studies at St. Mary's Theological Semina
Cleveland, which he finished in 1881. Being robust, both menta
and physically, his nearly twenty years on the mission have r
been without results. Considering the fields of his labors it wot
be safe to say that he has not been an unprofitable serva
Touching temporalities it is easy to make measurements, but
the realm of the spiritual it is not only different but more diffici
The character of Father Kleekamp, however, settles that^ for he
zealous, practical, and capable.
At no time has the subject of this biography, either as a pri^
or as a man, been unmindful of the great fact that the sphere of t
Catholic Church and its ministers is in the domain of the spiriti
rather than the material. His record is proof that while the tan;
bilities may appeal to the senses, the conscience deals with spiriti
things. The heart and the head stake out the life-path of t
practical Catholic, and it is with this path and with those who v
tread it that such men as he have to deal. To enable men to pre
by the truth, through a knowledge of the truth, is the mission
the priest to his fiock; and here it is but just to say that he is r
wanting either in philosophical or theological science, nor in t
art of teaching the truths of such sciences.
The temperament of Father Kleekamp is befitting his callir
and fortunately it has been well suited to his environments. T
predominance of the phlegmatic makes him self-possessed and
the same time not hasty in deciding matters. A result of this
, . , ,_j mi''-
i-^
lir"
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 247
that his parishioners have always been as one in their undertakings,
and that harmony has characterized their efforts everywhere,
emphasizing the truth that it is good for brethren to dwell together
in unity and peace.
Rev. John H. Kleekamp is a man of parts. He has always
found time for study, even during his busiest years on the mission.
Besides his classical attainments, he is a fine English scholar and
preaches in that language as readily as he does in his native tongue.
He knows where to find authority for what he would decide and
teach, and therefore he can be said to be a man cleverly prepared
for nearly every emergency. Having just crossed the ridge of life,
and being in the enjoyment of vigor and health, his years of
usefulness may be presumed to yet be many. And being simple
and genial of manner — humble as a servant of the Master — he may
hope to crown a life of great usefulness with a ripe old age.
THE REV. JOHN W. KLUTE.
October 17, 1847, in the town of Westerholt, Westphalia,
Diocese of Mtinster, was born the reverend gentleman who is now
(1900) the esteemed pastor of St. Joseph's Church, Youngstown,
Ohio. His parents were Henry and Gertrude (Schmitz) Klute,
who died in their native countr}^, the latter in 1875 and the former
in 1882. From his earliest years the boy Klute was robust both
mentally and physically. He gave such promise during his pre-
paratory studies that it was deemed advisable to afford him the
advantages of a higher training, looking to an ecclesiastical career.
Accordingly he was sent to the college, at Recklinghausen, where
he graduated with high honors in the classics in the twenty-second
year of his age.
November, 1869, Bishop Rappe, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed
through that part of Germany on his way to Rome. The truth is
the good bishop while journeying toward the "Eternal City" had
his eye about him for acceptable young men for the priesthood in
his diocese. John W. Klute, then a young man fresh from college,
with the ink scarcely dry on his well-earned diploma, was presented
to the American bishop and was forthwith adopted by him for his
248 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
beloved diocese. May 19th, of the following year, 1870, in con
pany with the late Father Westerholt, of St. Peter's Church, Clev(
land, he bade farewell to parents, friends and home and took up hi
long journey to America. Arriving in Cleveland, Ohio, he wa
sent to Louisville College, in Stark county, for a few months, t
study English. On the opening of the diocesan seminary for th
September term, 1870, he entered that institution, took a fon
years' course, and was ordained priest by Bishop Gilmour, Angus
8, 1874, in the chapel of St. Mary's Academy, Notre Dam(
Indiana, where the bishop was then convalescing after a protracte
and serious illness.
Returning to Cleveland, Father Klute celebrated his fin
Mass in St. Peter's Church the following morning. Havin;
received his appointment as pastor of St. Mary's Church, Antwerp
in Paulding county, he set out at once for the field of his futur
labors. It may rightly be spoken of as a field — a wide one, too, fo
besides his parish church at Antwerp he was also given charge c
the mission or station churches at Cecil, Emerald, Flat Rock, Th
Junction and Delaware Bend. But being zealous and physicall
strong, he was able to endure the hard work required of him. H
began the erection of the pastoral residence, at Antwerp, in 1875
and January 3rd of the following year he was transferred to becom
pastor of St. Patrick's Church, Elmore, Ottawa county, witl
charge also of the mission or station churches at Genoa, Oal
Harbor, Rocky Ridge, Millbury, Woodville, Hessville and Webl
Station. During four years and four months he did excellent work
not the least of which, and indeed the primary purpose of his beinj
sent there, was the saving of the church property at Genoa.
May 22, 1880, he was commissioned as pastor of St. Patrick'
Church, at Hubbard, with the Church of St. Joseph, at Vienna, as ;
mission. He remained there until August 11, 1883, when, at th^
urgent request of Bishop Gilmour, he accepted his present charge
St. Joseph's Church, Youngstown. During his more than seven
teen years in that city he has acquired the fine property upon whicl
St. Joseph's parochial school and pastoral residence have beei
erected, which property and improvements represent an outlay o
over $34,000.
In 1887 he began to preach regular sermons in English a
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 249
the early Mass each Sunday. This he did to keep abreast of the
times and to encourage his young people to know the language of
the country. He was, in fact, the first priest in the diocese to
practice this so-called innovation, preaching in English to a
German congregation, and was accordingly styled the German-
Irish priest by many who have since adopted the practice, and who
have found it to be most commendable. In that year also, 1887,
he was one of the originators of the Catholic reading circle, the
object of which is to instruct the young in the necessary truths of
religion and to make them good, intelligent, patriotic, loyal
American citizens.
In August, 1899, Reverend John W. Klute celebrated his
silver jubilee in the priesthood. There was a very large attendance
of his brother priests, including the Rt. R.ev. Bishop Horstmann,
who generously gave the pastor of St. Joseph's a well earned
vacation. Father Klute accepted the offer, accompanied as it was
by a well-filled purse from his congregation. He visited his native
land after an absence of twenty-nine years, and traveled also
through Italy, France, England, and Ireland, returning with the
conviction, which he boldly declared, that the land of his adoption,
beloved America, has not an equal in the world.
From this short outline of his career, which is also a hint as
to his character, it can be seen that the Rev. John W. Klute is a
priest of many labors, and a man of endurance, persistence, and
great capacity. He has proven himself the savior of St. Joseph's,
both temporally and spiritually, just as he was the savior of the
church, at Genoa, in 1876. He is progressive and leads and directs
with great success and without trouble or disorder of any character.
In dealing with his people he is kind but firm, tempering zeal with
prudence. He is an eloquent and convincing preacher and is a
platform speaker of great popularity. Beginning to study English
on entering the Seminary, he has been preaching and teaching in
that language, as also in his native German tongue, ever since his
ordination. He has an excellent command of both languages,
possesses an intensely logical and philosophical mind, and is blessed
with a physique sufficiently robust to enable him to make good
use of his noted oratorical and linguistic talents. That he has the
will to thus exert himself requires no proof. His activity is the
evidence.
250 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. CHARLES J. KNAPP.
A gentleman in every way worthy of recognition in this wor
a steriing Cathohc, is Mr. Charles J. Knapp, of Akron, Ohio,
Knight of Columbus and a member of other prominent Cathol
organizations. He was born in that city February 27, 185Y, ar
there also he acquired his common but practical education. Wh(
a youth he began to learn the trade of a carriage blacksmith wil
his father. He yet continues in that calling, having mastered
in all its details. For seventeen years he has been connected wil
the Selle Gear Works, at Akron, and during the past fourtet
years he has held the responsible position of superintendent >
that important enterprise.
He is the oldest of a family of nine born to Michael ar
Catherine (Keller) Knapp. The other members of the family ar(
Eugenie, who is Mrs. Joseph Winum, of Akron ; Annie H., Matilc
M., Louisa M., and Marie. The other three were boys wl:
passed away in early childhood. Their names were William, Joh:
and Michael.
Mr. and Mrs. Knapp are natives of Alsace, France. Ear
in life each emigrated to the United States, and, having met in tl
usual way, were married in New Orleans in 1854. Since ISf
they have been residents of Akron, where all their children we:
born. The elder Knapp is now in his sixty-eighth year and is w«
preserved. He insists on continuing to perform his daily work :
his calling, and is the equal in skill and endurance of many wt
are his juniors.
Mr. Charles J. Knapp appears to act more like a brother the
a son to his father. They counsel together, are a unit in mail
taining the family, and in keeping its members together. ]
consequence the home life of the Knapps, while simple ar
unostentatious, is yet an ideal and happy one. Theirs might 1
pointed to as an example of the blessing of members of a hous
hold dwelling together in unity and peace. Religion inspires ar
fosters such desirable domestic relations, and they are maintaine
best where inherited good qualities respond promptly and readi
to its refining influence. The subject of this sketch is blessed
this respect both morally and mentally. His is a well-balanc<
IN NORTHERN OHIO, 261
temperament, which is an aid to, if not the basis of, his recognized
executive ability.
In his social and fraternal relations Mr. Charles J. Knapp is
both happy and well respected. He has hosts of friends. Although
a man of few words, and noted more for excellence of judgment
than for aggressiveness, yet his influence is far greater than is that
of many who are his opposite in manner and temperament.' He
loves order, admires honesty of purpose and effort, and cheerfully
accords to every man the credit that is his due. Because of his
native honesty he is slow to believe others dishonest. He would
rather hide his neighbor's faults than expose them to no good
purpose. In consequence he is free from the charge of lack of
charity, and is never called on to retract any of his sayings.
Trained by his good Christian parents at home, where he
always had opportunity of witnessing good example ; taught also
in the Sunday schools of his parish church, where his pastor failed
not to impress him with the fundamental truths of religion; and
having always the good sense to choose good companions in his
youth, it is readily seen that he owes the glory of his Christian man-
hood and his excellent character to his parents and teachers, and to
the pure environments which were his in his youth. Having
been taught the beauties of right living, and having been blessed
with a mind and a heart capable of receiving and retaining those
lessons, he is now reaping the harvest of good seed sown in rich
soil. Even in a worldly sense he is the richer because of his train-
ing and good Catholic life.
From this reference to some of Mr. Knapp's qualities it must
not be inferred that the aim of this mention is to present him as a
paragon of perfection. This is not the intention. He is simply
a plain, every-day Catholic man, but the reader may safely conclude
that while his pretentions are few his merits are many.
252 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JOSEPH M. KOUDELKA.
Among the comparatively few priests of the Diocese of Cleve
land who in their day were ready for ordination before attainin|
the canonical age, there is probably no one more distinguishe(
for brilliancy of intellect, literary and art culture, linguistic talen
and practicability, than the Rev. Joseph M. Koudelka, pastor c
St. Michael's (German) Church, Cleveland, Ohio.-
Father Koudelka was born in the village of Chlistovo
Bohemia, Diocese of Budweiss, December 8, 1852. His father wa
Marcus Koudelka, and the maiden name of his mother was Ann;
Janauschek. They were zealous for the moral and intellectua
advancement of their talented son, and were rewarded by seeinj
him daily grow in grace and mental culture. He began hi
classical studies in the gymnasium at Klattau, Bohemia. The;
were interrupted, in 1868, by his being taken by his parents to thi
United States, the family locating in the Diocese of Green Bay
Wisconsin. Shortly after his arrival he entered the College, at Mt
Calvary, in that State, where he completed his course, and thi
following year was received into the St. Francis' Seminary, nea
Milwaukee, as an ecclesiastical student. Always among the first
he finished his theology in 1874, and received minor orders at th-
hands of Archbishop Henni, February 8th, of that year, when h
was just twenty-one years and two months old. He had to awai
either an addition to his years or a dispensation from Rome befor
he could be ordained priest.
By special request of Bishop Gilmour he was sent fron
Milwaukee to Cleveland, where he entered St. Mary's Theologica
Seminary. He remained there until the 23rd of February, 187S
when sub-deaconship and, the following day, deaconship wer
conferred on him by Bishop Dwenger, the Cleveland Ordinar
being absent from his diocese through illness. As deacon he wa
at once sent — an extraordinary thing — to St. Procop's (Bohemian
parish, Cleveland, where he taught the parish school, baptized
preached, and collected money to pay ofif the debt on the church
So effective were his ministrations, especially touching the schools
that the large attendance of pupils almost depopulated the publi
schools in the neighborhood. On this and other accounts he wa
.^ -'a
11
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 253
derisively spoken of as the "half-priest" by the local anti-Catholic
press. October 8, 18Y5, he was ordained priest in the chapel of
the seminary, Cleveland, by Bishop Mullen, of Erie, Pennsylvania.
No longer a "half-priest," he became pastor of St. Procop's
Church, and continued as such for seven years, 1875-1882.
During his pastorate he furnished the church, built the school and
parish house, and purchased the two lots upon which the present
new church stands. Besides the current expenses and the large
outlay for building and furnishing the church he also paid the debt,
which amounted to $9,000, leaving no debt for his successor.
While thus actively engaged he found time to write for the Bohe-
mian papers, and to have published his series of Catholic school
books for Bohemians, which are now in general use throughout
the country.
Father Koudelka's great ability as a writer, orator, and linguist
having become generally known, a petition from the Bohemian
clergy of the country was presented to Bishop Gilmour of Cleve-
land requesting him, for the good of religion, to permit Father
Koudelka to go to St. Louis, Missouri, to become the editor of the
Hlas (Voice), the only Catholic Bohemian publication in the
United States equal to combatting the power of the infidel
Bohemian press that, up to that time, had demoralized the people
and beslimed religion. The bishop consented, on condition that
the Bohemian clergy furnish a substitute to continue the work
which Father Koudelka had been carrying on so successfully. The
.substitute came, and Father Koudelka went to St. Louis as the
editorial champion of the faith. His writings had two good effects
— the paper became very powerful and prosperous, and the
Bohemian Catholics were preserved from the wolves who would
scatter and tear them to pieces. Unfortunately, in one sense, but
very fortunately in another, the substitute did not come up to the
requirements, and Bishop Gilmour recalled Father Koudelka. On
his return, July, 1883, he was commissioned to perfect the organi-
zation of the new parish in what is known as the "South Side," in
Cleveland. He did so, and the result of his work is the parish of
St. Michael, which has the finest church building in Ohio.
In 1886 Bishop Gilmour required him to go to Toledo tem-
porarily and heal the wounds left by the unfortunate riot which
254 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
destroyed the church and parish buildings and disorganized t'
Polish congregation there. He went at once, and in four mont
he rebuilt the church, the school and pastoral residence, ai
reunited the people. Besides being able to minister to Germar
Bohemians and Poles, preaching to each in their own languag
Father Koudelka is also acquainted with the Slovak, French ai
English tongues, and, of course, with the language of the Churc
the Latin. He is therefore a noted linguist, and is a scholar in tl
broadest sense of the term. He brings to the discharge of I
priestly duties splendid abilities and a zeal that recalls the devotic
of the first ages of the Church. In recognition of these he w
appointed Episcopal Notary by Bishop Gilmour, and w
reappointed to the same office by Bishop Horstmann.
temporalities he is active, and manifests an executiveness that on
the practical can truly appreciate. The story of the growth
St. Procop's parish under his administration, and of St. Michae
during the nearly eighteen years of his pastorate thus far (1900)
the evidence.
Among Father Koudelka's accomplishments may be cited Y
by no means slight acquaintance with art. The Cleveland Press
March 12, 1900, has this to say of him :
"Rev. Father Jos. M. Koudelka, pastor of St. Michae
Church, Scranton and Clark avenues, is one of the best amate
artists in the city. He owns a choice collection, and his spare tin
is all spent in the pursuit of his hobby. Father Koudelka is
decorator of ability, nearly all of the fine decorations for whi(
St. Michael's is noted having been done by himself."
Regarding those quahties and capacities in Father Koudell
which education draws forth and directs, and which religion refin
and ennobles, his portrait on the adjoining page is more eloque
than words can be in impressing the beholder with their nature ai
importance. There can be read strength of character, coupli
with mildness of manner; great intellect and knowledge in a settii
of simplicity and modesty; and the moral sentiments so elevati
and quickened as to be in close touch with the spiritual. Nothii
can be happier than the contrast exhibited in such instances, ai
few present a more striking example of this than the reverei
gentleman here mentioned.
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 255
MR. HENRY KRAMER.
When the present metropohs of Ohio had less than ten
thousand mhabitants and not a tithe of the btisiness it has today,
and when, from a CathoHc point of view, it had just been given a
resident pastor, ceasing thereby to be a mere missionary station,
the subject of this mention settled there and cast in his lot with
the community. This was in the year 1836, and he remained con-
stant from that day till his death June 11, 1889, a period of fifty-
three years.
What Mr. Henry Kramer's eyes beheld in his day in Cleve-
land, especially the almost miraculous growth of the Catholic
Church, must have been little less than a revelation to him. He
was permitted to aid in perfecting the organization of the first
congregation, and in building the first church, "Old St. Mary's
on the Flats." In 1847, he saw the organization of the diocese,
and was among those who welcomed its first bishop. He helped
to build the Cathedral, and later several of the principal churches
and institutions in that city. He saw and knew also the second
bishop of Cleveland, likewise Archbishop Purcell of Cincinnati,
and witnessed the passing of all of them, which facts point to him
as having held a place among the pioneer Catholics of the "Forest
City" and of the diocese.
Mr. Henry Kramer was born at Ankum, Hanover, Germany,
February 17, 1816. He emigrated to the United States, in 1836,
and located in Cleveland when he was in his twentieth year. The
maiden name of his wife was Miss Mary Agnes Haukaup. They
were married in the first Catholic church in Cleveland in 1840.
She passed away April 8, 1887. Hers was a beautiful Christian
life. Charity and motherly kindness were prominent among her
virtues and traits. She was notably industrious and domestic.
Mr. and Mrs. Kramer reared a family of nine, adopted three, and
educated several others.
He was a tailor by trade, and shortly after his arrival in Cleve-
land he established himself in business. He soon attained a posi-
tion of affluence and influence owing to his strict honesty and
attention to his affairs. A few years later when his place of busi-
ness was destroyed by fire he quickly secured another location and
also established a Catholic book store. Having closed out his
256 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
tailoring enterprise, about 18Y3, he considerably enlarged his b
business and transferred it to new quarters.
In days of prosperity or adversity he was always the s£
exhibiting under all circumstances a spirit of sedateness and re
nation which harmonized well with his desire to always do
which he believed just and right. He was one of the most pre
nent members of St. Peter's parish, and for many years w;
member of its councilmanic board and also its treasurer. At
same time he was connected with the various Catholic societie
In the discharge of his religious duties he was most consc
tious, and in the latter years of his life was a weekly communic
In his business dealings he was the soul of honor. His word
his bond. His was a reliable character, and his record was -
in keeping.
MR. JOHN KRUPP.
The city of Sandusky and Erie county, Ohio, are notec
pronounced Catholic localities, and among the pioneers of
faith there, no one is more readily recognized than Mr. J
Krupp, vice-president of the Citizens Banking and Trust C
pany. With his parents and the other members of the famil;
emigrants from Germany, he landed, in 1833, at the little har
at Venice, a few miles west of Sandusky, in Erie county, O
He is the sixth oldest of ten bright children born to Charles
Catherine Krupp, in Rhenish Bavaria, his natal day having t
January 28, 1822.
During nearly sixty-eight years, 1833-1900, the subject of
biography has continued to reside and do business in north-cer
Ohio. He did farm work in Erie and adjoining counties during
young manhood. At Tiffni, in Seneca county, in 1849, he lear
the trade of a cabinet maker. Although temporarily absent dui
his early years, his home has been in the city of Sandusky s:
1845. He is among the first and best citizens of that city, and
aided in building each of the three Catholic churches there.
February 6, 1849, Mr. John Krupp was married at Thomp:
Seneca county, Ohio, to Miss Catherine, the only child bori
John and Catherine Simon, in what was known as New Prussia
Germany, near Lorraine. She was in her twenty-second yea
MR. AND MRS. JOHN KRUPP.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 257
the time, having been born in 1827, her girlhood giving promise
of what has since been realized in her faithful wifehood and
motherhood. They have celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of
their marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Krupp have been born nine
children, five of whom have passed away. The names of the
departed ones were Mary; Louisa, who was Mrs. Goebel of San-
dusky; two sons, each of whom was named John; and Jacob.
Those living are: Catherine, who is Mrs. Herbert Herb, of Erie
county; Josephine, who is Mrs. Paul Miller, of Sandusky; Charles
J., who continues the undertaking business established by his
father, in 1870, and Jacob S.
Mr. Krupp served one term as a member of the Sandusky city
council. He declined to serve longer, although urged to accept
the nomination. While an active and influential member of the
Democratic party, he never became a politician, or an office seeker.
During all his life since he became a young man he has done choir
work as a tenor singer. He is always present, even now in his old
age, to sing at requiem Masses for his friends and neighbors.
Personally and in character Mr. Krupp is an agreeable and
forceful man. His business ideas have always been good. In early
life he was frugal but not stingy. He has contributed liberally to
the Church and in aid of education. In works of charity he has
been prominent, and to further benevolent and association wprk
he has given his share of both time and money. He is well pre-
served, and is active, intelligent and practical. Few men in his
section deserve greater respect and honor than does he, both as a
Catholic and as a citizen.
Mr. and Mrs. Krupp are constantly together, keeping fresh
and beautiful the affection, the loving companionship formed long
years ago. This love in another form extends to their children,
and in still another to their friends and neighbors and to the whole
human family. Both the direct and reflex effects of this ennobling
sentiment make them express in homely phrase what the poet
thus happily sings :
"No greater gift lies even in God's control
Than the large love that fills the human soul.
If taking that, He left thee all the rest.
Would not vain anguish wring thy pining breast?
If, taking all, that dear love yet remains.
Hath it not balm for all thy bitter pains?"
258 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. ALBINUS LANGENBACH.
Among the comparatively early Catholic pioneers of Canto
Ohio, was the late Mr. Albinus Langenbach. He was a native
Germany, emigrated when a young man, and located in Cantc
about 1850. In 1852, the late Father Hoffer, of Louisville, joine
him in matrimony to Miss Genevieve Greviwey, who, like himse
was a native of Germany. Mr. Langenbach died November
1877, when he was fifty-eight years old, and Mrs. Langenbac
also passed away (since this work was ready for the press) Noven
ber 11, 1901.
Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Langenbach, tl
oldest of whom, Henrietta, passed to her reward March 26, 189
The others in the order of birth are: Edward A., William S
Albin X., Raymond T., Olivia, who is Mrs. Chas. Loesch i
Canton, Minnie Pauline, and Anna Lucile.
The elder Langenbach began his career as a laborer in Cai
ton. Being industrious and of frugal habits he saved his earning
until, in obedience to his natural bent, he engaged in mercanti
pursuits, in Avhich he attained some success. He was a plai;
unassuming man, and as a member of St. Peter's congregatic
exhibited perhaps the average zeal in religious matters. Mr
Langenbach was a most lovable and exemplary lady. She w;
devoted to works of religion and charity, and up until her last il
ness she allowed no opportunity to pass wherein she might satis:
her devotion or perform some practical good work. Her lati
years were most marked in these respects, for the afifluence of h'
oldest son, Mr. Edward A. Langenbach, enabled her to do :
charity and in aid of the church much which she was unable to c
in former years, but for the doing of which she always had both tl
natural inclination and the will.
Mr. Edward A. Langenbach, the oldest of the children, w;
born at Canton, February 5, 1864. He was educated in the loc
schools, and finished with considerable eclat his commercial trai:
ing at Canisius College, Buffalo, New York. Returning to li
native city, he resolutely began his business career which each d;
increased in success and grew brighter in promise. According
at this writing he is one of the most prominent directors of indu
MR. AND MRS. ALBINUS LANGBNBACH.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 259
tries in Canton. He is secretary and manager of the Berger
Manufacturing Company, of Canton. He was one of the founders
of the enterprise. It gives employment to 360 hands. Of the
Stark Rolling Mill Company, of Canton, he is vice-president and
manager. This concern employs 280 hands. The Carnahan Tin
Plate & Sheet Company, of Canton, which employs 640 men, has
Mr. Langenbach for its manager. He is also the general manager
of the Carnahan Stamping & Enameling Company of the same
city, which employs 450 hands. Of the Canton Crucible Steel
Company, employing 60 hands, he is vice-president. Besides
these vast interests, he is also interested in mines in Colorado,
Joplin, Missouri, Washington Territory, and Kentucky.
Mr. Langenbach has prodigious capacity for work, is bound-
less in ambition, and is most remarkable as a man of great execu-
tiveness. He has accomplished much in the business world, and
while doing so, he has lost none of his appreciation for the finer
things of life, such as friendship, the ties of the home, generosity
in giving and benevolence and large-heartedness in wishing well
to and helping his fellow men.
If material rather than spiritual things absorb and enchain his
attention; if the pride of life sway him; if commercialism has in
part made him its votary, there is yet enough of head and heart
remaining to his credit to indicate that it is the laurel wreath of
success rather than the sordidness of great wealth that nerves him
to action. He would be very rich for the pleasure he finds in
acquiring and succeeding, but he would not be rich in the sense of
hoarding, or that others might be poor or in distress. The moralist
might say that his talents could be better employed, while the man
of the world would be emphatic in saying something to the con-
trary. In the meantime, pending the settlement of the question,
it can be said of Mr. Edward A. Langenbach that he has never
denied to religion and charity a hearty and generous support. The
pride of life and the glamour of temporal success have not been
able to weaken his faith, or to harden his heart against appeals
made in the name of religion and charity. He may strive for the
laurel wreath worn by the "Captains of Industry," but his heart
will not be wedded to the prize. His large possessions can never
make him sordid, but his worldly ambition will always keep him
busy.
260 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. AND MRS. THOMAS LA VAN.
The late Mr. Thomas Lavan, a representative Catholic of
Qeveland, Ohio, was a native of the town of Castlebar, county of
Mayo, Ireland. He was a college bred man, and graduated early
in life from Tuam college, in the county of Galway.
Arriving in Qeveland, in 1860, he connected himself with the
mercantile community. He was confidential man for years with
the hardware jobbing house of Tennis & Dangler, was secretary
of the old Hibernian Insurance Company, and was a practicing
attorney for about fifteen years before his death. He passed
away, in 1884, when he was fifty-five years of age, leaving a very
creditable name and record.
He was a man of remarkable force of character, a public speaker
of considerable ability, and his spirit was a directing power among
men of his race in his day in Cleveland. He was alert and mentally
capable. Before others had time to think out the full meaning of
certain questions or issues, he had such matters thoroughly
digested, and was defending or opposing them, and shaping
public opinion along his own line of thought and conviction. He
possessed the elements of leadership, and was a leader in very fact.
His heart was in what he advocated, and the sincerity of his
character was never questioned. He was a true, representative
Irishman, a good citizen, and an excellent father. As a Catholic
he made few pretensions. He was ever loyal to the Church, and
was constant and faithful in the practice of his religion.
When a young man Mr. Thomas Lavan was married to Miss
Bridget Mullarky, a young lady born and educated in his native
county. She survives him and is a well preserved, old style, Irish
mother, whose life is devoted to her children and grandchildren,
and to the strict observance of her religious duties.
A family of seven was born to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lavan,
six daughters and one son. Delia died in 18Y1, and Anna, who
was Mrs. Thomas H. Gartland, of Cleveland, passed to her reward
in June, 1899. The others are: Mary, who follows the calling of a
bookkeeper and cashier ; Nellie, who is an accountant ; Belle is, of
choice a home body and, with her mother, takes charge of the
domestic affairs; and Emma is a teacher in the public schools.
MR. AND MRS. THOMAS LA VAN.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 261
Their only son is Mr. Patrick Henry Lavan, who, ever since a
youth, has been prominently identified with the business com-
munity of Cleveland. He is secretary and treasurer of the Inter-
state Foundry Company of that city, an industry which is
prominent among the great enterprises of northern Ohio. He is
a capable man who has cultivated both his inherited intelligence
and many of the excellent qualities which marked the personality
of his father. He is somewhat distant and determined, is of a
retiring disposition, is kind to those he likes, and quite obliging.
He is credited with having as many admiring friends as most
other men of his station in Cleveland, and also with keenly,
appreciating their friendship.
The home of the Lavans has always been noted for no small
degree of intellectual culture, inspired and encouraged in the
members of the family by the elder Lavan ; while the moral and
domestic virtues, of which Mrs. Lavan has always been a patron
and devotee, have been given due attention. The mental, moral,
and social having been cultivated, those qualities which develop
and adorn character have left their imprint upon each of the
children. The Catholic faith has been fostered by them, and
filial duty has always been recognized and performed. As a result
peace and contentment are their portion, together with no small
measure of temporal prosperity.
For forty years, in Qeveland, the members of the Lavan
family have exhibited their faithfulness to duty and fulfilled the
obligations and amenities of life. They have been true and zeal-
ous Catholics, good industrious citizens, and neighbors who
always commanded the respect and confidence of friends and
acquaintances. The children have been taught to be workers, to
find contentment as well as remuneration in honest labor, and
never to spurn employment which calls into activity both the mind
and the hands. In the words of an observer and thinker it was
taught to them that, "None but the fully occupied can appreciate
the delight of suspended, or rather, of varied labor. It is toil that
creates holidays; there is no royal road — yes, that is the royal
road — to them. Life cannot be made up of recreations, these must
be garden spots in the well farmed lands."
This sort of philosophy reduced to practice is, perhaps, the
262 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
best way in which the members of the family of the late Thoma
Lavan can obey the practical lessons which it was his custor
to teach, that^
"Life is but a working day
Whose tasks are set aright —
A time to work, a time to pray,
And then a quiet night."
THE REV. GEORGE LEEMING.
The Rev. Father Leeming, pastor of the Sacred Heart Church
Youngstown, Ohio, is descended of an ancestry renowned amonj
the leading families of England. Among the things that stand ou
bold and striking in the record of the Leemings of Lancaster is thi
stem fact that they never forsook the faith of the Catholic Church
George and Mary Leeming were his parents, Leeming being als(
the maiden name of his mother. He was born to them in the cit''
of Liverpool, May 12, 1844. His early training attended to, he wa
sent to the Benedictine College at Ampleforth, near York, to maki
his classics. His more advanced studies were completed in thi
Louvain University, Belgium, and in the Seminary of Seez, Nor
mandy, near Paris, France. Subsequently, he took a post-graduat
course in London under the tutelage of the Rev. Dr. Vaughan, th
present Cardinal-Archbishop of Westminster.
In connection with the mention of the name of Cardina
Vaughan, the fact is recalled that when, in 1894, Father Leeminj
was about to celebrate his silver jubilee and so informed hi
friends, among many other congratulations he received the fol
lowing touching and beautiful letter from the distinguishei
Cardinal :
Archbishop's House, Westminster, London, S. W.
March 23, 1894.
My Dear Father Leeming: — I had completely lost sight o
you. Your letter has brought me joy. You are still laboring as
zealous priest. What more could I desire for you ! I bless yoi
with all my heart upon this your half jubilee of ordination.
I pray for all my former children as well as for those ove
whom I am actually in authority. Believe me your faithful an(
devoted servant, Herbert Cardinal Vaughan,
Archbishop of Westminstei
When Father Leeming was only a deacon he held the firs
THE REV. GEORGE LEEMING
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 263
Procuratorship of the celebrated foreign missionary college of Mill
Hill, London, an institution dear to the hearts of Cardinals Wise-
man and Manning, and since their day to that also of His Eminence
of Westminster. The affection and confidence then engendered
has since continued, and the present Cardinal tenderly regards
Father Leeming as the first priest to leave the college for foreign
shores. As proof of the affection that still exists between them
the Cardinal writes :
"I cannot but feel a great interest in you and an affection
which our intercourse and your good qualities have given rise to.
You were the first priest that has gone forth from our missionary
college, and therefore most closely connected with it. Let me
hear frequently from you. Anything which concerns your wel-
fare and happiness will always be a pleasure to me to know of.
And should there be anything which I can do for you I shall be
glad to do it in memory of old days."
Father Leeming was ordained by Cardinal Manning for the
Australian mission, April 4, 1869, and for ten years thereafter he:
was parish priest of the Church of St. Joseph at Woolahra, in
Sidney, New South Wales. He organized the parish and built the-
church, pastoral residence and school. The arduous labors which'
he underwent in that hot climate so greatly impaired his bealthi
that he was given permission to seek rest and recuperation in-
North America. His health improving, he delivered some lectures,
and was invited to accept a parish in the Diocese of Cleveland, by
the late Bishop Gilmour. Accordingly, October, 1883, he was made
pastor of St. Aloysius' Church, Bowling Green, Wood county,.
Ohio, and later of St. Patrick's Church, Kent, Portage county.
September, 1888, he was appointed to organize the parish of the-
Sacred Heart, at Youngstown, where he yet continues, having-
accomplished much for the congregation. The parish being poor.
Father Leeming has had to meet many of the expenses out of
his own purse and from the income which he derives from lectur-
ing, and which, at times, has been considerable.
In addition to his parochial work he has continued to lecture
frequently in many parts of the United States and Canada on topics
comprising religious, literary, and historical subjects. His reper-
toire is extensive and appears to include the best themes. Among
these might be mentioned his "Two Hours with Thackeray," "Two
Hours with Charles Dickens," "Walter Scott," "Daniel O'Con-
264 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
nell," "Robert Emmett," "Father Mathew," "Mary Queen oi
Scots," "Lord Byron," "The French Bastile," "The Duke oi
Wellington," "Joan of Arc," "Voices from Ireland," "Tom
Moore," "Shakespeare, with dramatic recitals/' "Saarsfield and
the Irish Brigade," "The Tower of London," "Justice to Ireland,"
"Ingersoll Bubbles/' etc., and also his latest efifort, "Miracles, the
Test of Truth." These lectures, and numerous others beautifully
illustrated with dissolving views, he delivers with such mastery,
fine finish and eflfect as to justly merit the unstinted commenda-
tions of the press and of the intelligent lecture-going people of
the country.
In Youngstown, where he has been pastor since 1888, and
where he is familiarly known to all, his lectures have received
both large patronage and the highest praise. To the proceeds of
his Sunday-night lectures, delivered there in a series some few
years ago, his parish of the Sacred Heart is indebted for its ability
to meet not only current expenses but also much of the cost of
additional ground and improvements. So greatly appreciated as
a lecturer is Father Leeming in his own city, and so popular is he
as an approachable, genial gentleman, that the mere announce-
ment in the local press that he is to lecture fills the house to
overflowing. The placard "standing room only" is generally
looked for when he lectures, and not unfrequently hundreds can
not be afforded even this accommodation and are obliged to
reluctantly forego the pleasure of hearing this eloquent priest. A
man who can claim public attention and give satisfaction to
audiences composed of men who meet him every day is surely not
dependent on novelty or sensationalism for his popularity and
prestige. His hold on the public is his intellect, his great ability
as an orator, and the way in which he handles his subject.
The scope of reading and the vast storehouse of information
and philosophy represented in his lectures, together with his fine
literary style and poetic thought, are an education in themselves.
His matchless delivery is an inspiration, not merely in sweetness
and discipline of voice, but especially in his earnest, impressive,
dramatic and graceful oratory. In person he is tall and well
proportioned, of benevolent countenance, and thoroughly self-
possessed. His rare talents and scholarly attainments are becom-
ing to his priestly calling.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 265
MR. DANIEL E. LESLIE.
It is an evidence of character to bear acquaintance well. To
grow up among one's friends and neighbors, from childhood to
manhood and to middle life, ar>d to continue to hold their esteem
as the years go by, is as positive an assurance of merit and sterling
worth as can be reasonably required in any community.
It stands pre-eminently to the credit of Mr. Daniel E. Leslie
of Cleveland, Ohio, that his career has been such as to merit and
receive the endorsement of his fellow citizens, as well from the
standpoints of industry and respectability as from those of business
capacity and the strictest integrity. In his social intercourse also
the same degree of approval has been accorded him, for he is
esteemed for his agreeableness and sincerity of manner. He is a
man of fine mental and physical fibre. His sense of honor and
justice is high, while in all respects his sensitiveness is but the
measure of his refinement of character. Generous, charitable,
sympathetic, a good cause can always count on his support, and to
an appeal in behalf of the needy or unfortunate he always responds.
The numerous natural and supernatural virtues which are his con-
strain those capable of estimating character to declare him a good
friend, a good citizen, a good husband and father, and a true
Christian gentleman.
Having finished his preparatory studies in the parish schools
of his native city he entered the Cleveland College of Felton &
Bigelow to complete his business education. It was from this
institution, when a slender youth of sixteen, that Babcock, Hurd
& Company, wholesale grocers of Cleveland, selected him from
among a large class of students to become their assistant book-
keeper. He remained with this firm four years, giving unbounded
satisfaction to his employers. He then took service with the
Standard Oil Company in a minor position, but succeeded in
advancing step by step until he finally became the auditor of the
company, a position which he held for twelve years.
In 1896, after twenty-four years of service, he retired from the
auditorship of the Standard Oil Company because the business of
that corporation required him to leave Cleveland and take up his
266 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
permanent residence in New York City. He preferred his hon
and friends in Cleveland to the emoluments of the position whi(
he had held so long, and he at once opened an ofifice in the Arca(
building to follow the vocation of an expert accountant. His sk
as an accountant and systematizer of business brought him at on
to the notice of men engaged in large enterprises or contemplatir
such. Wherever, in Cleveland or elsewhere, important busine
afifairs became complicated or needed investigation, the mast
mind of Mr. Leslie was in demand to compass them or bring the
back into order. He personally directs the work he undertak
and will employ none but skilled assistants. He has never made
failure, and he is justly entitled to the reputation which he no
enjoys of being a master in the science of accounts.
Mr. Daniel E. Leslie was bom of Irish parents within sight
the Cathedral in Cleveland, February 22, 1852. His marriage
Miss Margaret E. Madden, who is also a native of Cleveland, toe
place January 10, 1878, and was the first to be solemnized
St. Bridget's Church, of which they have been members for tl
past twelve years. There have been bom to Mr. and Mrs. Lesl
four daughters, Helen Winifred, Mollie Eleanor, Margaret Irei
and Julia Alma, the oldest, just blooming into beautiful your
womanhood. These with their parents constitute a family in whi(
both filial and parental love are reciprocal — a veritable Christi;
family where culture and refinement obtain and where the heart
stone is wreathed with the rose-chaplets of domestic bliss that a
nowhere entwined so beautifully as in the real Catholic home.
Mr. Leslie found time during the early years of the Edg
worth Club to act as its first secretary, and later to hold the pres
dency of the club for two terms. He is also a member of tl
Iroquois Club, but beyond these demands upon his spare time 1
devotes his evenings and leisure hours to his family and to soci
intercourse with friends. The beautiful effects of true Cathol
training and practice are nowhere more visible than in the home
the Leslies, and it would not be exceeding the bounds to say th
Catholic homes, such as the one referred to, ought to be priz(
most highly for their refining and social effect and, indeed, shou
be cited as models worthy of imitation by all who prize the charr
of Christian refinement and sweet domesticity.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 267
THE HON. JOHN F. LINDEMANN.
Ex-Judge John F. Lindemann, of Delphos, Ohio, was born in
Cincinnati, April 1, 1861. He is the oldest of a family of nine born
to Henry and Clara (Ossenbeck) Lindemann. His father emi-
grated from Germany, in 1845, and his mother was a native of
Auglaize county, Ohio. When he was about six months old, in
the autumn of 1861, his parents removed with him to Delphos,
where the family has since resided and where his grandfather was
one of the early settlers. He was educated in the local schools,
attended St. John's, the only Catholic church in Delphos, clerked
in a dry goods store and afterward in his father's shoe store, and
amid the comparative quiet of the place he grew to manhood.
About the time of his majority, 1882, he was appointed deputy
clerk of the Allen county probate court. So efficient was he in the
discharge of his duties, and so pleased were the citizens with both
his personality and record that they called him, in the autumn of
1886, to fill the vacancy occasioned in the probate court by the
election of Judge Yoder, the incumbent of the office, to Congress.
November 17, 1886, he assumed the duties of the office in his
twenty-fifth year, and was at that time the youngest probate judge
in Ohio. He served his constituents so acceptably that in the
autumn of 1887 he was elected for the full term, and in 1890 was
elected for another term, which ended February 9, 1894, making
twelve years of continuous service as deputy and judge of the
probate court of Allen county. His majority over his opponent at
this last election exceeded the majority accorded the head of the
State ticket by 800 votes.
Since his retirement from the judgeship he has been engaged
in the law practice with Mr. Horace A. Reeve, of Delphos, under
the firm name of Reeve and Lindemann. Mr. Reeve is esteemed as
a very able lawyer, while Mr. Lindemann, from his experience^
might be said to be a specialist if not an authority in some depart-
ments of the law. Combined, their abilities are such as to claim the
confidence of the public. He is the treasurer of The Delphos
Electric Light and Power Company, and secretary and treasurer of
the Delphos Home Telephone Company.
In 1882, October 11th, Judge Lindemann was married to Miss
268 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Rosa H. Limbach, a native of Millhausen, Indiana, daughter ol
Professor Joseph Limbach, who for fifteen years was principal ol
the German department of the public schools of Delphos, and
organist of St. John's Catholic Church. To their union have beer
born six children, whose names are : Gertrude C, Clarence J.,
Arthur F., John A., Richard A., and Eugene S. They comprise a
very happy and promising family.
Judge Lindemann is a Catholic by inheritance and by con-
viction. All well-directed movements for the advancement oi
rehgion and Catholic education not only meet with his approval
and receive his support, but they also enkindle his enthusiasm.
Hence he is affiliated with many Catholic associations, notably the
Catholic Knights of America, and also the Knights of Columbus,
he being a charter member and one of the trustees of Lima, Ohio,
Council No. 436.
In person he is tall, well proportioned and commanding. In
facial expression, as his portrait indicates, he is not only pleasing,
but also direct, candid, and brilliantly convincing. His tempera-
ment is a happy blending of the phlegmatic with the sanguine,
evidencing the influence of his surroundings on his Teutonic
nature. While well acquainted with the EngHsh language, he has
not forgotten or neglected his mother tongue. He speaks and
writes both the high and the dialectic German, and is often in
demand as an interpreter and translator. He speaks well and
writes well, and "his foot is on his native heath" when engaged,
ad hominum, in convincing the other fellow that such and such a
course is right and proper under the circumstances.
This remark hints at his political influence and his ability to
sway men. He has been a power among his fellow citizens evei
since he was a boy, but he has been cautious to be always on the
right side according to his judgment and conscience. His name
has, in the past ten or twelve years, been repeatedly mentioned in
connection with the Democratic congressional nomination in his
district, but up to date he has not consented to become a candidate
But whether in the position of a public servant or in that of a
private citizen, Judge Lindemann will always command the respecl
and confidence of his neighbors and fellow citizens, regardless o:
political affiliation or sectarian bias. He exemplifies the declara-
tion of Robert Burns that, "A man's a man for a' that, and a' that."
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 269
THE REV. ELI WASHINGTON JOHN LINDESMITH.
The family to which the subject of this article belongs has
been favorably knoWn in the United States since 1769. The great-
grandfather of Chaplain Lindesmith, Joseph Lindesmith by name,
was the founder of the American branch of the family. He was
bom at Faltz, Canton Bern, Switzerland, and emigrated to this
country, in 1769, when he was eighteen years old. He settled in
Maryland and was married. May 3, 1772, to a young lady named
Anna Bauman. He was a soldier in the war of the Revolution.
His son Daniel, the grandfather of the chaplain, was a soldier of
the war of 1812. He was bugler of Captain William Pritchard's
Company, 2nd Rifle Regiment, mounted, of Lisbon, Columbiana
county, Ohio. He provided his own horse and Buck rifle.
The Chaplain's two granduncles, John and Peter, were also
soldiers of the infantry in the war of 1812, while his father,
Jacob W. Lindesmith, was standard-bearer in Captain Lucy's troop
recruited in Columbiana county, that cradle of patriotism and
Catholicity in northern Ohio. J. W. Lindesmith, a brother of our
soldier-priest, was first sergeant company K., 115th O. V. I., and
was brevetted second lieutenant in the war 1861-1865. Even the
father of the Chaplain's mother. Dr. Urs Walser, was a soldier in
1798. It would appear, therefore, that Father Lindesmith is
descended of an ancestry renowned for devotion to duty and love
of country. He is a member of the Society (at Philadelphia, Pa.)
of the Sons of the War of 1812, and there is a merry twinkle in his
eye, which is yet very bright, when he announces the fact that
His Grace, The Most Rev. Archbishop Elder, of Cincinnati, Ohio,
also belongs to the same society.
The Rev. Eli Washington John Lindesmith, chaplain of the
United States Army, and pastor of St. Peter's Church, Doyles-
town, Ohio, was bom in a log cabin in Center township, Colum-
biana county, Ohio, September 7, 1827. His early education
was meager and was obtained under difficulties in the log cabin
schools of that day. He was orphaned by the death of his father
when he was eight years old, but his mother was spared to direct
and inspire the lad.
He was a worker before his years began to end in the 'teens.
270 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
and was such when his mother bound him out to Joseph Linde
smith, January 12, 1842. He was employed on the farm, rai
errands, cared for children and generally made himself useful, fo
he was naturally industrious. He worked for some months so fa
from his home as Pittsburg, Pa., and he saw with the bulging eye:
of a boy the great conflagration which, April 10, 1845, destroyec
nearly sixty acres of the business portion of that city. During thi
winter months he got snatches of schooling, of which he tool
every advantage. When grown to be a youth commercial instinct;
developed in him, and he became the business partner of one of hi;
cousins in 1846. He later conducted the business himself. During
the Mexican war his inherited soldier-spirit impelled him to offei
his services to the Government. He was refused, because then
were then more soldiers than were needed.
Having by dint of close application advanced very consider
ably in his studies, he applied to the ecclesiastical authorities foi
admission to the Diocesan Seminary at Cleveland. He wa:
accepted, and, September 18, 1849, he entered that institution
He spent nearly six years in preparation for Holy Orders, whicl
Sacrament was conferred on him by Bishop Rappe in the Cathe
dral, July 8, 1855. The following Sunday, July 15, he celebratec
his first public Mass in the Church of St. Philip at his home ir
Dungannon, formerly known as St. Paul's Settlement, in Colum
biana county, Ohio. He preached in English, but the following
Sunday he spoke in German.
Returning to Cleveland he was appointed pastor of SS. Petei
and Paul's Church at Doylestown, Wayne county, Ohio, witl
charge also of numerous missions and stations in adjoining
counties. He attended Canal Fulton, Marshallville, French Settle-
ment, Orrville, Clinton Coal Mines, Noah Edginton's, Burton City
North Lawrence, Loudonville, St. Joseph's, Millersburg and Blacl
Creek. Besides these he had frequent calls to preach in Germai
and hear confessions at Akron, Wooster, Louisville, Harrisburg
Mansfield and other places. During his pastorate he paid ofif i
parish debt that had accumulated during the terms of three pastor:
who had preceded him at Doylestown.
February, 1858, he was transferred to Canton to becomi
pastor of St. John's Church, with the church at New Berlin as ;
mission. During ten years he labored there, extending his service:
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 271
even to St. Joseph's in Holmes county, and attending sick calls
and funerals at Louisville, Harrisburg and Maximo. At first only
seven pews were rented, and not more than eleven families
attended Mass at St. John's, Canton. In less than a year, how-
ever, a change for the better was brought about. Every seat was
rented, the church had to be enlarged, a 1,000-lb. bell was
purchased, the people were aroused religiously, and when he left
to take pastoral charge at Alliance, in 1868, the congregation
numbered nearly two hundred families, and he handed over to his
successor more than $5,000 of parish money.
October 1, 1868, he began his labors at Alliance, which place
he had previously attended as a station on week days. While
there he had Homeworth, Limaville, Atwater, Salem and Leetonia
as missions. There was general apathy, but he soon dissipated the
mists. Shortly after the priest's arrival a number of the members
of the congregation called on him in a body with a spokesman.
That individual said : "You must be the meanest priest in the
diocese, because the Bishop always sends us the meanest priest he
has." Father Lindesmith smiled and said: "Just wait a little
while and perhaps you will change your opinion." That opinion
was changed and they became the priest's best friends. At first
the councilmen would do nothing, fearing that they would be held
personally responsible for debts. The priest himself rented a
building, bought the necessary furniture, vestments, etc., and paid
for everything out of his personal funds. Three months later the
people were so much encouraged that they paid for all the
improvements, even for the new cemetery and priest's house.
At the expiration of three and one-half years, when Father Linde-
smith took his departure, all the debts were paid, and there was
money in the parish treasury.
In May, 1872, he took charge at Leetonia, with the missions
at Salem and East Palestine attached. Four years previously,
October 8, 1868, he said Mass for the first time in that place. It
was at the house of James Ready. He at once bought a lot from
the Cherry Valley Iron and Coal Company and began to build a
church, which he dedicated the following Christmas to St.
Barbara, V. M. As far back as December, 1870, he had purchased
eight and one-half acres of ground for cemetery purposes. He
surveyed it with surveyor's instruments and made a plat of it
272 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
according to a regular scale. Unfortunately this plat was bum
with "other trash" after he left; in consequence the cemetery
now considerably short of the original survey. At the Sale
mission he gathered together a congregation, purchased and pa
for the lot on which the present church stands, and left $200 in t
treasury. He organized at Leetonia a brass band, all temperan
men; a temperance society^ 1,000 strong; several church societie
a church choir; procured an organ, and had everything fiouris
ing, with money in the parish treasury, when Bishop Gilmo
requested him to accept a chaplain's commission in the regul
army. He promptly obeyed the Bishop and President Hayes, ai
received his commission June 19, 1880. He set out, July 22, 188
for Fort Keogh, Montana, where the Sioux or "Sitting Bull" w
was in progress. His missionary campaigns extended to Nor
Dakota, Wyoming, Yellowstone Park, Idaho, Washington ai
Oregon. Gen. Nelson A. Miles was in command at Ft. Keogh
the time. He received the chaplain with great kindness ar
hospitality and did all for him in his power, in consequence
which a warm friendship sprang up between them which y
continues.
During his chaplaincy many civil and army officers paid visi
at headquarters, among them President Arthur, General Drur
Senator Vest and others. He met them all. He saw nearly j
the noted Indian Chiefs, "Rain-in-the-Face," "Spotted Eagle
"Gaul," "Two Moons," "White Bull," "Yellow Horse," at
"Real," the half-blood, who afterwards started a rebellion
Canada. The honors he received were numerous, while his har
ships were correspondingly multiplied. For a month at one tin
he did not have even warm water. He built a church, priest
house, and convent school at Miles City, and persuaded Bishc
Gilmour to send Sisters to teach in the Indian Missions. Bishc
O'Connor, of Omaha, delegated him to dedicate the church to tl
Sacred Heart of Jesus, which he did April 15, 1883. Often in tl
line of duty when crossing the Tongue River on horseback, Cha
lain Lindesmith would have to kneel on top of his saddle to ke<
out of the water. When the river was too high and too dangeroi
to cross he would return to the Fort and on his next visit wou
say to the people: "I did not come to Montana to be drowned;
I had been drowned the last time I would not be here today to s;
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 273
Mass and preach to you." He gathered many Indian, frontier, and
army relics, of which he sent ten boxes to the CathoHc University
at Washington, D. C, eight boxes to Notre Dame University in
Indiana, and a buffalo robe to Bishop Gilmour which was tanned
by Tepee-Wacustavas (fawn of the house), a maiden of the
"Sitting Bull" tribe. This robe was presented in his name to
Pope Leo XIII, who sent his blessing to the Chaplain and also to
the Indian maiden.
Chaplain Lindesmith's daily occupation at the Fort was
saying Mass, reading his office, superintending the schools,
attending the sick at the hospital and at quarters. He was often
called to respond to sick calls and officiate at funerals and
marriages in localities sometimes over 100 miles distant from the
Fort. For a time he was the only priest or clergyman of any form
of religion within a radius of 800 miles. Marriages came to him
from such a distance that it took the contracting parties a month
to make the journey, and sometimes in mid-winter with the
mercury forty or fifty degrees below zero. The simple faith of these
good people and their confidence in, and respect for, the priest
would contrast very strongly with the practices of some Catholics
in the East, and even in Ohio.
Father Lindesmith secured a three months' furlough, August
13, 1888, but he was back at his post November 6th, a week ahead
of time. He toured across the country east by way of Sault Ste.
Marie, down the St. Lawrence, through the principal Canadian
cities, to Portland, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore,
Washington, Chicago, etc., back to his post of duty. Before he
retired from the service, September 7, 1891, the Adjutant General
gave him for meritorious service a three months' leave of absence.
During his more than eleven years as chaplain he delivered 1,441
sermons and lectures, officiated at 120 funerals, baptized 214
persons, performed 161 marriages and administered the total
abstinence pledge to 595 soldiers and civilians.
After Father Lindesmith's return to the diocese he was sent
temporarily to Dungannon, Columbiana county, the place of his
birth, where he had received his first Holy Communion, Christmas,
1843, from the hands of the late Rev. James Conlan, the pastor, and
Confirmation, June 14, 1844, at the hands of His Grace, the late
Most Rev. Archbishop Purcell, and where his grandparents, in
274 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
1820, assisted in building the first church, then called St. Paul
He ministered to the people there from August,1891, until Novei
ber, 1893, when he was appointed to his old parish at Doylestow
the place where he began his priestly labors nearly forty-six yea
ago, 1855-1900.
When this good priest shall have been called to his reward 1
body will rest in the cemetery at old Dungannon. He has prepar
a tomb and monument for himself, a fine engraving of whi
appears herewith. This suggests the thought : who can depict t
place of his eternal rest above where the instructors of many un
justice have the divine promise of shining as stars in the firm
ment?
Note. — Since most of the lettering on Chaplain Lindesmith's monume
as shown in the accompanying engraving, is too small to be easily decipher
the full inscription is here given. To the left of the bust it reads: "I erect
this monument before my death, 1900." To the right of the bust is the f
lowfing: "May the souls of my departed relatives, the American soldiers, a
of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amei
That below the bust thus reads: "Rev. Eli Washington John Lindesmi
Chaplain of the United States Regular Army. Born September 7, 1827. S
of a volunteer soldier. Grandson of a soldier of the war of 1812. Grat
nephew of two soldiers of the war of 1812. Great-grandson of a soldier of 1
war of the Revolution of 1776."
"Ordained priest July 8, 1856. Served as chaplain in the Rocky Mounta
during the Indian wars from June 18, 1880, to September 7, 1891."
The inscription on the back of the monument, which is not shown in i
engraving, is on a bronze plate or tablet, and reads as follows:
Paternal Great Grand-Parents — ^Joseph Lindesmith, soldier of the war
Independence, and Anna Bauman. Children : Daniel, Elisabeth, Jacob, John, Pel
Grand^Parents — Daniel Lindesmith, soldier of the war of 1812; Elisab
Weimer and Gertrude Krissinger. Children: Jacob Weimer, Kathari
Susanna, Anna, Joseph, Mary, Isaac, Daniel.
Grand- Aunt — Elisabeth Lindesmith; husband, W. Knepper. Childr
Godfrey, John, Jacob, Katharine Miller, William, Daniel, Elisabeth A. J
Clain, Joseph, Anna Frantz, Peter, Amos.
Grand-Uncle — ^Jacob Lindesmith; wife, Susanna Krissinger. Childr
George, Elisabeth, J. Willyard, Anna Mary, Hannah J. Young, Peter — w
Abegail Copeland; Benjamin — wives, Susanna Green and Elisabeth Wal
David K. — wives, Louisa Mumenthaler and Malinda Goberda; Rachad; Jaco
wives, Adessa Copeland and Anna McCarns.
Grand-Uncle — ^John Lindesmith, soldier in the war' of 1812; wife, Ai
Mary Boyer. Children: Salome J. Krissinger, Susanna S. Krissinger; Josep
wife, Elisabeth McCarns; Mary J. Anderson; John — wife, Lucetta Mumentha
Delila J. Brechner, Anna H. Lori, infant, Katharine Bachman.
THE REV. CHAPLAIN LINDESMITH'S MONUMENT.
(Erected at Dungannon, Columbiana County.)
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 275
Grand-Uncle— Peter Lindesmith, soldier in the war of 1812; wife, Susanna
Ehrhart. Children: Infant, Elisabeth D. Krissinger; Daniel— wife, Anna Cox;
Julia I. Fletcher; David— wife, Katharine Simons; Katharine G. Green,
William; Isaac— wife, M&Ttha Whittaker.
Aunt — Katharine Lindesmith; husband, W. Morgan. Children: James,
Daniel, William.
Aunt— Susanna Lindesmith; husband, P. Copeland. Children: Thomas,
Joseph, Hannah, James J., John H., William K., Louisa C, George R, Harriet
G., Elisabeth, Isabel, Margaret A.
Aunt — Anna Lindesmith; husband, John Ford.
Uncle— Joseph Lindesmith; wife, Mary Benner. Children: Sarah, Ann,
Henry B., Elisabeth, Lewis, Anna, Belle, Harvey.
Aunt— Mary Lindesmith; husband, J. Mason. Children: Malinda C,
infant boy, Mary A., Lewis A., Caroline E., C. Harvey.
Parents — Jacob Weimer Lindesmith, son of Daniel, and grandson of Joseph
Lindesmith, color bearer, Captain Lucy's Troop; Barbara, daughter of Urs
Walser, M. D. Children: Eli Washington John, who is a priest; Daniel
Weimer, Jason Wilson, Isaac Jacob.
Brother — Daniel Weimer Lindesmith; wife, Debora E. Hufman. Child:
Mary G. Foltz.
Brother — Jason Wilson Lindesmith, enlisted in the war of the rebellion as
private in Captain William Ramsey's Co. K., 115th O. V. I.; was discharged
July 5, 1865, at Cleveland, Ohio, as second lieutenant; wife, Margaret Jane
McAllister. Child: Emma Augusta. Adopted son: William P. — wife, Mar-
garet Neville.
Brother — Isaac Jacob Lindesmith; wife, Katharine Stewart. Children:
William S. — wife, Adaline M. Olott; John E.; Francis W. — wife, Susanna A.
Crosby; Mary B., Daniel.
Mother — Also married John Wannemacher. Children: Mary Ann — hus-
band, J. Ott Children: Josephine, Francis, John, George, and five infants;
Katharine Gertrude — husband, J. Warnefeldt. Children: Clarence J., Loretto
W.; Ada B. — husband, J. C. Krause; Elisabeth — husband, G. Broughton.
Children: Thomas G., Beatrice B., John W., Robert W., Anna L.
Maternal Grand- Parents — Urs Walser, M. D., soldier in 1798; Anna Mary
Schenker. Children: Anna Mary, John Joseph, Mary Ann, Theresa, John
Jacob, M. D., Martin, Barbara, Robert
Aunt and Godmother — Anna Mary; husband, Samuel Hoffee. Children:
John, Urs, Samuel, Robert, Anthony, Simon, Jonathan, Philip, Mary.
Aunt — ^Mary Ann; husband, John Neltner.
Uncle — ^John Jacob Walser, M. D.; wife, Sarah Atterholt. Children:
Henry, Elisabeth, John, Mary, William.
Uncle — Robert Walser: wives, Theresa and Katharine Wiss. Children:
Infant, John W., Barbara, Eli, Mary, Katharine, Henry, Martin, Elisabeth.
The monument is fourteen feet six inches high. The circumference of the
shaft is twenty feet, and the weight is twenty-seven tons.
276 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. EDWARD McCART.
The gentleman selected as the subject of this biographic
mention is the youngest of a family of four born to the late Patric
and Mary (McCoy) McCart, of Cleveland, Ohio. His paren
were residents of that city for over half a century, and in the
plain unassuming lives gave evidence of both practical good sen;
and careful Christian training. With them merit and worth d
not depend on tinsel or the emptiness of mere social function
They regarded honesty, industry, integrity, and intellect as abo''
money and what money can buy, and it appears that their so
Edward McCart, has been faithful in putting in practice tl
lessons which they taught him.
Mr. Edward McCart, the head and practical manager of Tl
McCart-Christy Company, the largest wholesale grocery hou
in the metropolis of Ohio, was born in Cleveland, December 2
3 864. In early boyhood he was sent to the Cathedral school i
acquire the rudiments of both a Christian and a secular educatio
Having made satisfactory progress in his studies he entered, wh(
a youth, the Spencerian College in his native city to study ti
commercial branches. There, too, he showed his aptitude, ar
finished with a large class of bright young men.
Young gentlemen of his class were then in demand in sever
of the growing business houses of Cleveland, and it fell to the 1
of Mr. McCart to connect himself with the wholesale grocery fir
of William Edwards and Company. He remained with that hou
twenty years, having advanced from the station of a beginner
the most important positions in the establishment. His loi
years of service there mean two things chiefly : first, he must ha
proved his worth and ability; secondly, his employers must ha
appreciated his faithfulness, honesty, and capacity. That thi
relations were always pleasant attested the qualities of both.
In 1899, Mr. McCart found himself in position to engage
business for himself. Having selected enterprising associates, m
who knew enough of commercial requirements to recognize t
kind of talent essential to success, he launched the ship
The McCart-Christy Company on the business sea. That ship I
now been sailing only three years, but she has demonstrated I
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 277
ability to carry more trade than any of her competitors in northern
Ohio. From a small beginning- the house has advanced, both in
the volume of its trade and in excellence of reputation, until now it
stands at the head of all enterprises of its kind in Cleveland.
The conclusion to be drawn from this is, that the founder and
practical head of The McCart-Christy Company is a captain in
business — a man capable as a director and manager and who, as
master, knows the value of having his ship well manned. It has
always been his conviction that, good goods at fair prices, handled
by capable and faithful assistants along lines of correct business
methods, will bring success to any judiciously managed house.
His practical testing of these principles in the conduct of his own
house has demonstrated their correctness.
Mr. Edward McCart is a young man of directive and execu-
tive ability. He possesses great compassing powers, is conserva-
tively enterprising, and is not afraid to legitimately reach out for
what is beyond. He is constant and assiduous in the performance
of his duties, is the hardest worker in his house, and wisely labors
not only for direct results but also that his example, influencing
his assistants, may bring better returns later. It may seem
paradoxical to say of him in an age like this that his labors are
performed not so much from the standpoint of money-getting as
to win success. It is his nature, however, to be active, just as
it is in keeping with his makeup to do well whatever he under-
takes. It is truth to say that there are things nobler in his estima-
tion than either success in trade or the attainment of a captaincy
in business. The cultivation of religion, the doing of charity, and
the attaining of high character are some of these. Although
scarcely advanced to the ridge of life his views are broad, and his
discernment of good qualities is far beyond the average. Having
hewed out his own path in this rough world, he is considerate of
those who are yet in the early stages of their work, just as he is
of the large numbers who have labored not always to their own
profit. Mr. McCart is not one of those who exhibit indifference
to the trials of life. His sympathy is broad, his charity is active,
and his wish is that all young men might start well.
Mr. Edward McCart was married, February 20, 1895, to Miss
Genevieve O'Brien, the accomplished daughter of Mr. Patrick
O'Brien, of Cleveland, one of the old Catholic settlers of that city.
278 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JAMES P. McCLOSKEY.
In these last days of the nineteenth century the reverend
pastor of St. Ann's Church, Fremont, Ohio, finds himself little
past life's morning, or at most but close to its meridian. He is in
the thirty-third year of his age and the ninth of his priesthood. In
the natural order of events many years yet remain to him for laboi
in the Vineyard.
He was bom in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, January
9, 1868. Having completed his classical studies in the East, where
he has a brother a priest, he was received into St. Mary's Theolo-
gical Seminary, Cleveland, Ohio, in which institution he finished
his divinity course, and was ordained priest by Bishop Horstmann,
April 8, 1892.
Father McCIoskey's first appointment immediately after ordi-
nation was as pastor of St. John the Baptist's Church, at Payne,
in Paulding county, Ohio, with charge also of the Church of St.
Francis de Sales, at Latty, in the same county. He acceptably
ministered to the people at these places from April, 1892, until
March, 1894. He was then transferred to become curate at St.
Patrick's Church, Cleveland, where he labored until June, 1897.
He was next appointed assistant to the pastor of the Church oi
the Immaculate Conception, Toledo. He there performed heroic
work during three and one-half years. In consequence of the
latal illness of the pastor, the late Rev. T. P. McCarty, he was
charged most of the time with the entire labor and responsibility
of managing that large congregation. So faithfully and acceptably
did he perform his duties that, in November, 1900, when he was
made pastor of St.. Ann's Church, Fremont, his former parishioners
in Toledo gave him a substantial token of their appreciation of his
services and of their high regard for him personally.
It is one of the suggestive and creditable features of the Rev.
Father McCIoskey's priestly career that, wherever he labored,
he always had not only the good will but also the respect and
love of his people. He could not have had these unless he deserved
them. The people are good judges of the zeal and ability of a
pastor, and when they pronounce in his favor it is safe to trust to
their opinion either privately or publicly expressed. Looking
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 279
through their eyes, therefore, while at the same time using his
own, the writer is enabled to outline for the future biographer at
least an approach to a mental picture of this young priest.
Some one has happily said somewhere that, "A great deal
of brow in a face is like a great deal of horizon in a view." The
sky-scene is the light of the picture, just as the brow is the light
of the countenance. The art critic will attentively scan the one,
and, when well done, will nod his approbation ; the physiognomist
will intently gaze on the other as it crowns and unifies the expres-
sion of all the other features. He will indicate that in that coun-
tenance may be seen large intellectuality and much soulfulness,
and also their corollaries ; and he will so exactly tell of the native
ability, the sterling qualities, and the characteristics of the sub-
ject of this sketch as to seemingly "take the words out of the
mouths" of all who intimately know or are acquainted with the
Rev. Father McCloskey.
Possessing a fortunate organization, both mentally and phy-
sically— ^which implies a pleasing personal appearance, a happy
temperament, and the ability to acquire and rightly use knowl-
edge— he is always found modestly but effectively doing his work.
To him knowledge is more than the satisfaction it affords its con
scious possessor. It is more than power. It is a sacramental
It is a high and holy thing to be used for good ends. Hence
this priest's sermons and discourses are instructive and solid, well
delivered, and generally very happy, thereby compelling the as-
sent of the intellects of his hearers to the doctrines and pure
morality which he inculcates in the name of the Church which is
Catholic, and in the name of the Blessed Master who established!
it. The true ecclesiastical spirit has stamped itself on Father
McCloskey's character. It breathes in his words. It directs and
moderates his actions. It imparts an unusual earnestness to his
efforts.
With his excellent equipment for the discharge of the duties
of his calling presided over by this spirit, and with his shadow
yet thrown westward on the hill of life, the ripening harvest shall
not lack the skilled hand of at least one robust and faithful hus-
bandman.
280 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
ATTORNEYS M. J. and JAS. F. McGARRY.
If credit should be given to those to whom credit is due, thei
it is meet and proper to make favorable and consequently truthfu
mention in this work of the brothers, Michael John and Jame
Francis McGarry, who, under the professional title, McGarry 8
McGarry, are practicing attorneys and counselors at law, at Eas
Liverpool, Ohio. Both were born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania
the one November 12, 1868, and the other March 16, 1874.
Their father was Mr. Patrick McGarry, a native of King'
county, Ireland, who left his native land early in life to seek liberty
and prosperity in our great American Republic. With like as
pirations their mother, whose maiden name was Miss Bridge
Ready, left her home in Queen's county, in the Emerald Isle, fo
free America. To their matrimonial union in the Land of th(
Free five children were born. When the third oldest, Michae
John, was but four years old (1872) his father passed away, leav
ing to his widow the responsibility of rearing and providing fo:
the family. With a mother's love and, doubtless, with the deter
mination of a true daughter of Erin, she faithfully provided for hei
little ones, and not infrequently by toiling long hours at the wash
tub. She yet lives to enjoy, through the right living and succesi
of her children, that keenest of all worldly satisfactions most grate
ful to a mother's heart — the knowledge of the honorable careei
and prosperity of those whom she brought into the world.
In 1873, Mrs. McGarry, with her family, removed to Easi
Liverpool, Ohio. In that town, then quite promising, her son
Michael John, found employment in one of the numerous potten
establishments. He shortly acquainted himself with the work ir
several of the departments, and continued with his employers unti
1885, when he began to aspire to better things and consequentb
to appreciate his lack of education. In obedience to his resolv(
he quit the factory for the study hall, and used the money which h<
had saved to keep him when he went ofif to school. Having ex
hausted his means he returned to the shop and continued at worl
during the day, and at night he took private instructions. S(
intent was he on acquiring an education that, with his small earn
MESSRS. MICHAEL J. AND JAMES T. McGARRY.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 281
ings to sustain him, he entered the Classical Institute, at Fostoria,
Ohio, where he made great progress.
The turning point in his life now came in his choosing a pro-
fession. That of the law attracted him, and he divided his time
between work in the pottery plant, and the study of law in one of
the local offices. He thus continued for one year, after which he
devoted all his time to study. Finally in the winter of 1894-95
he entered the law department of the Cincinnati College, where he
graduated as Bachelor of Law, in May, 1895. Returning to his
adopted city he began the practice of his profession. He was suc-
cessful from the start. The people knew him, recognized his abil-
ity, and brought him their business. It was this faith in him by all
who knew him that enabled him early in his career to organize the
local Land Improvement Company, whose bonds he floated, and
the success of which undertaking stood him in good credit. He
was elected city soHcitor in March, 1898, and was again called by
the people to fill the same office.
City Solicitor McGarry is justly recognized as a self-made
man. He is honest, capable, and reliable, and is an honor to his
family and his army of friends. He is the first Catholic lawyer to
hold the solicitorship in East Liverpool, and it is not unlikely that
he will be called to occupy other and more important stations.
He was married to Clara B. Humrickhaus in 1898.
Mr. James Francis McGarry, the junior member of the firm,
is a well equipped and talented young lawyer. He received his
elementary training in the East Liverpool schools, after which he
graduated as Bachelor of Science from the Northwestern College,
at Canfield, Ohio. His brother, having discovered that he pos-
sessed an aptitude for the legal profession, took him into his office
as a student for one year. Then he sent him to the law depart-
ment of the Ohio State University at Columbus, where he re-
mained two years and was admitted to practice in December, 1901.
This he followed by taking him into partnership, all of which goes
to show that Mr. Michael John McGarry has proved himself a
father to his younger brother, James Francis. The fraternal feel-
ing between these two brothers is the evidence of a good mother's
training and also of the result of being faithful to the teachings of
the Catholic Church. The Hfe and record of the McGarrys con-
stitute an example worthy of emulation.
282 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. PATRICK J. McGUIRE.
The Rev. P. J. McGuire has been a priest of the Diocese (
Cleveland for nearly thirty-eight years, and for almost twenty-tw
of these, 1879-1900, he has continued to fill his present responsibl
position as pastor of St. John's Church, Canton, Ohio.
St. John's is an important congregation, not only on accour
of numbers and wealth, but more particularly because of its ag(
It is not only the oldest parish in Canton, but is also among th
oldest Catholic centers in northern Ohio. This can be inferre
from the facts that it has records long ante-dating the establisJ
ment of the diocese, and that the late Archbishop Henni, of Mi!
waukee, was one of the priests who labored there.
Immediately after his ordination by Bishop Rappe, Octobc
21, 1863, Father McGuire was given his first commission as
priest. He was appointed to Holy Angels' Church, Sandusk]
Ohio, as assistant, with pastoral charge of Huron and Kelley'
Island also. He continued in these fields until September, 186^
when he was transferred to St. John's, Summitville, and mission:
in Columbiana county. He labored there for ten years. I
September, 1874, he was called to Cleveland to become pastor c
St. Bridget's. In February, 1876, he was appointed to St. Alo)
si us' Church, in East Liverpool, Columbiana county, with Wells
ville attached as a mission. This was his last removal previous t
his appointment to his present charge, July, 1879. For nearl
sixteen years, therefore, he may be said to have been performin
what might be called field duty.
During his long pastorate in Canton the evidences are nc
wanting that his many years spent in the rural missions did nc
dampen his ardor or impair his native taste and usefulness. Thes
evidences are found in the work which he performed in enlargin
St. John's Church and completing its tower and spire ; in beautif)
ing its interior and arranging its rich appointments; in th
purchase of the new St. John's Cemetery; the payment of $30,00
of old indebtedness, and the erection, in 1898, of the splendid an
imposing parish school at a cost of $35,000.
If, by likening him to a soldier, it may be permitted to speak c
his previous sixteen years as having been spent in doing field dutj
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 283-
then his nearly twenty-two years in Canton may be characterized as
having been devoted to garrison work. But, whether covering
large territory or confined to a more densely populated locality, he
has always manifested those qualities and capacities which are
essential to the accomplishment of desired good results. He has-
never failed in completely compassing business situations, nor have
his calculations been other than exact and to the point. The
probable means in sight he uses to measure the end, and, there-
fore, overreaching, or not counting the cost, has never been in the
way of his parochial success. He is methodical and precise in his
business transactions, lucid in his explanations, and is as pleasing
as he is instructive in the pulpit.
Father McGuire is in his sixtieth year; but to judge from
his physique, carriage, and countenance one would estimate his age
at considerably less than fifty. Of the nearly sixty years of his life
he has spent about fifty-eight in Ohio, for his parents settled in
Cleveland in 1843. He was born in Ireland, near the city of Innis-
killen, March 12, 1841. He was an infant of about twelve months
when his parents emigrated to Quebec, Canada, where they
remained one year previous to their removal to the city of Cleve-
land. All of Father McGuire's instincts and patriotic sentiments
are American, except, indeed, those he inherits as a son of Erin,
and, to use a phrase, "Aren't these American, too?" His popu-
larity among all classes in Canton and elsewhere attests these
things. He received his preparatory and collegiate training in the
old St. John's College in Cleveland, after which he entered the
Diocesan Seminary in that city, where he completed his philosoph-
ical and theological education, and where, also, he was ordained tO'
the priesthood by Bishop Rappe.
Besides the advantages of brilliant talents, fine literary tastes,
and a fortunate physical organization, Father McGuire possesses a
mental balance and a happy temperament which have conserved
his energies, and sweetened his life, not alone in itself and for him-
self, but also and especially in the personal influence which he
exerts over others. Inheriting the instincts of the Christian gentle-
man, and cultivating from childhood the intellectual, moral, and
finer qualities, even the reflex of these has kept him in an atmos-
phere favorable to happiness, youth, and health. Hence his active
useful life is yet in summer days, while his years tell of approach,
to winter.
284 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JAMES McHENRY.
The man who is faithful in the performance of his Christie
duties, who loves and provides for his family, and who at the san
time is attentive to his business calling, cannot be other than
good citizen and a good neighbor, and as such it is impossible 1
withhold from him the respect and confidence of his friends ar
of a discriminating public. Such a man thus highly esteemed
Mr. James McHenry, a representative Catholic of the Cathedr
parish, Cleveland, whose elegant and ideal home is at No. 21
Oliver street, and whose dry goods and millinery business
conducted at Nos. 45 and 47 Euclid avenue. In his home 1
finds peace and sweet content, and at his place of busines
surrounded by eighty-five assistants, he reaps the rewards of fa
dealing and correct business methods.
Directed by both public opinion and the high estimate of hii
expressed by men prominent in ecclesiastical station, he has bee
selected for this mention so as to stand with others to the credit <
the Catholic community — a recognition not merely for the day bi
for the future. Mr. McHenry has not earned the good repute i
which he is held by any parading of himself or his virtues. Beyon
the semi-public duties which devolve on him as one of the counci
men of the Cathedral, he is never to the front, not even at sociel
meetings or at the club. He is simply a plain business man wh
attends to his affairs, and when not engaged in his calling is wit
his family at home or in social converse with his more intimal
friends.
Along the lines of his home life and his social and businei
career are seen to good advantage the excellent qualities of tl:
man. He is of a retiring disposition, conservative, and constan
His counsels are always wise. He loves peace and harmony, an
from his chosen position in the back-ground he has often been
factor for the promotion of both. He is a ready doer and a chee
ful and generous giver. Neither of his hands knows what tl:
other does in this respect. He asks no thanks and seeks no credi
Such a man thus equipped and happily balanced is often a mod
after which others, even unwittingly, bring themselves to shaj
their lives. Society is often taught more effectively by examp
i
iJil:il,l,iiJjili!i;li]jiji(ljilu!liillJiilliiiiJ:ij, llillilii iJiliil,yiliiliy|iiilMiiiiU^ Inlililili
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 285
than by precept. Good deeds like kind words never die. Even
after the man has passed to his reward the good he has done often
remains. The Hfe of a man is the sum of his deeds. Were it not
for the bad example of some nominal Catholics the Church would
today be much farther advanced in the United States. When,
therefore, opportunity offers, as in this history, to recognize men
who are a credit to religion, their country and their friends, it is
but simple justice and bounden duty to make cheerful and gener-
ous mention of their merits, and good qualities.
Mr. James McHenry was born in the State of New York,
August 24, 1843. When one year old his parents removed to
Philadelphia. There he was reared, educated, and trained in
business, and there also he was married to Miss Celia Cavanaugh,
a native of that city. Her character and attainments in youth
gave promise of what has since been realized in her beautiful wife-
hood and motherhood. At no time has she been lacking in the
exercise of those qualities which render the home the pleasant and
safe retreat for members of the family. By her tact and good
taste, her constant, cheerful, sprightly disposition, and her practical
knowledge of good housekeeping, she has established her ingleside
so firmly in the affection of her husband and children that their
hearts, unlike their feet, never leave it. No matter what pleasures
are afforded them in the outside world, they gladly look forward
to their return to the Catholic hearthstone which a good mother
has made the dearest spot on earth to them.
In 187Y Mr. and Mrs. James Mchenry removed with their
family to Qeveland, where they have since continued to reside. To
Mr. and Mrs. McHenry have been born ten children, eight of
whom are living. Of these, three sons, James F., Walter L., and
Joseph M., are engaged with their father in his line of trade. They
form a business quartette that excels in executiveness and attention
to details, while their agreeableness is not their least attractive
and forceful feature in the estimation of their customers, who are
among the most appreciative in Cleveland. The large measure of
business success attained by the McHenrys is not in excess of their
deserts, nor is their high social standing beyond that to which
their character and worth entitle them.
:286 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
CAPT. GEORGE P. McKAY.
A sea-faring man who attains to and holds for a term of ye
a mastership is not unfrequently both well informed and v
preserved. The gentleman selected for this mention is no exc
tion. His aim in life was, however, beyond the mere command
a ship, and his success is attested by the fact that there is not
all the cities of the great lakes district today any one better
more favorably known than Geo. P. McKay, of Cleveland. 1
knowledge is general, but touching lake commerce and navigat
it is special and reliable.
For nearly half a century (he is sixty-two years c
Capt. Geo. P. McKay has been constantly in touch with eve
thing pertaining to a commerce on the great lakes that is one
the wonders of the world. From the Indian Missions and
trading posts of Lake Superior, in his boyhood^ he has witnes
the upbuilding of great cities ; and from a few small sailing ves!
he has seen the lake fleet grow to big steel ships of 6,000 to 7,(
tons capacity, moving to and from Lake Superior alone
twenty-five million tons annually. This lake commerce is refer
to for the reason that Mr. McKay has been an important figun
its development. Through his connection for about twenty-i
years past with the firm of M. A. Hanna & Co., as manager i
part owner of the vessels which they control, his duties h
included, in addition to the operation of the Hanna vess
constant dealings with departments of the government that h
spent miUions of dollars in the improvement of rivers and harb
throughout the lakes system. He has been treasurer of the L
Carriers' Association since its inception, and as a member of
principal committees in that organization his influence has
tended to the general advancement of lake commerce, for wt
the association is formed. His one great aim among his busir
associates has been the development of a grand system of lig
houses and other aids to navigation. For this he has labo
incessantly with the Government. He has lived to see this w(
after an expenditure of many millions of dollars, advanced t
■degree of perfection unequaled anywhere else in the world,
Capt. McKay was born in Toledo, Ohio, January 13, 1838
CAPTAIN AND MRS. GEORGE P. McKAY.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 287
iDoard the steamer "Commodore Perry," while that vessel was
undergoing repairs in the Maumee River at the point where Swan
Creek empties into it. His father was Capt. John McKay, a salt-sea
sailor, who, in 1835, came to try for his fortune on the great lakes.
The family removed, in 1845, to the Lake Superior country, where
the elder McKay owned and sailed some of the first vessels on the
upper lakes. With their home at Sault Ste. Marie, young McKay,
developing into a sturdy boy, was given some schooling during
the winter months of each year, but on the opening of navigation
he was obliged to quit school and ship either with his father or
some other master. In 1854, shortly after one of the numerous
accidents that occurred to small vessels in early days on the lakes,
the McKays grew tired of sailing. Farming, to their minds,
offered a more promising and less hazardous future, and they
accordingly purchased a farm near Norwalk, Ohio, but after three
years the farm was abandoned for their former calling. This was
all in advance of the development of the famous iron and copper
mining districts. Capt. Geo. P. McKay secured his first command
in 1861. The vessel was called "General Taylor." He sailed some
of the best of the passenger and freight carriers before he entered
the employ of the Messrs. Hanna (then the Cleveland Transporta-
tion Co.) in 1873. The position ashore as manager of the Hanna
vessel interests was provided for him in 1882.
Capt. McKay thus spent thirty-four years on the lakes, was
master for twenty years, and has made Cleveland his home since
1856. He was married in Cleveland, and all his interests are in
that city. In character he is sturdy and resolute, having a mind
of his own. He dislikes notoriety and all approaches to flaunting
or shams. He will not consent to having his name linked with
impracticable, questionable or visionary things, all of which is the
evidence of his principles and character. He is a modest but
influential member of the Catholic Church, and is not without
interest in the accomplishment of all undertakings making for
the advancement of religion and education. In this respect, but
especially in works of mercy, he is not merely aided, but is even
excelled, by his wife. Mrs. McKay is a leading worker in the Circle
of Mercy and is a member of the directory board, in which posi-
tion she devotes herself to the broadest charity.
288 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. PATRICK J. McKENNEY.
The late Mr. Patrick J. McKenney, of Cleveland, Ohio, v,
died March 8, 1901, after this work was ready for the press, ^
a native of the county of Leitrim, Ireland. He was bom in 18
and when about twenty-seven years old he emigrated to the Uni
States, taking up his abode in Chicago, Illinois.
In his native land he learned and followed the trade c
mason. He relied on it also in Chicago to earn his living duri
his nearly five years of residence there, and later in Clevela:
whither he removed about 1870. In the latter city he becami
building contractor, and one of the monuments of his ability s
honesty as such is the Church of the Immaculate Conception,
which he was a member.
Mr. McKenney took naturally to politics. From his arri
in the metropolis of Ohio until his death, a period of over thi
years, he was a delegate to every city and county Democratic C(
vention, and twice his name was on the ticket as a national elect
He was in fact the best known, the most constant, and the hard
working member of his party in northern Ohio. He served f(
terms as a member of the city council, and when he passed av
he was serving his first term as a member of the board of co
missioners of Cuyahoga county.
For years he was state treasurer of the Ancient Order
Hibernians, of Ohio, and was besides afifihated with such frater:
orders as the Knights of St. John, the Knights of Equity, the Ir
Nationalists, and the Elks. In these organizations he always h
a commanding position.
In 1885 he was married to Mrs. Eva Wiedenmeier, wh(
two daughters are named Teresa and Clara. To the union
Mr. and Mrs. McKenney were born three children, one a daugh
who is named Mary Ella, and two sons, Patrick J., and John,
his home life he was kind, devoted, and loyal, and the qualities
honesty, outspokenness, and straightforwardness, which he alw;
exhibited in public, were but the index to his character in his p
sonal and domestic relations.
What he was in private life he but emphasized in his pul
career, and what he was in public and political life may be infer:
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 289
from the following preamble and resolution unanimously passed
by the Cleveland city council which adjourned through respect for
his memory on learning of his death :
"Whereas, Patrick J. McKenney was for eight years an hon-
orable and influential member of this body representing his district
and the city at large with marked fidelity and unswerving atten-
tion to duty, ever prompt in his attendance and ever vigilant in
his watchfulness over the city's interests, and
Whereas, his public life was full of honor and made his career
commendable to the people, and
Whereas, death came to him in the midst of his work and
in the full vigor of a sturdy manhood, therefore be it
Resolved, that the council pay to his memory the tribute of
respect due him by the adoption of this memorial, and that the
same be entered on the minutes of the council and an engrossed
copy transmitted to his family."
The subject of this sketch earned by his consistent, open life
the sobriquet "Honest Pat. McKenney." He merited this hon-
orable title as well in his dealings with individuals as in represent-
ing the masses ofificially. He was thoroughly honest in word and
deed. He was honest in his Catholic faith, honest in his marital
relations, and honest with his friends as well as with his enemies.
In the city council he was against all "jobs" and dishonest meas-
ures and practices. He was the foe of all "framed" legislation and
was outspoken in defense of his position as a public servant.
The education of "Honest Pat. McKenney" was limited, but
his intelligence, sound judgment, wit, and quick repartee were far
in advance of those of any of his compatriots. He was equal to
jesting a political juggler out of court. He was able to bombard
a scheming political foe until he cried for quarter. He was never
hit in debate but what he returned it with interest until the
aggressor subsided. He was always for right and justice as he
clearly saw them, and he was both instant and persistent in their
defense. He acted out in his every-day life the teachings of the
Catholic faith and the inherited character of a true son of Erin.
These combined agencies for the cultivation of virtue had evi-
dently attained in his case to a large measure of success. He was
the exemplification of one of God's noblest works, an honest man.
Lacking much in finish and in polish, with the angularities of
his honest nature not rounded of?, with no diplomacy, no deceiving
290 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
smile, no graceful bow, no fashionable hand-shake, and no me;
ured speech, it may be difficult for some, who judge from m(
appearances and from surface indications, to give full assent
this outline of, this hint at, the grand character of Mr. McKenn(
It is true he did not appear to stand so much superior to otJ
men; that he had his share of little imperfections like oth
humans; that he was but the block of human marble somewh
roughly shaped and rugged ; but it is equally true that this bio
of marble was of such volume, fibre and quality that only t
chisel and the pumice of education and training were wanting
bring him forth in such glorious proportions and finish as
impress the simplest beholder with the fact that "Honest P:
McKenney" was in every respect a good citizen, a kind husba:
and father, a good, true friend, and a thoroughly Catholic, mar
man.
MR. PATRICK McNICOL.
McNicol is an honored and influential name in East Live
pool, Ohio, just as it has been for generations in the north of Ir
land, where loyalty to the Catholic Church and to duty on t'
part of those who bore it was often put to the severest tests. T
majority of the residents there was transplanted stock and w
given all the advantages by the British government, owing to t
acceptance by them of the reformed or Protestant form of r~Mgic
In fact the abjuration of what was called the "idolatry" of Cath
licity was the test of good citizenship and respectability. A me
Catholic was regarded as a "nobody."
Under such conditions the lot of Catholics, especially in t
northern counties of Ireland, was hard and most trying, for it w
in that section of the country that the infamous penal enactmer
were felt in all their virulence and gross injustice. The McNicc
with their Catholic neighbors there suffered shipwreck of bo
their spiritual, natural and legal rights, and on all sides were bes
by difficulties and galling oppressions. They suffered loss
property, loss of political privileges — in fact loss of everything e
cept their faith. This they clung to tenaciously in common wi
their co-religionists in every part of that much oppressed Island.
Mr. Patrick McNicol, born at Moville, in the county of Dor
MR. AND MRS. PATRICK McNICOL.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 291
gal. May 10, 1828, emerged from the crucible, in 1852, and sought
liberty and prosperity in free America. With others of his family
he chose East Liverpool, Ohio, as his home. Following the trade
of a potter he prospered, and, in 1865, with his brother John, estab-
lished that branch of the pottery business with which the family
name has since been connected. Having his heart and intellect
in harmony with truth and right he became one of the most high-
ly respected and public-spirited citizens of East Liverpool. He
passed to his reward November 13, 1894, leaving a record and a
name that are a credit to his family and a benefit to humanity.
Miss Ellen Johnston, who was reared near the city of Bel-
fast in the county of Meath, Ireland, became his wife. They were
married in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. She came to this country in
1849, and now in her seventieth year she enjoys life with her
children. Their names are: George F., Thomas J., John F.,
Margaret T., Patrick, who is vice-president of The Standard
Pottery Company; Mary A., who is Mrs. David S. Harris;
Daniel B., and Charles A. The second oldest, Ellen, passed away
in infancy. The children inherit one or the other of the many
good qualities for which their parents have been noted.
Mrs. McNicol ever showed herself a true helpmate to her
husband. She was his companion and co-worker in every under-
taking relating to religion and the proper training of their chil-
dren. She had no time to waste on empty things but concerned
herself about her Christian duties and her domestic obligations.
And now in the winter of her long life she has few regrets. The
memory of her husband's virtues and manly qualities is to her a
comfort and a solace. She would have him live in the children, a
realization which is the object of her prayers and fondest hopes.
Indeed, the late Mr. Patrick McNicol's life is worthy of emu-
lation. He possessed many excellent qualities, while his super-
natural virtues were numerous and prominent. He had the gift
of faith, which he always cherished. He was a doer of good deeds,
although he never made parade of his works. He wished well to
his fellow men, and he always respected the rights of others.
Having witnessed much of persecution and oppression of con-
science he put farthest from him any approach to religious pro-
scription. He loved his fellow man for God's sake and was there-
fore truly charitable.
292 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. DANIEL E. McNICOL.
The president of The D. E. McNicol Pottery Company, who
factories are at East Liverpool and Wellsville, Ohio, is he
mentioned as one of the most prominent Catholic gentlemen
eastern Ohio. He is also recognized as one of the remarkab
successful business men of that section. Commercially his ratii
is the highest, while socially and as a friend and neighbor 1
commends himself to a host of admirers by his urbanity, ge
erosity, and general cleverness.
He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio, February 26, 185
and is one of the seven surviving members of a family of thirtC'
born to John and Mary (McCarron) McNicol. His father was
native of Moville in the county of Donegal, Ireland, and w
married in the city of Glasgow, Scotland, to Miss Mary McCarrc
where two children born to them passed away in infancy. Wi
his wife he emigrated to the United States, in 1852, and located
East Liverpool, Ohio. He there followed his trade as a pott(
reared a large family, and united with his brother Patrick
establishing the pottery plant which his son, Daniel E., has sin
developed and continues to control. He, John McNicol, di
November 30, 1881.
The business of the D. E. McNicol Pottery Company is
very important industry and is as much an art as it is a manufacti
ing enterprise, requiring, as it does, not only artistic and mechai
cal skill and large capital, but also marked business ability ai
energy to conduct it successfully. In view of the sharp compe
tion the prosperity of The McNicol Company is the best eviden
of the artistic attractiveness and excellence of its wares and al
of the executive ability of those in charge. One of Mr. McNico
chief aids in the attainment of his noted prosperity is IV
William L. Smith who is secretary and treasurer of the compar
He is a member of the local Presbyterian Church, but this dc
not militate against the business and social harmony that exi;
between the Catholic and the Protestant, a fact which is credital
alike to president McNicol and to secretary-treasurer Smii
Their pleasant relationship and mutual esteem are a severe rebu
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 293
to the ignorant prescriptive spirit that even today exhibits itself in
parts of the great "Buckeye" Commonwealth.
Mr. D. E. McNicol was married, in 1881, to Miss Honora
Cronin, a young lady born near the city of Cork, Ireland, but who
has been a resident of East Liverpool, Ohio, since her girlhood.
She has been practically educated, and exhibits in her home life
as wife and mother the fruits of her excellent training. To their
union have been born a family of six, two girls and four boys. The
girls are named Mary and Annie. The former is a graduate of the
Ursuline Convent, at Toledo, Ohio, where her aunt, nie McNicol,
is a nun, and is known in religion as Sister Mary Stanislas ; and
the latter will graduate this year from Mt. Dechantal Academy,
Wheeling, West Virginia. The boys are named : John, Hugh,
Daniel, and Cornelius, the education of each of whom is being
carefully attended to.
Mr. and Mrs. D. E. McNicol and family are worthy repre-
sentatives of their ancestors, both immediate and remote, as well
in religious steadfastness as in those qualities which adorned the
character of their progenitors. Whatever wealth affords, not only
in creature comforts, but also in education and social culture, are
theirs to enjoy, and it is the pride of the subject of this mention
to be able to say that he denies to his family none of the advantages
required and prized in this day and generation.
Mr. McNicol might take pride also in the fact that, among
his neighbors and fellow citizens, he is esteemed for his generosity,
his kindness of heart, and his readiness not only to say a good
word for his fellow man but also to assist him when in need by
practical evidences of his benevolence. It is as natural for him
to play the part of the Good Samaritan as it is to show himself a
true son of Erin. Like the typical Celt mentioned in the song, he
■'will share his last potato and share it with a will ;" and like the
Samaritan of old he can not be indifferent to the misfortunes of
those who have fallen among thieves. The multiplied miseries
of the poor appeal to his generous heart, and it can be truthfully
said of him that he has learned to give cheerfully and promptly.
He knows how to be kind, neighborly, and charitable, and as such
he is respected and honored by all who know him.
294 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JAMES P. MADIGAN.
Among the prominent and public-spirited citizens of Ohi(
metropolis there are few better or more favorably known 1
integrity and ability than the locally distinguished Catholic ge
tleman who has been selected as the subject of this mention.
Having been a resident of Qeveland, Ohio, since 1875, a:
now filling the important office of city auditor, it is impossit
not to be impressed by his efficiency and character and the energ
assiduity, and honesty exhibited in his public career.
In his official capacity as director of accounts for the city
Cleveland, he has been the chief factor in unearthing and stoppii
the astounding irregularities, amounting to nearly a half a millii
dollars, in the management of the affairs of the local public schoo
For this he, indeed, has the thanks and the gratitude of the justic
loving and tax-paying portions of the community.
It is but just to say that Auditor Madigan, from the begi
ning, has been backed and encouraged not only by the city admi
istration, of which he himself is a part, but also by the entire lo(
Catholic population, who share with him the credit of his earn(
and successful efforts to expose and put an end to the much-talk
of peculations that for some years have been the smirching of t
common school management in Qeveland. If Mr. Madigan h
no other claim to recognition and honorable mention, this ale
would be sufficient, for it makes his debtor every good citizen w
recognizes public office as a public trust, and who holds to t
doctrine that the public conscience can not be clean so long as t
private and individual conscience is groaning under its load of s
and is given both opportunity and encouragement in wror
doing.
Mr. James P. Madigan was bom at Foynes in the county
Limerick, Ireland, October 28, 1859. He there made his fi
Holy Communion and received confirmation at the hands of 1
late Bishop of Limerick, the Rt. Rev. George Butler, D.D. Bef(
completing his tenth year he was taken, August, 1869, to t
country where he readily drank in the spirit of American freedo
For a time his education was attended to in the State of New Yoi
but later, removing to Ohio, he entered St. Mary's Institute
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 295
Dayton, where he acquainted himself with two of the modem
languages, the commercial branches, and the chief features of a
liberal education, including the higher mathematics. He soon
became one of the professors in the college and taught the science
of accounts, mathematics and other branches.
Going to Cleveland, in 1875, where he has since resided, he
taught, in connection with the Brothers of Mary of the Dayton
Institute, in the local parochial schools, which in those years it
was the aim of Bishop Gilmour to lift to a higher educational
standard. He taught for one year in St. Patrick's schools, also in
those of St. Bridget's congregation for one year, and for one year
in the Cathedral schools. Subsequently he followed the calling
of a bookkeeper and accountant and later drifted into commercial
lines in the jobbing trade.
Mr. Madigan's recognized ability as an accountant and his
established reputation for reliability, education, and -integrity,
brought him to the notice of the new administration elected to
purify and improve the conduct of city affairs in Cleveland.
Mr. Madigan was asked to accept his present responsible position
of city auditor. He did accept, and the results of his method
and system in auditing are creditable to Mayor Johnson, profitable
to the city, and honorable to himself.
A man of Mr. Madigan's patriotic sentiments and social
attainments is also in demand among the members of fraternal
and patriotic associations. In consequence the Irish Nationalist^
have the benefit of his experience, and of his military training
received as a member of the Cleveland Grays. For two terms he
served as county president for the Ancient Order of Hibernians,
of which organization he is a long-time member. He was cap-
tain of Washington Commandery Knights of St. John, and is one
of the prominent leaders in the Knights of Equity. In the various
fields in which his multiplied affiliations have led him his thorough-
ness and constancy, his ability and loyalty have won for him the
respect and confidence of his fellow members.
Mr. James P. Madigan was married, February 10, 1885, to
Miss Anna Champion, a young lady born and educated in Qeve-
land. She became the joyful mother of seven children, one of
whom passed away in infancy. The six remaining are: Frances
Clare, Mary Colette, Anna Geraldine, Angela Patience, James
296 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Champion, and Mary Cleophas. Mrs. Madigan herself was calle
to her reward February lY, 1900, leaving a vacant chair and acl:
ing hearts in the home of her beloved husband and childrer
and also in those of a large circle of admiring friends an
acquaintances. Although absent in body she is present with ther
in spirit in the beautiful example of her motherly and Chris
tian life, the memory of which mitigates the sadness of earthl
parting, leading as it does to the firm hope of a reunion for eternit
in the better land.
The subject of this sketch is a gentleman of refinement, cul
ture, and practical education. He is blessed by nature with
fortunate physical organization and a happily balanced tempers
ment. He is quick to perceive situations but slow to the point c
sureness in action. He must be on the right track headed in th
right direction before he moves, but when he proceeds his cours
is steady- and constant, his momentum neither lessened no
increased until the goal is reached. This characterizes him i
€verything he undertakes. Some of his army of friends who loo
to him for preferment or practical aid in their ambitions, or for th
advancement of some good cause, grow restive at his apparer
•delays ; but later, when the work is accomplished, they are quickes
to say : "Well, Mr. Madigan has beaten our time after all."
And it has been thus with him for years in works of charit]
in lending a helping hand, and in bridging over chasms to sav
some poor fellows from a great and crushing fall. It has also bee
his custom, in the line of generous impulses and moral duty, t
give advice, to set good example, and to encourage. The wises
the most resolute, as well as those of drooping spirit stand muc
in need of the uplifting, wise direction and inspiration which sue
men as Mr. Madigan are able and willing to give. He is neve
without something to do in the direction of assisting his neigl
bors and acquaintances. It will likely continue thus until a tim
comes when the sincerest appreciation fails of adequate expressio
for all he has done as well in public exigencies as in private need
and until the great truth becomes patent to all that, continue
good favor on earth, like never-ending joys in heaven, must t
earned by much labor and sacrifice.
■ (iSs)
> S :
,^^^f>y^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 297
THE REV. THOMAS F. MAHON.
One not without warrant of authority, both as to position and
an acquaintance with the facts, has said that the priest whose name
forms the title to this sketch is among the best equipped and
zealous, and it might be added eloquent, of the younger priests or
the Diocese of Cleveland. Comparing this averment with the
excellent record made by the subject of this mention while a
student at St. Charles' College, Baltimore ; at St. Mary's Seminary,
Cleveland, where after a six years' course he was ordained priest
by Bishop Gilmour, December 18, 1889 ; at Salineville, the place
of his first mission ; at the Cathedral, Cleveland, in the capacity of
assistant priest; at Massillon, where he spent seven and one-half
years laboring most successfully; and now, since June, 1898, as the
pastor and builder-up of the new congregation of St. Thomas
Aquinas, Cleveland, in all nearly twelve years of missionary life —
it would appear that Father Mahon is, without doubt, the ener-
getic, zealous, and successful man he is reputed to be.
Twelve years on the mission, it is true, is but a short period
when compared with the years of service of those priests who have
already celebrated their silver and not a few their golden jubilee.
Father Mahon humbly and almost penitently accuses himself of
comparative recentness and inexperience as a laborer in the Vine-
yard. Like other noble young men of his calling he regards him-
self as a mere youngling along side of the white-haired veterans
of forty or fifty years of missionary labors. And yet might it not
be in place to suggest that the usefulness of the priest on the
mission, like that of the layman in business, is not always to be
measured by the number of his years of service? Some priests,
like some laymen, are equal to doing the work of five years in two,
or of twenty years in ten. Opportunity as well as ability may have
to do with results in both cases. Talent and capacity, especially
when directed and energized by the spirit of God, which so won-
derfully actuated St. Paul to labor both in season and out of
season, have surely to do with a usefulness the fruits of which are
not always evidenced by tangible things.
While in Massillon, as pastor of St. Joseph's for seven and
one-half years, the labors of Father Mahon were blessed with both
298 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
spiritual and material good results. During his pastorate the (
church was rebuilt so as to answer the purpose of a school
cemetery was purchased at a cost of six thousand dollars; a p
toral residence was built at an expense of four thousand dolla
and the present new St. Joseph's Church was erected at an out
of forty thousand dollars.
Regarding the spiritual labors of a priest, however, it is mc
difficult to write. The recording angel keeps that record. I
when the one hundred and forty-seventh convert, through t
grace of God and the untiring zeal of Father Mahon as an «
pounder of the faith, tells, as the others have done, the story of h(
he was brought to follow in the wake of the kindly light that 1
him back to the loving bosom of Mother Church, even a laym
feels like attempting to invade with his opinion the domain of t
spiritual where, after all, the chief labors of the priest are pi
formed, and where he experiences heartbreaks as well as holy jo;
While Father Mahon takes special delight in, and is well equipp
for, the God-appointed work of going out into the wilderness afl
the straying lambs, he never forgets the flock in the sheepfold
which he is the shepherd. He forewarns them against the bri^
and thickets that lacerate and entangle those who neglect thi
Christian duties, and the morasses that swallow up those who lo
the danger of wandering in the by-paths of unfaith.
In his new parish of St. Thomas Aquinas, Cleveland, Fath
Mahon contiaues to labor with his usual zeal and success. Pari
property, on which over twelve thousand dollars were paid
the years 1898-1900, was secured at a cost of thirty-four thousai
dollars. The improvements already made are a pastoral residenc
and also a new four-story building, imposing and tasteful
design, which at present answers the purpose of both chapel aj
school. Here this young priest is in the midst of his people. Th
hear and know his voice and gather about him. As was done
the case of Moses when in prayer on the mountain, they hold i
his hands and sustain him in all his undertakings in the intere;
of religion.
The Rev. Thomas F. Mahon is thirty-seven years old. Wh'
yet a babe in his good mother's arms he was brought by 1
parents from Ireland to the United States. The story of his 1:
is his career as outlined above. Those of his years not spent in t'
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 299
performance of his priestly duties were devoted to preparation for
the discharge of those duties. Even nature has been kind to him,
for besides a well stored and brilliant mind, he possesses a fortu-
nate organization and a majestic manhood in which kindness,
dignity, and gracefulness of manner are happily blended. Ever
conscious of his priestly character and responsibility, he is never
outside the line of his work; for, whether expounding the truth,
engaged in conversation, transacting business, or in any capacity
whatsoever, "all for the glory of God" seems to be the goal at
which he aims. This is especially noticeable in the pulpit, where,
to the minds of many, his zeal and great ability as a convincing
and eloquent speaker are most efifective. The man in Father
Mahon is made the servant of the priest.
MR. EDWARD MALONE.
The late Mr. Edward Malone, prominent in Toledo, Ohio, as
an architect, contractor and builder, was a resident of that city
from 1852 until his death, which occurred June 7, 1887. He was
a member of St. Patrick's parish from its organization in 1862.
He was born in King's county, Ireland, February 1, 1825.
Until he attained his majority he continued to aid his father in
cultivating the land. In the meantime he learned the trade of a
carpenter and took instructions in architecture. In 1850 he
emigrated to the United States. He worked at carpentry for
about a year in Philadelphia, and then removed to Toledo, where
he made his permanent home. He was married, in 1853, to Miss
Eliza Madden who, like himself, was a native of Kings county,
Ireland. To their union were born fifteen children, seven of whom
are living, and six of them residents of Toledo. Their names are :
James J., who is a prominent undertaker; Michael J., a contractor;
Wm. F., the secretary and treasurer of the Buckeye Paint and
Varnish Company ; Jos. A., clerk of the police court ; Nellie, who
is Mrs. Louis Cole; Annie, who is unmarried, and Elizabeth, who
is Mrs. Peter Mulcahy of Cleveland. Prominent among the
children who passed away, Mary J. might be mentioned. She was
Mrs. John Connolly, of Toledo. John also well deserves men-
tion. He was known as the best of the family. He died in Toledo.
300 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
During Mr. Malone's career in Toledo he built, and in man
instances planned, most of the best business and r.esidence stru(
tures in that city. Among the public buildings which he erecte
are the Boody House, the first high school, the Produce Es
change, St. Patrick's first church, and the Church of St. Franc:
de Sales. Not a few churches outside of Toledo are also of h:
design and construction. His talent as an architect, and his ski
and reliability as a builder commended him to the enterprisin
people of Toledo, prominent among whom in early days was th
late Hon. J. C. Hall, who showed his wisdom by implicitly trustin
him with the management of all his building enterprises.
Mr. Malone soon gained such an excellent reputation as
man and trustworthy citizen that the public esteemed it a privileg
to vote him into positions of importance to the people. He wa
elected police commissioner, in 1867, for a term of two years. A
the end of his term he was elected a member of the board of edu
cation and was made chairman of the board and of its buildins
committee. Following this he was chosen member of the wate
works board for two years and was re-elected for a three years
term. He represented Toledo and Lucas county in the Stat
Legislature and was generous with his time and ability in servins
the public in positions of honor and responsibility.
Called to his reward, his fellow citizens began to have ai
additional appreciation of his worth and character. He wa
sincerely mourned by all, and the highest tributes were paid to hi
sterling qualities and especially to his Catholic honesty. As ;
Catholic he was a faithful member of the Church and his exampl
was a light to the feet of many who, not knowing any better
applied to Catholics in the sense of condemnation the old Jewisl
query, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?"
Edward Malone's nature was too honest to be other thai
specially direct and outspoken, even to the point of bluntness
Because of this not a few misjudged him, having but a sligh
acquaintance with him, and consequently but a surface knowledgi
of his qualities ; but back of his honest bluntness, and back of hi
plain speaking, was a good and generous heart, capable of kindl;
sympathy and the warmest friendship and gratitude. He neve
denied his friends, and he never forgot a kindness. His memor
will remain green for generations in Toledo.
MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM A. MANNING.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 301
MR. WILLIAM A. MANNING.
The Diocese of Cleveland is blessed with many laymen whose
devotion to the Church is both notable and praiseworthy, and
whose efforts in behalf of Catholic education and the virtue of
sobriety are likewise commendable and noble. In the front rank
of these yeomen of Catholic faith and morals stands Mr. William
A. Manning, of Cleveland, the well-known organizer and worker
for the cause of Catholic total abstinence.
For twenty years he was councilman of St. Patrick's parish,
and during the greater part of that time he also performed the
laborious duties of secretary of that large congregation. Those
most familiar with his every-day life from youth up have declared
that he always seemed to manifest a special delight in efforts to
subserve both the local and general interests of religion. He was,
from its inception, a prominent and active figure in the work of the
Catholic Central Association of Cleveland ; participated in all the
great enterprises of that large, representative body ; was its secre-
tary during seven years of its most eventful career, and also served
a successful term as its president.
But it is in the cause of sobriety, as fostered by the Church,
that he appears to have put forth his most strenuous and persistent
efforts. Beginning as a member of the total abstinence society of
St. Patrick's parish, he was chosen, in 1872, to act as its secretary.
The following year, the societies of Ohio having been formed into
a State union, he was elected the secretary of that body. In 1875
he was re-elected, and during both terms he gave the highest
proofs of his zeal and capacity. So satisfactory was his work that,
at the State convention of the Total Abstinence Union, held in
Cincinnati, in 1882, he was unanimously chosen president, and was
again elected at the convention held in Cleveland the following
year. He also served out the unexpired terms of two presidents
of the union, the first having been occasioned by death, and the
second by absence from the State. He was three times elected
vice-president of the Catholic Total Abstinence Union of America,
and was appointed its organizer in Ohio. He attended nearly all
the national conventions, as well as those of his own State, and was
a useful and capable member of the most prominent committees.
302 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Mr. William A. Manning was born of Irish parents in the cit
of Glasgow, Scotland, February 22, 1847. He came with them t
this country, in 1848,and lived for a short period in New York Cit
and in Boston. In 1S51 the family removed to Cleveland, where
with short intermissions, he has since made his home. He wa
educated in the Cathedral and in St. Patrick's parochial school;
and, in 1863, began his business career as an operator for th
Western Union Telegraph Company. For thirty years he con
tinued in its employ, the last fifteen of which he was nigh
manager of the Cleveland office. He was an expert operatoi
reliable and capable. He always had the confidence and approva
of the officials of the company and the respect of his fellow tele
graphers. In 1893 he embarked in the fire, accident and lif
insurance business, which is his regular calling today.
He was married, June 15, 1870, to Miss Mary Agnes Devin
in St. Patrick's Church, by the late Rev. J. V. Conlan. Mrs
Manning is a native of Cleveland, has been a noted church an(
society worker, and, like her husband, was educated in St. Patrick'
schools. She was president of the first ladies' total abstinenc
society organized in Cleveland in 1890, and held the ofifice for thre
successive terms. She was among the first group of lady dele
gates to attend the State Total Abstinence Convention, at Youngs
town, in 1891, where she was elected vice-president, she being th
first lady ever honored with an ofifice by that union. She ha
since been her husband's companion at all the conventions, and i
entirely in harmony and sympathy with his temperance principles
Mr. and Mrs. Manning were blessed with three bright littl
children, but that fell destroyer, diphtheria, robbed them of all c
them in the space of fifteen days, when they were aged three, fiv
and seven years respectively. The blow was indeed a severe one
but religion and the sympathy of the entire community hav
enabled the bereaved parents to bear up under their great mis
fortune, and to say with resignation, "Thy will be done."
This short biographical outline implies more than words ca
express in any attempt at delineating the character of Mi
Manning. He is universally respected by all who know him, an
by those most who know him longest. His most notable trait
are seen in his constancy, his devotedness and zeal, his retirin
disposition, and his great respect for the moral virtues.
■■■» ^^
^Siiji'^i^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 303
THE REV. ANTHONY THEODORE MARTIN.
There is such a thing as a man becoming prominent in com-
parative seclusion and through a retiring disposition — becoming
acceptably notable through going about unostentatiously but per-
sistently and effectively in the performance of his duty. An
instance in point is found in the long and honorable career of the
late Rev. Anthony Theodore Martin, pastor of St. Paul's Church,
Euclid, and of St. Joseph's Church, Colhnwood, Ohio.
Father Martin was one of the older priests of the diocese. For
two generations he ministered to the people in and about Euclid,
Nottingham, CoUinwood, Willoughby, and Mentor. His name
stood for much among them, and is yet inseparable from their
idea of zeal, kindness, and the broadest charity. Even among those
priests whose seminary course came within the years 1857-1865 he
is gratefully remembered as professor of classical learning and
history in St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland. His ability
shining through his modesty claimed the respect of the thoughtful.
He was a native of France, and was born at Brest, November
28, 1834. His father's name was Yvo Martin and his mother's
maiden name was Mary Louisa Camus. He studied at Quimper
and at Pont-Croix, where he received the first of the minor orders.
In 1856 he emigrated to the United States, and was adopted for the
Diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Rappe, who ordained him to the
priesthood July 26 of the following year, 1857 ; then followed his
eight years of service as professor in the diocesan seminary. In
June, 1864, he was appointed visiting priest to Euclid, his late
parish, and in 1865 he became resident pastor. The same year
Willoughby was added to his charge, and the following year he
was given Mentor also. In 1872 he built the Church of the
Immaculate Conception, at Willoughby, and the Church of the
Nativity, at Mentor. In 1876 he resigned charge of Mentor, and
the following year took CoUinwood in its stead, where, in 1878, he
buih St. Joseph's Church. He enlarged the church, in 1879, and,
in 1891, built new and completed the present church of that name.
Forty-three years a priest — thirty-five on the mission, and
eight as professor in the seminary — is a record not every priest is
enabled to show. If it be supposed that at his ordination Father
304 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Martin possessed only the requisite knowledge to embark in '
calling, surely the years that followed, even if not spent altogetl:
in study, would by the process of absorption alone entitle him
least in part to the credit of having been not merely a well-inform
man but even a ripe scholar. Had he not been a scholar at t
time of his ordination he would not have been chosen to the ch
of classics and history in the seminary, and, were he other th
such in his day, his name would not have been mentioned in cc
nection with high honors in the Church and he would not
esteemed as he now is by all who knew him.
But knowledge or station, no matter how profound or high,
not to be preferred to the virtues which religion inculcates, a
which shone forth in the character of this humble priest. And it
in this respect that the every-day life of Father Martin had alwa
been exemplary among his spiritual children. During all his yei
he had been an approachable, modest, and agreeable man to whc
his people might come, at any time and under all circumstanc
with their cares and their difficulties, feeling sure that they wot
receive both good advice and sympathy. Their troubles w£
his troubles, and in their temporal success and spiritual well-beii
he participated with deepest interest and feeling. He was a fatl:
to his parishioners, not only spiritually, but also in things temper
He always directed them for the best, and they were few, indef
who did not appreciate his wise counsel and his earnest good w
He was in his sixty-fifth year, November 24, 1899, when
died, and up until his last illness he was vigorous and youth:
for his time of life. He was most active in the discharge of 1
priestly obligations. His flock was large and his labors were pi
portionate. He seemed to grow young in the service of religic
and appeared to welcome and to even go out to meet the dut
which were his to perform. Connecting, to a degree, the earl:
years of the diocese with the recent past, if not the present, a
having witnessed the beginning and the fulfillment of many mo)
ments for the advancement of diocesan afifairs, we might not ha
waited until after his death to recall his connection with some
them. He was a faithful priest who possessed a lovable charact
a good friend who was ever ready to do a favor, and an able m
whose intellectual light shone the brighter for his native simplic
and modesty.
MR. AND MRS. JOSEPH MILLER.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 305
MR. JOSEPH MILLER.
The late Mr. Joseph Miller belonged to the pioneer Catholics
of Qeveland, Ohio. He was born in the village of Listig, Germany,
in 1835. In 1844 he was taken by his parents with the other
members of the family to America. After a short stay of six
months in Bufifalo they removed to Cleveland, which was then
little more than a straggling village.
At that time the whole State of Ohio, including, of course, the
Connecticut Western Reserve, belonged to the See of Cincinnati,
over which Bishop Purcell presided. Instead of the thirty-nine
large and influential congregations at present (1900) in Cleveland
there was but one small Catholic church known as "St. Mary's on
the Flats." There Mr. Joseph Miller attended Mass in his boy-
hood days. There he heard the truths of religion expounded by
such zealous missionaries as Fathers McLaughlin, Salesius Brun-
ner, Jacob Ringele, Anton Meier and Maurice Howard.
In 1847 he witnessed the erection of the Diocese of Cleveland,
being among the pioneer Catholics who welcomed Bishop Rappe
to the field of his Episcopal labors. In subsequent years he saw
the beginning of the first Cathohc orphan asylum, the first Catho-
lic hospital, the first Catholic parochial school ; in a word, he was
permitted to see the tiny mustard seed of Catholicity, planted by
zealous missionaries, sprout, grow, and develop until it became
the mighty tree of today, sheltering beneath its branches schools,
churches, orphanages, and the various diocesan institutions.
In 1853, under the direction of the late Rev. J. H. Luhr, St.
Peter's congregation was organized, and Mr. Joseph Miller at
once affiliated with it and soon became one of its mosts prominent
members. For years he belonged to the council of the church,
was the first president of St. Joseph's Aid Society, and to his last
day he generously contributed toward the support of the parish.
When a young man of twenty-one years (1856) he contracted
marriage with Miss Catherine Nungesser, who like himself
belonged to the pioneer Catholics of Cleveland, having arrived
from Germany in 1846. She was of the same age as her husband
and for years prior to her marriage had been prominently identified
with the first Catholic Church choir. They were the first couple
306 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
married in St. Peter's Church. The marriage register presen
in the parish archives says that, "On the 27th day of May, 18
Joseph Miller contracted matrimony with Catherine Nungesj
in presence of Rev. J. H. Luhr, the then pastor, and H. Mi]
and Elisabeth Raab who acted as witnesses."
The union of Mr. and Mrs. Miller was blessed with
exemplary family of eight, all of whom are among the living,
their credit, as parents, let it be recorded that they reared e
educated their ofifspring, enHghtening their minds by science, s
mellowing of their hearts by religion.
For the long period of fifty-five years Mr. Joseph Miller wa
resident of Cleveland, sustaining throughout an enviable repu
tion for civic integrity and general probity. Of those he sp
forty in the employ of the Big Four Railway Company, wh
he was ever esteemed for his sterling character.
Having contracted a severe cold in the winter of 1899, he a
compelled to summon medical aid. But the malady had alrej
progressed too far. He died February 15, 1899, fortified by
consolations of religion and surrounded by his family, who 1
left no means untried to save his life. Amid a vast outpouring
friends and acquaintances he was buried from St. Peter's Chur
which he had helped to build and where he worshipped for ft
half a century.
Unlike so many others who came to this country fr
foreign lands, he did not lose or barter away for a mess of worl
pottage the priceless jewel of Cathohc faith, but preserved it p
and undefiled to the end. Amid the manifold difficulties i
temptations of an unbelieving and wicked world, he remaii
stanch and unbending in his adherence to the faith of his fath
and was ever ready to defend it.
Mr. Miller is survived by his faithful wife, with whom
lived most happily for well nigh forty-three years. Mrs. Mille
present resides with her family. Two of her daughters are marr
one being the wife of Mr. Herman J. Trenkamp of the Schneidc
Trenkamp Company, and the other that of Mr. H. E. Hackent
of the National Carbon Company.
The Millers, and the families with whom they are conne(
by marriage, are among the most substantial and sturdiest st
of the Catholic population of Cleveland.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 307
MR. ROBERT E. MIX.
The late Mr. Robert E. Mix, of Qeveland, Ohio, was a self-
made, sternly constructed and capable man. He was a lawyer
of note and a gentleman who held high place among his fellow
citizens. He was the legal adviser and close friend of Bishop
Rappe, who had implicit confidence in his ability and integrity, and
he held the same relations to Bishop Gilmour.
■ His father was Mr. Ebenezer Mix, of New Haven, Connecti-
cut, a descendant of a very old English family. He was surrogate
of Genesee county, New York, and was agent and general engineer
for the Holland Land Company, a mathematician of note, and the
author of several mathematical works of consequence. The maiden
name of his mother was Miss Jemima DeBow. She was of
French extraction and was noted for gentleness and refinement.
He was born to them at Batavia, New York, April 17, 1819.
Exhibiting no liking for his father's calling, he was permitted to
choose the law as his profession. After attaining his majority
he was admitted to the bar, February 2, 1841, and for two years
he practiced with some success in his native town. He then toured
the United States during eight years, and while in the South he
was editor of the Jackson, Tennessee, Republican for a year. Later
he declined the managing editorship of the Memphis Appeal.
Returning to his native place he resumed the practice of law
until 1850, when, on a business venture and partly in the line of his
profession, he visited Cleveland, Ohio, to look after the interests
of a client who was his intimate friend. The name of that friend
was Mr. David A. Eddy, who was engaged extensively in the
warehouse business and in shipping. Young Mix energized the
business, straightened out its tangled condition, and in 1861, when
he closed it up, he had $20,000 to divide with his client.
Impressed with the city's business opportunities and the
character of Cleveland's citizens, Mr. Mix concluded to make
the "Forest City" his home. Accordingly he became a member
of the law firm of Willy & Carey. In 1865, he formed a partner-
ship with Judge C. W. Noble. In 1870, Mr. John G. White
became associated with them, under the firm name of Mix, Noble
& White. This partnership continued until the election of Judge
Noble to the bench in 1886, after which it was continued as Mix &
308 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
White, until 1890, when Mr. Mix retired. After a half century
active business and professional life, forty-two years of which w
spent in Cleveland, Mr. Robert E. Mix passed to his eter:
reward, February 17, 1892, when he was seventy-three years a
two months old. He was president of the Board of Workhoi
directors, and was also a director in two of the city banks.
The bar of Cuyahoga county passed the following pream
and resolutions on the death of Mr. Mix :
"Whereas, we, the members of the bar of Cuyahoga coun
Ohio, have learned with sincere regret of the death of Robert
Mix, now, therefore, be it
Resolved, that in his death our profession has lost an effici(
and honored member who for many years has been actively ider
fled, not only with the practice and progress of the law , but a
with all matters affecting our community in its private and put
relations; ever just and considerate toward all. All who kn
him have sustained a personal loss, society an upright, influent
and progressive citizen, his family a wise, devoted and lovi
father, a safe counselor and true guide.
Resolved, that a copy hereof be furnished to the State a
Federal courts with the request that they be spread upon th
records; that a copy hereof be presented to the family of 1
deceased ; and that the bar attend the funeral in a body."
The bar did attend St. John's Cathedral in a body and its ch
members were the pall-bearers. The Rt. Rev. Mgr. Thoi
preached the discourse and said of the deceased that he was a n
of blunt, honest character, who cared not for men's praise
blame. He was always true to his Church and calling, and v
never afraid to carry anywhere the banner of Catholicity.
September 29, 1853, Mr. Robert E. Mix was united
marriage to Miss Marie Josephine Morand, by Bishop LaFevre,
her native city, Detroit, Michigan. The family of Mrs. Mix, i
Morands, trace their record to an ancient French family with
admixture of Portuguese blood. Some of them were known
Quebec, Canada, as early as 1684, and in Detroit as far back
1751. Four children were born to the union of Mr. and IVl
Mix, whose names are as follows : Robert Durand, Harriet Ju
who is Mrs. John H. Kirkwood, of Cleveland; Charles M. ; s
M. Marie Josephine. Mrs. Mix survives her husband and with 1
unmarried daughter resides at Nottingham, a suburb of Clevela
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 309
THE REV. JOHN G. MIZER.
The Church of Our Lady of Consolation, at Carey, Wyandot
county, Ohio, is of note in the Diocese of Cleveland as well as
outside of it, in consequence of the several special privileges con-
ferred upon it by the present Pontiff, Leo XIH. The pastor of
the church, the Rev. John G. Mizer, has for years been known,
not alone to the people of his parish, but also to the large number
of pilgrims that annually visit the Shrine of Our Lady, and their
estimate of him, as well as the writer's, may properly appear here.
Father Mizer was born in the city of Cleveland, December 24
(Christmas Eve), 1854, and was ordained priest July 4 (Inde-
pendence Day), 1880. The suggestiveness of these dates and
events, typical of religion and patriotism, is happily borne out in
the character and career of this good priest. When a boy he
served Mass in Cleveland's first CathoHc Church, known as old
St. Mary's on the "Flats." He attended St. Mary's parish school
during the pastorate of the late Father Falk, and subsequently the
Cathedral schools. His preparatory training ended, he began his
classical studies at St. Francis' Seminary, Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
continued them at Louisville College, Stark county, Ohio, and at
St. Lawrence College, Mt. Calvary, Wisconsin, where he gradu-
ated with honors in 1875. The same year he entered St. Mary's
Theological Seminary, Cleveland, and after a five years' course
was elevated to the priesthood by Bishop Gilmour.
He was commissioned immediately as pastor of St. Mary's
Church, Kirby, Wyandot county, Ohio, with St. Joseph's Church,
at Crawfordsville, in the same county, attached as a mission. He
ministered to the people there during ten years, when he was
appointed pastor of his present church at Carey. He has retained
charge of his mission church at Crawfordsville, whose people have
now been his spiritual children for upwards of twenty years.
Some of the notable characteristics of Father Mizer are
gentleness, considerateness, generosity and benevolence, and not
a few others, the spheres of which lie more particularly in the
domain of the tangible. He has an intimate knowledge of human
nature, the short-comings of which he accounts for and condones.
Besides this he has the elements of leadership, executiveness, and
310 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
persuasiveness, and possesses business talents that are quite pre
nounced. He is forceful, not through harshness or severity, bt
rather through correct judgments inoffensively executed. Tht
equipped, even temporal affairs may not suffer at his hands.
Having a high order of intellect, and being a student an
a close observer, he may be credited with having achieved a moi
than ordinary scholarship. He speaks both English and Germa
fluently and forcibly, his discourses being both natural^ compat
and instructive. With questions important to pilgrims visitin
his church he is, of course, quite conversant, and none have bi
farewell to the Shrine of Our Lady, at Carey, without being full
compensated for the troubles incident to the journey. In additio
to the renewal of their religious spirit they bear with thei
pleasant memories of the good priest in charge, and this impres
is not so much of that priest's intellect, erudition, penetration c
acumen, but rather because there is a something in him and abov
him which speaks to them of his fatherly concern for them toucl
ing the Hfe beyond. They see in him something of the image <
the love of the real Father of us all ; hence, not only they but thei
children will keep green the memory of the pastor of the Churc
of Our Lady of Consolation, at Carey, Ohio.
It is the hope of Father Mizer to be able to erect, sooner c
later, a church befitting his parish, sufficiently large to accon
modate the visiting pilgrims, and especially so grand and impo;
ing as to be an honor to Our Lady of Consolation. To attain thi
end, he has appealed to the faith and generosity of the children c
Mary, and very many have responded to his appeal. His own cor
gregation is too small in numbers to venture on such an enterpris*
and since it is to be a votive church for all Catholics, it is both me(
and proper that every one should help to reach this end. Shoul
he succeed it will be much to his credit and to that of those wh
assist him. His triumph over obstacles will redound to the cred
of religion and to the honor of the Mother of God, whose favoi
appear to be lavishly bestowed on those who make the pilgrimag
to the Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation,
TU'xiifc,,^***^*^'^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 311
THE VERY REV. NICHOLAS A. MOES, D. D.
Notwithstanding the fact that a bishop is the head of the
Church in the territory over which he presides, the late Bishop
Gilmour was appreciative enough to happily characterize St.
Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, as the heart of his diocese — the most
essential part of it, the efficient center of its Hfe and activity. What
St. Mary's is today in the estimation of the present Rt. Rev. Bishop
it has been, to a degree, for upwards of half a century ; but during
the past thirty years the Very Rev. Dr. Moes as its president has
been prominently instrumental in advancing it to the eminent
position it now occupies as a noted theological institution.
If men occupying important positions are supposed to have
their capacity and usefulness measured by the requirements of their
respective stations, then the characterization of St. Mary's Semin-
ary as the heart of the diocese, and the endorsement of that
estimate by the present Rt. Rev. Ordinary, are in themselves a
high compliment to the Very Rev. Dr. Nicholas A. Moes, whose
excellent judgment, zeal, and great ability have, since 1870, not
only timed but also regulated and strengthened the pulsations of
that diocesan heart. It is, therefore, both considerate and quite
proper for the Authorities to speak approvingly of St. Mary's
Seminary and its Very Rev. President, for the great majority of the
priests who occupy the outposts, so to speak, in the diocese; who
preside over the Catholic schools ; and who preach the faith to its
more than three hundred thousand Catholics, were themselves
trained in that institution. Accordingly St. Mary's can be likened
to the trunk, and the priests to the branches, of the great, grovidng
tree of the Church in northern Ohio, with the care of which the
Rev. Dr. Nicholas A. Moes is now charged, and has been so
charged for the past thirty years.
If it be asked : who is the Very Rev. President of the Cleve-
land Diocesan Seminary? no layman may fully answer; for Dr.
Moes, by reason of his office, is a sort of recluse, and is intimately
known only to the priests. While of the people and for the people
he is never among them. He is truly in sympathy vnth them and
is most zealous for their good, but they know him not personally,
nor does he know them. A layman's answer as to what character
312 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
of man he is would therefore be, in effect, that he has been th'
president of the seminary under two administrations, and continu
ing as such under the present Ordinary he must be a man wel
quaHfied for his very important ofifice. A priest's answer would be
that he is a profoundly learned man, of marked humiUty anc
simplicity of life, a man of many labors, and most zealous for God
rehgion, and the honor and efficiency of the priesthood. That hi
is such a man can be inferred from the facts that, besides th(
general important supervisory duties that are his because of hi;
position, he is Professor of Moral and Ascetic Theology, Liturgy
and Canon Law; is a member of the Board of Diocesan Con
suitors ; the Board of Synodal Examiners ; the Court of Crimina
and Disciplinary Causes; the Board of Examiners of the Junio;
Clergy and Seminarians, and also the director of the Sisters o
the Good Shepherd and of the Sisters of Charity.
From the records of the diocese it is learned that Dr. Moei
was bom in the village of Bous, Canton Remich, Luxemburg
April 10, 1844. He made most of his studies in his native country
He emigrated to the United States in 1860, was accepted for th(
Diocese of Cleveland, and, after a course in the diocesan seminary
was ordained priest by Bishop Rappe, May 18j 1867. He wa:
pastor of St. Michael's Church, Kelley's Island, Ohio, with charg*
of the church at Put-in-Bay as a mission, from immediately aftei
his ordination until November, 1868. He was then appointee
pastor of St. Augustine's Church, Napoleon, where he laborec
until the autumil of 1870. Evincing rare capacity as a scholar
teacher, and estimator of character, and being a man of remarkabh
mentality, with a good knowledge of human nature, he was
singled out as the future president of St. Mary's Seminary, anc
received his appointment as such September, 1870. His conduci
of that institution has been marked by superior efficiency and zeal
and has received the approval of the bishops who have since
governed the diocese. To that approval is added also the unquali-
fied endorsement of the priests. All of them know Dr. Moes
personally, while most of them speak of him from experience,
having themselves been educated in the institution over which
he presides. It is well, therefore, that such high testimony attests
his great success as president of the Cleveland Diocesan Seminary.
THE REV. NICHOLAS MOES
^^sr"
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 313
THE REV. NICHOLAS MOES.
For nearly thirty years, April, 1859, to October, 1888, the
late Rev. Nicholas Moes, better known as "Old Father Moes,"
labored most effectively as a priest in the Diocese of Cleveland.
The success attending his ministrations, the zeal which character-
ized his efforts, and the marked ability which he always manifested
made him a pastor of note in northern Ohio.
He was born in the village of Bous, Luxemburg, February 8,
1826, and died at Limpertsberg, near the city of Luxemburg,
November 26, 1900, when he had almost completed his seventy-
fifth year. His ailment was chronic rheumatism, which unfitted
him for work the last ten years of his life.
When a youth he made his studies in the Luxemburg Athe-
naeum, where he spent seven years. This he followed by a two
years' course, under the direction of the Jesuits, in Belgium.
Emigrating to the United States, he entered, in 1857, St. Mary's
Theological Seminary, Cleveland, Ohio, where he taught Mental
Philosophy for some time and was ordained priest by Bishop
Rappe, April 16, 1859.
From immediately after his ordination till July, 1861, he was
pastor of St. Philip's Church, at Dungannon, Columbiana county,
from which place, for a short time, he attended to the needs of the
Catholics at Louisville. From the latter, date till September, 1862,
he was pastor of St. Joseph's Church, Fremont. He was then
appointed to the pastorate of St. Mary's Church, Sandusky, where
he ministered till 1864. Berwick was his next charge until Sep-
tember, 1866, when he was called to fill the chair of Moral
Theology in St. Mary's Seminary.
In 186Y, he accepted the position of curate at St. Francis de
Sales' Church, Toledo, where he remained eight months, or until
his appointment as pastor of the Church of the Sacred Heart of
Jesus, at New Bavaria (Poplar Ridge). He labored there till
1873, when, to undertake the great work of erecting the present
St. Mary's Church, at Sandusky, occasioned his reappointment to
his former parish there. The present magnificent structure is the
one erected under his direction. It cost $80,000, all of which,
except a trifling sum, he succeeded in paying. Twice during his
314 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
second pastorate of fifteen years at Sandusky his failing heall
occasioned him to visit his native land. The latter of these visi
was made in 1885, and he returned having received no appreciab
benefit to his health. He was forced to resign, in 1888, an
returned to Luxemburg on an indefinite leave of absence.
The older priests and thousands of the laity of the diocei
have vivid and pleasing recollections of "Old Father Moes." Tl
writer well remembers him as far back as 1867. At first he w;
impressed by the splendid personal appearance of the man^ bt
later this was supplanted by admiration for his learning an
reverence for his wisdom. He was in many respects one of tt
best equipped priests in his day in the Diocese of Cleveland, an
he ranked among the first in strength of character and eloquenc
His was a philosophical mind. He appeared to have little difficult
in solving questions, and his consciousness of his own abilil
might be gathered from the readiness with which he undertooj
and the ease with which he accomplished, the solution of difficu
problems. Philosophy, theology, philology, history^ music, an
the higher mathematics were topics on which he liked to coi
verse. He did not speak to invite controversy, to contradict, c
to arouse opposition. He talked when he had capable questioner
or intelligent listeners, and seemingly because he had an overflo
of knowledge on a variety of subjects. His whole nature w;
attuned to music^ and he ably rendered the chants of the Churcl
The Rev. Nicholas Moes everywhere impressed himself o
the minds of his people, and awakened in them the greatest respe(
for religion. He did not do this so much by a cold philosophy •<
by the happy way in which he brought conviction to the intelle(
and inspiration to the soul. Because of his mentality, convincin
manner, and pleasing personality, he appeared to present the trutl
of religion as if strained through an atmosphere of incense. Tt
wisdom of the serpent, the harmlessness of the dove, the strengt
of the lion, and the eagle-flights of intellect cropped out in his di
courses. He was a manly man who was safe as a leader, gentle i
a reprover, faithful as a friend, and comforting as a spiritu
adviser. We might fancy him saying:
"All that our wisdom knows, or ever can,
Is this: that God hath pity upon man;
And where His Spirit shines in Holy Writ,
The great word Comforter comes after it."
MR. AND MRS. EDWARD MOLONY.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 314a
MR. EDWARD MOLONY.
Mr. Edward Molony, of St. Augustine's parish, Cleveland,
was born in the town of Goresbridge, county of Kilkenny, Ire-
land. He is descended of a prominent family whose relatives and
friends are numerous, many of whom he met when he revisited his
native land in 1883.
One of the old citizens of Cleveland, who knew in Ireland
the -several branches of the family to which the subject of this
sketch belongs, says:
"They were always known as excellent people, true to their
religion and to their country, faithful to their friends, and char-
itable to the poor. They were quiet and inoffensive, but, in
defending their natural and acquired rights, were uncompromis-
ing and bold to the point of the highest bravery. In no instance
have they been found wanting in the line of duty, and the same,
in my opinion, can be said of Mr. Edward Molony, of Cleveland,
Ohio."
One would judge from this testimony regarding the Molony
family that, even if the merits of the individual specially men-
tioned here were unknown, the good name of his ancestors would
be of the strongest assurance of what might be expected of him.
Fortunately, the expected is realized in his life and record.
In 1848 James and Margaret (Healy) Molony, with their
eight children, came to this country and took up their permanent
abode in what was then the unpretentious city of Cleveland. The
children were named: Ann, Mary, Ellen, Margaret, Sarah, and
Bridget, with two sons, William, and Edward. Mary became a
member of the Ursuline Community in Cleveland. She was known
in religion as Mother Agnes, and died in 1893, after leading a con-
ventual life of thirty-nine years.
Shortly after his arrival in this country the elder Molony
became interested in lake business. About 1860, William and
314b A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Edward drifted into the oil business, and in 1861, Edward forme
a partnership with Mr. F. M. Backus, calHng their enterprise tlr
"Backus Oil Company." This was profitably continued fc
eighteen years, when the Standard Oil Company bought thei
out and secured the services of Mr. Molony as superintenden
which position he held for four years. Mr. Molony was engage
in the oil business for about thirty years.
It was in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, that Mr. Edwar
Molony was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Callahan,
young lady born and educated in that city. Of this union tw
children were born : Maryellen and Margretta Catherine. Mi;
Maryellen is a graduate of the Ursuline College of Clevelanc
Miss Margretta is a graduate of Central High School and is no
taking an advanced course in the Western Reserve Woman
College.
In political afifiliation Mr. Molony is a Democrat, not fc
oiBce, but from principle. With that understanding he WJ
prevailed upon to hold membership on the Infirmary Board in h
adopted city for eight years, and for two years to serve in th
capacity of superintendent of the Infirmary.
Mr. Molony is of a retiring disposition, is a close observe
thinks and knows a great deal, but says little in public. He
genial and generous and bears well and honorably the good narr
of the old Celtic stock from which he sprang. The natural ti(
that bind the members of his househould together are strengthene
by religion and the domestic virtues, particularly parental an
filial love. It was Adelaid Annie Proctor who said :
"Human love, 'though true and sweet,
Has been sent by love more tender, more complete, more divine."
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 315
MR. PATRICK J. MORRISSEY.
The discovery and subsequent development of the large stone
interests for which Berea, a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, is noted,
early attracted thither large numbers of sturdy, industrious people
seeking employment in the quarries. Among these were Thomas
and Mary (Keating) Morrissey, natives of Ireland, who were the
parents of the subject of this article.
He was born to them in the city of Cork, Ireland, February
8, 1851. When he was one year old, the family emigrated to
Quebec, Canada, where they resided two years. They next
removed to Buffalo, New York, where they remained for over six
years. Good reports from Berea induced them to set out for that
place, arriving there September 10, 1860. Young Morrissey was
afforded some schooling until his fourteenth year, when, at the low
figure of 50 cents a day, he was given employment carrying water
and tools to the men at work in the quarries of J. McDermott &
Co., which concern later became the Cleveland Stone Company.
From 1865 until this writing, the latter days of 1900, a period
of over thirty-five years, Mr. Patrick J. Morrissey has continued
his connection with the stone interests at Berea. From being a
mere tool carrier and general roustabout as a boy, he advanced
until he became superintendent, which responsible position he
continues to hold under the Cleveland Stone Company, not alone
touching their interests at Berea, but also those at West View and
Olmsted, Ohio. Mr. Morrissey is a thorough master in the man-
agement of these large interests. To his practical skill and ability
he adds the qualities of attentiveness and constancy, making him-
self a business essential to those whose money is invested there
and who count on profits only on the basis of good management.
Antedating, by several years, the coming of the Morrisseys to
Berea, was the arrival there of John and Catharine (Moore)
McGann, from Louisville, Kentucky. They brought with them
their six months' old daughter, Mary, a native Kentuckian. She
had just blossomed into beautiful young womanhood, in 1875,
when, January 11th of that year, she became the wife of Mr.
Patrick J. Morrissey. To their union have been born three
children, now pretty well grown. They are Mary N., Leo J., and
316 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Josephine C. Morrissey. Surrounded by home comforts a
refining influences, accentuated by religion, music and art, be
parents and children constitute one of the first Christian families
Berea. Mr. Morrissey and family are leading members of J
Mary's congregation, liberal contributors for the advancement
religion and education^ and are Catholics not only in name but
fact. They are of such character as to justly deserve the honor
this recognition in the History of the Diocese of Cleveland.
The parents of both Mr. and Mrs. Morrissey were neighbc
for years in Berea. Friendship at first characterized their relatio
ship, but later the ties of marriage, uniting their children, bou:
the families still closer. They have all passed to their reward ai
their mortal remains are interred in the parish cemetery. In th(
stead, their children and grandchildren continue to act well thi
part, conscious of their obligations to God and country.
MR. AND MRS. JOHN MULLEN.
The late Mr. and Mrs. John Mullen were among the pla
industrious Catholic people of Cleveland, Ohio. They aspired
no distinctions, were strangers to inordinate pride, and content
themselves with performing each day their duties as need ai
obligation demanded. In the early days of church and scho
building in Cleveland they contributed their mite, and sent th(
children to their parish church and school to be taught bo
religion and secular science.
They were natives of Sand Hill, in the county of Mayo, Ii
land, where they were married early in life. With their first-bo
they emigrated to the United States, in 1849, only to have deal
in a few months, snatch from them their only child. ' Neverthelei
Providence blessed them in later years with a family of eight,
whom they gave the names of John G., who has been mayor
Amherstburg, Canada, for three successive terms ; Martin ; Anni
Hannah, who is Mrs. Martin O'Donnell, of Cleveland ; Elizabet
Celia B., who for eighteen years has been a teacher in the publ
schools of her native city; Mary E., who has followed the callit
of a teacher for the past twelve years, and Robert Joseph.
Mr. Martin Mullen, the second oldest of the family, is pre
dent of the Interstate Foundry Company, of Cleveland, is
MR. AND MRS. JOHN MULLEN.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 317
representative of the Pittsburg Coal Company, and is a director
in numerous prominent enterprises and manufacturing establish-
ments. He is a man of marked business ability, and his noted
success is the measure of his foresight, industry, and capability.
Few men, regarding his opportunities, have become more success-
ful than has he, and few bear prosperity with better grace.
The subject of this sketch had charge of the business of the
Pittsburg Coal Company in Cleveland. He served that concern
for upwards of twenty years, and won for himself high enco-
miums for honesty, faithfulness, and industry. He retired from
active pursuits ten years before his death, wh.ich took place in
1891, when he was seventy-one years old. About four years later,
when she had attained to the age of seventy, his faithful wife
followed him to the farther shore. In life they were reciprocal in
afifectionate companionship, and jointly labored for the spiritual
and temporal well being of their children.
Mrs. John Mullen, whose maiden name was Miss Celia
Gallagher, was a typical Catholic wife and mother. She was
devoted to the Catholic faith, but was never demonstrative or
vaunting regarding her practice of it. She was too sensible and
too humble for that. She knew her duties and recognized her
obligations, and in the doing and discharging of them she
exhibited both constancy and sincerity. She saw clearly along
the lines of the poetic writer who wisely advised:
"Hope afresh, for hope shall not be vain;
Start afresh along the exceeding steep
Road to glory, long and rough and plain;
Sow and reap, — for while the moments creep.
Time and earth and life are on the wane."
The elder Mullen was the counterpart of his good wife in
fidelity to his trust and in loyalty to his religion and to his country.
His faithfulness to the one implied his devotion to the other. With
him the words Irish and Catholic were synonymous. Whatever of
weakness or approach to passion outcropped in him at any time
had no reference direct or indirect to his religion or to his country,
or to those who represented either. He was a true American Celt
and an obedient son of the Church. Religion and patriotism were
his guides, and he shaped his conduct accordingly. He was
impatient in the presence of presumption, and exhibited no little
318 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
disgust regarding the unfaithfulness of some who should ha
proved true to their obligations. Nevertheless he was considera
. of the weaknessess of men, and it was his custom to try and kind
overlook the multiplied evidences of human frailty.
To be able to say these things truthfully of a plain, every-d
sort of man, whose education was limited, whose opportuniti
were few, and who had much to contend with in early life, is
acknowledge in the late Mr. John Mullen a nobility of character
generosity of heart, and a degree of wisdom and consideratene
not often found in many who have enjoyed superior advantages.
"Some narrow hearts there are
That suffer blight when that they feed upon
As something to complete their being fails;
And they return into their holds and pine,
And long restrained, grow stern.
But some there are
That in a sacred want and hunger rise.
And draw the misery home and live with it,
And excellent in honor wait, and will
That something good should yet !be found in it.
Else wherefore were they born?"
MR. PATRICK J. MULLIGAN.
Mr. Patrick J. Mulligan, is one of the many prominent cc
tractors for masonry, brick and cut-stone work in Cleveland, Oh
During the past quarter of a century he has done, in that city, t
principal work for the several CathoHc congregations that ha
undertaken extensive improvements. Among these might
mentioned St. Stanislas' Church; St. Edward's Church; t
Cathedral School; the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes; 1
Joseph's Home; the Convent of the Sisters of Charity, La
Avenue; the Convent of the Good Shepherd, Sterling Aveni
St. Casimir's Church; St. Vincent's surgical building for Char
Hospital; the two towers on the Immaculate Conception Chun
the spire on St. Joseph's Church; cemetery vaults, etc., a
several structures outside the city.*
In the county of Dublin, Ireland, where he was reared, '
father was a contractor for stone work, and owned an extensi
quarry near the Irish capital. It was there, under his directi(
*Since this work was sent to press Mr. Mulligan's ability as a practical builder
been recognized by his appointment to the oflQce of assistant superintendent of scl
buildings in Cleveland.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 319
that his son, here referred to, learned his trade and received his
training as a builder and contractor. That he was well grounded
in his calling his successful career fully attests. He was born near
Dublin, Ireland, January 27, 1842. His father was James Mulli-
gan, who died in his native place, in 1882, and the maiden name of
his mother was Julia McNaney. She also died there in 1890. He
was married, in 1869, to Miss Bridget E. O'Reilly, a young lady
reared in his neighborhood. In 1871 they emigrated to the United
States and went direct to the city of Cleveland, where they have
since resided. They have reared a family of six, three boys and
three girls. The oldest son, John J., is engaged with his father in
the contracting business. The names of the others are Elizabeth,
Julia, Thomas P., Patrick J., and Genevieve.
Mr. Mulligan's intellect, which, with his skill as a mechanic,
is his chief reliance in his business, embraces a wide acquaintance
with general facts and, indeed, more than a cursory knowledge of
some departments of literature. He is quite conversant with the
principal rudiments of CathoHc theology and history, which facts
entitle him to the credit of being ranked among the best informed
laymen in the Diocese of Cleveland. As a catechist he has few
superiors among the laity, while in point of sterling character he
certainly excels. "Honest as the day is long" is a phrase that has
often been applied as fitting his case ; faithful and reliable, prompt
and obliging, he is highly esteemed by a large circle of friends and
business acquaintances.
Although in his fifty-ninth year, he does not appear to be
more than forty-five — an excellent constitution, an even tempera-
ment, and good habits contributing to his physical well-being.
What these have done for him in that direction, his energy and
industry have accomplished for him financially. He has acquired
quite a competency and is a citizen esteemed for high character
in the community in which he lives. Since the spiritual is above
the temporal, he is a practical Catholic first, and next a citizen who
performs his duties as such in the clear lights reflected by real
religion and true patriotism. . The proof of this is his record. He
has ever been true to his trust. He takes a deeper interest in
the faithful execution of work entrusted to him than can those
for whom he does the work. His reputation is more than money
to him, and he merits public endorsement.
320 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JOHN MULROONEY.
Not because of social, financial, or political importance, bv
solely because of his simplicity, sincerity, and child-like modesty
Mr. John Mulrooney selected as the subject of this mention. Fc
nearly half a century he has been a citizen of Cleveland, and fc
almost seventy-nine years has he serenely watched the eddyin
current of life glide past. He ranks among the early and deservin
pioneer Catholics of the See city of the diocese, having been
member of the first congregation worshipping in Old St. Mary
on the "Flats."
He was born at Castlebar, county of Mayo, Ireland, June 2'.
1822, and emigrated to the United States, arriving in Clevelan
in November, 1852. In Ireland he learned the trade of a horse
shoer, and for nearly forty years in Cleveland he industriousl
followed that calling. He was married in that city July 30, 185J
to Miss Ellen Hartroy, a native of the city of Waterford, Irelanc
Seven children were born to their union, five of whom survive an
are residents of the "Forest City." His only son, Mr. John y.
Mulrooney, is the president of the Marine Review Publishing Co
of Cleveland. Miss Julia A. Mulrooney is principal of Outh
waite school, one of the largest of the Cleveland public schooli
and, with her father and two sisters. Misses Mary F. and Jennie A
resides on Sibley street in St. Bridget's parish. The other sistei
Ellen, is Mrs. Patrick Cummings, also of the same parish.
Mrs. John Mulrooney died June 9, 1889. She was note
during her married life of thirty-four years for devotion to he
husband and for the care and direction which were hers to exercis
regarding her children. She taught them religion by bot
example and precept, and encouraged them in the practice c
industry, economy, and self-reliance^ her efforts having borne goo
fruit from the beginning.
Now in the evening of his long life, Mr. John Mulroone
evidences not only a robust constitution but also good habits in hi
youth. Until his retirement some years since, he had always bee
active and industrious. The labors of the day over, he spent hi
unemployed hours with his family, for he lived for them, for Go(
and to labor. Punctual in attendance at divine service and stril
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 321
ingly prompt in his going- and coming he has been a sort of clock
or regulator for those living in his neighborhood. He has never
been known to have been late at Mass or tardy in fulfilling his
appointments. From choice he has led the life of a total abstainer
from both intoxicants and narcotics. Except to visit some friend
or neighbor in affliction he has seldom been out of his
home after nine o'clock at night. His life has been
uneventful, plain and regular. No inordinate ambitions have
marred the peace of his mind, nor has the serenity of his soul been
disturbed by misgivings or regrets. He has chosen the humble
path, the quiet way, and by the regularity and simplicity of his life
and manner he justifies the saying that "The flower of sweetest
smell is shy and lowly." This is seen in nothing more strikingly
than in his simple life among his children, and especially his grand-
children who appear to divine his gentle care for them and his
readiness to join in their pastimes. These children run to him with
perfect freedom and confidence. They entrust him with their
little secrets, and he himself is child enough to be flattered by their
demands and attentions. Only those of simple, beautiful life take
special pleasure in the companionship of prattling childhood. It
is an index to their character.
Because of his industrious and frugal habits he has been able
not only to rear and properly educate his family, but also to make
provision for his declining years. That provision would be doubly
assured to him by his children, but he enjoys most the indepen-
dence of having provided it for himself. He is a typical son of
Erin, devout, patriotic, loyal, constant, and attractively peculiar.
He loves his country and his kind, and is considerate of the
demands of childhood. He specially delights to humor the whims
of his grandchildren, seeing in them the face of one he "loved long
since and lost awhile." Living down the natural sorrow for the
loss of the dear companion of his life he exemplifies the thoughts
that,
"Over all our tears God's rainbow bends,
To all our cries a pitying ear He lends;
Yea, to the feeble sounds of man's lament,
How often have His messengers been sent!" - ;
322 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. WILLIAM F. MURPHY.
The Catholics of Conneaut, Ashtabula county, Ohio, con
prising but one parish, St. Mary's, are happy in the possession i
the Rev. William F. Murphy as their pastor. He was sent to thei
August 6, 1893, and since then both spiritual and temporal pro;
perity has been their portion. They have a tasty and commodioi
church, a fine school, a comfortable rectory, a beautiful cemeter
and but few debts.
Father Murphy's first labors as a priest were performed i
Youngstown, Ohio, where, for one year, he was assistant ;
St. Columba's Church. He was then transferred to Wellsvill
Columbiana county, as pastor of the Immaculate Conceptic
Church. He continued there during three years, or until 188:
when on account of impaired health he was given an indefinil
leave of absence. The leave was advisedly made indefinite, fc
Bishop Gilmour and others of his friends were of the opinion th;
the severe bronchial afifection, which he had contracted throug
exposure and hard work, would cause his death. But Providenc
■decreed otherwise.
In 1888 he went to Sante Fe, New Mexico, where he derive
great benefit during the two years he remained there. Then t
■went to Idaho Springs, Colorado, where he stayed five years, con
pletely regaining his former health and vigor. While there he w;
active in the ministry, and was of great assistance to the lal
Bishop Machebeuf, and to his successor, Bishop Matz, both (
whom treated him with great cordiality, and appreciated his usefu
■ness so much that Bishop Gilmour was requested, by Bishop Mat
to give Father Murphy his exeat that he might be adopted int
the Diocese of Denver. This, of course, was diplomaticall
refused by Bishop Gilmour, not only for diocesan reasons but ah
because of his personal attachment for Father Murphy. Durin
these years frequent were the letters of afifection that passe
between himself and the good bishop. Father Murphy lat(
returned to his beloved home diocese and was at once commi
sioned by Bishop Horstmann as pastor of St. Mary's Churcl
Conneaut, Ohio. In 1898 he made an extended visit abroai
including most of the countries bordering on the Mediterranea
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 323
sea, and extending as far east as the Holy Land, where some time
was spent among the sacred shrines of Palestine. While in Rome
he enjoyed the great privilege of a private audience with the Holy
Father, Pope Leo XHL
Those qualities of head and heart, which characterized Father
Murphy's labors and endeared him to the authorities and peoples
in the west, are not unappreciated in his native diocese and
State. He exercises them with becoming zeal and fixedness of
purpose to the end that parochial interests, especially the spiritual,
may be advanced and safeguarded. Even-tempered, sympathetic,
constant and cautious, he utilizes his talents to the end for which
he has been called. Among these talents are his ability to think
and speak well — his voice being full and his manner pleasing. He
has the capacity to handle temporalities to the advantage of his
flock, and also the happy faculty of keeping his people united and
of one mind touching faith and duty. Remarkable has been his
success in establishing the first parochial school for the children of
Conneaut. There stands as his monument a beautiful school and
hall, and owing to his energy and ability as a schoolman, it can be
said that every Catholic child of the parish attends this parochial
school.
Rev. Wilham F. Murphy is a native of Ohio, having been
born in Cleveland, November 5, 1857. His father was William
Murphy, who died in 1872. His mother, whose maiden name was
Bridget Donahue, is now in her seventieth year. After a prepara-
tory training in the parish school of St. Bridget, in his native city,
he entered Mount St. Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati, where he
finished his classical course. His divinity studies were made in
St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland, and he was ordained
priest by Bishop Gilmour, July 6, 1884.
From having been apparently doomed to an early taking-off ,
it is most gratifying to the diocesan authorities and to his numer-
ous friends that he has been spared by Providence for further
usefulness in his beloved Diocese of Cleveland.
324 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. EDWARD J. MURPHY.
When the Diocese of Cleveland was yet young and the laboi
of the majority of its one hundred or more priests were largely c
a missionary character, Edward J. Murphy, then a young man (
twenty-five years, but now the esteemed pastor of St. Patrick
Church, Leetonia, Ohio, was raised to th§ priesthood by Bisho
Rappe. The date of his ordination is given in the records 2
September 30, 1861. Accordingly, at this writing (1900), nearl
forty years of priestly labors stand to his credit in northern Ohic
Father Murphy's first mission was as pastor of the Church (
St. Rose of Lima, at Lima, Ohio. He established and maintains
the first Catholic school in that place. His labors during the nir
years of his pastorate there were characterized by zeal and sel
sacrifice. St. Ann's Church, Youngstown, received his service
during the succeeding twelve months, after which he was paste
of the Church of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, at Warren, for thre
years. Following his ministry at Warren, he was appointed paste
of St. Patrick's Church, at Olmsted Falls. Completing three yeai
of serAace there, he was transferred to St. John's Church, at Sun
mitville, where he continued for nine years. His career ther
ended in 1884, at which time he was commissioned as pastor of S
Patrick's Church, Leetonia, Ohio. At the close of the nineteent
century he is in the seventeenth year of his continuous ministr
there and the sixty-fifth of his life.
He was born in the county of Carlow, Ireland, August U
1836. His parents were Michael and Elizabeth (McDonald
Murphy. The elder Murphy died when the subject of these line
was only two years of age. When he was fourteen years ok
1850, his mother, with her large family, emigrated to this countr
and took up her residence in the city of Cleveland, Ohio, wher
she died in 1882. What educational advantages old St. John'
College of Cleveland afforded at that time were all young Murph
had during his years of preparation for his theological course. H
successfully passed the required examination in 1858, and in tha
year also was admitted to the Diocesan Seminary, St. Mary'i
Cleveland, where he made his philosophical and divinity studie
within the space of three years, a feat which was very creditabl
^ ■,'•
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 326
to himself and most gratifying to the Superior of the seminary.
It also gave unbounded satisfaction to Bishop Rappe, for in that
day the diocese of Cleveland was much in need of the young
ecclesiastic's services on the mission. So pressing vi^as this need
that the Rt. Rev. Ordinary appealed to the heads of seminaries in
Ireland, France, and Germany for suitable young men for the
priesthood in northern Ohio.
From this it can be inferred that the subject of this sketch
was appreciated as an apt and studious young man, who, notwith-
standing many difficulties, made steady progress, and at all times
gave evidence of no little talent and much zeal. His talent then,
as in later years, exhibited itself along practical lines, and his zeal
for religion and education was always to the fore. His labors at
Lima, his first mission, attest the truth of this, for his work and
achievements there are yet referred to with gratitude by the older
members of St. Rose's congregation. The same can be said
touching his ministry in the various places where he has been
stationed, which, of course, includes his present long pastorate at
St. Patrick's, Leetonia.
In the midst of his parishioners and their non-Catholic neigh-
bors, at Leetonia, Father Murphy is spoken of as "the big-hearted
Irish priest," "the typical Soggarth." Perhaps this fact is sugges-
tive of his character. Besides being a large, shapely man
physically, of dignified bearing and venerable appearance, his
personality attracts not a whit more of attention than does his
reputation for active charity, generosity, and straightforwardness.
Like the priests of Ireland, the Soggarths, who are renowned the
world over for their loyalty to their calling and to their flocks.
Father Edward J. Murphy, while strict in requiring dutiful
obedience to whatever the Church teaches, is yet mild in reprov-
ing, anxious to heal the wounds left by sin in the transgressor, and
quick to soothe the suffering of the afflicted whenever possible,
thereby showing himself in every way every day to be the true
spiritual father and friend of his people and, in fact, of all, irre-
spective of creed or condition, within the limits of his jurisdiction.
"Remember, others shall
Take patience, labor, to their heart and hand,
From thy hand, and thy heart, and thy brave cheer,
And God's grace fructify through thee to all.''
326 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. DANIEL J. MURPHY.
As a funeral director and practical embalmer Mr. Daniel
Murphy, of St. Patrick's parish, Toledo, has few superiors in li
profession. He is a native of Toledo, having been born in th
city January 19, 1862. His parents, now dead, were Thomas
and Honora (Carroll) Murphy, who were among the early settle
of northwestern Ohio. They early habituated him to study, ar
sent him to St. Francis de Sales' parish school, where he receiv{
his preparatory training. He later entered Assumption Colleg
Sandwich, Canada, and graduated there in the classics in 1879.
The elder Murphy having held for many years the position '
tallyman, at Toledo, for the Lake Shore and Michigan Southe:
Railroad Company, it was natural that his son also should tal
kindly to railroad work. Accordingly, during eleven years, 1
held positions in the local railway oiiftces, and for three addition
years was traveling freight agent for the New York Central ar
Lake Shore Lines.
In 1893 he formed a partnership in the undertaking busine
in Toledo. After nearly six years he dissolved it and began
conduct the business in his own name. His remarkable succe
and popularity are but the measure of his merit and his skill in h
calling. Having completed a course in anatomy and physiolog
steps essential in the art of embalming, and having acquaintc
himself with the laws of sanitation and with the chemistry of ;
the preservatives, he is scientifically equipped to hold the fir
rank in his profession, a fact which commends him to the publi
The following extract from one of his published articles
germane to this mention :
"No occupation in life, except it be the grave digger's, h
been the object of so much contempt, so much banter, so mu(
revulsion, as the undertaking business. However, the high pla
to which it has been raised by the requirements a higher civi
zation demands of him engaging in it, has changed the undertak
from the mechanic to the professional man. To him no long
belongs the work of using saw, nails and hammer to make a coffi
Higher, nobler duties now await his coming in the house
mourning. To him is left the application of those sanitary la^
that protect the household and forbid the prevalence of diseas
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 327
It is his consideration, his kindness that reheves from duty and
care those weighed down with grief. His knowledge of embalm-
ing calls forth the ability of the physician, for he must know how
particular diseases affect certain organs. His use of the scalpel
calls for the skill of the surgeon, for he must distinguish between
vein and artery, and know the exact location of every organ. And
withal his work must be performed with that gentleness and
tenderness that all people of refinement demand in the disposition
of the bodies of their loved dead. His responsibility is a grave one,
when it is remembered that the physician is seldom or never at the
deathbed, and that it is the undertaker who determines whether
life is extinct."
Mr. Daniel J. Murphy is master of the ritual of the Catholic
Church touching burials, and has arranged a neat booklet of the
psalms, chants, and hymns in the vernacular for the use of
Catholics on funeral occasions. The need for this has long been
apparent, and the supplying of it has been keenly appreciated by
the Catholic public. It has also been a source of satisfaction and
profit to himself ; for, irrespective of its reflex effect, it has inclined
the public to regard Mr. Murphy as far in advance of others in his
profession.
He was united in marriage, in 1888, to Helen, the daughter of
James and Mary (Hallaran) Tobin, of Toledo, both of whom have
passed away like many others of Toledo's early settlers. To the
union of Mr. and Mrs. Murphy have been born four children:
Rita, Helen, Urban and Donald, a quartette of blessings and
brightness which insures domestic bliss.
Mr. Murphy's profession of itself brings him in close contact
with practical religious work, but even outside of it he has seen,
fit to unite himself with the various organizations aiming for the
advancement of religion and the betterment of mankind. Among
these societies are: the Catholic Knights of Ohio, the Catholic
Men's Benevolent Association, the Ancient Order of Hibernians,,
the Knights of Columbus, and the Catholic Club of Toledo.
Being a man of wide cultivation, who makes practical use of
his scholarly attainments, he occupies a prominent place as a
representative Catholic in Toledo and the Diocese of Cleveland-
328 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. WILLIAM NERACHER.
Mr. William Neracher of St. Peter's parish, Cleveland, was
born in Switzerland, November 2, 1842. He drank in the faitt
with his mother's milk, and inherited from his parents a sturdi-
ness and resoluteness of character which have stood him in gooc
part during his succession of struggles to attain success.
In 1851, when a mere boy, he emigrated to this country and
went direct to Cleveland where, in order to earn a crust, ht
carried and sold papers. At ten years of age he became a lighter oi
street lamps, and was otherwise actively engaged whenever h«
■could find anything to do. He continued to be thus employed foi
five years, devoting in the meantime the spare hours at his
command to acquire the rudiments of an education. When he
was fifteen years old he began to learn the carpenter and joiner's
trade, and later worked in one of the ship yards. He mastered his
calling so well that he became a building contractor, and under tht
firm name of Neracher & Brothers operated a planing mill and
sash and door factory. In 1859 he helped build the first streel
railroad in Cleveland.
After the war of the rebellion broke out he joined, in 1862, the
20th Independent Ohio Battery as a private, and served until 1865
when he was mustered out, holding the rank of lieutenant. He
was the youngest artillery officer from Ohio in the service. Hii
battery was with the Army of the Cumberland under Gen. Rose-
crans, with Gen. Thomas, and later it saw service under Gen,
Sherman. There was no braver man in the battery than Lieu-
tenant Neracher and the records will bear out the statement.
Whether at the front, or conducting the business of a con-
tractor— or, indeed, while working as a common tradesman, the
inquiring mind of Mr. Neracher was always active. That mine
was not only of an inquiring and investigating turn, but i\
was also both logical, mathematical, and inventive. The fifty-sia
patents, which are his by original right, are the evidence. Those
now in use and owned by the great Fire Extinguisher Co., of whict
he was the organizer and is now the general western manager,
are the product of his genius. The company is one of the largest
and most important concerns in the country. It is rated at over i
MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM NBRACHBR.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 329
million dollars, employs 2,000 hands. Its pay roll is $90,000 a
month, and its annual business exceeds $3,000,000. It does
business in nearly every civilized country in the world. A son of
the subject of this mention, William A. Neracher, is manager of
one of the company's factories, at Warren, Ohio, and a son-in-law,
Alfred Fritzsche, is assistant manager, at Cleveland.
William Neracher, in 1867, was married in St. Peter's Church,
Cleveland, to Miss Margaret Kaiser, daughter of the late Melchior
Kaiser, who was one of the original Catholic settlers in that city.
His marriage, to use a phrase, was the making of him. The event
was providential. His wife was a gift from the Lord, as are all
good wives gifts from God according to the Scripture. This brave,
noble-hearted young girl became in very fact his helpmate and his
solace in difficulties. She was his sheet anchor during his severest
trials, and by both her courage and her hopefulness he became
inspired with an unusual perseverance. He offered a half interest
in his patents, now most valuable, to the late ex-Mayor Rose, of
Cleveland, for the paltry sum of $2,500. His ofifer being refused,
he would have given up all hope but for the way in which that
courageous and devoted wife inspired and upheld him. Through
her influence he persevered, organized the Extinguisher Company,
and sent it forward conquering and to conquer everywhere.
The trials and privations of the Nerachers have been many
and great. They sowed in tears, indeed, but now for many years
they have been reaping in joy. Well-earned prosperity is now
their share, and what is additionally consoling to them is the fact
that none of their hosts of friends and neighbors who have known
them in their trying years begrudge them the coming in of their
ships. And they could not envy them without the greatest injus-
tice, for they are now, as they have always been, plain, neighborly
and kindly disposed to all.
In Shakesperean phrase, it may have been the tide in Mr.
Neracher's affairs that bore him on to fortune. Whatever it was
he generously and truthfully insists that it was the good influence
and encouragement he received from his noble wife that enabled
him to continue the battle in which he triumphed.
Note.— While this volume was in press Mr. William Neracher passed to his reward,
September 30, 1902.
330 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. MARTIN NEUHAUSEL.
This gentleman is a member of the well known dry goods fir
of Neuhausel Brothers, Toledo, Ohio. He has been a resident
that city since 1858, and also a member of St. Mary's (Germai
parish since the fourth year of its organization. He was bom
Ober Roden, Germany, October 19, 1841, and is the third olde
of a family of five sons and two daughters born to Nicholas ai
Anna Maria (Becker) Neuhausel. The family emigrated to tl
United States^ in 1852, and settled in Baltimore, Maryland. '.
1857 Martin Neuhausel, when a youth of nearly seventee
removed to Toledo, where he secured employment in a bakery, ar
later in a dry goods store.
In 1862, inspired with the patriotic ardor of the day, and desi
ous of aiding in the preservation of the Union, he enlisted as
private in Co. D, 100th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served h
country three years during the War of the Rebellion, and became
non-commissioned ofiScer. At its close he was honorably di
charged. He was granted a pension by the government, but,
1892, he refused longer to accept it, he not needing it. With h
brothers, Nicholas, John F., and George C.. he embarked in tl
dry goods business, in 1866, establishing what is now the olde
and most reliable house in that line of trade in Toledo. During tl
thirty-five years the Messrs. Neuhausel have been prospering
business, fifty-seven other ventures in the same line of trade ha^
either failed or passed out of existence in that city. From the
success, therefore, can be inferred the business ability of tl
Neuhausels, both collectively and individually.
In 1866, in Toledo, Martin Neuhausel was married to Barba
Siegfried. Two children born to them passed away, only to 1
followed by their mother, the date of her death being October 1
1894. October 22, 1895, Mr. Neuhausel was married to Hele
the daughter of the late Benedict Dannemiller, who was one of tl
wealthy pioneer Catholics of the city of Canton and Stark count
Ohio. Mrs. Neuhausel is a most exemplary lady of domestic tast
and refinement. She devotes much of her time and money
charitable and Christian work, her special delight being to he
bring gladness to sorrowing hearts and plenty to homes that ha'
MR. AND MRS. MARTIN NBUHAUSBL.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 331
felt the pinching of poverty. On her second tour of Europe and
the Holy Land she was created Lady of Honor of the Holy House
of Loretto by the Rt. Rev. Thomas Gallucci, Bishop of Loretto,
July 31, 1891. On the occasion of her first tour she received her
pilgrim's diploma April Y, 1889. During these trips she collected
numerous reHcs and souvenirs which, with the medals she received,
constitute a semi-religious museum of curios that is both enter-
taining and instructive.
For over thirty years Martin Neuhausel has been a member of
the German Central Verein of the United States, the local branch
of which in Toledo he has. represented for ten consecutive years as
delegate to the annual conventions. He was among the projectors
of the Catholic Congress for the United States, sessions of which
were held in Baltimore and Chicago. Notwithstanding his business
cares, he has always found time to devote to the furtherance of
Catholic interests, notably those things specially required by both
the diocesan and local authorities.
To gratify a desire to visit the land of his birth, and to see
foreign places of interest, he journeyed thither, in 1876, accom-
panied by his wife. He traveled extensively through Europe,
visited Rome, and returned with the conviction more firmly estab-
lished than ever that there are only two great institutions in the
world, the Catholic Church and the great American Republic, to
both of which he belongs — to the one by faith and baptism, and to
the other by adoption and the ties of a glorious patriotism, in
testimony of the sincerity of which his soldier record may be cited.
Mr. Neuhausel is a man of large business experience and much
information. In manner he is quiet, thoughtful, and philosophical,
speaking little, but in that little saying much and saying it well.
He advises rather than leads. His judgment when followed always
brings success. Hence in association work, as well as in business,
his opinion and advice, freely and cheerfully given, are often asked
for and always respected.
As a representative Catholic of Toledo his record for patriot-
ism, correct principles, honesty and generosity, entitle him to the
high esteem in which he is held by the Catholic people and the
public. It also entitles him to this recognition, which is intended
as a tribute to him personally and as an encouragement to others
to deserve well by right living.
332 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JOHN I. NUNN.
The gentleman whose name introduces this biographica
mention is the Democratic treasurer of Cuyahoga county, ii
which county is situated the metropolis of Ohio, the See city o
the Diocese of Cleveland.
If, according to Thomas Jefiferson, the office seeks the man
and the people, by electing him, attest their high estimate of hi:
worth and fitness, then this mention of Mr. John I. Nunn a;
treasurer of his native county, Cuyahoga, is more than a hint t(
the reader, as to Mr. Nunn's qualifications, popularity, an(
prominence, while it at the same time indicates the fact that goo(
qualities in an individual will not ever remain unnoticed an(
unrewarded by his fellow citizens.
He was born in Cleveland, August 23, 1860, and was then
educated in the common schools and in a business college. Hi
father, Isidore Nunn, a native of Germany, emigrated to th(
United States when he was eighteen years old, and took up hi:
abode in Cleveland in 1850. He was a cabinet maker by trade
but, in 1866, he engaged in the business of undertaking, and
under his tutelage, his son John I. was early habituated to th(
caUing. The young man further qualified himself by a course u
embalming, and his remarkable success has since been thi
measure of his skill and business ability. He is a member of th(
Funeral Directors' Association, of Ohio, has acted as its secretar
for a number of years, and was also its president. He has alway
lent his ability to the advancement of the calling, and his infiueno
has been potent in lifting it above its former status.
Mr. John I. Nunn began his political career, in 1890, b;
accepting the nomination for the office of city councilman fron
the ward in which he lived, the Fifth. Although the ward wa
overwhelmingly of the opposite political faith, Mr. Nuni
triumphed in the election, being the first Democrat ever electe(
in the district. He was re-elected in 1891, a fact which provei
his popularity and paved the way for his being chosen, in 1901, t
fill the important position of county treasurer. He is the firs
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 333
Democrat, for several generations, to hold the office, and he is
the first Catholic to enjoy so important a preferment.
These facts mean no political landslide, but rather excellent
qualities duly appreciated by the public. That Mr. Nunn, from
early youth, has exhibited both an excellent character and marked
ability appears to be generally recognized. Ever industrious, con-
siderate of others, and faithful to his word, his record has not only
invited attention to the increasing creditableness of his career,
but he personally earned, by his correct and open life, the respect
and confidence of his fellow citizens. The puzzle to some is as
to how sectarian prejudice and political bias could be made to
hide themselves in the case of Mr. Nunn. This may be accounted
for in two ways. In the first place, education and experience are
fast dissipating the false notion that Catholics are not to be
trusted ; and, secondly, the good record of the Catholic body, and
especially of many notable individual Catholics, are the best argu-
ments controverting the false witness heretofore borne against
them both unitedly and as individuals. Catholics are the equals of
their fellow citizens in all the avenues leading up to the goal of
good citizenship. They even excel in honesty, morals, intellect,
and loyalty. In these respects, with consistency superadded, the
gentleman here mentioned has always been a shining example,
much to his own credit and to that also of his Catholic
co-religionists.
June 2, 1885, Mr. John I. Nunn was united in marriage
to Miss Mary F. Lenze, a native of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. She
has resided in Cleveland since she was six months old, and has
been educated in the public and parochial schools. Mrs. Nunn is
a lady of no Httle culture, domestic tastes. Christian practice, and
refinement. The social in her life she does not allow to interfere
with the duties becoming to her station, such as the care of her
home and the proper training of her children. These children are
named : Isidore, Alardus, Olga and Wanda. With the advantages
which are theirs, a future of brightness and promise looms up
before them, a prospect which is one of the chief joys of their
parents.
334 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. PATRICK O'BRIEN.
The Church of the Good Shepherd, Toledo, Ohio, has for it
pastor the reverend gentleman whose name captions this sketch
That name is suggestive of religion and patriotism and is befittin|
him who bears it, in that his character and life are in happy accon
with its meaning. One of the mistakes of the Catholic Ban
Shakespeare is the following:
"What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet."
This claim of the Bard of Avon is but a half-truth. The othe
and opposing half-truth is recognized in the fact that, to call a ros^
a rose detracts neither from its sweetness of odor nor its charn
of beauty. It does even more than this, for it corresponds witl
the fitness of things and chimes with the higher harmonies. Th^
Scriptures abound in apt and felicitous appellations designatinj
both men and things, and Catholic Christianity has adhered t(
the good old custom. The Patricks of old Rome were the nobles
.the patricians, just as the O'Briens of Ireland were and are amonj
the most chivalrous and patriotic of the Irish people.
The subject of this mention, a Patrick by nature and by namt
is descended of the Wexford branch of the original O'Brien familj
His father now in his ninety-seventh year, and who lives with hir
in Toledo, was born in the county of Wexford, Ireland, as wer
also his paternal ancestors for generations. Father O'Brien him
self is a Wexford man, for he was born at Piltown, in that count)
February 20, 1844. When less than fourteen years old (1857) hi
parents with their family crossed the Atlantic to America and too
up their abode at Elyria, Lorain county, Ohio. Patrick O'Brie
was a young man in his twenty-second year when he hearkened t
the advice of his friend and spiritual director, the late Father Gris:
to study for the priesthood. Accordingly he was adopted as
student for his diocese by Bishop Rappe and began his studies i
St. Mary's College in 1865. The following year he entered th
diocesan college established at Louisville in Stark county, Ohic
Three years later he passed his examination for the Seminar
rsk.
\M
'^M^)
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 335
which he entered and was ordained priest by Bishop Gilmour
July 21, 1872.
St. Cokimba's Church, Youngstown, Ohio, was his first
mission, in the capacity of curate. He remained there until
September, 1873, when he was appointed to the pastorate of
St. Mary's Church, Rockport, with St. Patrick's of that place and
Holy Family Church, at Parma, as missions. August, 1875, he was
transferred to the Church of the Good Shepherd, Toledo. From
that charge he was appointed. May, 1878, as pastor of the Church
of the Immaculate Conception in the same city. He labored there
during eleven years, and was about to begin the erection of a new
church when the needs of the diocese required that he assume the
pastorate of St. Francis de Sales' Church, also in Toledo. His
next commission made him pastor of St. Patrick's Church, Cleve-
land. There, as elsewhere, he labored very successfully, especially
in the building of the parish school at a cost of $60,000, on which
he succeeded in paying half that sum. As a fund to apply on the
parish obligations and current expenses he collected, during his
pastorate, the large sum of about $80,000.
While in charge of St. Patrick's he was given leave of absence
to go on a pilgrimage to Rome and Palestine. He made the
pilgrimage, but the fatigue and exposure incident to the journey
so shattered his health that on his return he felt himself unequal
to hard work. Requesting an appointment to a smaller parish, he
was given St. Ann's, Fremont, from which, after four years, he
was again commissioned as pastor of the Church of the Good
Shepherd, Toledo. He is now (1900) erecting there a new church
of splendid proportions at a cost of about $80,000, including fur-
nishings, which he hopes to have completed September, 1901.
As above said, Father O'Brien is what his name imphes. He
unites patriotism with religion. He loves the land of his birth,
and equally dear to him is the land of his adoption. Free America,
because it is the Irland it Mickla, the "Greater Ireland" of his
hopes and the hopes of his race. He gave proof of this in June,
1862, by enlisting as a private in Company H, 103rd O. V. I., at
Elyria. He weighed only 110 lbs. at the time (which weight he
has since more than doubled), and passed the physician's examina-
tion; but in camp on the "Heights" in Cleveland the regimental
336 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
surgeon, Dr. Griswold, rejected him on the ground of physical di
ability. He was therefore never "mustered in," although he wo
the "blue." His comrades in Toledo, knowing the cause of I.
rejection, complimented his patriotism by unanimously electir
him an honorary member of Ford Post, G. A. R., in that cit
Although his calling is that of peace he is for righteous war
defense of the rights of the peoples of all lands, especially h
native land. His paternal grandfather fought for Ireland and tl
right in the Wexford Rebellion of 1798, and his earlier ancesto
with equal ardor opposed the foe for centuries. Hence, being
warrior poet, he sings as follows :
"Methinks I see the dawn of freedom's day,
My blood grows warm for the coming fray;
Methinks I hear the tramp of armed men
Go marching home to fight the foe again.
Hark ! the sound of war falls on my ear,
I see the bay'net bright and glist'ning spear;
There waves the Green and Gold, and there the Red,
There lie the groaning wounded and the dead.
The smoking cannons roar and sabers flash,
As on the Irish soldiers madly dash.
Hark! now I hear the Celtic battle-cry —
Erin-Go-Bragh rings out from earth to sky.
I look again! behold the British run —
The Green has conquered and the field is won."
In the pulpit, on the rostrum, and in the field of letters, tl
"Poet Priest of the Maumee" is a man of force, eloquence, ar
charm of diction. Besides his lectures on temperance and othi
subjects, delivered in many of the principal cities of the countr
he is also a writer of verse. He has written about one hundrt
poems, all of which have appeared in print, while many of the
justify greater pretentions than are his. His muse at times soa
high ; then again it is tender, as witness the following stanza fro;
his "Emerald Isle," which will happily terminate this sketch :
"Sweet Erin, loveliest Isle of all the seas.
Whose hills are fanned by many an od'rous breeze,
Whose shores are kissed around by ocean wave,
A blooming garden, but fair freedom's grave.
Land of my birth, I sing a song of thee.
Though far away, thou art still dear to me —
Dear as when I trod thy carpet green,
And loved to dwell upon each lovely scene."
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 337
MR. PATRICK C. O'BRIEN.
This biographical outline tells of a man who, at this writing
(1901), might be mayor of Cleveland had he given his consent and
accepted the voluntary assurances and loyal support of his per-
sonal and political admirers. The demands of his large business,
however, and the advice of near friends, helped in dissuading him
from allowing his name to be presented as a candidate; but the
chiefest reason was his retiring disposition and native modesty.
Mr. P. C. O'Brien is one of Cleveland's leading wholesale
and retail dealers in fancy groceries, fruits, etc. He is president
of the Retail Grocers' Association, is a member of the Board of
Trade, and occupies a position of great prominence among the
business men. He is a native of the city of Cleveland, was edu-
cated in St. John's Cathedral school, and is now about middle life.
When a youth he began his career as a clerk in his uncle's grocery
house. In 1880 he embarked in business for himself. Since then
prosperity has attended his efforts in the commercial line.
Besides his strong, practical instincts, native enterprise, and
thorough acquaintance with the requirements of his calling, he
possesses an agreeableness and ease of manner which make him
friends. Geniality is an element of his Celtic nature, and honesty
is a virtue of his religion. Combined and active in him, they have
been factors in his success, and clearly account for how widely and
favorably he is known both politically, socially, and in business.
He served two terms in the city council, making a record for
honesty, ability, and fixedness of purpose. He is a member of the
councilmanic board of St. John's Cathedral, and is united with his
co-religionists in the various patriotic and fraternal organizations.
His devotedness and strict adherence to the Catholic faith of
his ancestors show his loyalty to principle and to truth. His
faithfulness to his religion is not the mere weakness of following
in a beaten path, nor yet is it a blind persistence begotten of pre-
conceived notions. On the contrary, it is an intellectual convic-
tion, aided by grace, his enlightened judgment holding that the
Catholic faith ever makes for real religion and pure morals, both
338 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
of which are essentials to a happy home, to well-ordered societ
and to stable government among men.
While material things, among which are classed mone
temporal success, and business prominence, may count for muc
in their sphere, they yet do not make the real man, nor are th«
the chief good. They do, however, afford opportunities f(
development, and serve to unlock gates that preclude many, bi
they do not outweigh other considerations in the estimation (
Mr. O'Brien. And this is why he is mentioned here as a reputab
citizen of conviction and principle, and as a man whose judgmen
conscience, and proper estimate of things place the spiritual an
moral above the temporal. He wisely estimates men more c
account of character than for their worldly possessions.
As a plain, every-day business man who presumes not, an
assumes nothing beyond his ability and just deserts, Mr. P. (
O'Brien is regarded as the kind of man to merit attention and 1
set an example worthy of emulation not alone in business and i
society, but especially in the home life where a man's real qualiti*
•can be neither hidden nor misunderstood. The home, besid(
laeing the cornerstone of the State, is the dearest, most sacre
spot on earth to human kind. It is not only the maker but als
the tester of character. The home, while it ennobles the man,
-also the measurer of his qualities. The best place to judge a ma
is in his home amidst those whom he is expected to love ar
-cherish. Thus measured and weighed, the subject of this mentic
will not be found wanting, but will tip high the scale-pan in whic
-an unusual weight has been placed to test him.
"Formed on the good old plan,
A true and brave and downright honest man!
He blows no trumpet in the market place,
Nor in the church, with hypocritic face
Supplies with cant the lack of Christian grace;
Loathing pretence, he does with cheerful will
What others talk of, while their hands are still.''
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 339
MR. JOHN O'CONNOR.
The late Mr. John O'Connor, of Lima, Ohio, was among the
most prominent and reputable citizens of that city and section of
the State. He died July 21, 1898, after a residence in Lima of
nearly forty-five years, and was sincerely mourned by a large circle
of friends and acquaintances — much larger, in fact, than usually
bear testimony to the good qualities of many public men. For
upward of thirty years he was a member of the councilmanic
board of the Church of St. Rose. He was also a member of the
city council for sixteen years, and filled out an unexpired term of
the mayoralty.
He was born, November 27, 1835, in Abbeyfeale, a city built on
the line which divides the counties of Kerry and Limerick, Ireland.
The Christian name of his father was Patrick. He died in Ireland
about 1848. The maiden name of his mother was Margaret
McCoy. After the death of her husband she emigrated to this
country, where she resided many years before passing away. She
was the old style of mother. Her life was truly Christian. She
met difificulties with resolution and equanimity, and on her lips
was constantly the prayer, "Thanks be to God." This prayer
she ejaculated, as well when troubles and crosses pressed hard
upon her as when the things she desired were brought about. She
lived in the continued presence of a Providence which she
regarded as regulating all things for the best. Her faith was
strong and her life was the practical exemplification of it.
When John O'Connor was a youth of seventeen, sturdy,
bright, and promising, he emigrated to this country, 1852, and
landed in the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. Not liking the
southern climate, he worked his way north, and the following
winter he found himself in Lima, Ohio. Shortly thereafter he got
work in the new railroad shops, which were then of great conse-
quence to that budding little city. He continued in the shops until
he became foreman, which position he held until 1869, when he
retired to embark in a new enterprise.
Some nine years previous he conceived the notion of estab-
lishing a general insurance and steamship agency. After his daily
work in the shops, he devoted his evenings to seeking trade for his
340 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
pet project. He continued in this way until he found, in 18
that the business which he had worked up, and which was C(
stantly increasing, required that his whole time be devoted to
He did give it his whole time after that, and it was not long ui
the time of others also, as assistants, was required to transact
volume of business which came to him. He thus, through hon
efifort, perseverance, and tact, established and developed an ager
second to none in northern Ohio.
In 1858, May 29, Mr. John O'Connor was married, in Lir
to Miss Sarah O'Connell, a native of Putnam county, Ohio. S
was baptized in the old church at Glandorf, in that coun
Fourteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. O'Connor, seven
whom are living, four sons and three daughters. Of the so
John S., and Daniel F., both married, are conducting the busin
established by their father; Rev. Joseph is completing his theo
gical course at Innsbruck, Austria, where he was ordained pri(
July 26, 1902, and Bernard is in his second year of philosophy
St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland, where he also is p
paring himself for the priesthood. Of the daughters, Margaret 1
become Mrs. T. A. Collins, of Lima, and Mary and Rose ;
living with their mother in the old homestead.
The accompanying portrait of Mr. O'Connor gives a go
idea of his character. He had a high sense of obligation and
honor. Hence he was a Catholic noted for faith and works. I
friendships also were sincere and loyal. His genuine Americ
spirit but served to heighten his desire for the freedom of his nat
land. He favored the organization of his countrymen looking
unity and patriotism. While docile in church matters and obedii
to ecclesiastical authority, he was nevertheless so decided
character, having a mind of his own, that he never could be a m
follower. He was immovable when convinced that he was rig
and the whole force of his nature backed his judgment. Thi
who knew him knew his principles. His flag was always at
mast-head and beneath its folds he was ever ready to do or die.
The respect and applause of his fellow citizens were alw;
his in consequence of his openness and honesty of character, c
because of his faithfulness to his convictions and to what
considered to be his duty and the right. His name will long
held in honored remembrance in Lima.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 341
MR. JOHN JOSEPH O'DONNELL.
The gentleman whose career and prominent quahties are
attempted to be outHned here, and who, with his excellent wife,
appears pictorially on the adjoining page, is a leading member of
Holy Name parish, Cleveland, Ohio, and is the general superin-
tendent of the far-famed Newburg Rod Mills in that city. He is
the second of five children born to Cornelius and Anastasia
(McCarthy) O'Donnell, in Cleveland, his natal day having been
June 17, 1861.
Both his parents were born in the county of Limerick, Ireland.
When little past childhood, his mother was brought to the United
States. His father emigrated when he was a young man. The
destiny that shapes all human ends caused their matrimonial union
in Cleveland, where all their children were born, and from which
city, during the war of the rebellion, the elder O'Donnell enlisted
in the 10th Ohio Infantry-. He was mortally wounded in battle
and died in a field hospital in 1864. Left a widow, Mrs. O'Donnell
redoubled her efforts in behalf of her children. How well she
succeeded is best told by the excellent record of each. At present
she is living in quiet and comfort with her son, who is the subject
of this article.
Mr. John Joseph O'Donnell was educated in the local Catholic
schools. His was not a finished education, for the needs of the
family required that at an early age he quit school and go to work.
Experiencing some of the vicissitudes which are the lot of most
young men who, unaided, start out in life to work at anything they
can get to do, young O'Donnell finally became a rod mill hand in
one of the Newburg iron mills. This was in 1884. So apt, prompt,
and faithful was he in his calling that in less than three years he had
partial charge of the mill. Two years later he had full charge of
what was then known as the new rod mill, the first and best of its
kind, both in rhachinery and appliances, in this or any other
country. The second of the new mills was also placed in his charge
in 1894. He is now (1900) the general superintendent of the vast
iron manufacturing interests represented by the Newburg Rod
Mills, and is equal to the great responsibilty of his position.
The years intervening between 1884 and 1900, sixteen in all,
342 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
tell the story of his remarkable progress, and evidence the splendi
natural qualities of the man. Those qualities include not onl
inherited and acquired skill in mechanics, the tactful and considei
ate handling of large numbers of men, and great executivenes;
but also an acquaintance with a department of chemistry, a degre
of expert knowledge, and a practical efficiency in a line of busines
requiring talents of a high order.
During his career he has amassed quite a competency; ba
since money is not always the measure of a man, the subject nee
not be further considered. In his dealings with his fellows and i
the social order his character is easily determined. In thes
respects, Mr. J. J. O'Donnell has the credit of possessing a
agreeable disposition, a generous nature, and a large-heartednes
which are necessary traits in the true Christian gentlemar
Religion receives practical reverence from him ; Christian educj
tion commands his generous support ; and as a Catholic he respecl
authority, promotes good order, and defends liberty of conscienc
for every man.
Mr. John Joseph O'Donnell was married, in 1885, to Mis
Catherine A. McDonough, who, like himself, is a native c
Cleveland^ Ohio. She is a lady of refinement, possesses not a fe^
accomplishments, and evidences rare good sense. Their happ
domestic life breathes the spirit of the true Catholic home.
The confirmation of what has just been said is the high esteer
in which Mr. O'Donnell is held by his neighbors and friends, an
by the public. His worth as a successful man — a man who b
industry and faithfulness has advanced himself from the positio
of a mill hand to his present prominence and affluence — i
generally recognized. The talents and ability which are his, an
the good practical uses to which he has always devoted then
tell of his judgment and constancy, and present him as a man c
business tact and energy. With the wreath of success entwinin
his brow, and with large means at his command, he yet remains th
agreeable, approachable sort of man that he was when his struggle
to make a living were hardest, and when he had little in the wa
of backing or influence to sustain him. These are the best tes1
of character. Mr. O'Donnell has been measured by these tes1
and has been found worthy, four-square, and reliable.
MR. PATRICK O'MARA AND SONS.
Rev. Patrick H. John F.
Daniel. William T.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 343
MR. PATRICK O'MARA.
No account of the pioneer Catholics of the Diocese of Cleve-
land would be complete without some mention of the late Mr.
Patrick O'Mara, who was a member of the Cathedral parish from
1849 until his death, which occurred January 3, 1896. He was a
native of the county Tipperary, Ireland, having been born in the
Diocese of Cashel and Emly in the year 1819. In the early forties
he was married to Miss Honora Moroney, of the county of Limer-
ick, and, in 1846, they bade farewell to the Emerald Isle to seek
their fortunes in America.
Arriving in this country, Patrick O'Mara located in Chicago,
but three years later removed to Cleveland. There he readily
found employment at his trade, that of cooper, and, after a few
years' service as a journeyman, he embarked in the cooperage
business for himself. Being both a skillful and honest workman
his wares found a ready sale, and he soon built up a prosperous
business, which he had occasion to enlarge from time to time.
About 1886, feeling the weight of years, he retired from the active
management of his affairs, and spent the remainder of his life in
quiet and the strictest practice of his religion.
To Patrick and Honora O'Mara eleven children were bom.
Of these two sons and one daughter are still living in Cleveland.
One son was the Rev. Patrick H. O'Mara, who was curate at
the church of St. John the Evangelist, Delphos, Ohio, and
who died in St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, October
22, 1888. His remains are buried in St. John's Cemetery, Cleve-
land. Father O'Mara was born in Chicago, Illinois, February 22,
1852. He was educated at Louisville College, Stark county, Ohio,
and in St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland. Bishop Gil-
mour ordained him priest July 5, 18Y7. He was pastor of St.
Mary's Church, Hudson, having also charge of the missions at
Cuyahoga Falls and Peninsula. He labored there from shortly
after his ordination till July 5, 1881, when he was transferred to
become assistant at St. Mary's Church, Tiffin. Six months there-
after he was made assistant at St. Columba's Church, Youngstown,
when, after one year, be was appointed assistant at St. John's
Church, Delphos. In September, 1888, he was seized with his last
344 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
illness. Another son, Mr. William T. O'Mara, is a resident of
Cleveland, and is engaged in the oil business. The surviving
daughter is Miss Jennie H., who lives with her brother, William T.
All his life the elder O'Mara was a faithful and consistent
Catholic. He was a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and
of the Father Mathew Temperance Society, having taken the
pledge from Father Mathew himself. This pledge he never forgot,
though in the observance of it he displayed neither boastfulness
nor fanaticism. Having pledged his honor he regarded it as simple
duty to keep the promise, and in this matter, as in the dispensation
of his charity, he had no desire to herald to the world his honesty
of purpose or his good deeds.
To the young men of the present, as well as of future genera-
tions, the lives of such men as Patrick O'Mara are to be com-
mended as worthy of emulation. His plain, unassuming manner,
his industrious and frugal habits, his strict integrity and inherent
love of justice made him a man to be esteemed, admired and
trusted. In all his dealings he was never accused of dishonesty.
In his social relations he was never charged with assuming any
undue importance. While strict and determined he was never
harsh or severe. His genial Irish nature yielded readily and
gracefully to the refining and mellowing influences of religion.
He was most charitable in view of human weakness, and while
decided in condemning wrong he was ever inclined to hope for
better things on the part of wrong-doers. In his activity as a
member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, he was brought face
to face with lessons which taught him to be merciful and charitable
and to judge no man harshly, not even when the man was his own
greatest enemy. He learned to know the extent of human weak-
ness, and with that knowledge his charity increased.
His wife died in 1893, but in his grief he found solace in the
knowledge that their separation was to be of short duration. The
vacant chair in the family circle appealed strongly to his human
instincts, but, possessing an abiding faith in God's promises, he
never doubted that they would be reunited in the life to come,
where, with a purer and holier love than this earth can know, their
union will be for all eternity.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 345
MR. THOMAS O'NEIL.
There are few old-time dwellers in the city of Toledo, Ohio,
who are more prominent or better respected than the gentleman
here mentioned. His prominence is not because of marked ability
or great wealth, nor is the high esteem in which he is held to be
accounted for on any "holier than thou" assumption, or any high
plea in the line of special perfections. He is, and he has never laid
claim to being more than, an average man. Those who know him
best and for years have felt the public pulse regarding him are of
the opinion that his honesty of speech and record and his genial
light-heartedness and generosity are among the things that, during
the past half a century, have made him the subject of kind remark
and the object of pleasant and hearty greeting by all his fellow
citizens.
From the beginning of his career in Toledo, 1850, he has been
a member of St. Francis de Sales' Church, the first Catholic church
in that city, and he has helped to the extent of his financial ability
in the founding and developing of all the other parishes which, to
the number of eleven, evidence the growth of Catholicity in
"The Future Great City." He has always done his part cheerfully
and promptly, and few will be found to question his representative
character or his record as a plain, unassuming Catholic gentleman.
Mr. Thomas O'Neil was born at Asketon on the Shannon
river, in the county of Limerick, Ireland, May 12, 1830. He was
in his twentieth year, 1850, when he embarked for the United
States. He arrived in Toledo on his birthday. In obedience to his
active temperament and industrious habits he was scarcely settled
in his adopted city when he engaged in business, the manufacture
and sale of boots and shoes, which he continued for twenty-six
consecutive years. His next venture was in the bakery line, in
which he remained during fourteen years, making forty years of
active business life.
Mr. O'Neil was married January 10, 1853, by the late Father
Foley, the third resident pastor in Toledo, to Miss Mary Geelan,
who, like himself, was born in Ireland. She yet remains the faithful
companion of her husband and the guardian of the family home.*
•Since this work has been in press. Mrs. O'Neil departed this lite December 15, 1901.
346 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
To their union were born three children : John, Derunda, who
passed away August 34:, 1873, and Thomas J.
Among the things of note in Mr. O'Neil's career it might be
mentioned that he was first lieutenant in the Shields Guards, a
noted Irish-American military company that flourished in Toledo,
in 1856, and for several years after. Not a few of the members did
vaHant deeds for the Union in the war of 1861-65. In 1858 Mr.
O'Neil was elected treasurer of the city of Toledo. In 1863
Governor Tod appointed him captain of the recruiting station in
Toledo, where he made an excellent record in his efforts for the
successful prosecution of the war. Under the administration of
President Johnson he was appointed city mail agent, which respon-
sible position he filled with credit to himself and the government.
In 1882 he was elected infirmary director, and was twice re-
elected to the same office, his last term ending in 1890. Since then
he has declined to be active in either business or political afifairs,
contenting himself in caring for his property in the interests of his
children.
Now in his seventieth year, he is well preserved, active, and
just as cheerful, jovial and companionable as when his tide of life
was at its flood, and when sociability, music and merry-making
were the chief sources of his good times. He loves much and is
beloved by many.
MR. FRANK ORLIKOWSKI.
The prime mover and most liberal contributor for the advance-
ment of the educational and material interests of St. Stanislas'
(Polish) parish, Cleveland, Ohio, is the gentleman whose name
heads this sketch. He has been the friend, adviser and helper of
the priests who have been in charge of the congregation since its
organization, and he continues to maintain the same helpful
relation to the Rev. Benedict Rosinski, who is now the pastor.
Donations to the church of bells, statues, and contributions
amounting to several thousand dollars stand to his credit, while
his zeal and generosity appear to suffer no diminution. Both a
love for the Catholic religion and concern for the proper training
of his children, as well as of those of others, are the explanation of
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 347
the deep interest he takes in supporting his parish church and
schools. He knows what rehgion means to a man in the world,
and he has a proper estimate of what Catholic training accom-
plishes for the youth of this day and generation. Hence he is a
model Christian father and citizen, and is a credit to his
co-religionists.
Mr. Frank Orlikowski was born December 15, 1851, in
Kosmin, county of Berent, Bezirk of Danzig (Gdansk), province of
West Prussia, Poland. He came to the United States, in 1873, and
located in Erie, Pennsylvania. In 1875 he removed to Cleveland,
where, with the exception of a few years, he has since resided. His
calling is that of a contractor, which for years he has followed with
great success. He was married, in 1882, in St. Peter's Church,
Cleveland, to Miss Mary Wagner, who was a member of that
parish. She is a native of Zempelburg, Germany, and inherits the
sterling domestic and practical qualities of her people. Mr. and
Mrs. Orlikowski have been blessed with a family of ten children,
but have suffered the loss of four of them : Frank, Mary, Cedonia,
and Jennie having passed away. The remaining six are : Apolonia,
Julia, Leo, August, Hedwig, and Eloise. Although ranking
among the wealthier families, the Orlikowskis are plain and
practical, and prize education and domestic traits higher than th^^
mere forms of modern social life.
In the business world Mr. Orlikowski is the peer of his fellows.
Although he was full grown when he came to America, and having
to learn the language and customs of the country under great
difficulties, he yet made progress year by year until he became a
representative man, not alone among his people, but also among
all classes of his fellow citizens. Possessing ability, industry, and
honesty, and manifesting under all circumstances an energy that
never flags, he has forged to the front and has always kept his
record clear and his name unspotted. His kindly nature and
generous impulses have occasioned him losses sufficient to make
others comfortable, but he never repines. He maintains his spirit
in sweet content on all occasions, even when unjustly criticised,
and he exhibits a cheerfulness and considerateness which make him
friends. Fortunately organized, and possessing rare qualities, he
has been selected as a proper person to have his name, and that of
his family, inscribed in this History of the Diocese of Cleveland.
348 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
PROF. EDMUND H. OSTHAUS.
Among those of distinction in the city of Toledo, Ohio, and
who reflect no Httle credit on the Catholic body, the gentleman
here mentioned might be cited as occupying no second place.
This is not that he carries his religion on his coat-front, or lays
claim to being any better Christian than the humblest Catholic,
but it is because his culture and training enable him to emphasize
in his life the attractiveness of simplicity and the Christian courtesy
which the Mother Church inspires.
Not merely in Toledo, but in the wider field of the Central
States, and, indeed, also in the art centers of the East, Professor
Osthaus is well and favorably known as a successful painter of
animals. In landscape work, too, where animal life appears prom-
inent, and in drawing from nature, he has acquired such a pro-
ficiency as to be adjudged a master.
Having on several occasions exhibited his pictures in New
York City, specimens of his work are to be found among the noted
art collections there. A fine sample of his skill — a large painting
of a group of ten dogs — is an attractive feature at the Aldine, in
Philadelphia, where it has been much admired by art critics.
Another fine one, very large, is in the richly appointed home of
Mr. Frank J. Cheney, of Toledo, Ohio. In the rooms of the
Society of Western Artists, also in that city, of which Mr. Osthaus
is vice-president, may be seen an excellent sample of his landscape
work. And in the halls of his alma mater, at Diisseldorf, Germany,
is a splendid drawing from life, which was purchased from him by
the Academy when he graduated. This was in recognition of his
talent and as a practical diploma for his efficiency in his art.
Edmund H. Osthaus was born at Hildesheim, near Hanover,
Germany, August 5, 1858. His mother's maiden name was Miss
Henrietta Hunneman. She was born in London, England, and
resides with him in Toledo. His father's Christian name was
Henry. He joined the fortunes of Maximillian in Mexico, and
when the cause failed he came with his family to the United States.
He died in Toledo in 1900. To join his father's family the subject
of this sketch emigrated from Germany in 1882.
Professor Osthaus received his elementary training at the
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 349
gymnasium in his native place. Afterwards he spent seven years
in the Royal Academy at Diisseldorf, where he studied painting
and drawing exclusively. Later he devoted one year to special
work under the noted animal painter, Prof. Christian Kroener.
Gifted by nature, and with his talents developed by study and
practical work, it can be said of him that he has few superiors in
his special department of art.
Since 1886 he has made his home in Toledo, where he soon
became noted in art circles. He is president of the Tile Club, the
local art society there, and was principal of the Art School which
Petroleum V. Nasby (D. R. Locke) established in 1886. He
remained in charge of that institution till 1893, when the
demands for his brush became so great that he was obliged to
resign. These demands yet continue, and appear to be on the
increase.
While in charge of the Art School in Toledo, Professor
Osthaus gave a very fine account of himself, not alone in that he
was faithful but also because he was capable. He knew what
was demanded in the line of teaching, and he was capable both
as a teacher himself and as principal of the school. He gave the
institution his best efiforts and won for it high standing and more
than local fame. From being one of the institutions of which the
citizens of Toledo were proud, its reputation spread until it was
tri-state in extent. With its fame and high repute was deservedly
linked the name of Mr. Osthaus, a fact which brought him to the
notice of many art-lovers and persons who desired special work
from his brush. As has been said above, these demands for his
special line of art work continue to multiply.
Prosperity and fame have very deservedly been the portion
of Prof. Osthaus, but sorrow, too, has entered his life. In 1894
death snatched from him his beloved wife, who was Miss Charlotte
Becker, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Having no children he is alone
with the past, and now looks to religion and to his art for that
surcease so grateful and so necessary to a cultured and refined
nature.
350 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. CHRISTIAN PARSCH.
Mr. Christian Parsch, of St. Mary's parish, Elyria, Loraii
county, Ohio, a gentleman well and favorably known in thi
northern part of the state, is the son of Mathias Peter and Eliza
beth (Hammacher) Parsch, natives of Germany. He was bom a
Lammersdorf, near Cologne, on the Rhine, January 17, 1833
When nine years old, he was taken by his parents, with the othe
members of the family, to this country. They located in Buffalo
New York, where they remained three years, after which the;
removed to Cleveland, Ohio.
In the former city, as well as in Cleveland, the subject of thi
sketch was given some schooling, after which he began to lean
the trade of a ship carpenter. He continued at his trade until hi
twenty-fourth year, 1857, when he removed to Elyria in the hopi
of bettering his condition. At first he worked at anything hi
could get to do, such as caring for and driving horses, laboring
and doing carpenter work on the railroad. So averse to him a
the time was Dame Fortune that on April 25, 1859, when he wa
married to Miss Catharine Herbert, a young lady born and reare(
in Ireland, he was, as he himself said, "by no means very rich ii
this world's goods." Fortunately he had good credit, because h'
was industrious and possessed CathoHc honesty.
In his own simple, trustful way he thought with Mulock tha
"Even poverty may become a jest, met cheerfully like an honest
hard-featured, hard-handed friend whose rough face is often kindly
and whose harsh grasp makes one feel the strength of one's own."
That a good wife is a gift from the Lord has been verified ii
the case of Mr. Christian Parsch. From the day of his marriage
his good wife aiding, he began to prosper. He engaged in con
tracting, in a small way, and later embarked in the lumber busi
ness. He is now, and for thirty years has been, the most extensiv
lumber dealer and manufacturer of building material in Elyria, hi
annual business averaging more than one hundred thousani
dollars.
To Christian and Catherine Parsch were born nine children
three sons and three daughters are living. The sons are marrid
and are named William Thomas, John Christian, and Pete
MR. AND MRS. CHRISTIAN PARSCH.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 351
Alexander Parsch. All are engaged in business with their father.
In 1899 Mr. Christian Parsch divided his business among his three
sons and organized the Parsch Lumber Company. Mr. William
Thomas Parsch was made treasurer and manager; Mr. John
Christian Parsch, secretary ; and Mr. Peter Alexander Parsch, sup-
erintendent. The daughters are: Annie Elizabeth, now Mrs.
Joseph Tyler, of Elyria ; Mary Jane, who is Mrs. Cornelius Esker,
also of Elyria ; and Lucy Magdalena, now Mrs. James McCarvel, of
Elyria. Mr. and Mrs. McCarvel live with the parents of the
latter in their beautiful home on Broad street.
"The Parsch boys," as the sons of Mr. Christian Parsch are
familiarly called in Elyria, have practical control of the business
of the Parsch Lumber Company, under the wise direction of their
father. They are loyal to him, respect his judgment and wishes,
and are anxious to relieve him of much of the burden which falls
to his lot as head of the company. They act in harmony with one
another and exhibit a beautiful picture of family unity and com-
munity of interests. Their example is most forceful for good
among their fellow citizens.
Mr. Christian Parsch has always been a liberal contributor to
the Church, to charity, and for the furtherance of Catholic
education. For twenty-two consecutive years he was a member
of the councilmanic board of St. Mary's Church. He but recently
resigned. On laying down his burden the congregation presented
him with a gold-headed cane in recognition of his long years of
faithful service, and elected his son, William Thomas Parsch, to
take his father's place.
The entire family has been doing church work in one depart-
ment or another for many years, principally in the choir where
the musical talents of some of the members are a great aid in the
public service. They are respected not alone by Catholics, but
also by the entire community. Through them the Catholic faith
has been brought to the considerate attention of many, who, with-
out the example of the Parsches, might have continued to disre-
gard or asperse it through ignorance. Thus again is the truth
attested that each, even the humblest, hath his measure of influence
for good.
352 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. NICHOLAS PFEIL.
The reverend rector of St. Peter's Church, Cleveland, Oh
is the second youngest of a family of seven bom to Lawrence a
the late Frances (Reinhart) Pfeil, of Qeveland, whose ancesto
in Franconia, received the faith from St. Kilian in the sever
century. His natal day was November 4, 1859. He was baptiz
by the late Father Obermiiller in old St. Mary's Church, t
first Catholic church in Cleveland. When seven years old he v
sent to St. Mary's parochial school. In 1870 he was transferred
St. Stephen's parish school, his parents having become memb(
of that congregation. He there became an altar boy, made his fi
Holy Communion, and was confirmed in his thirteenth year
the same bishop who afterward ordained him priest, the Rt. R(
Richard Gilmour. Besides his early spiritual training he al
received his first instructions in Latin from the then pastor, who
now rector of St. Stephen's, the Rev. Casimir Reichlin. After G
and his parents he acknowledges his indebtedness to him for 1
compliance with his vocation to the priesthood. In 1873
entered Canisius (Jesuit) College, Buffalo, New York, and th(
graduated in the classics, in 1878. In the autumn of that year
was received into St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland, a
after a five years' course was ordained priest July 1, 1883.
The field of Father Pfeil's first labors as a priest was at Hu
bard, Trumbull county, Ohio, where, during about seven montl
he had temporary charge of St. Patrick's congregation. He w
next transferred to Avon and missions in Lorain county. He tht
exercised the holy ministry during thirteen years and three montl
The missions at North Ridgeville, Sheffield, and North Dover w£
also his to attend during nearly four and one-half years, a h
which occasioned him each Sunday to say Mass in widely separat
places. Nevertheless he missed but one Sunday during that tin
and the cause was a severe illness. May 10, 1897, Bishop Hor
mann appointed him to the rectorate of St. Peter's Church, Cle^
land, where he continues his labors.
The reverend rector of St. Peter's is almost a recluse in t
midst of the activity and multiplied cares inseparable from t
management of a large congregation in a great city. In a sense
1^ ^ ^*^ "^K. ":^^^^«h5
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 353
is in the world but not of it. Being a student and lover of nature
he delights in solitude and enjoys looking through created things
up to the Creator. Those haunts of nature, the silent woods and
the grassy dells, invite him. There he would have fewer distrac-
tions and, though in the midst of teeming life, would feel more
alone with Him who called all things into being.
Father Pfeil is a man of unquestioned ability. His mind is
mature and strong and is equal to weighing questions with exact-
ness. His countenance indicates this. While wearing a certain
sharpness of expression, it is nevertheless mellowed by the tender-
ness and gentleness of his nature. Duty and the virtue of
obedience enable him to accommodate himself to situations. He
was content to labor in the rural districts for over thirteen years,
and now he is equally at home amid the bustle and excitement of
city life. He loves music, is more than an amateur in the art, and
chants the songs of the Church most acceptably. Eloquence and
happy phraseology are at his command, but he does not always
use them. With simplest speech and plainest diction he lucidly
expounds the Gospel to his people. Avoiding all dogmatism, he
appeals to their better nature, touches the minor chord, and thus
leads them to Him who has said: "Child, give me thy heart, I
desire no more."
The very happy combination of natural and supernatural
virtues in Father Pfeil impresses all who know him with the
resultant simplicity of his life, the affability of his manner, and the
beauty and charm of his character, both as a man and as a priest.
As a native of the diocese he is deeply interested in its welfare and
is devoting his life to its advancement. To many of the facts
recounted in this History he is a witness, and touching its some-
what trying career of more than half a century of calm and storm
he would, in the language of another, feelingly say that its
"Life is one; and in its warp and woof
There runs a thread of gold that glitters fair,
And sometimes in the pattern shows most sweet
Where there are somber colors. It is true
That we have wept. But oh, this thread of gold.
We would not have it tarnish! Let us turn
Oft and look back upon the wondrous web,
And when it shineth sometimes we shall know
That memory is possession."
364 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. AND MRS. LAWRENCE PFEIL.
From the standpoints of many years of residence in the Se
city of the Diocese of Cleveland ; from their worth and loyalty ;
pioneer Catholics and citizens; and in view of their having bee
persons of more than average merit in parochial and domest:
life, Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Pfeil well deserve generous mentio
in this work.
Mr. Pfeil was born in the village of Konigheim, Baden, Jun
11, 1820. Shortly after completing his twenty-fourth year h
was married to Miss Frances Reinhart, of Gissigheim, in the sam
country. She was born December 14, 1822, and at the time c
her death, which took place in Cleveland, Ohio, September l:
1900, she lacked but a few months of completing her seventj
eighth year. Her husband survives her and is now in his eight)
third year.
In October, 1847, with their first and only child born to ther
in their native land, Mr. and Mrs. Pfeil emigrated to the Unite
States and selected Cleveland as their home. Besides their fin
born, whose name is Charles Joseph, and who resides in Clevelanc
six other children, all residents of that city, were added to th
family in the persons of Mary Regina, who is Mrs. Charles ^
Faulhaber; John Joseph; William; Frances, who is Mrs. George I
Schrafif ; the Rev. Nicholas Pfeil, rector of St. Peter's Church; an
the Rev. Aloysius Pfeil, who is a priest of the Society of Jesui
Having drank in the Christian example set them in the beautifi
lives of their parents the entire family as individuals are goo
citizens and exemplary Catholics. It would be difficult to fin
anywhere a family better united, more devoted to their pre
genitors, or deserving of, and receiving, higher esteem than th
sons and daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Pfeil.
Of Mrs. Pfeil it has been said that she was charity itself. Sh
was Job-like in her patience. In life she was prayerful, modes
and unassuming, and in her home she was a model. Her husban
rivalled her in his religious and domestic traits. He is qui«
and generous, having always been a friend and liberal supporte
of every work undertaken for the advancement of religion, charit]
and education. Both have been humble, and strictly religious, cor
MR. AND MRS. LAWRENCE PFBIL
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 355
stant in prayer, and always intent on setting good example, not
only to their children, but also to those among whom they lived.
"Their meek litanies went up to Heaven,
That all who suffered might have comfort given."
Having arrived in Cleveland the year of the establishment of
the diocese, Mr. and Mrs. Pfeil were to the fore when the most
difficult part of the work had to be undertaken, and when money
for church building was hardest to get. Shortly afterward, when
its first bishop made his initial visit to the comparatively few
Catholics in the then unpretentious city of Cleveland, they will-
ingly and humbly took their place among the pioneer Catholics
who received him. As the years sped on they helped, to the
extent of their ability, in every Catholic enterprise undertaken in
Cleveland, notably in the building of St. John's Cathedral, St.
Peter's Church, of which one of their reverend sons is now rector,
also St. Mary's and St. Stephen's churches, all of which yet rank
high among the ecclesiastical edifices of the See city of the diocese.
The elder Pfeil was employed as a skilled mechanic in those
days, but he later engaged in garden farming on a large scale on
his own land, situated in the outskirts of Cleveland. Mrs. Pfeil
was a most excellent and industrious woman who never allowed
temporal cares to interfere with the performance of her religious
duties. An incident in her life, and which is believed to have had
great influence on a portion of her family, was her joining, through
the advice and influence of the late Father Obermuller, the reli-
gious society known as the Third Order of St. Francis. The obli-
gation attaching at that time to membership in the Order was the
daily recital of a special office. This obligation she faithfully dis-
charged during forty years, or until about the time of her death.
She was so delighted with spiritual things, and so full of love for
God and His Church that, on becoming a Tertiary, she made a
solemn promise that if blest with any more children she would
consecrate them to His service in religion. Strange to relate, her
two sons, born afterward, became priests of their own motion and
without any suggestion from her whatsoever. She firmly believed,
and so announced it before her death, that the vocations of her
two sons to the priesthood were gifts from God according to her
intentions and holy resolves.
356 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. AUGUSTINE PILLIOD.
From his advent to Henry county, Ohio, 1854, until his deat
which occurred at the town of Fremont, Indiana, June 11, 189
a period of forty-three years, Mr. Augustine PilHod was the mo
respected and best loved of the Catholic laity of northwestei
Ohio. The first bishop of Cleveland, the Rt. Rev. Amadei
Rappe, was his greatest admirer and fastest friend.
Mr. Pilliod was bom in the village of Bouronne, Province
Alsace, France. July 17, 1824. With the other members of tl
family he was brought to this country when three years old by Y
parents, who took up their abode in Stark county, Ohio, towai
the close of 1827. He was given the training afiforded by tl
log school of the time. When old enough to labor he worked (
a farm and later learned the trade of a tanner and partly that
millwright, which included an acquaintance with practical millin
In his thirtieth year, and after considerable experience, he removi
to what is now the city of Napoleon, Henry county, Ohio, the riv
and canal prospects there pointing to better business opportunitif
It was then a village of no great pretentions and was known
"Henry," but was later called Napoleon in compliment to IVl
Pilliod's oldest son, who was named Louis Napoleon, the boj
grandfather having served as a soldier under the first great emper
of that name in France.
Mr, Pilliod evidenced his faith in the future of the village 1
erecting there, 1856, a grist-mill, in which he did a large businei
His milling trade brought him in contact with the farmers ai
citizens generally who, noting his reliability and many excelle
qualities, including his strict honesty, elected him treasurer of t
county. He was re-elected, and a third time elected, and each tir
he discharged the duties of his office most faithfully and to t
entire satisfaction of the people. In that year also (1856) his gre
admirer and friend, Bishop Rappe, appealed to him to do som
thing in the way of providing a church for the eight Catho
families then residing in the place. These famiUes were too po
to do anything other than contribute a little labor toward t
undertaking. Mr. Pilliod complied with the bishop's request am
aided by an Irishman named James Brennan, and by some libei
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 357
Protestants, the first Catholic church in the county, a wooden
building twenty-four by thirty feet, was erected at a cost of $500.
It was called St. Augustine's in honor of the Christian name of its
chief benefactor.
February 15, 1858, at the town of Defiance, Ohio, Mr.
Pilliod was married to Miss Emily Harris, the late Father Wester-
holt, of Cleveland, performing the ceremony. Mrs. Pilliod was
bom at Genesee Flats in the State of New York, April 23, 1837.
She yet survives her husband and is living in comfort with the
unmarried portion of her family at Swanton, Fulton county. For
many years past Swanton has been the home of the Pilliods. Two
of the sons, Louis N. and Frederick E., are now the chief manufac-
turers and business men of the town. The remains of the late Mr.
Pilliod are buried in the Catholic cemetery at that place, a thing
most fitting since he was a liberal contributor to the work of
erecting the mission church of St. Richard at Swanton. Besides
the two sons above mentioned there were bom to Mr. and Mrs.
Pilliod five other children. They are : Augustine Peter, Charles
Joseph, Marie Eugenia, Cornelia Josephine, and Henry James.
The elder Pilliod was the first member of the family to pass away,
The exigencies of the milling and grain business in which
Augustine Pilliod was extensively engaged required him as early
as 1864 to remove to Waterville in Lucas county. The same
demands of business impelled him, 1869, to remove to the city of
Toledo, where he operated a large flour mill during the period of
twelve years. While in that city he served three terms in the city
council, and two terms as treasurer of the school board. In these
positions his honesty and faithfulness attested his worth and ability,
showing him to be a man in every way worthy of public confidence.
That he was a Catholic was universally known, and his faith was
respected on account of his many public virtues.
From 1881 to 1883 he lived and conducted business at
Holgate, in Henry county, after which he went back to Napoleon
where he remained until 1885, when he removed to Swanton in
Fulton county. While there in the line of his business calling he
was elected Mayor of the town. He removed, 1890, to Fremont,
Indiana, where he operated a grain elevator and flour mill. He
continued in business there for seven years or until his death, 1897.
358 IN THE DIOCESE OF CLEVELAND.
THE REV. LEONARD J. PLUMANNS.
The young priest is nearly always an object of absorb
interest during his first years in missionary work, and the youti
pastor of St. Patrick's Church, Wellington, Ohio, and missions
no exception to this unwritten rule. While as practical ;
capable as might be expected for a man of his years and experier
sympathy and appreciation have begotten such a degree of
operation on the part of his people and the public as to ins
beyond question the ultimate success of his labors. Attendi
strictly to the business of his calling and avoiding everyth:
foreign thereto, the public has not been slow in taking notice
his course.
As an endorsement of that course, and in testimony of
high personal esteem in which he is held, a majority of the lead:
non-Catholic citizens of Wellington enclosed to him a well-fil
purse with the following letter:
Wellington, Ohio, April 2, 190C
Rev. Father Plumanns, Wellington, Ohio.
Kind Sir: — Enclosed please find a small token which is p
sented to you by friends in appreciation of the position you h
taken during the present election. You will also find enclose
list of the ones who cheerfully, willingly in fact, insisted on help
along such a good cause. It seems that it was done so sudde
that one has to think twice to be sure that he is not dreami
Had such a cause as this been circulated, and the enclosed list
before the remaining good friends in this community, where wo
the amount have ended? For myself, I wish to say that you
held by more than the majority of the people of Wellington a
gentleman who deserves the highest praise and credit for
manner in which you have conducted yourself as regards
silence you have observed both in public and in your sanctu
while the present campaign has been waxing warm.
Trusting that the enclosed will in no way embarrass you, ;
that it will be received as cheerfully as it is given, I remain.
Very sincerely,
L. H. Wadswor
Father Plumanns was appointed pastor at Wellington, Ji
26, 1898. In the short space of two years he has not only :
■i-)
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^
^ij^,.;^^
THE REV. LEONARD J. PLUMANNS
^j^.r
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 359
proved his church and missions, paying off all the debts on the
same, but also, as the above vi^ould indicate, established himself in
the respect and confidence of the community.
He was born in the city of Eupen, Prussia, March 16, 1874,
and is the oldest of three children born to Peter and Hubertina
(Willems) Plumanns, who yet reside there. He was educated in
the Eupen gymnasivim, and finished his course in 1892. He came
to America in the autumn of that year, and entered St. Mary's
Seminary, Cincinnati, where he was ordained priest by Archbishop
Elder, June 17, 1897.
Having studied for the Galveston diocese, his first appoint-
ment was to the Cathedral Church, at Galveston, Texas; after
which he devoted four months to mission work among the negroes
of that city. The southern climate not agreeing with his health,
already impaired by years of study and confinement, he was
accepted by the Bishop of Cleveland, in 1898, with the sanction of
the Bishop of Galveston, and was commissioned as above.
Father Plumanns preaches fluently in English, having mas-
tered the language since his advent to this country. He is quite
at home among his books during his spare hours, and delights in
philosophical and philological studies.
His talent and aptitude for language is quite notable, while in
all respects he is far in advance of what might be looked for in a
man of only twenty-six years of age. Already a useful and zealous
priest, it is not unreasonable to expect greater things of him by the
time middle life shall have matured him in learning and wise
counsels.
What is most assuring touching his future usefulness is his
good will and the readiness and zeal with which he undertakes
those tasks in the line of his calling. The work of attending to
his numerous mission churches is both laborious and trying, but
he faithfully and cheerfully performs his duty, actuated not only
by the higher obligations but also through a loyalty to his
superiors, which it is his delight to always exhibit. His constancy
has had a good effect on his people, and, with his other good
qualities, has endeared him to them. Their appreciation of his
services is an encouragement to the young priest who in turn
redoubles his efforts to act well his part, not only in the interests
of rehgion, but also in those avenues where he can be of assistance
to the people placed in his charge.
360 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JOHN P. PUETZ.
In the village of Gillenbeuren, Germany, December 20, 18S3
was born to John P. and Mary (Scheid) Puetz a son who, in
baptism, was given the Christian name of his father. That son ii
now (1900) the pastor of St. Joseph's (German) Church, Tififin
Ohio, and is the second of the family that became a priest. Thf
other was the Rev. J. M. Puetz, who died in Tififin, in 1897, and
who labored there with his brother in St. Joseph's parish.
The family emigrated to this country in 1846, and took up
their abode at Ridgeville, Ohio. The elder Puetz died there, 1864,
and his wife died at French Creek, Ohio, in 1872. The year of his
father's death, the subject of this sketch, having made some studies,
was received into St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland,
He pursued his classical studies there and later took up his divinitj
course. After spending over eight years in that institution, he was
ordained priest by Bishop Rappe, June 26, 1865.
Father Puetz was at once commissioned as pastor of St.
Joseph's (German) Church, at Gallon, Crawford county, Ohio, with
St. Joseph's, Crestline, as a mission attached. He remained there
four years, and, in 1869, was transferred to Sherman, Huron
county. He was placed, 1875, in charge of St. Anthony's Church,
Milan, Erie county, which he left, June, 1885, after more than ten
years of faithful service. Becoming assistant to his brother, the
late Rev. J. M. Puetz, in TiflSn, he remained such eleven years. He
next took up the work of managing the parish as pastor. His
labors in Tiffin are in part evidenced by the splendid parish school
and a commodious rectory, both of which were built, he assisting
his deceased reverend brother in the work.
While not without capacity to handle temporalities, it is,
nevertheless, in the domain of the spiritual and educational that
Rev. John P. Puetz has always found himself, so to speak, at home.
His moral temperament and mental trend incline him to the
ministry of the Word, and he has ever rejoiced in the work oi
instructing the youth. Constant, zealous, gentle, patient, his
tactful, quiet methods smack of the wisdom of the serpent and the
harmlessness of the dove, qualities which have endeared him to
Father Puetz died December 27, 1902, while this volume was In press.
-■»- T^fi-.i^^ IS l\W V-w" -"I' '^r?J. Si's
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 361
the people, and which are most potent as aids in the work of his
calling as a teacher and exempliiier of the beauties of religion.
Rev. John P. Puetz is not an orator in the modern sense of the
term. Although speaking several languages, it is not given to him
to gratify the ear by declaiming choice phrases or high sounding
periods. But in the higher and better sense he is an orator, in that
he instructs and pleases the intellect by the reasonableness and
force of what he says. His discourses have a basis of common
sense, are practical, go direct to the point, and afiford matter for
reflection. Wherever he has ministered, his people have been well
instructed, a thing of the highest importance to both old and
young, and, indeed, to himself also, for those that instruct many
unto justice shall shine as stars in the firmament.
It is fortunate for the great mass of mankind that the Blessed
Master, in the Beatitudes, takes more note of the little things in
life which, like the blossoms in the spring time, imperceptibly
grow in excellence, beauty, and sweetness, until they are worthy of
being ranked among the virtues, than He does of those towering
qualities and shining talents so much admired by men. It was in
the ranks of the mediocre, the doers of the little things, that Jesus
discovered those whom He called blessed. It was there He found
the meek, the clean of heart, the merciful, the patient in suffering,
the poor in spirit, the peacemakers, and those who loved justice.
And it is in the ranks of such that the simplest amongst us will
intuitively look for the good and faithful priest, for the every-day
teacher and worker whom we have every reason to call blessed in
his life and blessed in his good deeds done in his calling in the
interests of his flock.
THE REV. JAMES J. QUINN.
The pastor of St. Catherine's Church, Cleveland, the Rev.
James J. Quinn, was born at Ballindine, county of Mayo, Ireland,
January 10, 1860. When five days old he was baptized in the
parish church of his native place by his cousin, the Rev. John
McCullagh. The elder Quinn was named Thomas, and his wife's
maiden name was Miss Julia Gibbons McKeague. Besides the
subject of this sketch two other sons of the family became priests,
the Rev. John Quinn, of Chesterville, Ontario, Canada, and the
362 A HISTORY OF CATHO'LIOITY
Rev. Thomas F. Quinn, of Summitville, in the diocese of Cleve
land. One sister, known in religion as Sister Juliana, is a membe
of the Ursuline Community, in Cleveland. Eleven of his cousin
have been priests in this country, some of whom are yet living
Five others of his cousins are priests in Ireland, and four mor
are in the sisterhoods there. The Quinn family has long beei
known for its devotion to the Church.
When a lad of ten J. J. Quinn began his preparatory studie
in his native place. In 18Y3 he entered St. Jarlath's College
Tuam, where, until he finished his course, he was the recipien
of first premium in all his classes. Having finished his philosoph;
he entered the Irish College in Paris, France, where he completei
his theological course, winning thereby the recommendation fo
a post-graduate term in the Catholic University. This he hai
to forgo, because the Archbishop had work for him to do as pro
fessor in St. Jarlath's College, Tuam. In due time he was ordaine(
priest in the Tuam Cathedral by Archbishop McEvilly, Augus
20, 1882.
Father Quinn's first appointment was in the capacity c
curate at Clifden, county of Galway, where he exercised his hoi;
office from immediately after ordination until August, 1884,
period of two years. He was then appointed parish priest at Clar
Island, county of Mayo, where he labored from August, 1884
till August, 1887. He built three parochial schools there. Fron
Clare Island he was transferred to the pastorate of Achill, in thi
same county. He remained there until June, 1888, when, having
received, May 3rd of that year, a letter from Bishop Gilmou
inviting him to the Diocese of Cleveland and promising him ;
place, he took his e:treat and came to the United States.
Arriving in Cleveland, he was accepted for the diocese Jum
28, 1888, and was commissioned as one of the assistant pastors o
the Cathedral. He ministered in the Cathedral parish until th
following September, when he received his appointment as assis
tant to the pastor of St. Columba's Church, Youngstown, Ohio
After nearly three years he was named for the pastorate o
St. Mary's Church, Wakeman. He labored in that field fron
August 23, 1891, till November 12, 1893, when he was appointee
assistant to the pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church
Cleveland. This was at the expressed wish of Mgr. Thorpe, thi
A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY 363
pastor, and with the Bishop's knowledge that he, Father Quinn,
desired the change. September 16, 1897, he was transferred to
become pastor of St. Mary's Church, Norwalk. January 7, 1900,
he was given his present charge.
The Rev. James J. Quinn is known in the Diocese of Cleve-
land as a priest of great zeal and many labors. Religion commands
and receives his best efforts, and the several congregations that
have been blessed by his ministrations bear testimony to his con-
suming desire and efforts to subserve their spiritual and temporal
well-being. Fortunately his fine physique is well in keeping with
his ardor for the cause of religion. Another happy feature is his
generous nature, which pre-supposes outspokenness and candor.
These latter are so pronounced in him as to verge on what the
Poet Dryden calls "honest bluntness," which is the evidence of a
nature that loves directness and sincerity and dislikes studied
reserve and surface civility.
Father Quinn's directness in speech and act is not uncivil;
his candor is not uncouth. He is what he is, and he does not wish
to appear other than as he is. His position as a priest and as a
leader of his people is well defined, and everyone concerned knows
where, when, and how to find him. Such a man having such char-
acteristics will wear well. He will bear acquaintance, and in the
long run he will be remembered and loved as well for his honest
nature as for his kindly deeds.
In the line of deeds of kindness perhaps his charity for the
poor and his love for the children of his congregation are the
most marked. He would have the needs of the former supplied,
and it is his desire that the little ones of his fiock have tidy, happy
homes as aids in the development of their nature and in the forma-
tion of good habits and good character. He strongly advises
these requirements, and is not backward in insisting that his
people make their homes the garden spots in the lives of their
children. He holds to it as a truth that unless the home abounds
in those things which reHgion inculcates, the mission of the
CathoHc school, and even of the Church itself, will be shorn of
much of its fruit. He insists that not only must the Church
and the school be a unit in the work of making good citizens, but
the home also must be made an ally in the good cause.
364 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. SILVAN REBHOLZ.
The Rev. Silvan Rebholz,* pastor of St. Mary's (German"
Church, Sandusky, Ohio, was born at Kreenheinstetten, in the
district of Messkirch, Baden, Germany, May 8, 1844. From hi;
earliest childhood he manifested a desire for the ecclesiastical state
his pastor and parents piously and nobly encouraging his ambitior
in that direction.
After his preparatory education he began his humanities
prosecuting his studies at Freiburg, Baden; Lyons, France
Einsiedeln and Chur, Switzerland; and at Munich, Bavaria. H<
was ordained priest at Feldkirch, Austria, February 12, 1870, b}
Bishop Amberg. Having been ordained for the Diocese o:
Cleveland, he soon set out for the field of his future labors, arriving
in Cleveland June 4, 1870.
Father Rebholz at once received his first appointment. It was
to St. Peter's Church, Cleveland, where he ministered in the
capacity of assistant priest until August 1, 1872. He was nexl
given temporary charge of St. Joseph's Church, Fremont, whert
he remained until the first of the following December. On thai
date, December 1, 1872, he was transferred to the pastorate o:
St. Martin's Church, Liverpool, Ohio. There he labored untl
March 7, 1885. While pastor of St. Martin's he had charge also o;
the mission church at Medina from 1872 to 1876. From March 7
1885, to March 22, 1891, he was pastor of St. Joseph's Church
Randolph, with the church at Rootstown also in his charge. His
next removal made him the pastor of St. Peter's, North Ridgeville
where he remained until his advancement to his present important
charge, April 2 (Easter Sunday), 1893.
One of the aims of Father Rebholz is to keep the members o
his congregation as one family, touching not only the faith but alsc
important parochial temporal and educational interests. In thii
respect he has met with success, as there are few parishes in th(
diocese better united or more prosperous. He has made it i
practice to preach in English at the Mass for the children eacl
Sunday, his object being to accustom the rising generation tc
♦since this work has been In press Father Rebholz departed this life, April 7, 190]
■when he was In the fifty-seventh year of hla age.
X jy-
-^ / j , THE REV. SILVAN I^EBHOLZ
^^-'Jf^li^ ^,^<^^^^^ «v.-^,^^
4. >^, ^^^•^^'^^^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 365
know their religion as taught in the language of the country, and
to better equip them for every-day life among their fellow citizens.
The pastor of St. Mary's is a plain speaker, an instructor
rather than an orator. This means that he is a matter-of-fact man.
He is as zealous as he is practical, and his works are the proof. He
is deeply interested in both the religious and secular training of
the children of the parish. He gives them every attention,
believing them to be the stay of the Church of the future when
properly trained.
The Rev. Silvan Rebholz.is blessed with a gentle, kindly
nature. He possesses "a sharp mind in a velvet sheath." His likes
and dislikes are strong, but he is stronger, in that he never allows
himself to be influenced by them in the performance of his duty.
In the management of parish afifairs he evinces both tact and
ability. He has always succeeded in raising the necessary funds for
the extensive improvements he has everywhere made in church
and parish buildings. He employs kindness, persuasion and deter-
mination. The humorous side of his nature often serves him in
good stead on occasions when it is necessary to render palatable
some unpleasant truths that must be told, and to take the sting
out of rebukes that must be administered. Although sometimes
misunderstood, owing to, a certain impetuosity of his character, he
seldom fails to gain his point and to even make those his warmest
friends who at first failed to appreciate the wisdom of his course
and the honesty of his intentions. If his quickness of temper
ofifends, his humility seldom fails to reconcile. Accordingly he is
often heard to say : "It does no harm to take oiif somebody's head,
so long as you know how to put it on again." All who know him
attest the fact that he is a true priest and thoroughly imbued with
the spirit of the Church. He plainly and openly argues his side of
all his difficulties with his superiors, and then submits to the deci-
sion without murmuring or any showing of disloyalty. To this
the late Bishop Gilmour testified in writing, as follows : "If all my
priests had been as loyal to me as you have been, my death would
be a happy one."
This loyalty of Father Rebholz to his bishop is an evidence of
his faithfulness to his trusts, and of his unfailing love and friend-
ship as well for his parishioners as for his hosts of personal friends.
He has always been true and falithful to his superiors.
366 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. CASIMIR REICHLIN.
The reverend rector of St. Stephen's Church, Cleveland, Ohio,
was born December 16, 1843, in the picturesque village of Steiner-
berg, Switzerland. Much of his religious sentiments and also his
trend of thought were inspired by the solemn grandeur and beauty
of his surroundings in youth, for Steinerberg, besides cherishing
the faith, overlooks Lake Lowerz in the celebrated Schwyzer Thai,
and has the Mython and Mt. Rigi within easy view.
Father Reichlin's ancestors were among the most illustrious
Swiss families, and to this day their descendants display their coat
of arms after the custom of the most ancient of Helvetia's clans.
He is the youngest of a family of four sons, one of whom, like
himself, became a priest and is now the honored pastor at Steiner-
berg. His mother died two years after his birth, and like the
devoted women who bore Samuel, Augustin, and Pius IX, she con-
secrated him before birth to the service of the Almighty. After
God he owes the grace of his vocation to the pious intentions and
prayers of his good mother, and to the special fostering interest
taken in him by the parish priest of his native place.
He made his studies at Einsiedeln, Engelberg, and Brigg,
Switzerland. At Engelberg, under the tutelage of the Benedic-
tines, he held the positions of editor and cartoonist on the college
paper, and was a favorite among his fellows because of his wit and
humor and his cheerful and agreeable disposition. As a young
man he was deeply religious withal, and when Bishop Rappe passed
through Switzerland, in 1868, in quest of students for his far-away
diocese in America, young Reichlin was among the first to oiifer
himself. He was joyfully accepted by Cleveland's first bishop.
After completing his humanities and part of his theology he
emigrated to the United States, in 1868, when he was less than
twenty-four years of age. He at once entered St. Mary's Theologi-
cal Seminary, Cleveland, where he spent nearly two years prepar-
ing himself for Holy Orders. April 19, 1870, he was ordained
priest by Bishop Luers, of Ft. Wayne, who was more than once
called, during the interregnum (1870-2) to ordain and confirm in
the diocese.
Father Reichlin's present charge was his first appointment,
IN NORTHERN OiHIO. 367
the date having been May 1, 1870. At this writing (1900) he is in
the thirtieth year of his pastorate in St. Stephen's. He built the
present beautiful Church of St. Stephen, the parish school, and also
the rectory, which improvements represent a large outlay of
money, and attest the remarkable success that has attended his
labors in the temporal order, just as the spiritual and educational
standing of his large congregation evidences his priestly zeal and
ability. He was appointed rector in January, 1889, a distinction he
has well earned, and which is most becoming to him. There are
few priests in the Diocese of Cleveland whose ecclesiastical char-
acter shines brighter, whose labors are performed with more
assiduity and zeal, and whose gentleness and earnestness in good
works have been requited by better results both spiritually and
temporally.
The qualities most prominent in the character of Father
Reichlin are tolerance, mildness of manner, gentleness, and cour-
teousness. Paradoxically opposed to these is his enquiring and
analytical mind. That mind weighs all matters, whether temporal
or spiritual, in the most exact way, and apparently inclines him to
the strictest rulings, but with all severity left out when he comes to
announce or carry out his decisions. It is because of this seeming
contrariety that some find it difficult to fully appreciate the com-
bination of qualities which render him admirable and remarkable,
and at the same time unique. A brother priest, who knows him
intimately, thus describes him :
"Father Reichlin is one of God's noblemen. In temperament
he is a true Swiss, always cheerful and in good humor. He is fond
of an innocent joke, and will readily lend a helping hand to play it.
His fund of funny anecdotes is as inexhaustible as is the knack and
good judgment with which he tells them. In repartee he is as
ready-witted as the proverbial Irishman. Tall in figure, ascetical
in look, venerable in appearance, he commands respect by his very
presence, which is intensely priestly."
Hard work has never had any terrors for the rector of St.
Stephen's. During all the years of his ministry he has been as
noted for work as was the late Bishop Rappe. He takes a special
delight in visiting the sick and instructing the children. He has
never entrusted the instruction of his first communion classes to
any other priest, and even today he would not feel that he had
368 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
performed his duty were he to delegate the work to another. He
is a most excellent catechist and instructor, and the result of his
capacity and efforts in these respects is a well-instructed and thor-
oughly Catholic young people.
Father Reichlin is in no sense showy or demonstrative. He
would not be a mere orator or an autocrat if he could. He disHkes
anything not openly straightforward and directly aiming for the
accomplishment of an end. The trend of his logical mind is to see
that end and to devise and adopt means for its attainment if a
good one. His every act is for a purpose in the line of his calling,
and the aim of his life is to do good and to merit the reward prom-
ised to a faithful servant.
THE REV. CHARLES REICHLIN.
The Rev. Charles Reichlin, pastor of St. Joseph's Church,
Lorain, Ohio, was born at Steinerberg, Canton of Schwyz,
Switzerland, December 10, 1863. His parents were Zeno and
Catherine (Abegg) Reichlin, both of whom died in their native
country in 1894. After his preparatory training his parents, with
the kind and indispensable help of his uncle, the Rev. Casimir
Reichlin, of Cleveland, procured for him the advantages of a
thorough classical education, including the French and German
languages, in the colleges at Engelberg and Feldkirch. Having
finished his course, in 1881, he devoted one year to philosophy,
and then emigrated to the United States. On application he was
received into the Diocese of Cleveland. Entering the Seminary,
he devoted another year to the study of philosophy, and three to
theology. At the expiration of that time he was ready for ordina-
tion, which great event in his life took place December 18, 1886.
The late Bishop Gilmour conferred the Sacrament.
From January 22, 1887, until January 1, 1896, he was pastor
of St. Michael's Church, Kelley's Island, Ohio, with the mission
Church of Mater Dolorosa, at Put-in-Bay Island, also in his charge.
He was appointed to organize St. Joseph's parish, Lorain, January
1, 1896, where he has continued to labor successfully as its pastor
for the past five years. He built the present chapel-school struc-
ture at a cost of $20,000, showing by his excellent management
that he possesses good business talent and executive ability. The
'k
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IWS)
'%
IN NORTHERN OH.1IO. 369
building is commodious, architecturally presentable, and econo-
mical, and shows much practicability.
The encouraging condition of his comparatively new parish,
both religiously, educationally and financially, is to a degree an
evidence of his energy, earnestness and character. He is zealous
for religion and for the best interests of his parishioners. Labor
and he are not unacquainted. His efforts are rendered most effec-
tive through purpose and system. He succeeds as a director and
leader because he asks his people to comply with no requirements
that he himself does not cheerfully submit to. He counsels har-
mony, but he first makes harmony possible, attainable and lasting
through reasonable regulations and the recognition of the fact
that he is dealing with rational beings — men who have accepted,
and whom he labors to keep in touch with, sound Christian
principles.
This statement of facts more than hints at the methods of a
young priest who knows human nature well, who measures the
influence of kindness, and who correctly estimates the great power
not only of active charity but also of that higher charity which
enables men to love one another for God's sake. In such a priest
the true ecclesiastical spirit abides, and it is the hope and prayer
of all who wish well for the future of the Church in the United
States that the number of such be multiplied.
The pastor of St. Joseph's is well informed for his years. His
linguistic talents and his energy are appreciated by his people,
while his ability as a pulpit orator is one of the sources of his suc-
cess both in spiritual as well as in temporal things. A large
number of admirers among all classes in Lorain delight to ascribe
to him the characteristics of the true priest, while his own admir-
ing parishioners, who come in contact with him in his daily walks
and labors, declare him to be of such mental and moral make-up
as to bestir, both by example and teaching, the best there is in
them to greatest activity in the line of Christian duty. Hence in
the words of another they might appropriately address him thus :
"God did anoint thee with His odorous oil.
To wrestle, not to reign; and He assigns
All thy tears over, like pure crystallines,
For younger fellow-workers of the soil
To wear for amulets."
370 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. BENEDICT ROSINSKI.
The pastor of St. Stanislas' (Polish) Church, Clevelanc
Ohio, is the Rev. Benedict Rosinski, who is now in his physic;
prime at forty years of age. He was born at Mogilno, Province (
Posen, Poland, March 20, 1860. His father, Silvester Rosinski, :
yet a well preserved man of about sixty-five years, but his mothe
a most estimable woman, whose maiden name was Carolin
Lewandowska, has been called to her reward.
Father Rosinski attained his majority before leaving h:
native country. His primary education was acquired in the loc;
schools and at his mother's knee. He later took private instruc
tions in Latin from one of the local priests and, when properl
prepared, he entered the gymnasium. After a nine years' course i
classics he graduated with high honors from the Royal College
at Gnesen and Kulm. In 1882, persisting in his ecclesiastic;
aspirations, he emigrated to the United States, went direct t
Cleveland, and was received into the diocese by Bishop Gilmoui
After a five and one-half years' course in philosophy and theolog
in St. Mary's Seminary he was ordained priest December 17, 188'
Of the fifteen years of his priestly career thus far (1902), h
spent two years and nine months at St. Mary's (German) Churcl
Sandusky ; two years at St. Adalbert's (Polish) Church, Berea ; an
since June 8, 1892, he has been pastor of St. Stanislas' (Polisl
Church, Cleveland, which church is among the largest and mo;
important in the diocese. Gifted by nature with a large amount (
self-possession, coolness, and energy, and manifesting on a
occasions the zeal and devotion of the true priest, it is neither unb(
coming nor unduly flattering to here recognize his usefulness an
intellectual worth. Because of his linguistic talent and opportun
ties he has cultivated an acquaintance not only with the Polls
language, which is native to him, but also with the Englisl
Bohemian, German, French, and Latin tongues. He preaches i
three of these, reads and converses in all of them, and therefoi
enjoys superior advantages not alone in dealing with the peop
but also and especially in the cultivation of literature and tl
exercise of his marked oratorical ability.
To one not conversant with the language in which Fath(
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 371
Rosinski may be called on to speak, it is, of course, difficult, as was
our case on hearing him, to exactly define the quality or peculiar
character of his oratory. It is certain, however, that he is both
fluent, earnest, and commanding, and quite happy in poise and
gesture. But what withal is of far greater merit, and possibly
of very much more influence for good among Father Rosinski's
people, is his unassuming manner, his marked modesty, and his
plainness of garb and speech. To possess great ability and not
appear in a boastful sense to know it is said to be a very happy
thing. It at least makes for harmony and peace, since it disarms
envy and jealousy and at the same time presents a picture the
mind delights to dwell upon.
In the exercise of his daily duties in the midst of his flock
Father Rosinski is always the same sort of man. He is attentive
and perseveres, but is never demonstrative. He is a follower of
St. Paul in zeal and of St. Luke in the gentleness of his ministra-
tions. And even in the performance of the unpleasant duty of
caring for temporalities, which unfortunately most priests in this
country are called upon to accomplish, he is not without the merit
of laboring with good results looking to the payment of large
parochial obligations incurred by another. Of the $100,000 of
indebtedness which as pastor he inherited in St. Stanislas' parish,
he has succeeded in paying off half of it. At Berea, too, where he
found $1,500 of a debt, he not only paid it off in less than twenty-
two months, but also purchased and paid for $1,500 worth of vest-
ments. Besides these evidences of his ability in handling tempor-
alities, he built a fine school that cost $16,000, all of which, except
$4,000, he paid in the less than two years of his ministry there, and
all this with only 200 families in the congregation. He is, therefore,
a man of intellectual and business parts who devotes his life and
talents to doing the work of the Master. Like St. Paul he labors
in season and out of season. Nothing deters. Hard work or
opposition has no terrors for him. To him
"The glory is not in the task, but in
The doing it for God."
372 A HISTORY OF CATHOLUCITY
MR. GEORGE RUDGE.
From evidence of family records and tradition it is lean
that the Rudges settled in England in the eleventh century, i
that they had estates in Worcestershire and Herefordshire. ]
George Rudge, of Youngstown, Ohio, the subject of this sket
is a member of that ancient family. He was born February 6, 18
on one of his grandfather's farms, in the parish of Linton, He
fordshire. He is the oldest of twelve children.
His father intended him to follow the calling of a physici
as he had a cousin in that profession with more than a local rept
tion, and a good practice in the town of Ross on Wye, the home
John Kyrle, Pope's "Man of Ross." For some reason Geoi
formed a dislike for the cousin, and objected to being articled
five years, as was the general custom, before entering one of
London or Edinburgh hospitals. It was then decided that
should be placed with a linen and woolen draper, in the town
Ross, with whom he remained for several years and then went
London. The business, however, was not to his liking. He \
continually longing for the green fields and the happy freedom
country life. A brother had gone to America ; he thought seriou
of following him. ,
March 4, 1852, George Rudge was married to Miss J:
Stock, of Berrow, Worcestershire. Mrs. Rudge was bom Ji
8, 1831, on a farm occupied by her ancestors for several gene
tions, and situated in what was known in early days as Malvi
Chase, the scene of many severe conflicts during the Wars of
Roses. Immediately after their marriage, Mr. Rudge and
bride departed for the United States, where they joined 1
Tames Rudge, in Ohio, the April following. Together the broth
purchased a farm in Boardman, Mahoning county, where tl
resided for about fifteen years.
Having been brought up in the Church of England, "Ev
gelicals," Mr. and Mrs. Rudge joined the Episcopal Church
Boardman Centre. Later, during the absence of a minister, 1
Rudge was Ucensed by Bishop Mcllvaine as lay reader, with
proviso that he was never to read controversial sermons. Tl
had made the acquaintance of a family of rather high-church t
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 373
dencies from whom they frequently borrowed books which Mr.
Rudge read to his wife during the long winter evenings. As
forbidden fruit is always sweetest, he read to her all the contro-
versial works he could obtain, and also the writings of some of
the leaders of the Oxford Movement, 1833. These readings
gradually turned their minds into a new train of thought. For a
time the ideas of a via media, and a branch of the Catholic Church,
as advocated by some of the authors, appeared plausible, but, after
praying for the grace of light to discern the truth, they felt that no
church, holding such contradictory and questionable fundamental
teachings, and taught by persons equal in authority, could be the
True Church. Mr. Rudge's meditations led him to conclude that
the Catholic Church must be the True Church. If the Episcopal
was a branch of the Catholic Church, it had long since been cut
ofif from the parent stem, and was consequently a dead branch.
Through the kindness of a Catholic man, working for them,
they obtained a few books, the first Catholic works they had ever
read, which impressed them very favorably. In the autumn of
1863 Mr. Rudge was in Youngstown and obtained an introduction
to the late Rev. E. M. O'Callaghan, with whom he had a very
enjoyable visit. It was agreed that at an appointed time he should
return and bring Mrs. Rudge with him. After several more
visits to their dear friend and instructor, the baptism of Mr. and
Mrs. Rudge, vdth their six children, all up to that time bom to
them, was arranged for. Accordingly, before High Mass on
Sunday, June 24, 1864, in St. Columba's Church, it being the
first Mass celebrated in the then new church, the entire Rudge
family were received into the true fold.
Because of the distance from church and school, Mr. Rudge
removed to Youngstown in October, 1866. After engaging
temporarily in different pursuits, he made a start in the real estate
business, which was promising at that time. He also organized
two building and loan societies, of which he was secretary until
they were satisfactorily dissolved and the shares of stock all
redeemed. The city of Youngstown having erected water works,
in 1870, the trustees invited him to become their secretary,
in which position he remained for fifteen years. On severing his
connection with the board, Mr. Rudge and his son Edgar opened
a real estate, fire insurance and steamship agency. He continued
374 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
active in that business until 1893, when he retired in favor of h
son, devoting his time to looking after his own private afifairs ar
superintending and beautifying Calvary Cemetery, in which 1
takes great interest.
Mr. and Mrs. Rudge have been blessed with nine childre
six boys and three girls, and are also the grandparents of twent;
one children, nineteen of whom are living. One of their sons di«
in infancy; another joined the Society of Jesus and was ordaine
priest August 27, 1899; others, including the oldest daughte
married and settled in Youngstown, and the remaining tw
daughters became nuns in the Ursuline Convent in that city, or
of whom died after ten years spent in religion. George Rudg
now in his seventy-eighth year, gives the evidence of having live
a correct and beautiful life. He loves his family with a true father
heart, and is beloved in return by each member of it. This after 2
is the best test of a man.
Mr. and Mrs. George Rudge have enjoyed perfect conten
ment of soul since the day when it was vouchsafed to them 1
know the truth. At no time since then has their faith falterei
nor has the hold which religion gained on their souls bee
loosened either by any act of theirs or of others. In keeping wil
the pious exclamation : "Too late have I known Thee," and half i
generously blaming themselves, their humility in self-chidin
suggests the Hues of Mrs. Norton :
"It may be God, who saw our careless life,
Not sinful, yet not blameless
(Since all we thought of, in our youth's bright May
Was but the coming joy from day to day),
Hath blotted out all joy tO' bid us learn
That this is not our ho'me, and make us turn
From the enchanted earth, where much was given,
To higher aims and a forgotten heaven,
Through a knowledge of the Truth."
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 375
MR. ANTHONY RUFFING.
Mr. Anthony Ruffing, the leading dry goods merchant of
Bellevue, Ohio, and the most prominent Catholic in that city, was
born, at Bismarck, Huron county, in the same State, April 8, 1840.
His father, Joseph Ruffing, was one of the early pioneers of that
section. Emigrating from Germany, the elder Ruffing purchased
some land and set about clearing it not only from debt but also
from the natural obstructions to cultivation. As his children grew
up they aided him in the work.
The subject of this biography divided his time between study
in the log school and work on the farm. When he was in his
seventeenth year, 1856, he removed to Bellevue to take a clerk-
ship. He continued in that capacity for eight years, or until 1865,
when, with the money he had saved, he embarked in the dry goods
business for himself. It is true his beginning was small, but his
ambition was vaulting. He persevered, was industrious and atten-
tive, and each year marked an increase in the volume of his trade.
He has thus continued to the present, with the record of over
thirty-five years of honorable and profitable dealing to his credit.
To the responsibility of building up a business he added that
also of rearing a family for, in 1865, he married Miss Mary-
Elizabeth Eisenbeis, who was born in Rhenish Bavaria, and was
taken to this country by her parents when she was a child of
six. Having been carefully trained in both the CathoUc religion
and in domestic affairs, she became a help rather than a hindrance
to her husband. Beginning married life with mutual' resolve to act
well their respective parts, they have enjoyed multiplied temporal
blessings through seeking first the kingdom of God and His
justice.
Of the five children with whom their union has been blessed
four are living. The one to pass away was named Mary E. She
died when less than one year old. The sons are : Charles E. and
Albert A., both of whom are engaged in business with their father.
Chas. E. Ruffing was married April 22, 1896, to Miss Mary M.
Vollmer of New York City. The two daughters are : Rose M.,
who was married April 13, 1891, to D. B. Callaghan, who is one
of Bellevue's leading grocery merchants ; and Miss Lucy M. They
376 A HISTORY OF GATHiOLIiOITY
have been carefully educated, and have been taught by example
to always do something for religion. Mrs. Ruffing has ever been
active in this respect, virhile Mr. Ruffing has been a substantial
supporter of the congregation, and one of the councilmen of the
Immaculate Conception Church for upward of a quarter of a
century.
He served the city also in the capacity of treasurer for two
terms. Beyond this he has had neither the time nor the inclina-
tion for office-holding or preferments. It was as late as 1892 when
he felt he could spare the time to make a tour of Europe accom-
panied by his wife, but so pleased was he with what he saw abroad
that he repeated the trip in 1900, taking with him Mrs. Ruffing,
his son Albert A., and his daughter Miss Lucy M.
In person Mr. Ruffing is slender, with a countenance indicat-
ing a blending of force of character with an agreeable disposition.
Having a penchant for facts and tangibilities, emphasized by his
commercial pursuits, he has readily branched out into the field of
discursive knowledge. His intuitions are pronounced, his obser-
vations keen, and his ability to draw correct conclusions, and to
forecast conditions are about as remarkable as is his business
capacity. The reasoning that holds in the one, he is convinced,
will apply in the other, and he concludes regarding the Catholic
Church in the United States that its future is but a matter of
calculation, a sort of estimate based upon facts and conditions.
The Church being uppermost in his mind he is for Catholic educa-
tion and for maintaining the Catholic school. He places the
importance of the school almost abreast of that of the Church
itself. His judgment is that every congregation should have a fine
school before it has a fine church. The older people, he main-
tains, can not be estranged from the Church, while the young
must be saved to it through the CathoHc school. And thus the
subject of this mention is a thinker of practical thoughts, a
reasoner, a cheerful giver to carry out his ideas — an enthusiast
for Catholic education. To him the philosophy and force of this
suggestive saying is manifest :
"The work is laid
Before our feet that shall come after us;
We may not stay to -watch if it will spread."
,"">'
n
1.
IN NORTHERN OHHO. 377
THE REV. FREDERICK RUPERT.
Few who are acquainted with the man, and the facts in his
career, will take umbrage now or hereafter at the averment that the
pastor of St. Paul's Church,* Norwalk, Ohio, is among the most
useful, zealous, and well-equipped priests of the Diocese of Cleve-
land. He began his priestly labors July, 1879, and is now
(December, 1900) midway in the twenty-second year of his min-
istry. What he has accomplished is tangibly in evidence, and is of
record in the archives of the diocese as well as in the great book of
records where angel fingers do the writing.
Mr. George John Rupert was the father of the subject of this
sketch. He was the third son of Peter and Kunigunde Rupert, and
was born March 12, 1814, in Schellenburg, Upper Franconia,
Bavaria. He emigrated to the United States in 1836, learned the
trade of a cooper in Cleveland, and, in 1842^ removed to Massillon,
Ohio, where, for upwards of twenty years, he continued the business
in his own name. From 1863 to June 29, 1895, the time of his death,
he resided on his farm a few miles north of Massillon. He was
twice married. By his first wife, who died December 25, 1850, he
had four children, two of whom, Mrs. Margaret Molitor, of Mas-
sillon, and the Rev. Frederick Rupert, of Norwalk, Ohio, are yet
living. By his second wife he had seven children, one of whom is
Sister Sophia of the Ursuline Community in Cleveland.
The Rev. Frederick Rupert was bom November 21, 1846. He
made his first Holy Communion, June, 1859, and during the two
years preceding he attended St. Mary's parochial school in his
native city. Apart from this his primary training was obtained in
the public schools. For several years his education was interrupted,
especially during the civil war^ 1861-1865. These years were spent
in great part in other occupations. Resuming his studies, he
graduated from the Massillon High School in 1867, receiving first
prize for excellence in the higher mathematics. The following
October he entered the diocesan college at Louisville, Stark
county, there to prepare himself for carrying into effect his long-
cherished desire to become a priest. He remained there until
•Since this sketch was in type Father Rupert was appointed, • June 20, 1901, to
organize the new parish of St. John, Evangelist, at Lima.
378 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
December, 1868, when a severe and protracted inflammation of
his eyes forced him to discontinue. Returning to his home in
Massillon, his popularity among his neighbors caused him, in the
spring of 1869, to be elected to a prominent city ofitice. The
malady afifecting his eyes having disappeared, he resigned his
position January, 18Y1, and resumed his studies at Louisville
College. He continued there both as a student and as professor
of the German language until June, 18*73, when the college closed
its doors. The following September he entered Assumption
College, Sandwich, Canada. While pursuing his studies in that
institution, he was Professor of German, Elementary Classics, and
Mathematics. He graduated in June, 1876, and the following
September was received into St. Mary's Theological Seminary,
Cleveland, where he finished his divinity coiTrse and was ordained
priest by Bishop Gilmour, July 5, 1879.
His first appointment was as pastor of St. Mary's Church,
Antwerp, Paulding county, Ohio, with charge also of numerous
missions in that and Defiance county. He labored in that extensive
field from July 14, 1879, to the end of March, 1881. He completed
the pastoral residence at Antwerp and purchased the ground on
which the present new church stands; he secured the ground and
built the Church of the Immaculate Conception at Cecil ; also St.
Michael's Church at Hicksville, and St. Stephen's at Delaware
Bend. He left but a few hundred dollars in the way of debts on
all these improvements at the time of his appointment to Shelby,
Richland county, April 2, 1881.
As pastor of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Mary at
Shelby, he had charge also of the missions at Republic, Chicago
Junction, and Plymouth, and the stations at Shiloh and Green-
wich. He paid a debt of a thousand dollars on the new church at
Chicago Junction, and after purchasing additional ground, pews,
organ, and altar, left a balance in the treasury. He also redeemed
the church at Shelby from its bankrupt condition, leaving less than
$100 of debts when, about July 1, 1882, it pleased Bishop Gilmour,
according to his previous promise, to appoint him pastor of St.
Joseph's Church, Maumee City, in Lucas county. Father Rupert
began at once his labors in that field. He purchased the ground
whereon the present new church stands, collected a large amount
of building material looking to its erection, and had in the parish
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 379
treasury $1,700 in aid of the project, when he fell a victim to
malaria, then prevalent in that district, thus checking his active
career from the autumn of 1884, until the spring of 1885. He was
then appointed pastor of the Church of the Immaculate Concep-
tion at Bellevue, the hope of the bishop being that a change of
locality would improve his shattered health. He took charge in
Bellevue April 16, 1885; he completed the church, paid oflf the
debts, purchased the school property, placed the Sisters in charge,
built them a house, improved the pastoral residence, procured a
fine pipe organ, and when he departed to become pastor of St.
Paul's Church, Norwalk, October 12, 1894, he left no debts, but
rather a balance of several hundred dollars to the credit of the
congregation. He assumed charge at Norwalk October 24, 1894.
He was confronted with a debt of $16,000. It was the same old
story with Father Rupert — a hill to climb and a heavy burden to
bear. The good people of St. Paul's caught the spirit of the new
pastor. They united with him in the good work of redeeming the
parish, and today, the beginning of the new century, the obliga-
tions of the parish have been reduced to the nominal sum of $1,800,
and this, too, after the expenditure of several thousand dollars for
stations of the cross, cemetery improvements, etc. During the
past nineteen years, and especially since his advent to Norwalk,
Father Rupert has been second to none in the diocese in his
devotion to Catholic education.
If what Carlyle says is true, that "There is no life of a man,
faithfully recorded, but is an heroic poem of its sort, rhymed or
unrhymed," then the case in point is doubly heroic, even if but
imperfectly written. If this outline of this good priest's career for
the past twenty-two years and the scattering facts above set forth
mean anything, they certainly bear out the modest claim made in
the opening sentence of this sketch. They mean that the Rev.
Father Rupert is a most efficient and zealous priest, who brings
to the discharge of his duties rare ability and a spirit that is truly
ecclesiastical. He is always about the business of his Master.
Much toil and physical inconvenience become a pleasure to him so
long as they inure to the spiritual and temporal advancement of his
flock. He recognizes that the servant is not above his Master;
hence, he is in the fore-front, not only keeping the faith but spread-
ing it — fighting the good fight for God and humanity.
380 A HISTORY OF OATHOLIOITY
THE REV. JOSEPH G. SCHAFFELD.
The junior clergy of the Diocese of Cleveland are men who
give promise of walking faithfully in the footsteps of their reverend
seniors and revered predecessors. The present pastor of St.
Augustine's Church, Barberton, Ohio, is a fair sample of a large
number of young priests of whom Bishop Horstmann may be
justly proud.
Father Schaffeld is the second of the family of John Bernard
and Christina Teresa (Koenig) Schafifeld to become a priest. He
was born in the city of Cleveland, Ohio, August 8, 1871. He
received his early training in St. Peter's parish school in his native
city. He then finished his preparatory course in the Cleveland
High School. Following this, he entered the St. Ignatius (Jesuit)
College, Cleveland, from which institution he emerged a classical
graduate in 1892. He is the first graduate of that college to choose
an ecclesiastical career.
Evidencing brilliant talents and a love for study, he was sent
abroad to improve the former and gratify the latter. Accordingly,
in that year, 1892, he entered the Royal Imperial University at
Innsbruck, Austria, where he completed the full university course.
Having attained to the required standards in philosophy and
theology before he had arrived at the canonical age for receiving
holy orders, he was granted a six months' dispensation by Pope
Leo XIII and was ordained priest by the Prince-Bishop of Brixen,
July 26, 1896.
Returning soon after to his native diocese, he received his
first appointment creating him pastor of the Church of St. John the
Baptist, at Payne, in Paulding county, Ohio. He discharged his
duties there from December, 1896, until June, 1898, when he was
commissioned to his present position as the first resident pastor of
St. Augustine's Church, Barberton, Ohio. During the two and
one-half years which he has now (1900) been laboring there, he
built the pastoral residence and purchased adjoining land upon
which to erect a beautiful new church, the plans for which have
already been prepared and adopted.
That Father Schafifeld will perform this task faithfully and
fulfill his mission, continued good health permitting, may be
inferred from the traits and qualities which round out his character.
I'N NORTHERN OHiIO. 381
In business matters he is energetic, systematic and cautious. These
he evidences both in theory and practice. Speaking both English
and German, not merely fluently but with oratorical grace and
force, his parishioners and the public have learned to prize highly
his sermons and discourses, and in consequence have become his
warm supporters in all he undertakes. Perhaps in this respect his
non-Catholic fellow citizens are rivals of his own flock, for they, as
also the labor organizations, will have him speak for them and
represent them at celebrations and public functions.
This young priest possesses a most agreeable disposition. He
willingly obliges all when he can do so consistently with his duties
and sacred calling. It appears to be a pleasure to him to instruct
and lead back to the right path those who are in spiritual darkness
or who have gone astray. The non-Catholic coming to him "to
have a talk," or directly seeking instruction, goes away convinced
that there are more things and truer things than have been in his
limited conception heretofore. So also the simplest of his parish-
ioners departs from his presence with the impression that his pastor
is a true father and friend, an approachable gentleman, and an
excellent adviser.
Not a few of his many friends among all classes associate the
ideas of patience and resignation with his personality and record.
This they do with the knowledge that such a man is a peace-maker
and harmonizer, the intention being, no doubt, to appropriately
apply to him that portion of the Sermon on the Mount known as
the seventh beatitude. Father Schafifeld inherits from his good
mother, who yet survives in Cleveland, the natural virtue of
patience — that happy physiological equipoise by which, while in
the worldly turmoil, he looks calmly but not indifferently upon
life's ceaseless drama of joys and sorrows. Whatever of patience
in the high sense of a supernatural virtue he possesses he has not
inherited but acquired through grace and the practice of religion.
Like all of the other virtues it must be cultivated, and evidently
Father Schafifeld has given it some attention.
The theological virtues of faith, hope and charity may blazon
forth in the life of a priest, like the bloom in the May-time, without
attracting more than passing attention, but when the graciousness
of true patience adorns his character and life, even the least obser-
vant are impressed and edified by it. Perhaps St. Paul hints at
382 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
the rarity of this virtue, when in his epistle to the Hebrews he thus
addresses us also : "Ye have need of patience." It may therefore be
that those of us who possess least of this virtue notice it quickest,
and admire it most in others, especially in the young priest. Be
this as it may, the true priest, young or old, must necessarily be
the real Christian gentleman who possesses and practices this
delightful virtue-quality, and who is especially charged with its
inculcation on his flock. In this one respect, as in that of the
sacred character which ordination imprints on the soul, the young
priest can be the peer of the older one. In this light it will not be
amiss to so regard the youthful pastor of St. Augustine's.
THE REV. JOHN A. SCHAFFELD.
The engraver's art, as exhibited in the fine portrait of the
Rev. John A. Schafifeld on the adjoining page, is more eloquent
than any word picture in telling of his nature, temperament, and
character. One need not be an adept in physiognomy or phre-
nology to note how befitting him is his priestly calling, and how
well adapted to its varied requirements are the pronounced natural
qualities of the man. With intellect of high order; large
benevolence, conscientiousness and spirituality; evenness of
temperament ; and firmness and continuity sufficiently pronounced
to make him steadfast and persistent in the line of his duty, he
stands forth a leader as well as a director of his people. He readily
and almost unwittingly inspires confidence in those to whom he
ministers, and it seemingly requires no effort of his not only not to
abuse that confidence but to even preserve and strengthen it. An
atmosphere almost magnetic, the harbinger of harmony, sur-
rounds him, for he loves peace and good order ; and that member
of his flock must be unfortunately organized or unusually perverse
who is not amenable to his kindly influence, and to his tender
fatherly care.
By nature and cultivation Father Schafifeld is a musician.
Were he to write music the minor key would be his favorite, for his
tenderness, gentleness and pathos find there their happiest expres-
sion. The public service of the church he chants in G, while the
sublime preface he sings as its unknown author must needs desire
@
^ "^J
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 383
to have it rendered — so as to elevate the soul. He personally
instructs the choir of his church, and indeed it is not wanting in
merit. The influence of music he has found to be of great assistance
in his work, and on this account, as well as for its own sake, he
encourages its cultivation among his people. In his mission
congregation at Swanton a band of excellent musicians has been
organized, which is led and directed by one of the leading Catholics
of the place.
Father Schaffeld's parents, John Bernard and Christina Teresa
(Koenig) Schaffeld, were born in Germany. When very young
they were brought to this country, where they received their
education, becoming thereby thoroughly American. He himself
was born to them in the city of Baltimore, Maryland, January 18,
1867, and the family removing to Cleveland, Ohio, where his
father died in August, 1886, he was given his preparatory training
in St. Peter's and in the Cathedral parish schools of that city.
His classical studies were made in the Canisius (Jesuit) College,
Buffalo, N. Y., from which institution he graduated in 1887.
Entering St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland, he finished
a five years' divinity course in 1892, and was ordained priest by
Bishop Horstmann December 17 of that year, when he was not
much over the canonical age.
His first appointment, which is his present charge, was as
pastor of the Church of St. Mary's of the Assumption, St. Mary's
Corners, Fulton county, Ohio,* with the mission church of St.
Richard, at Swanton, attached. He found considerable debts on
both the churches, but by the united efforts of the people and their
co-operation with him he has succeeded in liquidating all pecuniary
obligations. Needed improvements have also been made and paid
for, and such a condition of affairs has been brought about as
augurs well for religion and for that charity and harmony which
are the glory of Christian brethren dwelling together in unity and
peace. Facts and results are eloquent in testimony, and are in line
with the averments of his people, who ought to know, that the Rev.
John A. Schaffeld, during the eight years of his ministry among
them, has not been an unprofitable servant.
•since this sketch was put In type the Rev. John A. Schaffeld was appointed, June
30, 1901, pastor o£ St. Paul's Church, Norwalk.
384 A HISTORY OF CATHiO'LUCITY
THE REV. JOHN T. SCHAFFELD.
Among the older priests of the Diocese of Cleveland, who an
yet active on the mission, there are few more remarkable for con
stancy, zeal, and holy simplicity — in fact for that combination o
qualities so becoming to the true priest — than is the Rev. John T
Schafifeld, pastor of St. Mary's Church, Elyria, Ohio.
His parents were John and Theodora (Hagesfeld) Schaffeld
of Isselburg, Germany — Rhenish Prussia. He was born Octobei
16, 1837, and when about ten years old was taken with th(
other members of the family to this country. The city of Balti-
more, Maryland, was selected as their abode, and there young
Schafifeld was sent to school. Contemplating an ecclesiastica
career, he was placed under the direction of the Redemptorisi
Fathers as a student. Removing, in 1863, to Cleveland, Ohio, h«
entered St. John's College, and later St. Mary's Theological
Seminary, where he finished his divinity course and was ordained
priest by Bishop Rappe July 17, 1870.
At this writing, the last days of the nineteenth century, Fathei
Schafifeld is in the thirty-first year of his ministry as a priest of the
Diocese of Cleveland. During that time he has had only two
appointments and but one removal — a preferment. His firsi
charge was in the capacity of pastor of St. Patrick's Church,
Hubbard, Ohio, where he was required to preach in EngHsh
and German. He remained there nearly ten years. He had charge
also during that time of the church at Vienna as a mission, and at
irregular intervals gave attention to the Catholic people at Lowell-
ville, and at St. Joseph's, Youngstown. He improved the church
at Hubbard, built the school and pastoral residence, and also the
church, St. Joseph's, at Vienna.
His first and only removal. May 13, 1880, advanced him to
the pastorate of St. Mary's Church, Elyria, his present charge.
He built the new church there at a cost of $30,000, and also the
church at Oberiin, which cost $5,000. He is now engaged in the
work of erecting a commodious school and pastoral residence, that
are to cost when completed the sum of $25,000. With these
perhaps his building activity will be at an end, because his congre-
gation will then be well provided for.
In a quiet way, and by constant and assiduous efifort, he has
^f; "»
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'^'f ; ^ , THE REV. JOHN T. SCHAFFELD. (""i**^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 385
accomplished much in the temporal order during the multiplied
years of his ministry. In the spiritual field it can be presumed that
he has been even more successful, for his adaptability and strength
lie more especially in that direction. He has always been correct
and most exemplary in his life, thus acting out what he teaches.
Whatever he may lack as a pulpit orator he more than makes up
for by his earnestness and by his exactness and lucidity as a cate-
chist and teacher of the truths of religion. His whole soul is
wrapped up in the young people of his flock. He looks well after
the education of those attending the parish school, is most careful
in seeing that they are removed from bad example, and fails not
in imparting to them a good Christian training. In regard to the
young men and women, and even the older people of his flock, he
always shows himself to be a good shepherd. So pronounced is
he, touching the necessity of good morals, and so solicitous has
he always been looking to the faithful performance of their Chris-
tian duties by those under his care, that he is spoken of by some
of them in kindness as an "old timer." This he is, indeed, in very
fact, for the zeal, piety, and self-denial of the past he brings forward
in his own life to astonish the present. Verily he is an "old timer,"
and such would be St. Paul, St. Vincent de Paul, the Cure d'Ars,
and the great army of holy and Apostolic men who faithfully
followed in the footsteps of the Master. That which is not sensa-
tional, that which is not modern, is pronounced antiquated today,
but those thus passing judgment forget that religion remains the
same, the sacraments are ever the same, and it would be well if the
customs and practices of the remote past were ours today; at least
in religion. It would be well if many of us, too, were "old timers."
The name Schafifeld is well known in northern Ohio. Three
priests of that name, all of the same family, belong in the Diocese
of Cleveland, while a fourth member, a nephew, named A-ndrew
Kawczynski, died a deacon, in 1899. The Revs. John A. and
Joseph G. Schafifeld are nephews of the subject of this sketch, and
his sister is in religion Sister Mary Louis, of Hotel Dieu, New
Orleans, Louisiana. The devotion of this family to the Church
is more than an incident ; it is an evidence of their good will and of
a special grace besides — a gift from God, for they both have heard
and hearkened to the Master's invitation, "Follow Me !"
386 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. NICHOLAS SCHMITZ.
The subject of this mention is the esteemed pastor of Si
Joseph's Church, Monroeville, Ohio. He is the youngest of
family of nine, born in Prussia, to the late Jacob and Lucy (Mertes
Schmitz. His natal day was May 21, 1833. June 15, 1844, hi
parents, with their entire family, emigrated to the United State
and located in Ridgeville township, Lorain county, Ohio. Mrs
Schmitz died in 1856; her husband passed away ten years later
The boy Nicholas, being but eleven years old on his arriva
in this country, was sent to the common schools to study Englisl
and to continue his primary training. Having expressed a desin
to become a priest the local pastors encouraged him by giving
him lessons in Latin. The late Father Hackspiel was especiall;
interested in the boy and gave him private instruction for th(
space of one year. Being well advanced in his studies he entere(
St. John's College, Cleveland, in 1858, and later St. Mary's Theo
logical Seminary in that city, from which institution he emergec
a priest June 28, 1863. He was ordained by Bishop Rappe.
Father Hackspiel, his early preceptor, having great affectioi
for the young priest, made an appeal to Bishop Rappe that he b«
assigned to him as his assistant. Accordingly Father Schmitz
first mission was in that capacity in St. Mary's Church, Frencl
Creek, Lorain county, Ohio, where he remained about a year. H(
was next made pastor of Holy Trinity Church, at Avon, in th(
same county, with Sheffield as a mission. He continued then
until March, 1868, when he was transferred to the pastorate o
St. Mary's Church; Six-Mile Woods (Raab P. O.), in Lucas coun
ty. He labored there, and also at St. Mary's Corners as a mission
until August, 1870, after which, for two years, he was curate a
St. Joseph's Church, Tififin. In September, 1872, he was com
missioned as pastor of St. Peter's Church, Loudonville, in Ashlan(
county. From there, after a long stay of twelve years and eigh
months, he was advanced to his present parish, April, 1885.
At this writing (December, 1900) Father Schmitz is in the six
teenth year of his pastorate in Monroeville. There, as in each o
the five other charges which have been his, he has given no littli
attention to temporalities, often, as was the case in Loudonville
IHSj
l^ ^r^^ ^\:i^^0^^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 387
paying for improvements out of his own private funds. Next to
the spiritual he has always been noted for efforts to keep the
churches in his charge in good repair and as far as possible out
of debt. Debts have always had an enemy in him, and wherever
he has labored those great annoyances to pastors and peoples have
been given little opportunity to become fixtures. He would at
any time deny himself to help wipe out a debt on his church.
From this it must not be inferred that the incurring of neces-
sary obligations, cash payment being impossible, was always
opposed by the pastor of St. Joseph's. Such an inference would
not be in accordance with the facts. He has always been in favor
of improvements, always saw to it that, wherever he had charge,
things were kept in good order and church property was made to
look anything but deserted. The in medio always characterized
his course. If he incurred debts he abhorred interest, and to get
rid of that which he abhorred he bestirred his people to quickly
pay off the debt. Such a course is commendable, and if all were
impressed by its business wisdom less money would be wasted in
interest paying. It has been Father Schmitz' practice to always
count the cost and then take stock of his resources. If the cost
exceeded his ability to pay in reasonable time he would not incur
the obligation; but if otherwise, he went on with the project, and,
what is better, quickly paid for it. He never liked the idea of
classing things as parish property until they were paid for. In
such cases he held that the person receiving the interest was the
real owner.
The Rev. Nicholas Schmitz, now in his sixty-eighth year, and
the thirty-eighth of his priesthood, is a striking example of sim-
plicity, perseverance, and faithfulness. These have always been
exempHfied as well in his private as in his public life. In the
pulpit, where he speaks both German and English, the aim of his
discourses is to instruct rather than to entertain; to convince
rather than to enthuse. He prefers wholesome truths and facts to
choice phrases, and is therefore direct and practical as an earnest
preacher of sound doctrine. The simplicity of his character is in
good keeping with his sacred calling and is a force for much good
among his people and the public. Always within hailing distance
of his flock, and ever prompt in responding to their calls, and
administering to their spiritual needs, it is not an exaggeration
to say that he is a faithful follower of the Good Shepherd.
388 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. PHILIP A. SCHRITZ.
At the date to which the record is brought down in t\
History, Father Schritz was pastor of St. Mary's Church, Edgerto
Williams county, Ohio, with the church at Florence in the sar
county attached as a mission; but since the work has been
press he was appointed to the pastorate of the Church of '
Teresa, Sheffield, Lorain county. The date of his transfer w
December, 1901.
His other appointment, December, 1895, which was his fir
immediately after ordination, was as pastor of St. Michae
Church, Gibsonburg, Sandusky county. He labored at Gibso
burg three years, and for a like period at Edgerton. In the form
place his beginning was so humble that for the space of thr
months he was obliged to use the sacristy of the church for 1
residence. This did not discourage him, however, for he finish
the present commodious pastoral residence, begun by his predec(
sor, the Rev. Michael Dechant. On Palm Sunday, 1896, he to(
possession of the parsonage; but the first night he spent in 1
new house a fire in the church destroyed many of his vestmen
The loss was a heavy one at that time, but the Tabernacle Socie
of Philadelphia, and some neighboring priests helped him
replace the articles destroyed. At Edgerton and Florence he ma
modest improvements commensurate with the needs and t
means of his parishioners. At the former place he bought t\
fine lots south of the church as a site for a new parsonage; at t
latter he purchased two side altars and a pulpit, and also a hot-j
furnace for the mission church.
The Rev. Philip A. Schritz was born in the little village
Gostingen, Luxemburg, April 4, 1870. His mothers maid(
name was Catherine Courte. She was of French extra
tion. His father, Henry Schritz, was descendant of an old Te
tonic family. From his good mother he has inherited his mildne:
gentleness of manner, and cordiality, characteristics most becot
ing in a priest, and from his father he has received the temperame
tal impress of steadiness and continuity. These and numero
other kindred and commendable qualities are his to exercise on tl
mission, and as a result he has been successful in doing the work
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 389
a priest among a people who have learned to highly prize zeal,
kindness, gentleness, and perseverance in those set over them as
spiritual guides.
Besides these attainments and qualities this good priest
possesses another which is of greatest importance. It is that of
patience, which enables him to bear up under crosses and dis-
appointments, and keep steadily on in his work. With it his
temperament and method of government enable him to inspire and
utilize the best effort and thought of his people for the advance-
ment of parochial interests. Hence, there are few parishes in the
diocese where more unity of action or a nobler spirit is found than
in St. Teresa's, at Sheffield, nor in which better proportionate
results may be looked for in the future. Already a new church
is spoken of as an improvement worthy of the parish.
Father Schritz received his preparatory education in his
native place. When ready for his college course he entered the
Royal Atheneum, at Luxemburg. Having nearly finished his
humanities he was invited by that good old missionary, the late
Father Moes, who spent his last years in a convent near Luxem-
burg, to become a missionary in America. Accompanied by his
friend, the Rev. John P. Haupert, pastor of St. Nicholas' Church,
at Berwick, he bade adieu to his native land and emigrated to the
United States, in 1S90. He was accepted as an ecclesiastical
student by the Cleveland Diocesan Authority and entered St.
Mary's Theological Seminary in the autumn of 1890. He faith-
fully prosecuted his studies in that institution for the full term of
five and one-half years, and was ordained by Bishop Horstmanh
December 14, 1895.
Speaking the German, French, and English tongues, he enjoys
the literary advantages implied thereby, and is consequently
equipped for good service in both pulpit and confessional. In
caring for temporalities, too, and especially in a diocese where the
several nationalities are largely represented, an acquaintance with
more than one of the modern languages is desirable. When these
advantages are backed by energy, zeal, and a happy temperament,
the priest thus gifted can become most useful to his people and to
the Church. In view of these facts it would be far from extravagant
to class plain Father Schritz among the large number of such
practical and capable priests in the Diocese of Cleveland.
390 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. AUGUSTUS J. SCHWERTNER.
The reverend gentleman here mentioned is the pastor of S
Anthony's Church, Milan, Erie county, Ohio. He is the secon
oldest of a family of eight, and was born in the city of Cantoi
Stark county, Ohio, December 23, 1870. His parents are Anthon
and Christina (Richard) Schwertner. His father, during the pas
forty years one of the foremost business men of Canton, was bor
in Germany, and came to this country when a youth ; his mothe
is a native of Carroll county, Ohio. Canton is still their home.
Father Schwertner received his early training in St. Peter'
parish school in his native city. He completed his preparator
studies in the Canton High School, after which he entere(
Canisius (Jesuit) College, Buffalo, New York, from which institu
tion he graduated in the classics, June, 1891. The following
September he was received into St. Mary's Theological Seminarj
Cleveland. Completing his divinity course he was ordained pries
by Bishop Horstmann, June 12, 1897.
Thus far his regular pastoral work has been confined to twi
localities; first, as assistant priest in St. Columba's Churct
Youngstown, Ohio, from immediately after his ordination unti
the following September; and, secondly, his present charge, t
which he was appointed September 16, 1897. In all his pastors
work he has displayed unusual zeal and prudence, winning thereb
not only the love and esteem of his own people but also the gooi
will and respect of those outside the fold. Recognizing the grea
need and importance of a good Catholic education, he has alway
manifested a deep personal interest in the parochial school am
in the training of the young. Being, moreover, a firm believer i)
the old adage "In union there is strength," he has not been slo\
to organize and encourage Catholic societies which have greatl;
contributed not only to the advancement of the interests of th
Church but also to the progress and protection of its individua
members. Since, however, he is only in the fourth year of hi
priestly career and the thirty-first of his life, what he has thus fa
accomplished is not so much to be considered as what he is capabl
of, time and opportunity permitting.
While the future is veiled to every man, there is yet a way o
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 391
illuminating it so as to outline its hidden things more by way of
inference than by prophecy, a method almost as certain as the
surveyor's is exact when he reverses his transit instrument to pro-
ject a line. The past flashes the light of experience on the future
and men note that "History repeats itself." All things being
equal a man's future career can be judged by his past and his
present. By his present is meant his station, the forces at his
command, and the ends to which he employs them ; his past is
the trail, right-lined or deviating, which he has left on life's sands.
From boyhood the Rev. Father Schwertner has marked out
his course and has industriously striven to attain the goal. He has
set his mark high on the wall of duty and priestly fame and his
daily effort is to reach up to it, today a little higher than yesterday,
and tomorrow to mark his reach a little higher still. With a
sound, clear mind in a robust body splendidly proportioned, and
a countenance beaming forth greatness of soul, he pursues his
ideal, sparing neither labor nor time in the work of accomplishing
his mission. His human ambition, as is the case with all good
priests, is made the servant of his spiritual mission, to the ends that
men may be bettered and that religion may hold sway on the earth.
This young priest is a man of notable self-possession, well-
balanced temperament, and remarkable physical development,
with a head and countenance betokening superior qualities.
Among his characteristics, as seen in the accompanying portrait,
firmness, coupled with dignity, benevolence, order, and continuity,
will be readily noticed. He possesses in a high degree those quali-
ties which go to make the successful orator. He has a logical
mind and a ready command of language, an ease of manner and
a grace of delivery united to a charming personality. He has an
excellent voice, is skilled in using it, and he looks and acts what
he is. Having made good studies he possesses the knowledge
which men are wont to look for in a priest and pastor. The other
requisites, health, earnestness, and personal appearance, are well
in keeping. He can, therefore, be said to be a very useful priest
who creditably represents the younger clergy of the diocese of
Cleveland, and who gives promise of a future that will be an
encouragement to others of his calling, and a hope to the laity, to
whom much of the beauty of religion is reflected through the
personality and qualities of its ministers.
392 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. FELIX M. SCULLIN.
This reverend gentleman is the pastor of St. Stephen's, the
only Catholic Church in the city of Niles, Trumbull county, Ohio.
He was bom at Glenone, county of Derry, Ireland, January 29,
1856. His father's Christian name was Felix; he died in Ireland
in 1860. His mother's maiden name was Agnes Henry; she died
in her native place in 1899.
When Father Scullin was a youth of eighteen he finished his
classical course in All Hallows College, Ireland. The following
year, 18Y5, he embarked for the United States. Arriving in Cleve-
land, Ohio, he entered the diocesan seminary to complete his
ecclesiastical studies. After a five years' course he was ordained
priest in St. John's Cathedral by Bishop Gilmour, July 4, 1880.
He began the labors of his calling in the capacity of assistant
priest in St. Malachy's Church, Cleveland, Ohio, having received
his appointment as such immediately after his ordination. He
remained there two years. July 9, 1882, he was made pastor of
the Church of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, at Warren, and missions.
Notwithstanding the fact that just fifteen families comprised his
congregation he succeeded in paying ofif all the old debts on the
parish. He closed his labors there February, 1884. He was next
transferred to St. Patrick's Church, at Hubbard, with charge of
Vienna as a mission. He not only liquidated all the debts which
he found in force on his arrival. May 28, 1884, but when he left.
May 29, 1889, there were no unpaid obligations outstanding
against the parish. He was then made pastor of St. Stephen's
Church, Niles. From Niles he also attended Mineral Ridge as a
mission up until 1892.
At Niles Father Scullin has labored most successfully in the
performance of his greatest work since he became a priest. He
built, on the foundation which he found already laid, the present
splendid Church of St. Stephen, which he has completed in every
respect. At this writing, 1900, he has plans prepared for an impos-
ing parish school. Besides his attention to temporalities he has so
inspired and unified his people that their present condition augurs
well for the future of the parish. Not only his own fiock, but also
the citizens generally, have taken cognizance of his multiplied
■'^-.. ^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 393
labors and remarkable success and are correspondingly generous
in their praise of both. The man and the priest in the person of
the pastor of St. Stephen's are both highly prized, the one for
untiring effort and public-spiritedness, the other for true Christian
teaching and example and the conserving of peace and good order.
In the direction of his particular talents and his acquired effi-
ciency this good priest is fully up to the average. During his
college course and while in the diocesan seminary he made good
studies. He is well equipped as an instructor, capable as a leader,
and most solicitous as a spiritual father and friend. His parish-
ioners and even his non-Catholic neighbors bear testimony to
these things. As the true priest must necessarily be he is the
friend of all and is familiarly spoken of as "My friend. Father
Scullin." Many would apply to him these words of Cicero:
"What a blessing is a friend who can relieve thy cares by his
conversation, thy doubts by his counsel, thy sadness by his good
humor, and whose every look gives comfort to thee." Others
would more appropriately speak of him in the sense of the
Proverb: "There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother."
Cicero's estimate of a friend is along the lines of natural likes
and ties. There is more or less of the quid pro quo element in it.
It is the best that might be looked for even in a learned pagan.
But the friend referred to in Proverbs xviii, 24, is the spiritual
friend. It is He who above all others "sticketh closer than a
brother." Such a friend is plain Father Scullin, who, like others
of his calling, dares every danger, forsakes everything worldly, and
denies self to be a friend to all humanity. Even the idea that there
is such a friend has a like powerful and helpful effect on the peo-
ple of Niles and elsewhere as on the simple layman who writes
these lines. The very notion of it is a blessing. It is akin to the
idea of the higher love which is charity and which is inseparable
from religion.
It is a very happy thing to contemplate in connection with
this mention of the pastor of St. Stephen's that, abreast of his
spiritual zeal, above his special talents, and more important than
his multiplied labors in the temporal order are his priestly char-
acter and calling, which make him to all "a friend that sticketh
closer than a brother."
394 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. PATRICK J. SHEA.
The reverend gentleman here mentioned is pastor of St.
Paul's Church, Euclid, Ohio. He was born in the county of
Kilkenny, Ireland, March 19, 1838. His parents, with their ten
children, emigrated lo the United States, April 5, 1852, and took
up their abode in Cleveland, Ohio, the following October. They
were accompanied on the voyage by a youth named Walsh, who
later became the Bishop of London, Ontario, Canada, and whose
privilege it was to ordain, in 1868, the subject of this sketch to the
priesthood.
Leading up to this most important event in his life, young
Shea began his preparatory and collegiate courses in the old St.
Mary's College, Cleveland, Ohio, which at that time was the com-
panion institution to the present St. Mary's Theological Seminary.
In due time he was advanced sufficiently to begin his philosophical
and divinity studies, which he completed in 1866. Two years
later he was elevated to the priesthood, at London, Ontario,
Canada, by Bishop Walsh, who later became Archbishop of
Toronto.
Father Shea was curate at the London Cathedral for two
years. He was then appointed pastor of SS. Peter and Paul's
Church, at Goderich, in Huron county, Ontario, where he
labored zealously and successfully during nine years. The suc-
ceeding fourteen years he spent as pastor of St. James' Church,
at Seaforth, in the same county. His love for the United States
and for old Ohio acquaintances induced him to ask for his exeat,
and, in 1890, he was received into the Diocese of Cincinnati, Ohio,
where he remained two years, principally at Hamilton, in the
capacity of chaplain of one of the religious institutions there. Fol-
lowing this he was received into the Diocese of Cleveland, where,
as a young man, he had finished his studies twenty-six years
previous.
He was appointed to the position of curate at the Immaculate
Conception Church, Cleveland, where he labored with his usual
zeal until November 23, 1893, when he was advanced to the pas-
torate of St. Mary's Church, Wakeman. In 1900 he was granted
leave of absence by Bishop Horstmann to visit his native land, and
^^^■'^^'
:}^^:^--*-^K^^mS
""^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 395
on his return, June 22, 1902, he was appointed to his present
charge.
Father Shea is an humble, retiring man, who loves peace and
good order, and who has never offended against these much
desired conditions. In all the years of his priestly career he has
never known what it is to have disagreements with his parishion-
ers or with his ecclesiastical superiors. He goes about his duties
quietly and unassumingly, his manner and zeal inviting and
winning the approval and co-operation of his people. He lays
no claim to profound knowledge or to great oratorical power.
Possibly it is his modesty in these respects that wins for him
laurels. It is much to his credit, however, to have it said of him
that "He knows both his duty, his place, and what he himself calls
his 'limited ability.' " It is also to his credit to have it truthfully
said of him that he knows how to teach the truths of religion.
This means that he is a catechist, a teacher rather than a preacher,
and for results the former is to be preferred. Each talent has its
field and its uses, and it would be well for all if each recognized
his weakness as well as his strength and governed himself accord-
ingly. It is more to be preferred to have modesty linked with
mediocrity than to have remarkable talents vauntingly displayed.
In this contrast can be seen the thought suggested by the person-
ality, career, and manner of humble Father Shea.
In the simple hospitality of his home, and in his coming in
and going out may be seen not a little of the character of this plain
man. To his parishioners, as to strangers or visitors, he is always
afifable and pleasant. He will take his part in the conversation,
but he prefers to listen with attention, and to be deferential to all,
to the simplest as well as to the greatest. Nothing appeals to him
more strongly, or is a greater help in maintaining his own spirit
of humility and regard for the rights and feelings of others, than
is the example of those whose greatness is truly great because
they are simple and humble, and of those whose mediocrity
appears exalted into superlativeness because they are content in
their station. The image of this humble priest is reflected in these
thoughts and is a picture one delights to contemplate.
396 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. ALEXANDER SHENK.
St. John's parish, Delphos, Ohio, takes rank among the best
in the Diocese of Cleveland, and if the personality of the congrega-
tion is considered, its standing is equally high. Among the first-
class men of the parish — in fact among the best citizens of Delphos
— Mr. Alexander Shenk is easily recognized.
For over forty-seven years he has been a citizen of the place
and a member of St. John's congregation. During the building of
the present splendid church, which is valued at $100,000, he was
both a councilman, and the treasurer of the parish building com-
mittee, giving his time and labor without price to the furtherance
of the great work. The congregation presented him with a fine
gold watch on its completion in recognition of his services.
Religion and Catholic education have always commanded his time
and money, while his public spirit also included the advancement
of his city's interests.
When a boy of twelve, he began to learn the calling of a
pharmacist. He later engaged in the drug business in his own
name, and at one time owned the only two drug houses in
Delphos. He subsequently embarked in the milling and grain
business on a large scale, shipping as many as 200,000 bushels of
wheat annually. Other enterprises also claimed his attention,
such as merchandising, manufacturing, and banking.
He is president of the Delphos National Bank, president of
the Delphos Building and Loan Association Company, president
of the Delphos Electric Light and Power Company, a stockholder
in the Ohio Wheel Company, and also in other enterprises. When
twenty-one years old he was elected clerk of Marion township,
Allen county, an ofifice which he held for nearly twelve years.
Later he was elected trustee of the same township for two years,
after which he was chosen township treasurer, holding the office
for about ten years. Among the other prominent positions held
by him were the county commissionership, and membership on
the board of trustees of the Allen County Children's Home, in
which latter position he is serving a second term.
The parents of the subject of this mention were Martin and
Christina (Kern) Shenk, natives of Prussia. He was born to them
• > > > >
MR. AND MRS. ALEXANDER SHBNK.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 397
in the town of Rangendingen, July 19, 1842. When he was eleven
years old, 1853, his parents with their family emigrated to the
United States. Ever since his twelfth year he has been active in
earning his own living, and also in business for himself. His great
success is the measure of his thrift, business ability, and enterprise.
If energy, industry, perseverance, and punctuality are pointers
indicating character, and if success has its story to tell along these
Hnes, not much difficulty will be experienced in forming a reason-
ably just estimate of the gentleman here mentioned. That estimate
will not credit his triumphs to "good fortune," or to favorable
surroundings altogether. It will not say that all his days have
been sunshiny, or that his path has ever been free from obstacles.
On the contrary, those who know him personally, and those who
are equal to recognizing his qualities as here indicated, will credit
him with the intelligent use of means to the ends in view, and also
with a daily use of persistence and force in pushing on to the goal
of his ambition. It may not be timely to discuss here the worth of
worldly possessions, but Mr. Shenk, like others who have gone
before, has realized that "a slice out of this world is generally well
combined with calamity." It is well, then, that he has not lost
sight of the fleetingness of earthly things, and that "here is not
the place of rest."
In 1863, Mr. Alexander Shenk was married to Miss Elizabeth
Wrocklage, a young lady born in Germany. When four years old
she was taken to this country by her parents, and was educated at
Delphos. She is yet the partner of his joys, having shared with
him some of the trials incident to his active business career. Her
domestic virtues are of note, as also her benevolence and active
charity. Having in recent years almost entirely withdrawn him-
self from engrossing business cares, Mr. Shenk and his wife are
now more free to devote themselves to religion and to those
things which make for the advancement and uplifting of humanity.
They deserve well for the good they are doing in a quiet way.
398 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
PETER S. SMIGEL, M. D.
Dr. Smigel was born in Cleveland, Ohio, August 2, 1872.
His parents came from Poland, and he has the distinction of being
the first graduated physician of his race in that city. He was
educated in the classics at St. Joseph's Seminary, Teutopolis,
Illinois, and finished, after a four years' course, in 1885. He then
entered St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland^ where he took a three
years' commercial course, which he completed in 1888.
Naturally inclined to study, and possessing an inquiring mind,
the realm of human knowledge early spread itself out before him,
inviting and even alluring him to enjoy the delights of traversing
its broad stretches. His consuming desire to see and know things
accounts for his taking up the classical course first, to be followed
later by a study of the commercial branches which are more in
touch with the practical. In either case it was knowledge he was
seeking, and having acquired some he desired more. He thus
kept on delving until, for his years, he is in the front rank of well
read young men, either in or out of the professions. He is yet a
delver and his thirst for knowledge is far from sated. It could
not be, for it is the province of the mind to ever seek for more, and
thus enjoy the prolonged pleasure of human enquiry.
Having made choice of the medical profession as his calling,
and being well educated as a preparation for his studies in that
direction, he entered the medical department of the Western
Reserve University, in Cleveland, in 1891, and graduated with
honors in 1894. He then became house surgeon and house
physician to St. Vincent's Hospital, in Cleveland. He held these
positions for two years, after which he opened an ofifice for the
general practice of medicine at the corner of Broadway and
Ledyard street. His home and office are now at 2155 Broadway.
He has built up a large and profitable business. He is a member
of St. Stanislas' parish and is the only Catholic physician practicing
extensively among the Polish people.
January 28, 1896, Dr. Smigel was married to Lillian, the
daughter of Frank Buettner, who is one of the prominent Catholics
of Cleveland. Their marriage took place in St. Joseph's parish
church — the parish in which Miss Buettner was bom. Two
children, Lillian and Frank, have been born to them.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 399
As well from common report as from results. Dr. Smigel is
credited with being a well read, painstaking, and able practitioner.
He is studious and observing, qualities which in this day of
improved methods and enlightenment are worth more to the
young physician than the experiences of many years to the medical
men of long ago. The literature of the profession is concentrated
experience. It enables the young doctor to be old in knowledge.
Besides being a close student, Dr. Smigel is also enamored of his
profession. Not only does he delight in his work but he has the
ambition to excel in it. With the foundation he has laid, both
educationally and professionally, and with the opportunities which
he now enjoys of a varied general practice, it is not mere prophecy
but logical deduction to say that he bids fair to be prominent
among the best local men in his calling. This is said as much to
the credit of the Catholic community and his clientele as to that
of himself, his family and his friends.
It might be said to the credit of Dr. Smigel that he is an
agreeable man, given much to sociability among his neighbors
and friends. Persons of his nationality who, with others, feel
grateful for his very successful professional services, seek oppor-
tunity to meet him and his family socially. Notwithstanding the
multiplied demands that are made on him professionally, he yet
finds time to enjoy these visits, he having the faculty of utilizing
them as periods of rest and recreation. With these exceptions
his life is devoted to his profession and to the care of his patients.
He reads much, keeps up with the most advanced thought and
practice of the day, and is abreast of the most enlightened as a
student and practical utilizer of all that is new and reliable in his
calling. Love for his profession and sympathy for the afiflicted
have inspired him, as few in his profession have been, to attain
to the high standard which is his, and to gratify his ambition to
keep on studying and observing that humanity may have that for
which they seek — the cure or alleviation of their ills.
400 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. -JOSEPH F. SMITH.
The parents of the Rev. Joseph F. Smith, pastor of the
Church of the Mother of Sorrows, Ashtabula, Ohio,* are Thomas
and Johanna (Aspell) Smith, natives of Ireland. The former was
born in 1829, and the latter in 1831. Since 1896 they have been
residents of the city of New York, whither they removed with
their family. For many years previous they lived in Cleveland,
and it was in the Cathedral parish of that city that the subject of
this article was born, February 7, 1865.
Father Smith's preparatory training was received in the
Cathedral school, after which he attended Assumption College,
Sandwich, Canada. Besides the requirements of the classical
course he studied German and French, the latter being the
language of the institution and specially taught by the Basihan
Fathers. Having completed his collegiate term, he entered
St. Mary's Theological Seminary in his native city, in
1884, and was elevated to the priesthood by Bishop Gilmour,
June 15, 1889. As an evidence of his standing and great promise
as a scholar, the Bishop ofifered him a post-graduate course in the
Catholic University, Washington, D. C. This favor he decHned
through his consuming desire to begin his labors as a priest.
Accordingly he forthwith received his appointment as pastor
of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Mary, at Shelby, Richland
county, Ohio. To this were added four mission churches, which
constituted an ample field for his zeal and physical endurance. He
erected a new brick church at Shelby, and advanced the temporal
and spiritual interests of the missions to such an extent that shortly
after his removal three priests were required to do the work which
had been under his charge. He labored there with success for
nearly six years, when he was appointed, November 1, 1894, as
pastor of Mother of Sorrows' Church, Ashtabula, which up to that
time had been a mission church. He saw at once that the parish
had hopes for a bright future, and he proposed to himself the task
of realizing these hopes. He purchased additional ground, built
the Sisters' house, the rectory, and the splendid stone church just
•since this sketcli was In print the Rev. Father Smith was appointed, June 30, 1901,
pastor of St. Aloysius' Church, Cleveland.
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 401
completed (1900), at a cost of $45,000. The measure of his energy
and abiUty is indicated by the prosperous and promising condition
of his parish.
As can be inferred from the facts stated, Father Smith is a
very successful priest. Not only is he a leader of his people, but
he is also one of the most influential men in Ashtabula. This was
proved beyond question when, on the occasion of the Longshore-
men's "strike," or rising against what they deemed an injustice,
and which involved and disturbed all the lake cities, the Mayor of
Ashtabula, the Chief of Police, and other ofScials and representa-
tive citizens appealed to Father Smith to interpose, and, by settling
the trouble, avoid great loss of life and property. He did so inter-
pose, and succeeded in arranging and harmonizing matters to the
satisfaction of all parties, for which he was accorded the thanks
not only of those directly concerned but also those of the entire
community. He obtained the first recognition of the Longshore-
men's union, brought the men and their employers to a better
understanding, and during the six months following the settle-
ment, acted as official arbitrator in the settling of details. He also
acted as arbitrator in the settlement of labor troubles on the docks
of Cleveland while pastor of Ashtabula.
Few men have a more accurate acquaintance with human
nature than has he, and they are fewer still who, by force of char-
acter and intellect, are able to put it to such good uses. Besides
having a knowledge of men, he is also skilled in measures, and in
that order of diplomacy befitting a man of peace who seeks justice
for all. He is equal to the work of ably presenting his case,
whether in the light of an appeal to conscience, or in the matter-
of-fact way of legally demanding the recognition of the natural
and guaranteed rights of those he represents. If logic and sound
arguments are essentials, he can advance both; if eloquence, he
has it at his command; and if manhood of the sterling kind be
demanded, there is no need to look for another.
This is the estimate of Rev. Joseph F. Smith, of Ashtabula,
by citizens of that place, the majority of whom are not of his faith.
It is, therefore, to the credit of religion that such men as he are of
the priesthood of the Catholic Church, and that the people know
from experience where to look for a leader and pacifier when dis-
order and lawlessness, no matter how occasioned, threaten the
peace of communities.
402 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. PATRICK SMITH.
Among the Catholics of the city of Cleveland, Ohio, then
are perhaps few whose characteristics are more marked than ar(
those of Mr. Patrick Smith of St. Malachy's parish. He belong;
to no particular type, but is peculiarly individualistic*
Born in the county of Cavan, Ireland, in 1827, he came witl
his parents to America when a boy of nine years and settled ir
Cleveland, where he has ever since lived. As there were then nc
Catholic schools in Cleveland his education was acquired chiefl)
in the public schools of the city, and also in the private school o
Professor Fisher on Bank street. During his school days h<
manifested that determination and inherent honesty that dis
tinguished his career in after years and which contributed sc
largely to his material success. Even as a boy the word "fail" wa;
not in his vocabulary. What he undertook seemed to have th(
force of necessity with him and it had to be accomplished.
On reaching his majority he bravely embarked in busines:
for himself by leasing a dredge and entering on the work of im
proving the harbor and deepening the channel of the Cuyahog;
river. In this line of development of Cleveland's resources h(
achieved signal financial success and added materially to the com
mercial and maritime interests of the city. In 1880 he retiree
from the management of his affairs, turning over his business t(
his two sons, Louis P. and James A. Smith, who have since con
ducted it along the lines laid down by their father during thi
thirty-two years of his active career.
Politically, he is a Democrat of the Jacksonian school, an<
has several times been called upon to serve the community in
public capacity. In 1869 he was elected to the city council am
was re-elected in 1871. From 1875 to 1878 he was a member o
the Cleveland board of water works trustees, and was agaii
chosen to represent his ward in the council, 1881-1883. In thes
positions his familiarity with all matters pertaining to the rive
and lake front proved of great value to the people of the city, whi
recognized his worth as a public servant by electing him count
♦since this sketch was put in type Mr., Patrick Smith passed to his reward, Ms
U, 1902, his death having been hastened by an accident to a carriage in which he wi
riding.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 403
commissioner in 1883. He served only one term, preferring the
quietude of private life but not a life of indolence, as he still takes
an interest in the business of his sons, as well as in questions touch-
ing the public weal.
All the large enterprises with which he has been connected,
whether dredging, pile-driving, making brick or grading, have
been crowned with success. This is not so much due to what is
usually termed "good luck" as it is to his well directed energy
and perseverance.
In 1851 Mr. Smith was married to Miss Margaret Olwill, of
Cleveland. To their union eight children were born, four of whom
still survive. Mrs. Smith died June 26, 1887. August 20, 1888,
he was married to Miss Mary Frances Bums, of Cleveland, a lady
of unusual capacity and charming domestic traits. She died
December 8, 1900.
The characteristics of Mr. Patrick Smith are numerous and
distinct. It were needless to say that he possesses a bright mind,
one that is inquiring and analytic, which, while seeking tangible
results, is not incapable of high conceptions of ideal things. Even
amid the cares of business he found time to read, and his admira-
tion for the songs of Thomas Moore and of other singers whom
he regards as inspired shows the poetic nature of the man. In his
desire to make men better he has avoided every appearance of
fanaticism and has sought by quiet precept and personal example
to advance the reforms in which he has been interested. All
shams and empty pomp have an enemy in him.
His opposition to frauds of every description, to false issue
in politics, to unfair legislation, and to corruption in high as in
low places, has impressed many with the notion of what they call
his singularity. But he is singular or peculiar only in that he has
the intellect to detect error and the courage to denounce it because
he goes against the current rather than idly with it. He appears
singular to some because he will not move in a groove at all times
and acquiesce in everything good, bad, or indififerent.
However great his success, his triumphs have not only not
made him vain but have rather added to his simphcity, deepened
his sympathy for the unfortunate, broadened his love for his fellow
man, ennobled his charity and accentuated his high sense of obli-
gation to the Giver of all good things.
404 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. PATRICK M. SMITH.
The late Mr. Patrick M. Smith, of Cleveland, Ohio, who die
July 10, 1900, when he was in his seventy-ninth year, was prom
nent among the pioneer Catholics who, during his half a centur
of residence there, helped to lay the foundations for the preset
temporal prosperity of the See city of the diocese.
He was one of the first members of St. Bridget's parisi
remaining a member for twenty-seven years. His home o
Giddings avenue was then within the territory of St. Edward'
parish, from whose church he was buried July 13, 1900. Rei
Father Michaelis preached the obituary sermon and referre
touchingly to the generous nature, jovial disposition, and edifyin
death of the deceased. He portrayed the happy death-bed seen
when the kindly old man went to his God, his last look on eart
cast lovingly on his grown children gathered around his bedside.
During all his long life he was generous to the Church and i
support of charity. He aimed also to set an example that woul
be an encouragement to others to do likewise. He truly felt the
what he gave was but lent to the Lord, for his motives were ev
dently the purest. There was sunshine in his soul, and his bi
heart was typical of his race in ready giving and sympathy. H
was born at Kells, in the county of Meath, Ireland, September i
1822. When he was in his twenty-seventh year, 1849, he left hi
native land for the United States, and for about one year he reside
in the State of New York. There he was joined in happy wedloc
to Miss Jane Cassidy, a young lady who was born and educated a
Navin in Ireland.
In 1850 Mr. and Mrs. Smith removed to Qeveland, Ohic
where in succeeding years a family of eight, six boys and two girl
was born to them. Mrs. Smith departed this life April 22, 187!
She was forty-five years of age, and was a faithful, devoted, Chri;
tian woman, a true helpmate, and a good mother. Of the childrei
Joseph J., the fourth oldest, passed away January 8, 1885, an
Hugh, the second youngest, died in infancy. The others are: Mar
A., who is the widow of Mr. R. C. Barrett ; Thomas W. ; Dora R
who is Mrs. Fish B. Arnold; Robert E.; Patrick C, and Georg
C, all residents of the city of their birth. They are typical of the
MR. AND MRS. PATRICK M. SMITH.
John A. (Three Generations.) Patrick C.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 405
parents, inheriting and cultivating, in one respect or another, those
qualities and virtues which adorned their lives, rounded out their
characters, and endeared them to their large circle of friends and
to the entire community.
In his native land Mr. Patrick M. Smith learned the trade of
a mason. He followed that calling during his early years in Cleve-
land, and soon became quite prominent and successful as a build-
ing contractor. He was connected with Mr. John D. Rockefeller
in the early days of the Standard Oil Company, having had charge
of the work of erecting the first oil still building in Cleveland, and
having jointly purchased with the now multi-millionaire the first
kiln of brick to be used in the work. Many of the best business
blocks erected in that city in his day, and several of the palace
homes of the wealthy families were among Mr. Smith's contracts.
He faithfully discharged all his obligations, and merited in his
business career the high esteem in which he was always held.
The death of his beloved wife was so severe a blow to the
sympathetic nature of Mr. Smith that even the companionship of
his second wife did not reinstate him in his former buoyancy of
spirit and native cheerfulness. He subsequently retired from
active pursuits, conscious of a long and honorable career which
was attended by remarkably good success.
He was noted for devotion to the land of his birth, and was
among the readiest and largest contributors to the movements
which at that time and since have aimed at the amelioration of the
unfortunate condition of the people of Ireland. He was never
known to deny to a friend, or to one in need, the assistance which
it was in his power to lend. His nature was such as to evidence
his belief in the oft-neglected truth that, "It is better to give than
to receive." Although unacquainted with the aphorism. Qui cito
dat bis dat, he yet felt that to give promptly was to give twice. He
was, indeed, a twice-giver, not only for religion and in charity,
but also for friendship's sake, and because he did not know how
to say no. His every-day motto and belief were :
"Give thy heart's best treasure,
And the more thou spendest
From thy Httle store,
With double bounty,
God will give thee more."
406 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. FRANK H. STALLKAMP.
From July 26, 1847, the date of his arrival, until this writing
the beginning of the twentieth century, a period of nearly fifty-fou
years, Mr. Frank H. Stallkamp has been a resident of Delphoj
Ohio. His considerably more than half a century of experienc
in the new world has been along lines commercial, educational an(
religious, and he has nobly kept pace with the march of events.
He was born in the town of Bramscha, near Osnabriick, Ger
many, September 25, 1824. From his thirteenth year he ha
earned his own living. When twenty-three years old he emigratec
to the United States. At that time he knew nothing of th^
language of the country, and except some cousins in Buffalo, Nev
York, he had not a relative in the new country into which h^
ventured.
After calling on his cousins in Buffalo, and visiting Canada ii
search of employment, he decided to see the site of the propose(
German settlement which has since become the flourishing city o
Delphos, Ohio. He found the place a wilderness with only a fe\
log cabins to indicate its future. Having found something to do
for he was willing to work at anything, he resolved to make it hi
future home. He drove oxen, took care of horses, and worked ii
a grist mill and also in a saw mill which were later additions to thi
importance of the place. He saved his earnings and, in April
1853, he began to conduct a small grocery store and meat markei
in his own name. In 1855, in the month of April, he sold a hal
interest in the business and the firm name was changed t(
T. Wrocklage & Company, which continued until 1889, a period o
thirty-four years. Even then it was the death of Mr. Wrocklagi
that brought the partnership to an end. From that date until thi
present the business, vastly increased, has been conducted by Mr
Stallkamp and his five sons under the firm name of Frank H
Stallkamp & Company.
October 3, 1855, Mr. Frank H. Stallkamp was married b]
the late Father Bredeick, the first pastor of Delphos, to Mis;
Annie Josephine Hedrick, a native of Putnam county, Ohio. Shi
was born near Ft. Jennings, June 1, 1837. Her father was ;
Lutheran Christian, but her mother was a devout and intelligen'
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 407
Catholic who took every care that her daughter was well instructed
in the Catholic faith. Having been crowned with the honor of
bearing ten children, Mrs. Stallkamp passed to her reward at her
home in Delphos, November 14, 1880, beloved by her family and
a large circle of friends and acquaintances, and fortified with the
last rights of the Catholic Church.
Her's was a noble Christian life. She was a true helpmate to
her husband. To her children she was everything a good mother
is expected to be, religious, domestic, industrious, careful, and
considerate of all their needs. She not only followed her natural
instincts as a mother, but she exercised her judgment touching
all things connected with her home. She knew how to set good
example, and today her children, and those living who knew her,
are mindful of her good qualities and are anxious to keep her
memory green in their hearts.
In respect to enterprise, harmony and respectability it can be
said that the Stallkamp family is one of the most notable in the
city of Delphos. The members have interests in common; they
are united to a degree to which the members of few families are
united ; and their example is not only beautiful but most potent for
good. The five sons connected with their father in conducting their
large grocery house — one of the largest and best appointed in
northwestern Ohio — are: Theodore J., Sylvester A., Otto W.,
Louis C, and George H. Edward L. is cashier of the Delphos
National Bank, and Frank X. is in the insurance business. Miss
Josephine M., the only daughter, has taken her mother's place as
housekeeper for her father and her two unmarried brothers.
John H. and Frederick H. have passed away. All the others, with
the exceptions referred to, are married and reside in Delphos.
The elder Stallkamp has always been noted for indomitable
perseverance, industrious habits, loyalty to friends and to whatever
good cause he espoused. He is tender of heart, generous and
charitable, but he never allows his impulses and emotions to exceed
the bounds set by good practical common sense. A worthy cause,
such as religion, charity or education, will at once get the assent of
his judgment and the aid which he feels it his duty to lend. His
characteristics are numerous, prominent and praiseworthy, and his
record is honorable and worthy of emulation.
408 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. ANTHONY B. STUBER.
The Rev. Anthony B. Stuber, pastor of Holy Trinity Church,
East Avon, Ohio, was born in Cleveland, the See city of the
diocese, February 24, 1872. He is the second oldest of a family
of ten, bom to John and Elizabeth (Specht) Stuber. He was
baptized in St. Peter's Church, where, as a boy, he acted as
acolyte while attending the parish school.
His parents are natives of Germany, whence they emigrated
to the United States in 1867. They located in Cleveland, and,
having become acquainted, were married there, in 1868, by the
late Father Westerholt. As the practical head of the Standard
Foundry & Manufacturing Co., and as superintendent of the Ohio
Foundry, of Qeveland, Mr. Stuber has acquired a reputation as an
expert foundryman that is more than local, which is saying a good
deal in view of Cleveland's rank as an iron manufacturing city.
His sons, however, saw something more attractive in the dry
goods business, in expert accounting, in linguistic stenography,
and, as is the case of the subject of this mention, in the priest-
hood. Mrs. Stuber is the German style of mother, domestic,
industrious, hospitable. Her entire family is noted for musical
talent, intellect and business tact.
After completing his preparatory education in St. Peter's
parish school, the boy Anthony was at once sent by his parents to
Canisius College, Bufifalo, New York, where he finished his
humanities in June, 1891, and graduated with high honors.
The following September he entered St. Mary's Theological
Seminary, Cleveland, and was among the first to take the six
years' course in philosophy and theology. Accordingly he was
elevated to the priesthood by Bishop Horstmann, June 12, 1897.
Father Stuber's first appointment placed him in temporary
charge of St. Peter's Church, Archbold, Ohio, with the churches
at Wauseon, Stryker, and Bryan as missions. He labored there
for three months during the absence of the regular pastor. The
following September he was given pastoral charge of St. Mary's
Church, at Edgerton, Williams county, with flie Church of St.
Joseph, at Florence, as a mission. He ministered to the Cathohc
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 409
people there during nine months, improved the churches, paid
off all debts, and merited the reputation of being one of the most
eloquent and energetic pastors that ever labored in that section
of the diocese. Several non-Catholic ministers tried their abilities
in controversial debate with the young priest, only to be taught
the severe lessons of defeat.
In June, 1898, Bishop Horstmann appointed Father Stuber
to his present charge, entrusting to him the task of building a new
church to replace the old structure. Owing to the numerous
factions existing in the congregation and the difference and
tenacity of opinions among the members, his predecessors and
parishioners furnished little encouragement on the subject of a
new church. During three months Father Stuber studied his
people and his situation. He formulated his plan, but left his
people to guess whether he realized conditions or considered
resigning. The result is not only a new stone church of magnifi-
cent proportions and imposing architectural design, but an attrac-
tive and equally substantial residence of modern elegance, both
situated on a new site in the center of the parish, one mile from
the old place on the main road of the section, and comprising
sixteen acres of land, square in shape. It was a bold step, quickly
planned and promptly made, but it was the making of the parish .
and its future. Any hesitation, misjudgment, or mismanagement
would have been the undoing of both pastor and parish. The
excellence of the site selected has proved Father Stuber's wisdom,
and his judgment and taste have been applauded by the Authori-
ties, the members of his congregation, and the knowing ones in
general, and future generations will wonder how it could have
been otherwise.
Father Stuber being robust and full of zeal, the great work
he has undertaken has apparently not occasioned him any extra-
ordinary effort. Although a task sufficient to test the ability
of the most experienced, it seemingly has given him little trouble
to compass it. His executive ability, energy^, and knowledge
of human nature evidently have been his stay, his people rallying
to his side in the prosecution of the enterprise. He has thus been
enabled to erect a monument to religion, to his admiring people,
and to himself, in the great work thus far accomplished in Holy
Trinity parish. The success already attained has impressed his
410 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
people with the philosophy of united action, harmony, and faith-
fulness in following correct business principles in the conduct of
the temporal affairs of the congregation.
In the erection of his church and pastoral residence, he
has furnished all the material himself, parcelling out the
several departments of the work, such as the masonry, lathing,
plastering, slating, carpentry, etc. to separate contractors, there-
by making a great saving to his parishioners, and at the same
time securing the best work. Unscrupulous contractors, or those
who might think that any kind of work could be palmed off on
the young pastor, could not have made a greater error than to
attempt even an approach to unfairness or sharp practices in
dealing with him. He knows the nature of contracts, is a good
judge of properly executed work, and he is not slow in insisting
on receiving in work or material that for which he bargains and
promptly pays.
The spirit which actuates Father Stuber in laboring for the
benefit of his people is also exhibited in his desire and his labor
for the general welfare of the community. Hence he is a power
in advancing public improvements and in utilizing the means at
hand for the best ends. A case in point is his successful efforts
to make the local district schools serve the purpose of parochial
schools. It is his determination not to cease until Holy Trinity
Church, parish buildings, and grounds are among the finest in
the Diocese of Cleveland.
The Rev. A. B. Stuber, although among the younger priests
of the diocese, is nevertheless as well equipped as many of the
older ones. His business foresight is remarkable, as is also his
energy and directive ability. He possesses great capacity for
labor, is tireless in his efforts, and at no time does he allow himself
to be diverted from the work in hand. Careful and calculating,
he avoids mistakes, making sure to be right before he takes one
step forward. Once he has undertaken a work, there is no such
thing for him as faltering.
In person he is of fine presence, is genial, humble, approach-
able, agreeable, and obliging. It is not mere prophecy to say
that the coming years will not find him wanting as one of the
most useful priests of the Diocese of Cleveland.
I^^^^^^i^^^*-^
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 411
THE REV. ANDREW J. SUPLICKI.
In 1880, Joseph and Catherine (Ratajczak)SupHcki,with their
family, emigrated from the Province of Posen, Poland, to the
United States. They located in Cleveland, and their son, who is
the subject of this sketch, having- reached his eleventh year, was
sent to St. Stanislas' parish school to acquire the rudiments of an
education.
Some years later, having expressed his desire to become a
priest, his early piety and talents indicating his vocation, he was
sent to St. Mary's Institute, Dayton, Ohio, to prosecute his more
advanced studies. He made satisfactory progress in that institu-
tion, but left it to enter the Resurrectionist College, at Berlin,
Province of Ontario, Canada. He graduated there in the classics,
in 1888, and in September of that year entered St. Mary's Theo-
logical Seminary, Cleveland. After a five and one-half years'
course, he was ordained priest by Bishop Horstmann, December
21, 1893, when he was just twenty-four years and two months old.
After a vacation of two weeks, he received his commission as
assistant to the pastor of St.- Anthony's (Polish) Church, Toledo.
He remained there from January, 1894, until the following July,
when he was appointed to the important position of pastor of St.
Adalbert's (Polish) Church, Berea, Ohio. Having a capacity for
the management of temporalities, he soon succeeded in paying ofi
much of the parish debt, and in building the splendid stone rectory,
which is a credit to himself and his people.
April 28, 1901, when this work was about to be sent to press.
Father Suplicki was created pastor of St. Anthony's Church,
Toledo, to which he was first appointed, immediately after ordina-
tion, in the capacity of curate. His previous acquaintance with
both the people and the territory, and, to a degree, with the needs
of the congregation, made it desirable that he be placed in charge
of that important parish. It also met with the wishes of the
people, for they welcomed his return to their midst, and, 'though
previously disorganized, they have become, through his ministra-
tions and methods, a united and well disposed congregation. At
once he gave attention to the temporal affairs of the parish, which,
owing to previous improvements in the erection of a church and
412 A HISTORY OF CATHOLIiOITY
school, needed attention. He acquainted the people with the
pressing financial demands, and he has succeeded in creditably-
meeting all emergencies. Both pastor and people have been much
encouraged by results, and St. Anthony's may now be said to be in
a better condition financially than it has been for some years past.
In fact the prospects are bright for continued good results, and
the herculean task of paying of? all obligations may be confidently
looked for in the not far-distant future.
But it is in the domain of the spiritual and the intellectual, the
proper sphere of the priest, that Father Suplicki excels. He
is an eloquent Polish orator, and even in the English his pro-
ficiency is most marked. Having made his studies in this country,
he has acquired a thorough knowledge of the English branches,
and is American in all respects, barring the accident of birth. He
possesses the missionary spirit, and is well adapted, both by nature
and education, for the discharge of the duties of his sacred calling.
That calling implies lofty-mindedness and the Spirit-given affection
of the true shepherd for his flock. His self-possession is in advance
of his years. His spiritual fatherhood and his great considerateness
have softened the fervor of his youth. He is too good and too
sensible to even ape the ecclesiastical autocrat. His priestly dignity
and those qualities which constitute him a Christian gentleman
commend him to all and command the respect of all who hear him,
know him, or have dealings with him.
Of course, the pastor of St. Anthony's is aware of this, but,
while he welcomes the recognition and appreciates the praise, he
sensibly refers them to his caUing, taking no credit to himself.
What of success and usefulness are his he credits to talents
intrusted to him for use, and for which he is responsible to a direct-
ing Providence. His obligations to his people, the loyalty he
owes to his bishop, and that which is needful to his own self-esteem
incline him at all times to act well his part so as to merit the
"well done" which is the just due of a profitable servant.
Having attained to such high standing in his thirty-first year,
and his seventh as a priest, it is not unreasonable to infer that his
career will be onward and upward in the interests of religion and
humanity. The future biographer, therefore, may find it of
interest to more minutely set forth his record and characteristics.
lAs)
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 413
THE RT. REV. MGR. THOMAS P. THORPE.
The great mass of facts which thrust themselves before the
mind on even cursorily glancing over the record of Mgr. Thorpe as
a priest of the Diocese of Cleveland, makes it difficult in attempting
a short sketch of him to do more than set down a few of the
principal ones, and this not so much for the information of the
present generation, who know him so well and favorably, as for
those of the future who ought to be told something of his career
and characteristics.
Nearly thirty-nine years ago (1861) he began his priestly
labors. All his previous life was spent in preparation therefor.
He was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 30, 1861, when he was
twenty-three years and four months old, and his first appointment
was as assistant priest in St. Francis de Sales' parish, Toledo, where
he remained from July, 1861, until April, 1862. He was assistant
pastor of the Cathedral from April, 1862, until 1864. From April,
1864, until March, 1868, he was pastor of St. Mary's Church,
Norwalk. He had charge of South Thompson, with Jefferson as a
mission, from March, 1868, until September, 1870. During those
years he built the church at Jefferson. He was appointed pastor
of the Immaculate Conception Church, Cleveland, in September,
1870, and during his ministry there, which continued until
June, 1876, he began the erection of the present church.
He was made pastor of St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland, in June,
1876, and remained as such until November, 1893, when he was
transferred to his old charge as pastor of the Immaculate Concep-
tion Church in Cleveland.
From the above dates and facts it can be seen that Mgr.
Thorpe has spent nearly thirty-two years in Cleveland, where he
was assistant and pastor at the Cathedral for over twenty years,
and twice pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, where he
now is. For twenty-seven years he has been a member of the
Bishop's Council, and for upwards of a quarter of a century he has
held membership on the Infirm Priests' Board. He has held many
other positions of honor and importance, for the discharge of the
duties of which his splendid abilities have eminently qualified him,
and not the least of these was that of theologian at the Provincial
414 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
Council of Cincinnati, in 1879, and of the Plenary Council of
Baltimore, in 1884. All the Bishops of Cleveland have recognized
and honored his great ability and worth, as if to pave the way for
his being signally favored by Pope Leo XIII, who, in January,
1891, created him Cameriero, with the title and rank of Monsig-
nore ; and again, in August, 1895, by conferring on him the dignity
of Prelate of the Papal Household. It is needless to say that these
distinctions are most becoming to, and have been well earned by,
the subject of this mention. Today he is, as he has always been,
the priest by excellence, and the fitting representative of those
good men of his race who have left everything, even home and
friends, to follow the Master.
Mgr. Thorpe was among those who inspired the founding of
the Catholic Universe, which, ior over three years, under his editorial
management, was a journal of note and influence in the diocese and
elsewhere. During his pastorate at the Cathedral he expended
$30,000 in improving the building, and to erect and complete the
Cathedral School he spent $52,000. This work he followed by a
reduction of the old debt on the parish in the sum of $30,000. On
his return to his old parish of the Immaculate Conception he soon
paid off some previously contracted obligations of the congrega-
tion that amounted to fully $32,000. Subsequently he invested
$7,000 in needed improvements, including a high altar, which is
one of the finest in the city, and also two beautiful side altars. In
1899 he made an outlay of more than $21,000 in completing the
towers of the church, and placing in position eleven bells, which
constitute one of the finest chimes in the State. He has collected
and judiciously expended hundreds of thousands of dollars in
church and school building, and has labored incessantly for the
advancement of his flocks both spiritually and temporally. Never
having faltered as a shepherd and leader of his people, they have
learned to know his voice and to obey his call. His voice is a note
of warning, and his call is to the performance of duty. Being a
public-spirited man he is equally beloved and respected by the
non-Catholic public as by his own admiring people. If all the
sermons and discourses which he has delivered were collected,
they would make many volumes of earnest appeal, of lucid explana-
tion, and of argumentation as logical as they are eloquent.
Independent of the excellences referred to, and the numerous
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 415
qualities which adorn his character, perhaps Mgr. Thorpe's ability
as a pulpit orator has won for him his greatest distinction. From
his youth he has cultivated graceful oratory. His nature and
training have always impelled him in the line of eloquence, and
every advance made by him in the art of painting thoughts in
words and happily giving them expression have brought him
pleasurable returns.
The harmonious, noble, and empassioned character of his pul-
pit oratory has always stirred the emotions of his auditors, while
the cogency of his reasoning, and the explicitness and vividness
of his statements of well known truths satisfied the intellect at the
same time that they strengthened faith, inspired hope, and made
charity in the sense of the higher love an easy virtue to practice.
The thought above hinted at regarding the collection of his
sermons and discourses is impossible of realization, since he seldom
wrote them out. We can now have the eloquence of this priest
repeated only when those of us who have heard him have the
reminiscent faculty active in sweetly bringing back the days and
the occasions when the soul was ahunger for the manna of his
words.
Mgr. Thorpe was born near Dublin, Ireland, February 26,
1838. His father was descended of English ancestors who had
settled in Ireland, and for upwards of a hundred years had become
quite as Irish as the original Celts of the country. His mother
belonged to the distinguished family of the O'Byrens of Wicklow.
After finishing his preparatory and classical studies, and having
refused a post-graduate course in the Irish College at Paris,
ofifered him by the Archbishop of Dublin, who afterwards became
Cardinal CuUen, he decided to join the American Missions, and
accordingly entered All Hallows College. Thence, in 1859, he
came to the United States and entered the Cleveland diocesan
seminary, from which, in less than two years, he emerged a priest.
The details filling in between the main points in his history, as
above outlined, tell of the character of the man. Zealous, capable,
dignified, faithful, he takes a deep interest in all that concerns
religion, his country and humanity, and stands forth a man of
splendid bearing, scholarly attainments, the possessor of a great
mind and of a heart that, even now in the evening of his life, ever
beats to the music of freedom for both soul and body.
416 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. AND MRS. CHARLES TOOLE.
As far back as 1832 the Toole family settled in Qeveland,
Ohio. They were natives of the county of Wicklow, Ireland, where
they had a farm near the town of Baltinglass, with Dublin as theii
market place. The elder Toole having died, his widow with her
nine children emigrated to the United States. Her name was
Elizabeth, and the names of her children were : Charles, John,
Thomas, Lawrence, Bridget, Ann, Julia, Mary, and Margaret.
Mr. Charles Toole, the oldest of these, who was born April 13,
1808, and who died in Cleveland, July 19, 1867, was married in
that city, in 1844, to Miss Ann McCormick. She was born, in 1819,
at Abbeyshrule, county of Longford, Ireland. Father McLaugh-
lin, who was one of the early missionary priests in Cleveland, per-
formed the cererr ")ny and honored the young couple by attending
the wedding festivities. They had four children: Eliza, Ann,
Margaret and John. The two last mentioned, Mrs. Margaret
Carroll , and Atr. John Toole, survive and are residents of Cleveland.
Mrs. Ann Toole, whose portrait appears on the adjoining page, is
in her eighty-third year. She is remarkable for more things than
her great age. She is a typical Irish mother, whose simple life and
manner and charming character endear her to a large circle of
friends and neighbors. She is as keenly bright and just as prac-
tical as at any period of her long life, her intellect if anything being
as strong as it was twenty-five years ago. She has faithfully
kept the temperance pledge which she took from Father Matthew
when he visited in Cleveland in 1851, and she is about as beautiful
a picture of old motherhood as might be woven from the warp and
woof threads of an active life of eighty-three years.
"Blessed are those who die for God,
And earn the martyr's crown of Ught;
Yet she who lives for God may be
A greater conqueror in His sight."
Mr. Charles Toole also in his day performed well his part as
a pioneer Catholic of Cleveland. The first church in that city, old
St. Mary's on the "Flats" had his support. He helped later to build
St. John's Cathedral, and was for years one of the councilmen of
the congregation. He was one of the committee that carried the
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 417
bag of gold with which the first payment was made on the lots
upon which St. John's Cathedral now stands. He remained active
in parish work until his death, and was a charter member of the
first St. Vincent de Paul Society organized in the Cathedral parish.
He was a plain, sturdy man, of good character, who always tried
to do his duty. All the early missionary priests, such as Fathers
Dillon and McLaughlin, were well known to him. Those also who
succeeded them in the work of building up Catholicity in Cleveland
down to as late as 1867 were all friends and admirers of plain,
practical Charles Toole.
Conjointly Mr. and Mrs. Toole presented a beautiful example
of Christian constancy, mutual love, and parental affection. Hav-
ing been properly reared their first duty was ever toward God,
after whom they preferred their children and their neighbors
before themselves. It was charity and self-denial with them.
Today Mrs. Toole more than ever exemplifies these virtues in
her life. The memory of her husband is an incentive to her in
these respects, and while she is impelled by higher motives, yet it
comes most natural to her to do what was' her custom when her
husband was with her in the doing of those works which make
for good in the world. Habit of body and habit of mind evidence
both early training and subsequent practice. All the moral
virtues must be taught to be practiced, and even the natural
virtues gain strength by example and use. When, therefore,
Mrs. Toole, in her old age, regardless of the weather, sets the
excellent example of punctual attendance at early Mass; when
she is known to speak only in kindness of her neighbors ; and
when it is her delight to recall by her own practice, her husband's
faithfulness, a picture of their married life may easily be drawn
by the reader. That picture, as above said, is one of Christian
constancy, mutual love, and parental affection.
As applying to Mrs. Charles Toole's early resolve to act well
her part it can be said that, "A woman cannot too soon learn
womanhood's best mission — usefulness, tenderness and charity.
418 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JOHN TRACY.
The Rev. John Tracy, pastor of St. Joseph's Church
Ashtabula, Ohio,* was born in Ireland, November 20, 1838. Th«
accident of birth has not interfered with his Americanism, for th«
reason that he has been a resident of the United States since his
tenth year. His parents were Patrick and Ann (McCabe) Tracy
His father having died in Ireland, his mother, who died in Sandusky,
Ohio, in 1861, emigrated with her family, in 1849, and located in
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. There as a boy Father Tracy received
his primary education. When a youth he was sent to St. Vincent's
College, conducted by the Benedictine Fathers, at Latrobe, in
that State. After completing his classical studies there he was
received as a divinity student in St. Mary's Theological Seminary,
Cleveland, Ohio, in 18.59, and in June, 1863, the 28th day, he was
ordained priest for the Diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Rappe.
He is one of the five survivors of a class of ten ordained at the
same time, four of whom are now in the diocese.
Father Tracy's first mission was St. Joseph's, Ashtabula, his
commission bearing date July, 1863. During his pastorate of
seven years he built the church, school and rectory. In 1870 he was
transferred to Painesville where, up until his departure in 1887, he
paid off a debt of $4,000, and expended $5,500 for a house and lot
for the Sisters and also for a cemetery of seven acres, costing
$2,800, and a vault, which was $1,000 additional. In the eastern
end of the diocese he was a pioneer pastor and was among the first
to renew the spirit of the scattered Catholics in Ashtabula and
Lake counties. In 1865 he built the first church at Conneaut, and
also the first school at Ashtabula. In 1869 he built the mission
church at Madison. In August, 1887, after having been
seventeen years in Painesville, he was appointed to Holy
Angels' Church, Sandusky. His energy again showed itself in the
improvements he made, consisting of new windows in the church,
new pews, and a fine organ. December, 1893, the demands of the
diocese required that he go back to his first parish at Ashtabula.
After an absence of twenty-seven years he was welcomed by his
•Father Tracy, through ill-health, retires from active labors since this work has
been in press, June, 1902.
"iri mi:
z>-r
Xr..
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 419
former parishioners. He is now (1900), although in his sixty-
second year, preparing to erect a large and imposing new church
for his people.
What is most striking in the career of Rev. John Tracy is the
fact that he left no debts wherever he ministered, but was always
confronted by debts contracted by others. Another great fact is
that wherever he was commissioned to exercise his calling as
a priest he made education absolutely free to^ all. And still another
remarkable fact is that he was never absent from his people one
Sunday during the nearly thirty-seven years of his priesthood.
This means that he has never had a vacation. It means further-
more that he is a determined man, constant, zealous, and loyal.
Having put his hand to the plough in either spiritual or temporal
things, there is no such thing as even a temporary looking back for
him. The glory, therefore, of the Diocese of Cleveland, as a part
of the great Vineyard of Christ, requires truthful mention to be
made of such devoted men as Rev. John Tracy and others of his
years and labors. Generations yet to come will bless the memory
of these sowers of the good seed in northern Ohio.
To say that future generations will bless the memory of such
zealous priests is an assertion that will scarcely be questioned by
anyone. The averment is predicated on Scriptural teaching and
also upon the natural appreciation, gratitude, and admiration of
mankind. The hero in the Army of the Lord will certainly be no
less remembered and extolled than will be the hero in the army of
the Nation. He will be recalled vnth even more heartiness and
approbation, for his pure unselfish life, zeal for the higher cause of
religion, and love for mankind will constrain both the intellects
and the hearts of men to do his memory both justice and honor.
The faithful priest of God shall, therefore, be in everlasting remem-
brance and benediction among the people, and the story of his
labors and privations, of his trials and achievements will be
recounted and attentively listened to by both young and old. His
example will draw, and the path of his life will appear straight
and clearly outlined, thereby inviting others to walk in it and
show their appreciation for spiritual wisdom and the Christian
virtues.
420 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. HENRY TRENKAMP.
To be prominent among the most influential men of Cleve-
land, and at the same time to be as retiring and modest-mannered
as a seven-year-old child, is about the way in which those who
know Mr. Henry Trenkamp best express the seeming paradox of
his career and marked characteristics. In keeping with this is also
the other fact that while sixty-one years old he does not appear to
be fifty, his youthfiilness of appearance and action and his remark-
able good health having been conserved by his regular habits, his
exceedingly active life, and his benevolence and evenness of
temperament.
He was born at Oldenburg, Germany, December 14, 1839.
In his twentieth year he emigrated to the United States and foi
two years, in Baltimore, Maryland, he worked at his trade as a
machinist. He then removed to Cleveland, Ohio, where he has
continued to reside and do business for the past thirty-nine years
He is a member of The Schneider & Trenkamp Company, manu-
facturers of gas and gasoline stoves, steel ranges, etc., a concerr
that does the largest business in its line of any in the country. Hii
son, Mr. Herman J. Trenkamp, is also a member of the company
and is its secretary.
While residing in Baltimore Mr. Henry Trenkamp was mar
ried to Miss Elizabeth Sutkamp, a young lady who was reared ir
his native place in Germany. In her girlhood and youth she gavf
evidence of those qualities which have since ripened into th(
domestic virtues that have blessed her home and brightened th(
life of her family ; and that family prizes these virtues highly, eacl
member appreciating the fact that a palatial home and rich sur
rounding with every want supplied would still be as nothing
without those prime essentials which make the mother the queei
of the home. Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Trenkamp
only five of whom are living. The names of those living are
Herman J.; Bernadine J. ; Elizabeth C, who is Mrs. B. Thoman, o
Covington, Kentucky; John A., and Henry, Jr. The Trenkam]
family resides in a beautiful home at No. 159 Bolton avenue, in th'
city of Cleveland, and are members of St. Peter's parish. They ar
loyal to the Catholic faith and generous in support of the Church
■'*'»-*>>•
MR. AND MRS. HENRY TRBNKAMP.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 421
They are highly esteemed, not only by their co-religionists, but
also by a large circle of friends and acquaintances who are not
Catholics.
The young men of the family exhibit an unusual business
capacity, and following in the footsteps of their father a large
share of prosperity and prominence is their portion. The daugh-
ters "take after" their mother in their domestic traits, and the
good practical sense with which they are credited commends them
to all. As children of their parents the Trenkamp family do honor
to their progenitors at the same time that they endear themselves
in their community by plain, unostentatious living in the midst
of affluence. In their estimation everything that glitters is not
gold, and the empty forms and "red-tape" of so-called society are
not always the evidences of virtue and good qualities.
Mr. Trenkamp's career is an index to his character. He
began life as a mechanic. He has always been industrious,
energetic and faithful. Coupled with these his practical ideas and
business instincts brought him prosperity. His large means have
no efifect whatever upon his simple manner and quiet bearing. He
is always the same generous, genial and agreeable gentleman that
he is found to be on first acquaintance. These things go for
much with observing and sensible people. They stand strongly
in contrast with what is usually met with in everyday life. The
character of one's calling, in the estimation of some, has much to
do with the standing of an individual, but, in the estimation of
those who think clearly and judge wisely, it has little to do with his
character. It was Madam Swetchine who said that, "People are
judged in this world according to the stand which they take, and
the responsibilities which they assume. The world often regulates
its demand by the praise it bestows and the purer and loftier ones
aim is, the greater the tax which it involves." While this is true
in great part, character is not dependent upon reputation or the
praise or blame of men, and few instances of this are more striking
than that pointed out in the subject of this sketch. Verily, "A
man's a man for a' that, and a' that."
422 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. CLEMENT H. TREIBER.
Diversity of talent seems now more than ever to be an essen-
tial to the priest in this day and country. He is expected to fill
all the requirements of what is called an all-around man. He
must be philosopher, theologian, orator, linguist, musician ; while
at no time shall he fail to be a man of afifairs — a business man.
Weighed in these empirical balances, the pastor and founder of the
Immaculate Conception Church, Canton, Ohio,* will not be found
wholly wanting, as his record and the facts will show.
He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, July 20, 1856. His father
was Maximilian Treiber, who died in April, 1870, and the maiden
name of his mother, who yet lives, was Amelia Helmer. She is
sixty-six years old. Mr. and Mrs. Treiber were married in the
first Catholic Church in Cleveland, old St. Mary's on the "Flats,"
and for many years worshipped there. He was baptized by the
late Very Rev. John H. Luhr, V. G., of St. Peter's Church, in his
native city. When old enough he attended that church and the
parish school until 1362. Then St. Joseph's parish of that city, by
change of boundary, claimed him as a member and he 'attended
its church and school until 1869, when he began his classical
studies under the Franciscan Fathers, at Teutopolis, Illinois. He
graduated there June, 18Y5, and the following September he
entered St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland. Complet-
ing a five years' course in philosophy and theology, he was
ordained priest in St. John's Cathedral by Bishop Gilmour, July 4,
1880.
After a vacation of just two weeks he was appointed to the
charge of Mineral Ridge, East Palestine, Salem, Canfield, and
Austintown, Ohio. During the first year he organized the East
Palestine congregation and built its present church. In 1881 he
built St. Paul's Church at Salem. He ministered to the people in
these places for seven- years, or until he was transferred to St.
Joseph's parish, Crestline, June, 1887. He built the church there,
in 1888, at a cost of $23,000, and paid ofif all the expense except
$2,500. He remained at Crestline over twelve years, when, in
♦Since this worli was sent to press Father Treiber, at his own request, was appointed,
June 14, 1902, to organize another congregation in Canton. It is under the patronage of
St. Joseph.
^* Ui*^-:~~Sr^^ ^•■'^''^ •■^^-'. ^'>i^ \'^ J
^~f:\'-\ THE REV. CLEMENT n. iKCiocK. ^"^^i-ij -*
~»\i«
THE REV. CLEMENT H. TREIBER.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 423
September, 1899, he was commissioned by Bishop Horstmann to
organize the new parish of the Immaculate Conception in Canton.
The Canton congregation began its career with Father
Treiber as its organizer and head, October 8, 1899. During the
first six months of its existence a large plat of ground centrally
located was purchased and on it has been erected a combination
building known as the Chapel-School of the Immaculate Concep-
tion, the cost of which was $21,700. The building is of vitrified
brick, commodious and happily arranged so as to meet the require-
ments of the congregation for several years to come. It will then
be used for school purposes only. This is according to Father
Treiber's notions of business and economy.
Of the forty-three years of his life he has been for almost
twenty of them a priest — a man of energy and business ability, as
can be gathered from his record. At this writing (1900) he is as
fresh and as zealous in his work as when he began his missionary
labors in 1880. Today as then the task before him is to organize,
and build, and collect money to meet expenses and the cost of
improvements. These extra but necessary labors, coupled with
his spiritual obligations, are before him in the line of duty, and
he cheerfully proceeds with his work conscious that all is for
rehgion and the uplifting of his people.
It is needless to assert in this connection that Father Treiber
is a man whose varied talents fit him for great usefulness in his
sacred calling. If he were not blest as the possessor of numerous
resources his record would not be as remarkable as it is. But
since all men are as they have been made, none may take credit
except in so far as they become profitable servants through the
right use of the talents intrusted to them. It is not improper,
therefore, to speak of the pastor of the Immaculate Conception
parish, Canton, Ohio, as a priest possessing and exercising varied
and great abilities.
In his proper sphere, the spiritual, he is zealous and devout,
serious and exact. Nothing of the material has he ever permitted
to incroach upon, or in any way interfere with, that to which all
else is secondary and tributary — religion pure and undefiled. In
the public service of the Church he is collected, graceful, and
precise, using his musical ability to happily impress the people
with the solemnity and beauty of its office and ceremonial. In
424 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
these functions he is most careful that what is real in doctrine and
essence shall be faithfully and fittingly shadowed forth.
As a preacher Father Treiber is instructive, pleasing and
eloquent. Personally he is regarded even by non-Catholics as an
agreeable, approachable and obliging gentleman. The unity of
humanity he would emphasize by fraternity, benevolence, and
active charity. All men are his brethren, and to the extent of his
ability he would aid all without distinction — a thing that is becom-
ing to him as a man, but doubly so as a priest.
THE REV. JOSEPH UPHAUS, C. PP. S.
A man of imposing personal appearance, standing six feet two
inches and proportionately developed, his intellectual attainments
and happy disposition being well in keeping, presides in the
capacity of pastor over St. Michael's parish, Thompson, Seneca
county, Ohio. He is a priest of the Congregation of the Most
Precious Blood, and during the past twenty-eight years has done
valiant service in the cause of religion in various parts of the
United States.
Father Uphaus' first mission was as pastor of the Assumption
Church, Nashville, Tennessee, where he labored from February,
1873, until July, 1875. Besides caring for the church property he
also built a pastoral residence there. He was transferred, in 1875,
to become president of St. Joseph's College, Rohnerville, Cali-
fornia, and to be pastor of the Church of the Immaculate Concep-
tion at that place. He also had charge of St. Patrick's Church,
Table Bluff, which, with Ferndale, constituted his missions. He
remained there until 1878, when he was commissioned as pastor of
St. John's Church, at Maria Stein, Ohio. His pastorate continued
for only one year. At the end of that time he was sent to minister
to the people of New Corydon, Indiana, where he built Holy
Trinity Church, an imposing edifice, and also the Chapel of the
Presentation, attached to his parish as a mission. The chapel was
destroyed by fire, but he rebuilt it. He labored very successfully
in that field from June, 1879, until October, 1887.
Back to Nashville to become pastor for a second time of the
Church of the Assumption was the next order he received from his
superior. He remained at Nashville nearly ten years, when, in
im) ■ '■ "^
"^ i,
y ^ \''!
-"•'^1&\^\ ^-'■^":
^
THE REV. JOS. UPHAUS, C. PP. S,
Iff. - ""' ■ ^'
^»»«.
«»'•-«
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 425
1897, he was appointed pastor of St. Peter's Church, Winamac,
Indiana. He ministered to the Catholics of that place during
eighteen months, or until his transfer to become the rector of the
Seminary of the Congregation of the Most Precious Blood at
Carthagena, Mercer county, Ohio. He discharged the duties of
that high position until August, 1899, when he became pastor of
St. Michael's Church, Thompson, where, at the close of the nine-
teenth century, he is laboring with his usual zeal and success.
Rev. Joseph Uphaus was born at Glandorf, Putnam county,
Ohio, October 1, 1844. His father was the late John G. Uphaus,
who followed carpentry and farming as his callings. The
maiden name of his mother was Catherine Poeppelmann. He was
early given educational advantages, which he improved so as to
qualify himself for the calling of a teacher. He taught during four
years in the schools in the neighborhood. September, 1866, in
obedience to the voice of his conscience and the advice of his
confessor, he entered the Seminary of the Order of the Most
Precious Blood, at Carthagena, Mercer county, Ohio, where he
applied himself to the study of the classics and subsequently to
that of theology. He finished in 1873, and was elevated to the
priesthood January 17 of that year by Bishop Dwenger. The
rite was performed in the seminary chapel.
When a youth of eighteen Father Uphaus as a school teacher
was able to have good order observed by his pupils, and since he
became a priest his natural ability to lead and direct men has
sufifered no diminution. In the various places where he has had
charge of congregations or institutions his government has been
most successful, because he knew how to be considerate and
tolerant of those under his care. He knows how to be emphatic
without being harsh. Mildness and gentleness, qualities insep-
arable from the true spiritual father, have always been factors in
his successes. Whether natural or supernatural in character these
qualities are looked for in large men who are great men. They are
as native with Father Uphaus as is his logical mind.
He preaches eloquently and forcefully in both English and
German. His voice has great volume and is pleasing. His manner
is unaffected, and, while not stern, implies great strength and
earnestness. He looks and acts what he is, a true priest of the
Catholic Church.
426 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. GEORGE J. VAHEY.
To James and Julia (Cannon) Vahey, at Chelsea, Massachu-
setts, were born twelve children, eleven boys, and one girl, the
youngest. The seventh oldest is the Rev. George J. Vahey, pastor
of St. Columbkille's Church, Cleveland, Ohio. He first saw the
light June 24, 1862. The elder Vahey died at his home in Chelsea
October, 1883. Mrs. Vahey yet lives, as also her daughter,
Mary J., both of whom, with the subject of this mention, are all
that survive of the family.
Father Vahey's preparatory training was received in the
public schools of his native place, including the High School. He
next entered the Boston Latin School, and later St. Michael's
College, Toronto, Canada, where he graduated in the classics in
1878. In the autumn of that year he was received into St. Mary's
Theological Seminary, Cleveland, and after a six years' course was
ordained priest by Bishop Gilmour, December 17, 1887.
For one month immediately after ordination he was curate
at St. Columba's Church, Youngstown, Ohio. He was next
placed in charge of St. Patrick's Church, Wellington, and
missions, where he remained as pastor for nearly nine months.
From there he was transferred to St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland,
where he labored during twelve years, most of the time being in
complete charge as pastor of that important parish. November,
1900, he was appointed to his present charge as pastor of
St. Columbkille's Church, also in Cleveland, where he contem-
plates building in the near future an imposing church and school.
The parents of this priest were both born in the county of
Mayo, Ireland. They prized education highly and paid special
attention to the training of all their children. Every advantage
was afforded each of them, not merely in the common, but also in
the higher branches, and in music. Various kinds of musical
instruments were in their home and were played upon by nearly
every member of the family, some of them being equal to perform-
ing on several instruments. In this way they became known
locally as the "Vahey Family Band." One son became Demon-
strator of Anatomy in Harvard University, and later held a chair
in the Leland-Stanford University, where he accidentally met his
death. The daughter. Miss Mary J. Vahey, graduated from the
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 427
Notre Dame Convent in her native place, Chelsea, where she
added to her general culture an acquaintance with art. Her paint-
ings adorn the walls of St. Columbkille's pastoral residence in
Cleveland, and the fine painting of the Sacred Heart in the Polish
Church in South Cleveland she executed in compliment to its
pastor. For a season she was cartoonist for one of the leading
Boston journals. The children were all talented, and a fair
sample of their natural mental ability might be said to be
Father Vahey himself. The elder Vahey, as also his wife, both
spoke and wrote the Irish language in its purity, a fact that may
account for the proficiency of their reverend son in its use.
The reverend pastor of St. Columbkille's is a man of remark-
able mental and physical vigor, fine personal presence, and great
force of character. He unites in himself both the brilliancy and
fervor of his race, the zeal of the true priest, and the scholarly finish
of a man of talent who has enjoyed rare educational advantages.
He is a very acceptable preacher, if not a finished pulpit orator,
while as a chanter of sacred music he has few superiors. He can
read the most difficult music at sight and can execute it either
vocally or instrumentally.
One does not usually look for lamb-like gentleness and
docility in connection with leonine robustness in men, but
"Humility, that low, sweet root
From which all heavenly virtues shoot,"
SO transmutes the individual that his native vigor and force are
yoked to the work of subserving the highest aims of religion and
the best interests of humanity. And thus it is with Father Vahey.
By his virtues he renders himself acceptable and pleasing both to
his ecclesiastical superiors and to the people among whom and for
whom he labors.
These hints suggest the outline of a picture that is beautiful
to contemplate. In the foreground is the ripe harvest-field, the
chief husbandman, and the laborers. In the background is a suc-
cession of varying scenes carrying the mind back through the
Christian centuries to Him of Nazareth who said : "The harvest is
ripe, but the laborers are few." To recognize Father Vahey as one
among the faithful laborers in this field, a servant who with single-
ness of purpose valiantly "bears the burden of the day and the
heats/' is the object of this passing mention.
428 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JOHN G. VOGT.
The Rev. Father Vogt, pastor of the Immaculate Conception
Church, French Creek, Avon, Lorain county, Ohio, is among
the plainest of the priests of the Diocese of Cleveland. If it were
his purpose to seclude and suppress himself he has certainly
succeeded, for he had to be sought out in his rural parish home at
Avon, that confirmation might be had from him, personally, of his
diocesan record as here outlined.
He was born to Joseph and Mary Vogt (Vogt having been
his mother's maiden name also), at Oberkirsch, Baden, June 22,
1847. His parents died when he was five years old. Following
his primary training he made his classical studies at Einsiedeln,
Switzerland. Completing his course he emigrated to the United
States, in 1869, and was accepted as an ecclesiastical student for
the Diocese of Cleveland. He thereupon entered St. Mary's
Theological Seminary, from which institution he emerged as a
priest, having been ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 8, 1873.
He celebrated his first Mass in St. Joseph's Church, Maumee,
where his friend, the Rev. Peter Becker, of Holy Trinity Church,
Cleveland, was then pastor. Devoting a few weeks to rest and
recuperation after his long years of study, he was prepared to enter
upon his missionary labors.
His first appointment, July, 1873, created him pastor of St.
Peter's Church, at Edgerton, in Williams county, with five
missions also in his charge. During his pastorate there of two
years and three months, he repaired the church at Stryker, put
new pews in the church at Archbald, and at Wauseon he provided
a place of worship for the Catholics by purchasing for that purpose
a Methodist meeting house.
His second field of labor was at Six-Mile Woods (Raab's
Station), in Lucas county, with St. Mary's Corners as a mission.
During his stay there of nearly two years he built the brick church
there (Immaculate Conception), and almost completed the pastoral
residence at the mission.
His next appointment made him pastor of St. Philip Neri's
Church, at Dungannon, in Columbiana county. He made repairs
on the church which necessitated the expenditure of $3,000. He
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 429
also began the erection of the mission church at Lisbon. He
labored successfully in that field for nearly eleven years.
From Dungannon he was transferred to become the pastor
of St. Bernard's Church, at New Washington, in Crawford county.
His stay there was eleven and one-half years, during which he paid
ofif a debt of $1,000, repaired the pastoral residence and kept the
property in good condition. In addition he repaired the Sisters'
dwelling and built the school at a cost of about $8,000.
September 22, 1899, he was appointed to his present charge
as pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, French Creek,
Avon, Lorain county. Since his taking charge he built the pres-
ent well appointed and commodious pastoral residence at an outlay
of $8,000, on which there is a debt of only $600. At this writing,
the close of 1902, Father Vogt is in the thirtieth year of his priest-
hood and the fifty-sixth of his life. He has been faithful and
successful in his priestly labors, and what is an earnest of his good
will he has at no time been troublesome to his ecclesiastical
superiors.
Father Vogt has been content to labor unseen of men, to
have few personal wants, and to have no ambition other than to
act well his part according to his ability. His fort lies in the line
of a catechist and instructor, and in this field he can speak both
German and English. In the interests of the youth he catchises
in the latter language, but on alternate Sundays he preaches in
German. He has also a good knowledge of French, at least
enough to enable him to hear confessions in that language.
Having attained an age and experience which incline men to look
upon the serious side of life he now more than ever is anxious to
impress upon his people both the value of time and the need of
embracing the opportunities for salvation which were not so multi-
pHed for preceding generations. The sere in his life is
synonymous with the serious, and, therefore, those truths which
they suggest he inculcates with unusual vigor, a fact which imparts
a degree of impressiveness to his ministry, and begets in his flock
at least an approach to a realization of the things essential to
salvation.
"What though unmarked the happy workman toil,
And break unthanked of men the stubborn clod?
It is enough, for sacred is the soil;
Dear are the hills of God."
430 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. JOHN H. WAHMHOFF.
Of the middle-aged men of Delphos, Ohio, who are prominent
in business and active in the advancement of religion and education,
there is no one more worthy of recognition and honorable mention
in this work than the gentleman whose name forms the head-line
of this sketch. He was born in Buffalo, New York, March 11,
1851, and he has been a resident of Ohio since 1861.
His parents were born in Germany. His father, Stephen
Wahmhoff, who died in Buffalo, New York, December 9, 1858,
was a Hanovarian, and his mother, whose maiden name was
Frederica Reuter, is a Prussian, and is yet well preserved and hale
in her seventy-third year. Both were taken to this country early
in life, and Providence brought them together in Erie county. New
York, where they were united in marriage in 1850. Three sons
and two daughters were born to their union. One daughter
became a nun. She died many years ago at Fond du Lac,
Wisconsin. All the other members of the family are residents of
Delphos.
The death of the elder Wahmhofif was caused by an accident
on the Erie Central Railway with which he was connected in the
capacity of foreman of the boiler yards. Besides being a practical
boilermaker he was a draughtsman and also a machinist. He was
remarkably skilled in mechanics, was well educated, and was a
zealous and devout Catholic. His pastor, speaking from the pulpit
on the, occasion of his funeral, among other things said : "If the
walls of this church could speak they mig'ht say that Stephen
Wahmhofif did more good than any other member of this congre-
gation;" a high tribute to his Catholicity and his well directed zeal.
In 1861 the widow Wahmhofif, with her children, removed to
Van Wert county, Ohio, where, a few miles from Delphos, the
family owned some farming lands. They remained on the farm
four years, during which time John H., being the oldest of the
children, attended the township school. After the removal of the
family to Delphos, in 1865, the boy attended night school. When
fifteen years old he began an apprenticeship in one of the prominent
drug houses of the city. His term having expired, and having
given satisfaction, he was invited to remain with his employers.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 431
He thus continued until 1878, when he bought the stock and
business of the house, giving in payment his notes in the sum of
eight thousand dollars. He met his obhgations promptly, and is
now in the twenty-second year of his prosperous ownership and
management of the business. With his ability as a pharmacist he
unites both tact and energy. By study he has acquired not only
a degree of discursive knowledge, but also the art of speaking and
writing with force and elegance.
In obedience to the early local custom he joined the Delphos
volunteer fire department, in 1872, and continued with the
brigade eighteen years, holding every position from private to
chief, which latter office was his during four years. In 1885 he
was elected a member of the city council, was again elected in
1888, and for a third term was chosen to fill that position in 1894;
Following this he served two terms as a member of the educational
board. In 1880 he became a member of the State Pharmaceutical
Association and was one of the five chosen to draft the first "Ohio
Pharmaceutical Laws." He was for several years a member of the
American Pharmaceutical Association, and is now a member of
the Allen County Association.
In Catholic and fraternal societies his affiliations are both
numerous and prominent. He is a member of the St. John's
branch, at Delphos, of the Catholic Knights of America, and also
of the local uniform rank of the same order. From 1896 to 1898
he was the State president of the order, and of the local branch
he has been both president and recording secretary. From 1898
until this writing he has been the supreme delegate to the national
conventions.
Mr. John H. Wahmhoff was married in 1851 to Miss
Christina C. Eich, of Huntington, Indiana, whose girlhood gave
promise of those domestic virtues which have since adorned her
character and sweetened the home-life of her family. She has
become the joyful mother of five children whose names are:
Elizabeth, Henrietta, Agnes, John J., Anna, and Celestina.
Enjoying the advantages which a measure of affluence afifords,
abiding in the faith of the Catholic Christian, and with the home
safeguarded and happy, the Wahmhofifs may be proudly pointed
to as among the fruits cultivated by zealous laborers in the vineyard
of the Lord.
432 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
PROF. JOHN T. WAMELINK.
The head and founder of The Wamelink and Sons Piano Com-
pany, of Cleveland, was the late Prof. John T. Wamelink, who was
one of the pioneer Catholics of northern Ohio. He was one of
the oldest dealers in pianos in Cleveland and was noted for his
having, for over fifty years, been connected with the public service
of the Church in the capacities of organist, leader, singer or choir
master. He died December 31, 1900. When a mere youth of
fourteen he presided over the first organ in the old Church of
St. Mary on the "Flats," the first in Cleveland, and subsequently
in the Cathedral churches of Milwaukee and Pittsburg. During
the twenty-seven years preceding his death he was the organist and
director of St. John's Cathedral choir, Cleveland.
Prof. Wamelink was a musician both by nature and education.
His every fibre was attuned to the harmony of sweet sounds. He
was skilled, both vocally and instrumentally, in evoking the soul of
music. That noble instrument, the great organ, appeared to
rejoice at his touch, and its wondrous powers seemed at their
highest when rendering prompt response to his masterly and
almost inspired manipulation. His splendid voice was remarkable
not only for its volume and compass, but especially for that soulful-
ness and expression which were peculiarly his own. The members
of the Cathedral congregation, for two generations, accustomed
themselves to count on his voice and his dextrous use of the great
organ as aids in their devotions while assisting at the public
service of the Church.
The record of noted musical events in Cleveland and Pittsburg
is in part a history of Prof. Wamelink. His masterly rendition of
such oratorios as Creation, Messiah, Elijah, Hymn of Praise,
St. Paul, and others, were enough to establish his reputation for all
time, while his presentation of such operas as Pinafore, Bohemian
Girl, Martha, Chimes of Normandy, and Elisire d' Amour were little
less than marvelous since no other man in either city had been
willing to even attempt them, particularly the heavier ones. His
greatest triumph was as late as 1897 when Sonnambula, which in
Europe is considered a test for lyric soprano, was presented by him
so excellently as to gain the approval of all critics. His fame on
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 433
that account, as well as because of his recognized ability as a
director, became widespread and thoroughly established.
Prof. Wamelink was surely entitled to the palm in point of
length of service as a musician, and up until his death he was to the
fore in point of the highest merit. The hearts of all warmed toward
him, not only as a distinguished artist, but especially as a gentle-
man of the old school whose greatest pleasure was to accommodate
and entertain, and who felt that his art in the real sense of scimus
ut producamus is to gladden the higher sensibilities and uplift the
soul. There is scarcely an organ of note in any of the Catholic
churches of Cleveland and vicinity that has not responded to his
magic touch, and few, indeed, were the instances where those of his
profession did not gladly resign their instruments to him when
occasions and desires purely local or personal demanded that he
perform in their stead.
Prof. John T. Wamelink was a native of Amsterdam, Holland.
From his youth he had been a resident and citizen of this country,
having spent nearly all his life in Cleveland and Pittsburg. He was
married in the latter city to Miss Catherine J. Sweetland in 1853.
Of seven living children two sons, John T. and Harry J., were
associated with him in the piano business, which business they yet
continue, and in which the firm has acquired quite a competence,
their piano trade being the largest in Cleveland.
The splendid personal appearance of Prof. Wamelink,
together with his culture and character, had marked him for
prominence both in business as well as professionally and socially.
Possessing a dignity of bearing and a countenance indicative of
nobility of soul^ his distinguished personality and talents had
always been great aids in the furtherance of Catholic interests.
Whether conscious of this or not he never posed as a paragon of
perfection, except in the one respect of being strictly honest, which
he really was. He had at no time deported himself as if to say : "I
am holier than thou." On the contrary, his course had been a
modest one, pursuing the even tenor of his way in the performance
of his duty as he saw it. Hence, up until his last hours he could
not but have experienced at least the reflex efifect of his loyalty
and devotion to the Catholic Church and of his having at all times
been wrapped up in the splendor of its ceremonial, in which his
great musical talent had fitted him to play so important a part.
434 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. TIMOTHY C. WARD.
A gentleman prominent among the younger generation of
Catholics and energetic business men of Cleveland, Ohio, is
selected, in the person of Mr. Timothy C. Ward, as the subject of
this biographical mention. His character is suited to the scope
of this work, in that he is a practical Catholic, and, moreover,
because his record for honesty, reliability, generosity, and industry
entitles him to the recognition.
He is the senior member of the printing house of Ward &
Shaw, of Cleveland, and a son of the late John Ward, and his
surviving wife, Ellen (Shea) Ward^ pioneer CathoHcs of that city,
and natives of the county of Cork, Ireland. The elder Ward
located in Cleveland, in 1848, the year following the establishment
of the diocese. He died, in 1896, after a residence there of forty-
eight years. He was of simple but abiding faith, and he possessed
that peace and spiritual content begotten of the faithful practice
of his religion. His good wife, enjoying like peace of soul, is
now in her seventy-fourth year.
Mr. Timothy C. Ward was born December 1, 1864. He was
educated in the Cathedral school until his fourteenth year, when
both his desire and the needs of the family impelled him to seek
for employment. Emerging from that period of Hfe called
"urchinhood" into vigorous boyhood he had the make-up and
the qualities to commend him, even if bare feet and a cheap coat
were against him. He worked as a messenger and general utility
boy, sold Cleveland's first Sunday paper, and for three years
extended its circulation, not only in the city, but also in the
suburbs and on the islands in Lake Erie. In the meantime he
secured a place in the J. B. Savage printing house. He continued
to advance during the twenty-four years of his career with that
house until he became its superintendent. He resigned, in 1899,
to embark in his present business.
He was well treated by Mr. J. B. Savage, and was given every
opportunity to advance. Nothing pleases him better than to
recount the marked consideration and kindness always extended
to him by Mr. Savage. In truth he but evidences his own excellent
qualities when he testifies to the great business ability, unques-
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 435
tioned integrity, and remarkable kindness of heart of his old
employer. "Whatever," he says, "of merit I have as a business
man, and whatever of credit I am entitled to for methods and
practices which commend me to the public, I owe, in great
part, to the example, advice, and encouragement which I received,
during the twenty-four years I was in the employ of Mr. J. B.
Savage."
In June, 1890, Mr. Ward was united in marriage to Miss
Mary Gallagher, the accomplished daughter of the late Edward
and Honora (Graham) Gallagher, who were pioneer Catholics of
Cleveland. Miss Gallagher received a convent education which,
besides equipping her intellectually, laid the foundation for her
numerous domestic virtues. She excels in the care of her house
and her children and, in Scripture phrase, she fattens the bones
of her husband as becomes a good Christian wife. Since this work
was ready for the press, the elder Gallagher passed away, Septem-
ber, 1901, leaving a record of fifty-five years of honorable citizen-
ship in his adopted city. He prospered in business and was highly
respected by his co-religionists and fellow citizens. To the union
of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy C. Ward have been born three bright
children, whose names are : Helen, Nora, and Mary.
In the person of Mr. Ward are found a physical development
and facial expression which are indicative of his character. He
is big in body, big in heart, big in brain, and is attractively pre-
sentable as a descendant of the good old Celtic stock. He is
generous arid fair to his more than sixty employees, is reliable and
just in his dealings with his patrons, and as an all-around man
among men he maintains himself in honor and the strictest
integrity. In enterprise he is abreast of the best. Conscious of his
ability to serve the public, he is not slow in presenting the
mutuality of interest which is maintained between his house and
its patrons. In religion he is not pretentious, but contents him-
self with humbly fulfilling his duties as he sees them. He is a
member of the councilmanic board of St. John's Cathedral, and is
generous in his donations in support of religion and education.
He is prominent, too, in the various fraternal and patriotic
associations.
As a man who has staked out his path, and marked the
direction in which to push on toward the goal of success, he is
436 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
certainly to be congratulated, not alone for these, but also because
of the progress he has made and the honorable means he has
employed in his efforts to act well his part. These mean high
character, and character is more than mere money. It is riches
par excellence.
MR. PETER W. WARD.
The parents of Mr. P. W. Ward, of the Immaculate Concep-
tion parish, Cleveland, Ohio, were James and Mary (Martin) Ward,
of Olmsted Falls, Ohio. They were natives of the county of West
Meath, Ireland, who in early life sought in the United States the
liberty and opportunity denied to them in the land of their fathers.
The former died at Grafton, Ohio, in 1885, and the latter at Berea,
Ohio, ten years later. The remains of both rest in the Catholic
cemetery at Grafton.
June 29, 1852, the subject of this biographical mention, the
fifth of a family of six sons and six daughters, was bom at Olmsted
Falls, Ohio. He received only the limited education afforded in
the village school, but later he graduated from a business college
in Cleveland. The legal profession attracted him, and in obedience
to his ambition he studied law in Cleveland, and was admitted to
practice, in 1878, when he was twenty-six years old. For two years
Mr. Ward followed that profession exclusively, until an insurance
company secured his services as its attorney and adjuster of claims.
He continued with that company until 1894, when the Travelers'
Insurance Company made him an offer, which he accepted. He
remained with the Travelers until April 1, 1900, when the Ocean
Accident & Guarantee Corporation, Ltd., of London, England,
made him its State Agent for Ohio, an acknowledgment of his
reliability, worth, and efficiency in the insurance world.
Mr. Ward was married, September 16, 1874, to Miss
Josephine Bragelman, a daughter of John T. and Teresa Bragel-
man, who were among the pioneer Catholics of Cleveland. She is
a niece of the late Prof. J. T. Wamelink, the noted music dealer and
musical director, who succeeded her father as organist in the old
St. Mary's Church on the "Flats" in Cleveland. In fact, both
families have been identified with Catholic interests in the See city
of the diocese from the beginning, and as such their excellent
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 437
record is a part of the history of the growth and development of
the temporal afifairs of the Church in northern Ohio.
Mr. P. W. Ward takes rank as one of the best informed and
most energetic insurance workers in Ohio. Possessing a legal
mind, together with an exhaustive knowledge of the various plans
of underwriting, his ability and reputation command marked recog-
nition. His character is well in keeping, the chief traits of which are
faithfulness in the performance of duty, reliability, strict honesty,
and an executive and compassing power which forms a firm back-
ground to his distinguishing characteristics. He began life as a
poor boy, often having to rely on menial occupations to sustain and
educate himself. By the exercise of the qualities which are his by
nature, he has persevered and triumphed until now he is esteemed
worthy of being mentioned to the credit of his Catholic neighbors
and fellow citizens in northern Ohio.
The social and personal characteristics of Mr. P. W. Ward
are so prominent and marked as to identify him almost as decidedly
as do his business qualities. He is Chesterfieldian to a degree in
manner and deportment, and is a leader on occasions when the
social amenities and the graces which adorn and please are
specially in demand. He is a clever conversationalist, is informed
on modern topics, and can illustrate or brighten his subject by the
happy telling of an appropriate story. He presides with ease and
dignity, and performs the duties of toast-master in such a way as
to always give satisfaction. While these social arts imply talent
and tact they also hint strongly at a knowledge of human nature
and at the cultivation of a degree of Christian politeness which can
not show itself to advantage independent of education. It was
Emerson who said that, defect in manners is usually the defect
of fine perceptions. The real gentleman in good manners must
be educated. He must know what to say and how and when to
say it. He must judge the caliber of his company so as not to
strike a key-note that is above their compass. This means judg-
ment and ability to discern character, and also the faculty of
handling persons according to their parts, training, and ability to
be composed. Mr. Ward excels in these several respects. As an
observer and student he has equipped himself for these tasks, and
fortunately for him they answer almost as well in his busmess field
as in the drawing room.
438 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
GEORGE S. WEGER, M. D.
A physician and surgeon of Delphos, Ohio, youthful but of
note, is made the subject of this mention. So many are his claims
to recognition, both as a man and a Catholic, that it has been
concluded to go on and write of him first, before getting ready to
apologize, should so unfortunate a thing occur as to offend against
medical ethics.
Dr. Weger is a native of the city of Baltimore, Maryland.
He is one of a family of ten born to F. A. and Elizabeth M. Weger.
His natal day was September 2, 1874. The elder Weger was
engaged in the hoop and stave business, and the exigencies of his
calling obliged him to "follow the timber" westward. Accordingly
when the subject of this sketch was three years old the family
removed to New Castle, Pennsylvania, where they remained until
1879, at which time they resolved to make Delphos, Ohio, their
home.
In his seventh year young Weger entered St. John's parochial
school where he continued as a bright lad until he was fourteen.
Then the spirit of the day took possession of him and he resolved
to make his own living. Accordingly he sought and obtained the
position of cash-boy in one of the prominent local dry goods and
clothing houses, and during more than two years he promptly and
satisfactorily responded to the call "cash !"
Being of studious habits he spent most of his evenings among
his books, especially those treating on chemistry and drugs. His
tastes thus cultivated led him to accept the position of clerk in one
of the prominent Delphos drug houses, where he remained for a
period of five years or until he attained his majority. His next
ambition was to write prescriptions rather than compound them.
The healing art and surgery loomed up before him as honorable
and useful professions, and conscious that he was not without
talent in these directions, he entered the Baltimore Medical
College, Baltimore, Maryland, in the autumn of 1895, fully assured
of his vocation.
He attended three reguFar courses at the college and two
summer courses as interne in the Maryland General Hospital, and
graduated in the month of April, 1898. He intended to practice
m
m
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 439
in his native city of Baltimore, and looking to this he stood the
required intellectual and professional tests before the Maryland
board of medical examiners. However, a visit to Delphos, his
long-time home, occasioned the changing of his plans. His friends
prevailed on him to stay amongst them and open up an ofHce at
once. He did so in July of that year, 1898, and a large measure
of success, both professionally and financially, has since attended
his persistent efforts.
October 1, 1900, Dr. George S. Weger was united in marriage
to Katie C. Trame, of Delphos, Ohio. Mrs. Weger is a lady of
domestic traits and rare intelligence. She is a true helpmate.
The reader may readily receive from the accompanying
portrait correct impressions as to the intellectual, moral, and social
qualities possessed by Dr. Weger. He will be judged a close
observer and reasoner, with rare gifts as a diagnostician. His
large conscientiousness and benevolence give the assurance of his
best endeavors in the faithful discharge of his professional duties,
his zeal being the concomitant of his skill and ability. The
physician, who is a practical Catholic, never leaves his conscience
behind him. Not only is this true in the case of Dr. Weger, but
it is equally true that his kind and generous nature is ever to the
fore. He is charged with being a poor collector of his own
accounts. Perhaps he will not attempt to deny this in view of the
facts. Both the accusation and the tacit admission would indicate
that the doctor is more enamored of his art and of results than he
is of any prospective multiplication of his fees. The poor we have
always with us, and the poor also need the services of a physician.
Dr. Weger was not born in affluence; hence, he knows some-
thing of the trials of life, and is not insensible to the multiplied
miseries of the poor and the afflicted.
These remarks are, to some degree, intended to indicate the
character and manhood of the gentleman here referred to. He is
fortunately organized, is generous, hospitable, and genial, and
brings to the discharge of his professional duties both native ability
and a high degree of culture and learning. The young physician
of the future may recognize a prototype in Dr. Weger.
440 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. FRANCIS WESTERHOLT.
Not because it is deemed becoming to speak well of the dead
is this sketch of the late Father Westerholt, rector of St. Peter's
Church, Cleveland, made to smack a trifle eulogistic, but the rather
is it because, having been rich in both natural and supernatural
virtues, any extended, truthful reference to his character and record
must needs recount many good things of him.
The first thirteen years of his priestly career were spent in the
western end of the diocese where he was truly a missionary laboring
most effectively both in season and out of season. He was then
young, vigorous, and zealous, and he seemed to welcome oppor-
tunities for exercising both his endurance and his remarkable
eagerness for the advancement of religion. Indeed these oppor-
tunities were multiplied for him because of the condition of the
members of his several flocks scattered over wide territory.
While pastor of St. John's Church, Defiance, Ohio, which was
his first appointment, 1855-1858, his jurisdiction extended over
four counties. Besides ministering to the people of St. John's
he also attended those at New Bavaria (Poplar Ridge), North
Ridge, Napoleon, The Junction, and Delaware Bend. He made
his visits travelling on horseback over almost impassable roads,
and seldom or never during those years had he opportunity to
enjoy the comforts and conveniences which are now wide-spread
because of advanced civilization and prosperity.
At Delphos, from 1858 till 1868, a period of nearly ten years,
his experiences were of like kind. There also his jurisdiction
extended over several counties, and he regularly visited the
Catholics at Van Wert, Fort Jennings, Ottoville, and several
smaller stations. He built the second church at Defiance, which
has been in use as a school since 1896, the date of the erection of
the present splendid church edifice. At Delphos he built the
rectory, which yet answers the purpose. He also established the
parochial school and greatly improved the old church, which has
since given place to the present imposing structure.
Having been appointed pastor of St. Peter's Church, Cleveland,
in January, 1868, he continued his activities, embracing both the
spiritual and the temporal. He organized sodalities and societies
THE REV. FRANCIS WESTERnOLT
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 441
and was incessant in his labors as catechist, preacher, and confessor.
As has been happily said of him : "He encouraged the weak,
instructed the young, directed the old, and chided the erring." In
a word he was a true pastor keeping a watchful eye on both the
sheep and the lambs of his flock. For twenty-five years he was the
spiritual director and confessor of the Seminarists in Cleveland, and
was one of Bishop Rappe's Vicars-General. Bishop Gilmour made
him a irremovable rector in 1889 and also a diocesan consultor,
in which capacities he was continued, until his death, by Bishop
Horstmann.
Father Westerholt greatly improved, by almost daily adding
something to, the interior decorations of St. Peter's Church. He
built the present parochial school and also the rectory. He
procured as teachers the Brothers of Mary, of Dayton, Ohio, and
the Sisters of Notre Dame, from Germany, his choice of these
having met with the sanction of his bishop. So successful was
he in the management of temporalities that, in 1896, when he
was called by God to render an account of his stewardship, there
was a debt of only $5,000 on St. Peter's parish.
The Rev. Francis Westerholt was born in the village of
Ascheberg, Province of Westphalia, Germany. He first saw the
light May 31, 1827. He made all his preparatory and classical
studies in the old land. In his twenty-fourth year he emigrated
to the United States and took up his temporary abode with
relatives in Auglaize county, Ohio, where he taught school for a
few months. In 1852 he was received into St. Mary's Theological
Seminary, Cleveland, and three years later was ordained priest by
Bishop Rappe in St. John's Cathedral, July 8, 1855.
The record of this good priest as outlined here is more than a
hint as to his character. His was a great soul, for it is only such
that can compass trying situations and at the same time renew
their spiritual life and strength, and grow young, Hke the eagle,
in God's service. In 1896, when in his seventieth year, Father
Westerholt was spiritually and intellectually robust, although,
physically, decrepitude was upon him. He passed away November
20, 1896, wept, honored and sung by a grateful people who loved
him as their spiritual father and friend, and to whose feet in the
path of duty his daily exemplification of Christian living was both
a light and a guide.
442 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. PETER F. WHALEN.
The meaningless modern saying that "Nothing succeeds like
success" has at least the merit of suggesting the practical truth
that there can be no creditable success in any undertaking without
capacity and effort. Among the almost innumerable instances in
which this truth has been verified, might be cited, but in no sense
exploited, the standing and career of Mr. Peter F. Whalen,
president and manager of the Buckeye Paint and Varnish Com-
pany, of Toledo, Ohio. He has the reputation of possessing
unusual energy, perseverance, and a high order of business abihty.
His parents, now dead^ were Peter and Mary (Doran) Whalen,
of Grey county. Upper Canada, where he was born to them in 1854.
The family shortly thereafter removed to Detroit, Michigan, where
he was given as much of a common school education as he could
acquire up to his tenth year. From that time on the boy felt
himself called upon to earn his own living. After an experience in
the various avenues in which the average sturdy lad tries to make
himself useful and save a penny, young Whalen progressed so far
in years and ambition as to start as an apprentice to learn the trade
of a moulder. He succeeded, and for several years industriously
followed that calling in Detroit.
Conscious that a larger measure of success awaited him in
some other vocation, he removed to Toledo, Ohio, in 1882, and
became a partner with his brother-in-law, Mr. Alfred Collins, in
the varnish business. The firm of Collins & Whalen subsequently
consolidated with the Buckeye Paint Company, and, in 1887, the
concern was incorporated under the above title, with Mr. Whalen
as its president and manager, which office he continues to fill The
annual business of the company exceeds $200,000, and its manufac-
tured products find a ready market in the wide territory which
includes the States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and
Pennsylvania.
In 1880 Mr. Whalen took unto himself a wife, in the person
of Miss Mary F. Reilly, of Toledo, whose beautiful motherhood is
the fruition of those excellences and virtues which adorned her
girlhood as a child of the Catholic Church. Seven children have
been born to their union, three of whom have passed away. Those
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 443
living are named: John J., Peter F., Jr., Milton E., and Florence
Grace Whalen.
Mr. Peter F. Whalen is a prominent Catholic, who generously
devotes much time and money not only to parish work, Catholic
education and charity, but also to the upbuilding and spread of
Catholic associations. He is a member of the councilmanic board
of St. Patrick's parish, and is the trusted and confidential adviser of
its venerable pastor. He is active in such organizations as the
Catholic Men's Benevolent Association, the Catholic Knights of
America, the Catholic Knights of Ohio, the Ancient Order of
Hibernians, and the Knights of Columbus. He also holds member-
ship in the Chamber of Commerce, and the Builders' Exchange, of
Toledo, and also in the Detroit Paint, Oil and Color Company.
During two terms he was a member of the Board of Aldermen of
Toledo, in which important station he acquitted himself with credit
and to the entire satisfaction of his constituents.
Mr. Whalen is an energetic, persistent man in business as well
as in whatever he undertakes. He possesses good judgment and
unquestioned integrity, has large compassing powers, and is an all-
around man of affairs. He chose wisely when he forsook a field
where so many hours' work is requited by so many dollars, for
a field where discernment and executive ability are commanding
factors. The wisdom and foresight which directed him in his
change of occupation are the evidence of his business ability. They
show him to be a man of discernment and thought, and observer
of conditions, whose mind is equal to noting facts and drawing
correct conclusions therefrom. To be deficient to any great extent
in these respects is to invite business disaster. The men who
succeed in honest, legitimate trade are intelligent men with logical
minds. The success which has been achieved by the subject of
this mention is, therefore, the measure of his ability as an observ-
ing, intelligent, energetic man.
The primary purpose of this mention is to credit Mr. Peter F.
Whalen to the Catholic community in which he lives and to his
fellow citizens, and at the same time to hint to the youth of coming
generations that there are various ways in which diversified talents
may be profitably exercised without making religion the price of
success.
444 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. JOSEPH STANISLAS WIDMANN.
The worthy and popular assistant pastor of St. Mary's
Church,* Sandusky, is a native of Ohio, having been born on a
farm near the city of Fremont, January 4, 1861. His father, Daniel
Widmann, who died January 9, 1891, was a native of the village of
Hardtheim, situated on the Rhein in Breisgau, Baden, Germany.
He emigrated to the United States in his twentieth year. Mrs.
Daniel Widmann, whose maiden name was Mary Hafner, and
who yet lives, is also a native of the above named place. She was
brought to this country when she was eleven years old. They were
married in the summer of 1858, and forthwith took up their abode
on a farm in Rice township, Sandusky county, Ohio.
Since some noted qualities of parents are generally reflected in
their children, it may serve the purpose of this sketch to say of the
elder Widmann that he was a man of quiet, industrious habits, who
found his greatest happiness in his family circle. Nothing was
more foreign to his nature and manner than boisterous ostentation.
So, too, with Mrs. Widmann. She is noted for practical good
sense, deep piety, and charity. She is the mother of a grown family
of eight, seven sons and one daughter. Although four of the sons
are married and live on separate farms, the property is held in
common and they do the work in partnership, being united under
the mild and wse rule of their mother. That mother has the
respect and love not only of her children but also of all who come
in contact with her. By the community of interests observed by
her children under her guiding influence the Widmann family have
proved that not only is there strength in union but also success.
The subject of this biography is the second oldest of the
Widmann brothers. His elementary education was of a rather
primitive kind. The district school in his day was very defective,
and the school term was short. These hindrances were in part
counterbalanced by a home education. Under the instruction of
his parents he learned the rudiments of the German language, so
that when preparing for his first Holy Communion he was able to
compete very satisfactorily with the other members of the class.
♦since this work has been in press the pastor of St. Mary's, the Rev. Silvan Rebholz,
passed away, and the Rev. Father Widmann was appointed pastor, April 16, 1902,
with the Rev. Joseph B. Wels as curate.
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 445
When a youth of seventeen Joseph S. Widmann went to work
for a neighboring farmer for one year, desiring to know how the
bread of other people tasted. The following year he went to the
city of Toledo, Ohio, where he found employment with a wine
company. He worked for that company two and one-half years.
It was while thus employed, and as a regular attendant at the
Sunday Mass at St. Mary's Church, that he formed the acquaint-
ance of the Rev. Father Kramer, S. J., to whom he made known
his long cherished desire to study for the priesthood. That good
priest volunteered to give him private instructions for a year, as
well to ascertain regarding his talents as to save him some of his
college expenses. The young man then made known his intentions
to his parents, who gladly gave their consent, although they did
not see how they would be able to meet the expenses of his educa-
tion, for at that time their means were limited.
On account of the defects in his elementary training the first
few months of his studies were calculated to dishearten him. For
quite a season Father Kramer was hesitating whether he should
advise the young man to continue. But having made the start,
Joseph S. Widmann was not the sort of youth that runs away from
difficulties. Finally his reverend preceptor said to him : "Go on !"
Accordingly, September, 1881, he entered the Canisius (Jesuit)
College, at Buffalo, New York, where he completed the humanities
in five years. September, 1886, he was received into St. Mary's
Theological Seminary, Cleveland, as a student of divinity. He
continued there until December, 1890, when Bishop Gilmour con-
ferred minor orders on him, which ordination was the last that
prelate performed. April 8, 1892, the newly consecrated Bishop
of Cleveland, the Rt. Rev. Ignatius F. Horstmann, ordained the
Rev. Joseph S. Widmann to the priesthood.
Thereupon Rev. Father Widmann made his former pastor and
friends happy by celebrating his first Mass in St. Joseph's Church,
Fremont, on the following Easter Sunday, April 17. He then
.received his first appointment as assistant pastor of St. Mary's
Church, Sandusky, Ohio. He began his labors there April 24th of
that year, and he has continued them up to this writing, the last
days of the nineteenth century.
The Rev. Joseph S. Widmann inherits many of the traits of
his good mother. Among these are patience, tolerance, and
446 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
kindness. He possesses an agreeable disposition, is mild in his
ruling, and is not lacking in the force of character which is the basis
of firmness and continuity. He preaches eloquently in both
German and English, is an excellent instructor, and gives the proof
of being an adept in the management of temporalities.
THE REV. THEOPISTUS WITTMER, C. PP. S.
The pastor of St. John's Church, Glandorf, Putnam county,
Ohio, is the Rev. Theopistus Wittmer, who is a member of the
religious order known as the Congregation of the Most Precious
Blood. The Order itself is of note in the diocese; St. John's
Church ranks with the best ; and it is but truth to say that Father
Wittmer is well in keeping with both.
His parents were natives of Switzerland. He was born to
them at Erlinsbach, June 9, 1848. He was twelve years of age
when, 1861, his parents emigrated with their family to the United
States and settled at Egypt, Auglaize county, Ohio. The boy
Wittmer was at once sent to Minster, in that county, to continue
his course of studies, interrupted by his change of country. He
closely applied himself until 1865, when he was received into St.
Charles' Seminary at Carthagena, an in.stitution conducted by the
Sanguinist Order. He joined the Order and was ordained priest
by Archbishop Purcell in the chapel of St. Mary's Seminary,
Cincinnati, January 25, 1872.
For eighteen months, beginning immediately after ordination.
Father Wittmer attended St. Mary's Church, at Sahna, Mercer
county, Ohio, and taught classics in the seminary. He was next
sent (1873) to Winamac, in the Diocese of Ft. Wayne, Indiana,
where he labored until 1876. He left there a new parochial school
and the Sisters' Academy as an evidence of his activity and zeal.
Recalled to the seminary and to his former field of labor at Salina,
he was made the first resident pastor of that place. He built a new
school, a residence for the Sisters, and made an addition to the
church. September, 1883, he was made rector of St. Charles'
Seminary and pastor of St. Aloysius' congregation. February,
1897, he was commissioned as pastor of St. John's Church,
Glandorf, for which important station his abihties eminently qualify
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THE REV. THEOPISTUS WITTMER
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 447
him. As proof that his energy and enterprise have not forsaken
him, the following improvements can be cited: New cemetery,
chime of four bells, tower clock, and the introduction of acetylene
gas to light the church, rectory, and premises.
But it is not in material things alone that Father Wittmer
excels. He is a priest first, and as such his calling is that of an
instructor and director. Blest by nature with capacity as a leader,
and with the faculty of order highly developed, he succeeds in
keeping his congregation united as one family, having interests in
common, and one aim — the discharge of their obligations as
Catholics. The pastor of St. John's is firm, but not bluntly so.
His kindly nature, candor, and great mirthfulness serve to render
less severe his rulings and the stand which, at times, every pastor
must take in dealing with his people. The result of this is that he
governs without harshness, and while directing he seems himself
to be foremost in the order of obedience to those rules that make
for harmony and the best interests of all. His parishioners have
taken note of his earnest manner, his consistent practices, and his
zeal for their spiritual and temporal advancement. In consequence
they have been led without any trouble into the paths staked out
for them by their pastor, and are now his rivals in punctuality,
good order, and zeal for the general welfare of the congregation.
Evidently example teaches, and often good example has greater
attractive force than has bad example. To the thinker and observer
these truths are patent, and by no one have they been more care-
fully applied than by Father Wittmer.
In the pulpit he is at home speaking German or English.
His discourses are plain, direct, instructive, and soundly argumen-
tative. He never speaks without saying something having thought
in it. He would not, if he could, and he could not if he would, be
a mere talker against time, for his mental constitution and nature
constrain him to be philosophical, logical and forceful. A close
analysis of his character will reveal many qualities which make a
fitting background in a picture of the true representative of Christ.
Among these are gentleness, tenderness, considerateness — charac-
teristics which endear him to the young; while his fervor, piety,
and spiritual robustness warm to him the hearts of all, especially
those of the old pioneer Catholics of St. John's congregation,
Glandorf, Ohio.
448 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
THE REV. IGNATIUS J. WONDERLY.
The ancestors of the Rev. Father Wonderly have been Ameri-
cans for three generations. His father was among the early settlers
of north-central Ohio, where the subject of this sketch was bom.
St. Nicholas parish, at Berwick, in Seneca county, is where he first
saw the light, June 7, 1860. The local atmosphere appears to have
been favorable to vocations to a religious life, for out of Seneca
county and vicinity have come many of note in the ministry of the
Catholic Church.
Early in life the Rev. Father Wonderly felt his boyish heart
leap with rejoicings when the prospects of the priesthood loomed
up before him as his calling, and long before he became assured of
his vocation he bent his youthful energies in preparation for its
duties. After making his primary studies in the local schools
he was sent to St. Francis' College, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and
later to St. Lawrence College, Mount Calvary, also in that State,
where he completed his classical studies. He then entered
St. Mary's Theological Seminary, Cleveland, and after a five and
one-half years' course was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop
Gilmour, December 21, 1889.
Impatient to begin the active work of his calling, he was
gratified by being at once appointed as pastor of St. Mary's
Church, at Vermillion, with Huron as a mission attached. During
his three years' pastorate there he built the church, St. Peter's, at
Huron, and "paid for it, too," as the people of the parish are proud
to say. January Y, 1893, he was made pastor of St. Augustine's
Church, at North Baltimore, with Deshler and Hamler as missions,
where he remained three years. In consequence of illness, brought
on by six years of hard labor and exposure, he resigned his charge,
and on his recovery was appointed, in 1896, to the Apostolate
Missions. The work of giving missions, while arduous, was more
to his liking and better suited to his abilities. He continued in the
Apostolate for three years, when he resigned, and, in June, 1899,
was placed in charge of the Sacred Heart congregation, at Shelby,
until the following September, when he was transferred to Crest-
line as pastor of St. Joseph's Church. He was called from Crestline
January 15, 1900, to undertake, in Cleveland, the organization of
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IN NORTHERN OHIO. 449
the new parish of St. Rose of Lima, where he continues to labor
with very gratifying success.
Father Wonderly is one of the most energetic and zealous of
the younger priests of the diocese. He is an able manager of
temporalities and possesses the happy faculty of keeping his
parishioners united and intent on the accomplishment of the ends
proposed by religion. Having had a varied experience for the
past eleven years, and thoroughly understanding human nature,
he leads without appearing to lead, by directing along correct lines
the energies of his parishioners for the common good. His manner
and disposition being most agreeable, an atmosphere of harmony
surrounds his present flock just as it surrounded those among
whom he labored in the past. He has always been a believer in the
American notion that, at least in temporalities, the laity can be
relied on to do their part under all circumstances. And, possibly,
this may be one of the secrets of his success.
As is generally known throughout the diocese, the pastor of
St. Rose's is reckoned as among the best equipped priests iii
northern Ohio. He is a ripe scholar, and a close student of both
men and conditions. Certainly he can be said to have attained to
good results in his special studies. He is, therefore, ranked among
the best and most successful handlers of temporal affairs, his suc-
cess in that field being always made the stepping-stone to the
spiritual and intellectual uplifting of his people. His judgment is
that without a feasible, attainable end in view, no people can be
kept united and harmonious. But with such an end placed before
a reasonable congregation their own good sense will unite them,
and, even independent of oratory urging the higher impulses, will
nerve them to its attainment.
Even before his experience in the Apostolate Mission work
Father Wonderly was an orator of no mean order; but, since then,
his health, too, having improved, he is justly credited with being
an able and pleasing speaker. His range of good thought, through
association of ideas, often smacks of an inviting strength and fresh-
ness, while his language is both choice and forcible. His personal
appearance is well in harmony, and he is by no means lacking in
that poise, warmth, and elocutionary grace which belong to the
natural orator, as distinct from the mere rhetorician.
450 A HISTORY OF CATHOLICITY
MR. AND MRS. JOHN FERDINAND ZWILLING.
The Zwillings, of Germany, were of noble lineage, and theii
descendants in the United States are nobles, not merely by inher-
itance, but in their own excellence of character and record. An
example in point is the late Mr. John Ferdinand Zwilling, oi
Toledo, Ohio.
He was born in Baden, Germany, November 6, 1849. He was
brought by his parents to this country when he was in his tenth
year, and the family located in Olny, Illinois. When seventeen he
w^ent to Cleveland, Ohio, to learn the trade of a machinist in the
Novelty Iron Works, owned by his brothers, Frank and Frederick,
in connection with Mr. Thomas Reeves. He attained to such skill
and directive ability that he was made superintendent of the plant
in his twentieth year. He continued in that capacity until 1875,
when he went to Toledo, Ohio, to accept the foremanship of the
blacksmith department of the old Smith Bridge Company. Fol-
lowing this he engaged in mining in Colorado for eighteen months,
but the enterprise not "panning out," he returned to Toledo, again
connected himself with the Bridge Company, and in less than two
years became superintendent of the entire works. In 1889 he re-
organized the company, became one of its heaviest stockholders,
and continued as its head and superintendent until his death, which
took place April 23, 1893. In the meantime he was the moving
spirit in the establishment of the Phoenix Building and Loan Asso-
ciation, of Toledo, and continued as one of its directors. The man-
agers and patrons of the association passed suitable resolutions or
the occasion of their loss through his death, as did also the owners
and employes of the Smith Bridge Company. The resolutions o
the latter are these :
"Whereas, it has pleased God in His wisdom to call fron
among us our late superintendent, Mr. John Ferdinand Zwilling
therefore be it resolved, that we deeply deplore the loss of one who
as an employer, was ever considerate of the welfare of his employes
and whose even discipline and kind treatment gained for him th<
respect and affection of his men. We regret the loss to the commit
nity of an able and enterprising business man and citizen.
Resolved, that we extend to his beloved wife and family ou:
sincere sympathy in this their sad affliction, and be it further re
MR. AND MRS. FERDINAND ZWILLING.
IN NORTHERN OHIO. 451
solved that a copy of these resokitions be presented to the family
of the deceased."
In 1879, May 1st, in Denver, Colorado, Mr. Zwilling was
joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Marcella Thayer, a native of
Springfield, Pennsylvania. The Rev. Father Howlett performed
the ceremony. He instructed the bride as a convert to the doc-
trines of the Catholic Church, and she received her first Holy Com-
munion on her wedding day. She has since remained faithful to
the graces received, exhibiting at all times a constancy in the per-
formance of her religious duties. Mrs. Zwilling's father was Mr.
Ruel Thayer, of Vermont, and her mother was Miss Salina Brewer,
born in Pennsylvania, but descended of a New York family who
originally owned the present Trinity Church property in that city.
Mrs. Mary Marcella Zwilling is a lady of rare intelligence and
culture, who has succeeded in bringing up her family of three in
the way in which they should go. She has educated them thor-
oughly, not alone in domestic arts, but also in music. Mary
Luella, who is Mrs. S. G. Brown, of Toledo, is the oldest. She
inherits the qualities of her mother and is an excellent musician.
Frances Louisa is attending an academy, in New York city, where
she is finishing her literary and musical training. The youngest.
Rose Marcella, is at home and is a pupil in the Ursuline Convent.
The family is well provided for in this world's goods and are rich
in the inheritance of talent, and in the faith of the Catholic Church.
Mr. Zwilling was a man of note, not merely as a business man
of great enterprise, but especially as the possessor of fine mental
and social qualities. His excellent natural capacities and talents
were many, while his supernatural virtues evidenced both grace,
training, and the faithful practice of religion. He won esteem by
his kindness and generosity, and by the happy accord of his life
with the teachings of the Church. Although a sufferer from a
complication of physical ills, it was his daily effort to obey the
poetic advice:
"Sing notes of love, that some who hear
Far off inert may lend an ear.
Rise up and wonder and draw near,
Lead life of love — that others who
Behold your life may kindle too
With love, and cast their lot with you."
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES
OF
PRIESTS OF THE SECULAR AND REGULAR CLERGY
FORMERLY ON THE MISSION IN NORTHERN
OHIO, OR IN THE DIOCESE OF
CLEVELAND
BETWEEN 1818 AND DECEMBER 31, 1900.
Abbrederis, Rev. Rudolf (Sanguinis!), was born at Rankweil
near Feldkirch, Austria, September 18, 1850; came to the Unitec
States in 1869 ; was educated by the Sanguinists in their seminary a
Carthagena, Mercer Co., O., where he was ordained for them by Arch
bishop Purcell, August 15, 1873. He had the following charges in thii
diocese : Ottawa, August, 1878, to September, 1883 ; Big Spring
October, 1883, to November, 1885, when he left the Sanguinists anc
diocese.
Abel, Rev. Anthony J., was born November 11, 1833, at Burgau
Bavaria; completed his studies for the priesthood at St. Mary's Semi
nary, Cleveland, where he was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 28
1863. Monroeville was his first appointment, which he retained til
October, 1864, when he was sent to Ottoville as first resident pastor
July, 1866, he was sent to Shelby Settlement, where he remained til
1867, when he left the diocese and went to Colorado.
Aboulin, Rev. John J. M. (Basilian), was born at St. Alban-en
Montague, diocese of Viviers, France, March 18, 1841 ; was ordainec
for the Basilians at Annonay, France, by Bishop de Charbonnel
September 21, 1867. Was in this diocese as professor at Louisvill(
Collegej from February, 1868, till September, 1870; then returned t(
Canada, whence he came.
Ahern, Rev. Joseph Loughlin, was born at Knuckancummei
county Cork, September 20, 1847. He made his studies for the min
istry at All Hollows', Dublin, and St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland
He was ordained for the diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Fitzgerald
July 4, 1875, and appointed pastor of Alliance, August, 1875. Thi
charge he held till August, 1877, when he met with a serious accident
He was taken to the Charity Hospital, Cleveland, for treatment. Ii
August, 1878, he resumed pastoral work as assistant to Rev. M. Healy
at St. Mary's, Tiffin, remaining till October of same year, when h
was appointed assistant at St. Francis', Toledo. June, 1879, h
resigned this position, and, for the benefit of his shattered health, wen
on indefinite leave of absence to Ireland, and later (1881) to Ne^
Zealand, where he is now laboring on the mission.
Written bv the Rev. G, P Hnick 4S2
i:r.:
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 453
Albersmann, Rev. Suitbertus (Franciscan), a native of Ger-
many; was born December 11, 1851; ordained at St. Louis, Mo., by
Bishop Ryan; was at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chap-
lain, from July, 1891, to January, 1893, when he was transferred to
Jordan, Minn. At present he is stationed at Hermann, Mo.
Albrecht, Rev. J. M. (Sanguinist), was born in Germany, Janu-
ary 6, 1800. He was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 4, 1849. From
Thompson he attended Peru, Huron county, in 1849 ; was assistant at
Thompson till June, 1856, when he was sent to Liverpool. There he
remained till May, 1859, when he left the Sanguinists and diocese and
went to Minnesota, where he died in March, 1884.
Alemany, Most Rev. Joseph Sadoc (Dominican), was born at
Vich, in the province of Catalonia, Spain, 1814. He entered the Domi-
nican Order in 1829, and was ordained at Viterbo, by Bishop Pianetto,
in 183'7 Soon after his ordination he was sent to Rome, where he was
statior at the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva till 1841, when
he was sent to the American missions. He came to Ohio, and was
stationed at Canton for a few months. He also attended Dungannon
and Randolph, and was the first priest to visit the Catholics at Aians-
field. His next field of labor was at Memphis, Tenn., as successor to
Father McAleer, in 1846. In the following year he was elected Pro-
vincial of his Order in the United States. While at Rome in 1850,
attending a General Chapter of the Dominican Order, he was conse-
crated Bishop of Monterey, Cal., June 13, 1850. Three years later he
was appointed Archbishop of San Francisco, which office he resigned
November, 1884, and returned to Spain, where he died April 14, 1888.
Alig, Rev. L. M. (Redemptorist), was born at Pinen, Switzer-
land, November 1, 1805, and was ordained September 18, 1839. He
attended Peru, Huron county, also Thompson and New Riegel in
Seneca county, Ohio, with Father Tschenhens between July, 1842,
and August, 1843. Later he left the Redemptorists and was for many
years pastor of St. Mary's church, Washington city, where he died
June 2, 1882.
Alleman, Rev. John George (Dominican), a native of Alsace,
was ordained at Zanesville, Ohio, by Bishop Purcell, June 1, 1834. In
1836 he was resident pastor of St. John's, Canton, whence he also
attended Louisville, where he built the first church. About 1840 he
left Ohio and went to Iowa, laboring with much zeal there and in
Illinois on the widespread and difficuh missions. His health began to
fail about 1860. Three years later, November 26, 1863, he went to
St. Vincent's Asylum, St. Louis, Mo., where he died July 14, 1865,
aged 59 years. He was a faithful and hard working priest.
Antl, Rev. Francis Joseph, was born at Jesenec, Moravia, Aus-
tria, March 30, 1843 ; ordained at Bruenn, Austria, July 11, 1869 ; came
to America in same year ; was in the diocese of Cleveland as pastor of
St. Procop's. Cleveland, from May, 1882, till July, 1883.
Arentz, Rev. Theodore (Franciscan), was born in Germany
January 7, 1849 ; came to the United States in 1871 ; was ordained at
454 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
St. Louis, Mo., by Bishop Ryan, June 4, 1876. He was Superior oi
the Franciscan Monastery, in Cleveland, from August, 1888, to August,
1894, and pastor of St. Joseph's church, from August, 1888, to August,
1897. He was then chosen Provincial of the Franciscans, with
residence at St. Louis, Mo.
AuGUSTiNSKY, Rev. Cyril (Franciscan), a Moravian, was born at
Braunsburg, March 31, 1851. He studied for the ministry at Krem-
sier, Archdiocese of Olmuetz, and was ordained for the Franciscans at
St. Louis, Mo., by Bishop Ryan, July 25, 1877. He was on the mission
in Missouri and Nebraska till July, 1885, when he was sent by his
Superior to the Franciscan Monastery, at Cleveland, whence he attended
Independence. Had temporary charge of St. Hedwig's church,
Toledo, August, 1885— March, 1886. He left the Franciscan Order,
May 1887. 1^^'^^%''^^ ^S'-ifei --aJC Vjuj^-^fv-<jlM^ Jht . Iji^Ji-iftk.
AusTERMANN, V. Rev. Bernard (Sanguinist), a native of Prussia,
was born at Everswinkel, Westphalia, April 5, 1834; was educated for
the priesthood at Thompson, Ohio, and there ordained for the Sanguin-
ists by Bishop Rappe, June 13, 1856. From New Riegel he attended
Fostoria and Crawfordsville, July, 1856, to February, 1857. He was
then appointed pastor of Thompson, remaining till September, 1857.
Since then he had various posts of duty assigned him in other dioceses
where the Sanguinists have charge of congregations. He was also for
some years their Provincial. He is now in the Archdiocese of Cin^
cinnati.
Badin, V. Rev. Stephen Theodore, the first priest ordained in the
United States, was a native of Orleans, France, where he was born July
37, 1768. He came to Baltimore, March 38, 1793, and was there
ordained by Archbishop Carroll, May 25, 1793. For many years he
labored on the mission in Kentucky and Ohio. He did pastoral duty
at Canton, Canal Fulton, Cleveland, Fremont and Tiffin, between 1835
and 1837. He was a man of fine, cultivated mind, of great energy and
indomitable zeal. He was vicar-general of the dioceses of Bardstown,
Ky., and Cincinnati. Died in the latter city, April ift, 1853.
S-l
Bally, Rev. William, was born in the city of Bonn, Prussia, May
4, 1831 ; educated at Bonn and Paris ; came to Cleveland, December,
1856, and was ordained by Bishop Rappe, July 26, 1857. He was
assistant at St. Peter's, Cleveland, till November of same year, when he
received the pastorate of St. Nicholas' congregation, Berwick, Seneca
county, remaining till July, 1861, when he left the diocese.
Barbier, Rev. Charles, was born of Protestant parents at Strass-
burg, Alsace, in 1829. He entered the French artillery, and whilst
serving his term became a Catholic. He shortly after resolved to study
for the priesthood. After leaving the army he made his preparatory
studies at Strassburg. In 1862 Bishop Rappe adopted him for the
diocese of Cleveland, and ordained him toward the end of the same
year. He was at the seminary for a few months as professor of
philosophy, and had, besides. Independence as his first pastoral charge.
From April to November, 1863, he had temporary charge of St. Louis'
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 455
congregation, Louisville, during the absence, in Europe, of the pastor,
Rev. L. Hoffer. He then had, successively, the following pastoral
charges in this diocese: Popular Ridge (now New Bavaria), 1863-65;
Six Mile Woods, 1865-67 ; Millersville, 1867-68 ; Avon, March, 1868,
to September, 1871 ; Milan, 1871, to August, 1872 ; Youngstown, St.
Joseph's, August, 1873, to April, 1873; first resident pastor of New
Cleveland, April, 1873, to March, 1874. His last charge was St.
Joseph's church. Fort Jennings, March, 1874, till his death, August 23,
1876.
Barry, Rev. Patrick, was born in Charleville, Cork county, Ireland,
February 5, 1841. Studied at Cincinnati, for the priesthood, and com-
pleted his theological course at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. Was
ordained by Bishop Gilmour, July 5, 1876. He labored on the mission
in the following places in the diocese of Cleveland : Tififin, St. Mary's
church, as temporary pastor, during the absence, in Europe, of the
Rev. M. Healy, from July, 1876, to June, 1877 ; South Thompson and
missions, to July, 1879 ; Van Wert and missions, to July, 1881 ; Hud-
son and missions, to November, 1884; Summitville, to August, 1887;
Toledo, Good Shepherd's, till his death, August 29, 1897. He was an
exemplary priest, and had the love and respect of the people whom he
served in the sacred ministry.
Becker, Rev. Basil (Franciscan), a native of Germany, was born
September 19, 1863, and ordained at St. Louis, Mo., June 30, 1894,
by Archbishop Kain. Was at Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from
September 23 to October 31, 1900, when he was transferred to Indian-
apolis, Ind.
Becker, Rev. William (Jesuit), was born in Westphalia, Ger-
many, April 15, 1830. He was ordained in Muenster, Westphalia,
April 16, 1859. For eleven years he was engaged throughout Ger-
many as a missionary. Came to this country in 1870, and was
appointed pastor of St. Michael's church, Buffalo; was assigned to a
missionary band in 1875, and preached missions in many churches,
until 1880, when he was made rector of Canisius' College, Buffalo.
This position he held until June, 1885, when he was transferred to
Cleveland, where he filled various positions at St. Mary's church and
St. Ignatius' College, until August, 1895. He was then sent by his
Superior to St. Ann's church, Buffalo, where he was pastor, until his
death, January 22, 1899. He was a noted pulpit orator, and author
of some works which gained wide circulation.
Begel, Rev. John Joseph, was born in France, April 5, 1817,
where also he was ordained December 18, 1841. He established the
community known as the Sisters of the Humility, B. V. M., August,
1854. He came to America, in July, 1864, and founded the present
flourishing convent of same Sisters at New Bedford, Pa., by special
agreement under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Cleveland. Father
Begel was an exemplary priest, and a man of profound and varied
learning. He wrote a historical description of "The Way of the Cross,"
published in 1880. It is an admirable and interesting book, contammg
personal observations of his journey made some years previous to
456 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Jerusalem and other places in Palestine. He died at New Bedford,
after an illness of about four years, January 23, 1884.
Behrens, Rev. Henry, was born at Duesseldorf, Prussia;
ordained by Bishop Rappe July 30, 1861 ; attended Avon, September,
1861, to March, 1863; was pastor of Findlay from March, 1862, to
July, 1863, and during that time attended the missions of Fostoria,
Liberty and Bluffton. He was transferred to Six Mile Woods, 1863,
where he remained but a few months after having begun the erection
of a church. His next charge was Maumee, December, 1863-65.
During the latter year he also attended Perrysburg as a mission. In
the fall of 1865 he received charge of French Creek. His next appoint-
ments were Millersville (Greensburg), November, 1865, to June, 1866;
Liverpool, to August, 1867 ; Shelby Settlement, to February, 1869,
when he left the diocese and returned to Europe, where he died a few
years later.
Bendermacher, Rev. Justin (Jesuit), a native of the diocese of
Treves, Germany, was born October 20, 1860. He was ordained at
Eichstaett, for the Jesuits, March 15, 1885. Came to the United
States in August, 1893 ; was stationed at St. Ignatius' College, Cleve-
land, until July, 1894, and at St. Mary's church, Toledo, from April,
1895, to August, 1898.
Beranek, Rev. George A. (Redemptorist), was born at Mistek,
Olmuetz, Austria, April 23, 1806; ordained July 22, 1834; came to
the United States in June, 1843 ; had temporary charge of St. Wen-
ceslas' congregation, Cleveland, from October, 1869, to January, 1870,
when he left the diocese. Was then stationed at Baltimore, Md., from
1870, until his death, December 1, 1896.
Berger, Rev. August, was born in Germany in 1822 ; ordained by
Bishop Rappe, November 19, 1848 ; was assistant to Rev. P. J. Mache-
beuf, at Sandusky, for one year ; left the diocese in 1849 ; returned in
1851, and left again in 1852 ; died at Germantown, 111., October 1, 1865.
Berger, Rev. John, was born in Poitiers, France, August, 23,
1864; was ordained in his native city by Card. Pie, October 17, 1877.
After serving on the mission in various dioceses he came to the diocese
of Cleveland, and was appointed pastor of St. Louis' church, at Toledo,
in July, 1891, where he remained until his dismissal, October 1, 1894.
Bernard, Rev. Alexius (Franciscan), a Westphalian, was bornr
January 16, 1836; ordained at Omaha, Neb., March 15, 1872. Was^h
stationed at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chaplain of •/
various institutions, from July, 1889, to August, 1893. Died at Indian-
apolis, Ind., July 1, 1894.
BertemeSjRcv. John, a native of Luxemburg, was born December
24, 1861 ; completed his ecclesiastical studies at St. Mary's Seminary,
Cleveland, where he was ordained by Bishop Gilmour, December 19,
1888. Was resident pastor of New Cleveland from January, 1889,
to February, 1891, when he was transferred to Leipsic, where he
remained until September, 1900, when he left the diocese and entered
the Capuchin Order at Detroit, Mich.
BIOiGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 457
Berthelet, Rev. Francis A., was born in Detroit, Mich., June
28, 1830. He was educated for the priesthood at the diocesan
seminary of St. Hyacinthe, Province of Quebec, where he was ordained
by Bishop Prince, November 14, 1853. Joined the Jesuits in 1854 at
St. Acheul, France, and later, for several years, was professor in the
Jesuit colleges at Fordham, New York, and Montreal. In last men-
tioned place he had charge, for two years, of the erection of the present
beautiful church of the Gesu. August, 1868, he was received into the
diocese of Cleveland, and was assistant at the Cathedral for a few
months, when he was sent to Canton, as pastor of St. John's congrega-
tion. There he remained till March, 1876. Whilst at Canton the
present very handsome church of St. John's was built under his direc-
tion. After nearly three years' illness he died, October 31, 1878, at
Detroit, where also his remains are buried.
BiERBAUM, Rev. Irenaeus (Franciscan), a native of Germany, was
ordained March 27, 1868. He was in the diocese of Cleveland from
July, 1877, to February, 1879, as one of ihe professors at St. Mary's
Seminary. Meanwhile he also attended Parma and Independence,
■from August, 1877, to January, 1878, and from March, 1878, to Febru-.
ary, 1879. Returned to Europe in 1879.
BiHN, Rev. Joseph L., was born in Dirmstein, Bavaria, January 2,
1822. Came to Cleveland about 1848, and was given a clerkship in a
dry goods establishment, where he was a trusted employe for some
years. He then entered St. Mary's Seminary, and after completing
the prescribed course of studies he was ordained by Bishop Rappe,
June 1, 1856. His first appointment was the pastorate of St. Joseph's,
Tiffin, where he built the present beautiful church. He founded in the
same city, St. Francis' Orphan Asylum, and the community of Francis-
can Sisters, in charge of the asylum; also St. Joseph's Hospital, at
Lorain. He resigned his pastorate in October, 1873, and accepted the
chaplaincy of the asylum he had founded. He died there, August 17,
1893. He gave to the asylum and hospital his patrimony, and all he
possessed. Father Bihn was a most exemplary priest, and a benefactor
to his kind.
BiRNBAUM, Rev. John Baptist (Sanguinist), born in Wiirtem-
berg. May 8, 1823; came to United States in 1864; was ordained July
10, 1867 ; had pastoral charge of Big Spring ; was assistant at Glandorf,
Thompson, New Riegel; was pastor of Reed, Seneca county, which
mission he attended from Thompson, where he died May 28, 1882.
Blaser, Rev. Joseph, was born in Schlier, Wiirtemberg, Ger-
many, November 8, 1846; ordained at Eichstatt, Bavaria, July 31,
1870 ; was received into the diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Gilmour, m
December, 1873, and appointed pastor of North Ridge. In April
1877, he was transferred to Millersville, where he successfully labored
until January. 1888. He was then given the pastorate of Peru, Huron
county. There he renovated the church with much taste and made it
practically a new structure. He died at Peru, January 25, 1895.
Blum, Rev. August F., a native of Baden, Germany, was born
August 5, 1872, and ordained at Freiburg, Switzerland, March 31,
458 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
1895. Came to the diocese of Cleveland in September, 1896. Was
stationed at the Cathedral from September to November, 1896 ; at St.
Peter's, Canton, as assistant, to March, 1897, and was again at the
Cathedral till May, 1897, when he left the diocese.
BoDEN, Rev. Gregory (Franciscan), was born at Goldscheid,
Prussia, in 1838 ; ordained April 3, 1868 ; in Franciscan Monastery,
Cleveland, from September, 1874, to February, 1876, with charge of
asylum and convent chapels, and of Independence, from 1875 to 1876.
BoE^ Rev. , was stationed at Louisville, as assistant to Rev.
L. F. D'Arcy, from September, 1859, to January, 1860, when he
returned to New Orleans, whence he came. No other record of him.
BoEBNER, Rev. Joseph Benedict (Sanguinist), was born in Cleve-
land, O., January 1, 1860. Made his ecclesiastical studies with and
for the Sanguinists, at their seminary in Carthagena, O., where he was
also ordained July 29, 1883. He was in the diocese of Cleveland, as
pastor of Ottawa, from October, 1883, to July, 1891.
BoEHLER^ Rev. Albert (Jesuit), was born in Baden, Germany,
December 22, 1858 ; was ordained for the Jesuits, at Liverpool, Eng-
land, December 11, 1887; was stationed at St. Ignatius' College, Cleve-
land, from January, 1893, to July, 1900, when he was transferred to
San Francisco, Cal.
BoEHMER, Rev. Joseph Leo (Sanguinist), was born in Germany,
April 7, 1860. He was ordained in Cincinnati for the Sanguinists,
June 24, 1886. Was in the diocese of Cleveland as pastor of Thomp-
son, Seneca county, where he remained until August, 1899, when he
was transferred by his Provincial to St. Joseph's College at Renssalaer,
Ind.
BoEHNE, Rev. George, born 1799 in Neuenkirchen, Osnabrueck,
Germany ; was ordained in 1831. He came to America in the fall of
1841, when he was received by Bishop Purcell and sent to Glandorf as
assistant to Rev. William J. Horstmann, whom he succeeded as pastor,
February, 1843. In the summer of 1848 he was appointed pastor o^
Fort Jennings, where he remained till his death, September 20, 1860.
His remains are buried at Fort Jennings. Though an invalid (epi-
leptic) for many years of his priesthood, he did much for religion.
Under his direction churches were built in Glandorf and Fort Jennings,
the second in each place.
BoRGESS, Rev. Otto H., was born in Westphalia, Germany, Janu-
ary 12, 1805 ; ordained in Muenster, 1830 ; came to this country in
1832 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland from 1862 to February, 1863, as
pastor of St. Clement's, Navarre. Returned to Europe and died at
Steinerberg, Switzerland, January 10, 1876.
BoRMANN, Rev. Frederick, a native of Germany, was born
September 23, 1867; ordained at Watertown, N. Y., May 23, 1892;
had temporary charge of St. Bernard's, Akron, during the absence of
the pastor, in Europe, from April to August, 1898.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 459
BouRjADE^ Rev. Julian, a native of the diocese of St. Flour,
France, came to Cleveland in September, 1853, and was ordained by
Bishop Rappe a few months later. From St. Ann's, Fremont, he
attended La Prairie, Oak Harbor, and Toussaint (1853-56). His
next charge was Providence, where he resided from 1856 to February,
1857, meanwhile attending St. Mary's Corners for a few months. He
had been ailing of consumption for some time and was ordered to Cleve-
land, where he died in the Bishop's house, March 8, 1857, aged about
thirty. His remains are entombed in the Cathedral basement. He was
a very worthy priest.
Bowles, Rev. Joseph D., was born in the city of Limerick,
Ireland, April 12, 1829. After finishing the collegiate course of
studies in his native city he entered All Hallows', Dublin, where he
studied philosophy and theology. March 26, 1853, he was ordained
priest by Archbishop Cullen, in the Cathedral of Dublin. He was
received into the diocese of Cleveland, in July, 1872, and appointed
pastor of Clyde, with charge of Green Spring as a mission, to January,
1875. Bellevue was his next appointment, to May, 1876. He was
then transferred to Ravenna, where he also attended Kent, till July,
1878. In April, 1883, he was assigned to St. Ann's, Fremont. This
charge he held till his death, July 4, 1887. He was identified with the
Catholic Total Abstinence Union of Ohio as its president, and was for
a number of years the treasurer of the National Total Abstinence
Union. His remains are buried at Washington, D. C.
Boyle, Rev. John J., a native of Philadelphia, was born October
13, 1848. Was received into the diocese of Cleveland in November,
1897, and stationed at the Cathedral as curate. In January, 1899, he
was appointed pastor of Rootstown ; remained there until June, 1900,
when he was transferred to East Palestine, where he died December
3, 1900.
Braire, Rev. Louis, was born in France March 17, 1835. He
was ordained at Toronto, Canada, December 18, 1858. Came to the
diocese of Cleveland in September, 1881, and was sent to Ravenna, as
assistant to the Rev. J. D. Bowles. Attended Kent from Ravenna
until June, 1883, when he was sent there as resident pastor. In Feb-
ruary, 1889, he was appointed pastor of St. Joseph's, Toledo. He died
there suddenly, October 20, 1891. He was the first and only priest
incardinated into the diocese by Bishop Gilmour.
Bredeick, Rev. John O. (See sketch, page 79, this volume.)
Brehm, Rev. Fidelis, a Swiss, was born at Butekon, Canton
Aargau. He was received into the diocese of Cleveland in 1870, and
appointed pastor of Landeck, which charge he held till 1878. From
Landeck he also attended Spencerville (1871-77). During his absence
in Europe on a vacation (1876), the pastoral residence at Landeck was
destroyed bv fire entailing a loss of his library and personal effects. In
1878 he left the diocese with a Catholic colony for Arkansas. His
project there failed of success, but Bishop Gilmour, declmmg to receive
him back, he returned to Europe, in 1879, where, in his native country,
he was pastor until his death in 1893.
460 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Breitenstein, Rev. Liborius (Franciscan), a native of Saxony,
was born at Miihlhausen July 26, 1867 ; was ordained for the Fran-
ciscan Order, at St. Louis, Mo., June 24, 1895 ; was in Cleveland, at the
Franciscan Monastery, as chaplain of various asylums, etc., from
August, 1896, to August, 1899.
Brennan, Rev. George H., was born May 14, 1818, at Ballyhu-
bert, in county Roscommon, Ireland. He was ordained by Bishop
Rappe in May, 1851. Was a curate at the Cathedral about one year.
His first pastoral charge was Wooster, May, 1852, to January, 1856.
From Wooster he attended Ashland, Crestline and Mansfield as
missions. In 1856 he left the diocese and was successively connected
with the dioceses of Milwaukee, Dubuque, Springfield and Boston.
He returned to Ireland in 1874.
Brennan, Rev. Michael J., was born in Macroom, Cork county,
Ireland, October 2, 1850 ; made his studies for the priesthood at Seton
Hall, N. J., and completed them in Rome, where he was ordained for
the diocese of Newark, March 23, 1875. Was in the diocese of Cleve-
land, as curate at St. Vincent's, Akron, from August, 1888, to July,
1890, when he left.
Brown, Rev. Michael Bernard, was born May 20, 1840, at Beck-
mantown, Clinton county, New York ; made his ecclesiastical studies at
the seminary in Cleveland, and in Notre Dame University, Indiana.
He was ordained by Bishop Luers for the Society of the Holy Cross,
Notre Dame, Indiana, June 10, 1867. He remained with the society
till August, 1876. From that time till August, 1883, he was on the
mission in the diocese of Cleveland, viz. : assistant at St. Columba's,
Youngstown, till July, 1877 ; pastor of Crestline to March, 1881 ; again
assistant at St. Columba's, Youngstown, till December, 1881. He then
had temporary charge of St. Joseph's, Youngstown, till March, 1882.
His last appointment was Wellsville, where he remained till August,
1883, when he left the diocese. He died September 19, 1888.
Brown, Rev. Patrick Henry, was born at Sherrington, Canada,
December 21, 1834; was ordained by Bishop Rappe June 30, 1861;
appointed pastor of Hudson the following month, attending as missions
Ravenna and Kent. In the latter place he built the present church.
In 1862 he was stationed at Ravenna, where he remained till July, 1872,
meanwhile attending Kent (1862-72) and Hudson (1862-67). His
next and last charge was St. Columba's, Youngstown, which he
resigned in July, 1877, owing to protracted illness ; was brought to
Charity Hospital, Cleveland, where, after nearly a year of suffering, he
died September 26, 1878.*
Brueggemann, Rev. Eustace (Franciscan), was born at Werl,
Westphalia, April 2, 1830; ordained March 17, 1866; in the United
States since October, 1869 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland as superior
of Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from 1879 to 1882, attending
Independence and Parma as missions from January to July, 1881.
Brunner, Very Rev. Francis Salesius (Sahguinist), was born in
Switzerland, January 19, 1795, and ordained in March, 1819. . He came
*See Vol. I, page 91.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 461
to this country in December, 1843, and was the founder and Provincial
of the Sanguinist Society in America. With a band of his faithful co-
laborers he took charge of Peru and surrounding missions, January,
1844. He established Sanguinist convents at Thompson, New Riegel
and Glandorf. He and his self-sacrificing co-laborers — the pioneer
Sanguinist Fathers — deserve well of the Catholics of the diocese of
Cleveland. Their work has been unostentatious, but none the less suc-
cessful and lasting. He was in Northern Ohio till 1858, when he went
to Europe. He died at Schellenberg, in the Principality of Lichten-
stein, Austria, December 29, 1859. Father Brunner was a saintly
priest and a wise and prudent superior.
BucHHOLTZj Rev. Louis (Jesuit), a native of Wiirtemberg, Ger-
many, was born in the town of Wurzach, May 12, 1851 ; made his
ecclesiastical studies with the Jesuits, and was ordained for the Society
in Liverpool, England, March 4, 1882, by Bishop O'Reilly. After
being a professor at Canisius' College, Buffalo, from September, 1833,
to August, 1891, he was appointed a missionary, with residence at
Cleveland. In September, 1898, he was transferred to Buffalo. He is
now in Europe.
BuCHHOLZ, Rev. Lucius (Franciscan), was born at Dorsten,
Prussia, diocese of Muenster, April 3, 1838 ; ordained August 16, 1868 ;
in Cleveland Monastery from 1869 to 1871.
BuRKARD, Rev. George (Jesuit), was born in New York City,
February 10, 1854. Became a Jesuit and was ordained at Ditton Hall,
England, August 28, 1887. Was in the diocese at St. Mary's, Toledo,
from July, 1894, to January, 1897. From Toledo he attended Syl-
vania, Genoa and other small missions.
Burke, Rt. Rev. Edmund. (See biographical sketch, pages 84-86,
this volume.)
Burns, Rev. WilHam J., was born in London, England, July 10,
1849. He was ordained for the Jesuits at Gozo, Malta, December 21,
1880. Left the Jesuits ; came to the diocese of Cleveland in October,
1891, and was appointed temporary pastor of St. Joseph's, Toledo,
where he remained in charge until February, 1893. One month later
he was sent to Sts. Peter and Paul's church, Sandusky, as curate. He
remained there only a few weeks, when he left the diocese and returned
to England.
Byrne, Rev. Michael Ambrose, was born, 1821, near Stranorlar,
county Donegal, Ireland ; came to the United States at the age of 17.
A few years later he entered Mt. St. Mary's College, Emmittsburg,
Md., and finished his studies at Cincinnati, where he was ordamed by
Bishop Purcell, November 9, 1845. January, 1846, he was sent to
Cleveland as assistant to Rev. P. McLaughlin. From Cleveland he
also attended Avon, Painesville and South Thompson. In 1847 he
returned to Cincinnati and was appointed first resident pastor of All
Saints' church, Fuhon, then a suburb of Cincinnati, where he died of
cholera August 22, 1850.
462 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
, Byrne, Rev. Robert Alexis, brother to Rev. Michael A. Byrne,
was born near Stranorlar, county Donegal, Ireland, in 1828 ; made part
of his studies for the ministry in Londonderry (Ireland), Emmittsburg
and Fordham. He was ordained by Archbishop Hughes in 1856.
Remained in the diocese of New York till 1873, when he was received
by Bishop Gilmour and sent to Toledo. There he organized the
present Good Shepherd congregation, whose church was built under
his direction. His health failing, he resigned this charge March 20,
1875, and returned to his home in Ireland, where he died August 33d,
of the same year.
Cahill,' Rev. John T., was born in Elmira, N. Y., Decernber 5,
1853. After preparing himself in various colleges and seminaries for
the priesthood, he was adopted for the diocese of Cleveland. He com-
pleted his studies at St. Mary's Seminary, where he was ordained by
Bishop Gilmour, June 15, 1878. Between 1878 and 1889 he had the
following pastoral charges in the diocese: Van Wert and missions;
temporary pastor of East Liverpool, Olmsted, Bellevue, Clyde,
Ravenna and Kent. His charge was St. Joseph's church, Massillon,
from September, 1889, till he died, August 11, 1890. He was in ill
health for about three years previous to his death.
Calderini, Rev. Julius, was stationed at St. Columba's, Youngs-
town, as curate fot some months in 1864. No other record of him.
Campion, V. Rev. Augustine S., was born at Henin-Lietard, pas-
de-Calais, France, February 18, 1811. After completing his studies
for the ministry at the seminary of Arras, France, he was ordained
December 18, 1834. He did pastoral duty in his native country till
1848, when he came to Cleveland in June of same year. On his arrival
Bishop Rappe sent him to Fremont as assistant to Rev. L. Nightingale,
pastor of St. Ann's. From Fremont he attended a number of smaller
missions in the vicinity, viz. : Toussaint, La Prairie, etc. In 1849 he
was sent to Wooster, whence he also attended French Settlement and
Doylestown. In 1851 he was given pastoral charge of St. John's,
Canton, and attended Canal Fulton and Massillon as missions. Novem-
ber, 1853, lie was called to the Cathedral and made vicar-general. His
next and last appointment in this diocese was the pastorate of St.
Francis de Sales', Toledo, November, 1854, to May, 1856. He then
left the diocese to join the Sulpitians at Montreal, where he remained
till his death, June 10, 1886. He had been ill for nearly two years
previous to his demise and was unable to do duty. While stationed at
Toledo he arranged for the opening of an orphan asylum in that city.
Father Campion was a most devoted priest, charitable, kind-hearted
and full of zeal for religion.
Capeder, Rev. Peter Anthony (Sanguinist), was born at Lum-
brein. Canton Graubiindten, Switzerland, January 1, 1817. After
completing his studies at Loewenburg, Switzerland, he was ordained ait
Feldkirch, Austria, by Bishop George Pruenster, May 11, 1843. He
came to this country in December, 1843, with the first band of Sanguin-
ist Fathers. From 1844 to 1888 he was stationed in and outside the
diocese of Cleveland, in places committed to the Sanguinists ; he shared
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 463
the hardships of the pioneer priest. He was in the diocese of Cleve-
land from 1844-57 ; 1865-70 ; 1872-80 ; 1884, to May, 1886, with Peru,
Thompson, New Riegel, Tiffin, Upper Sandusky, Findlay, Liverpool
and Glandorf as the several fields of his pastoral work. In November,
1887, he was again sent by his superior to Thompson, where he
remained till his sudden death, October 2, 1888. During the last few
years of his life he did no pastoral work, owing to physical inability, his
hearing and memory having been seriously impaired. "Father Peter
Anthony," as he was familiarly called, was a man without guile; his
daily life was an edifying, practical illustration of humility and sim-
plicity. Full of sunshine in his character, he won all who had any
intercourse with him, by his kindly words, genial humor and spark-
ling wit.
Capitani, Rev. Pacifico, was born in Ascolo-Piceno, Province of
Ancona, Italy, August 5, 1848 ; was educated at Rome for the sacred
ministry, and there ordained September 27, 1870. He was on the
mission in Egypt, France and England between 1870 and 1884. After
a sojourn in Rome for nearly two years he was received, in July, 1886,
by Bishop Gilmour, who directed him to organize St. Anthony's Italian
congregation, in Cleveland. He was pastor of St. Anthony's until
April, 1899, when he returned to Italy.
Carabin, Rev. Peter A., was born in France, 1807, and there
educated for the sacred ministry ; came to this country in 1828 and was
ordained by Bishop Fenwick in 1831 ; was received into the diocese of
Cleveland, 1847, after having been on the missions of Wisconsin and
Upper Michigan for a number of years. Bishop Rappe sent him to
Peru, where he remained from December, 1847, to September, 1850.
His next charge was St. Ann's, Fremont, till 1852, when he was
stricken with paralysis. He rallied for a short time sufficiently to do
pastoral duty at St. Peter's, Canton, from February to August, 1853 ;
was then obliged to give up all work, and for twenty years was a
patient suflEerer. He lived in retirement at St. Vincent's Asylum, Cleve-
land, for many years, and died there August 1, 1873. His remains
are interred in St. John's cemetery, Cleveland.
Caron, Very Rev. Alexis. ( See biographical sketch, pages 90-92,
this volume.)
Carragher, Rev. Bernard, born, educated and ordained in Ireland,
was received by Bishop Rappe, November, 1853. Until August, 1854,
he was connected with the Cathedral. He was next appointed pastor
of St. John's, Canton, residing there from December, 1854, till his
death, on Good Friday (April 10), 1857. From Canton he also
attended Alliance and St. Joseph's, Massillon.
Carroll, Rev. John P., a native of New York City, was born
November 8, 1839 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Notre Dame, Ind.,
and St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. He was ordained by Bishop
Rappe Mav 4, 1862. He held the following charges in the diocese of
Cleveland-' Cleveland, Cathedral, as curate from May to October,
1862 ; Defiance, St. John's, whence he attended Napoleon, Providence
464 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
and a number of stations in Henry county; pastor of Napoleon; Fre-
mont, St. Ann's ; Cleveland, St. Augustine's ; Ravenna ; and of St.
John's, Canton. His last pastoral charge was East Liverpool, from
November, 1879, to March, 1893, when he was obliged to resign
because of ill health. For nearly a year he was a patient at Charity
Hospital, Cleveland, where he died February 6, 1894.*
Carroll, Rev. Thomas, was born at Ardagh, Ireland, August 17,
1833 ; educated at Notre Dame, Ind., and ordained in 1858 by Bishop
Luers, for the Holy Cross Society, which he left in 1863, on
account of ill health. January, 1864, he was received into the diocese
of Cleveland and appointed assistant at the Cathedral. He remained
till October, 1867, when he was received into the diocese of Erie. He
died at Oil City, Penn., May 25, 1878.
Cebulla^ Rev. Sebastian (Franciscan), was born March 10, 1838,
in Silesia ; ordained March 12, 1869 ; in the Franciscan Monastery of
Cleveland from 1883 to 1884.
Chapuis, Rev. Joseph E., born in Switzerland March 6, 1848;
was ordained in his native country June 29, 1873. Came to the diocese
of Cleveland in October, 1894, and was appointed pastor of St. Louis'
church, Toledo, where he remained till he left the diocese, in Decem-
ber, 1895.
Cheerier, Rev. Leo (Basilian), was born at Djmdas, Ont.,
Canada, October 28, 1834; educated at St. Michael's College, Toronto,
and there ordained by Bishop Lynch, March 25, 1864 ; was in the dio-
cese of Cleveland from 1872 to 1873 as professor at St. Louis' College,
Louisville, Ohio.
Clement, Rev. Julius, a native of France, was ordained there
about 1850. He was received by Bishop Rappe, July, 1864, and
appointed one of the professors at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, and,
in 1866, superior of the college at Louisville, O., where he remained till
July, 1867. He was then received into the diocese of Vincennes,
where he died, as pastor of Green Castle, Ind., in October, 1871.
CoADY, Rev. Peter, was born in Bally-Callan, county Kilkenny,
Ireland ; came to the diocese of Cleveland from Canada in 1870 ; was at
St. Mary's Seminary for a few months, when he was appointed pastor
of South Thompson, with charge of Jefferson as a mission. He
remained there from March, 1871, till some time in 1873, when he left
the diocese.
Collin.Sj Very Rev. Edward Timothy, a native of Philadelphia,
Pa., was born February 14, 1802 ; studied for the ministry at Mt. St.
Mary's Seminary, Emmittsburg, Md. ; was ordained by Bishop Ken-
rick, July 1, 1832, for the diocese of Cincinnati, where he was stationed
at the Cathedral. His first pastoral charge was St. Joseph's, Dayton.
May, 1838, Bishop Purcell appointed him as one of his vicars-general.
Between 1837 and 1839 he visited the missions along the Miami canal,
from Cincinnati as far up as Toledo, making the entire journey on
horseback. He also attended missions in Columbiana county (Dun-
•See Vol. I, page 93.
CALVARY CEMETERY, YOUNGSTOWN— MATER DOLOROSA,
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 465
gannon, etc.), about 1834. Father Collins was a scholarly man and a
most worthy priest, genial and companionable, without ever forgetting
what he owed his priestly dignity. He died at Cincinnati, Aueust
26, 1865. ^
CoNLAN, Very Rev. James. (See biographical sketch, pages 107-
108, this volume.)
CoNLAN, Rev. James V., was born at Mohill, county Leitrim
Ireland, September 27, 1820; made his ecclesiastical studies at Cincm-
nati; was ordained in (old) St. Vincent's church, Akron, Ohio, by
Bishop Purcell, September 5, 1847, five weeks before the consecration
of Father Rappe as first Bishop of Cleveland, and was appointed assist-
ant to Rev. James Conlan at Dungannon. "Father Vincent," as he
was called, to distinguish him from his cousin, the Very Rev. James
Conlan, was next given charge of St. John's church. Canton,
August, 1848, whence he also attended Canal Fulton. He remained at
Canton till January, 1851, when he was appointed pastor of Holy
Angels', Sandusky. December, 1855, he was assigned as assistant to
Rev. James Conlan, at St. Patrick's, Cleveland, where they zealously
and successfully labored together till March 5, 1875, when the latter
died. Father Vincent succeeded as pastor of St. Patrick's. August,
1877, he resigned this charge and took the pastorate of St. Ann's,
Fremont. There he remained till January 15, 1883. Owing to pro-
tracted illness, which prevented him from doing pastoral duty, he
resigned and went to Charity Hospital, Cleveland, where he died March
15, 1883. His remains are buried in St. John's cemetery, Cleveland.
He was a genial, kind-hearted priest.
Conlan, Rev. Thomas J., was born in Summitville, Columbiana
county, Ohio, February 6, 1846; commenced his ecclesiastical studies
in St. John's College, formerly existing in Cleveland ; finished them in
St. Mary's Seminary, Lake street; was ordained by Bishop Rappe
March 7, 1869. For a while he was a professor in the diocesan
seminary; then (1870) he was transferred to the Cathedral as assistant.
In 1873 he accepted the position of secretary to Bishop Gilmour, but
from 1874, owing to ill health, was unable to render much service either
in this capacity, or while having charge at the Cathedral. He made
every effort to recuperate his fast waning strength, traveling exten-
sively for his health, but all to no purpose. For five years he was a
patient sufferer from consumption, till finally death relieved him,
August 20, 1879. He died at his father's residence in Cleveland. His
remains are buried in St. John's cemetery, Cleveland, near those of his
uncle, the Very Rev. James Conlan. He was of a kind, gentle nature,
gifted, and thoroughly a priest. "Father Tom," though no more
among the living, lives in the memory of those with whom and for
whom he labored, as one of God's chosen ministers, and as a model
ecclesiastic.
CoppiNGER, Rev. Thomas J. J., was born and educated in Ireland
(no record of date or place of birth). As a young man he was in the
British army ; then came to the United States, and was ordained by
Bishop Purcell at Cincinnati, October 21, 1854, and appointed assistant
466 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
at the Cathedral. Left the diocese of Cincinnati and came to Cleve-
land, September, 1862, and was an assistant at Cathedral till July,
1863. He then enlisted in the army, was wounded in the battle of
Winchester, and then discharged. Returned to Ireland, where he
died about 1874.
CoQUERELLE, Rev. Charles M., born at Etaples, diocese of Arras,
France, May 31, 1804; was ordained in 1833; came to Cleveland
August, 1850 : was sent to Holy Angels' church, Sandusky, whence he
attended Port Clinton, Marblehead, Toussaint and La Prairie. In the
fall of 1852, after nearly two years of laborious mission work, he was
appointed pastor of Painesville, whence he also attended Ashtabula.
He remained at Painesville till 1869, when he resigned his pastorate on
account of deafness and old age. Shortly after his resignation he
returned to France, where he died September 5, 1880.
CoTE^ Rev. Angelus C. (Dominican), a Canadian, was born March
20, 1856 ; ordained, August 25, 1883 ; had temporary charge of
Annunciation church, Cleveland, during the illness and absence of the
pastor, from May to September, 1899.
CouiLLARD^ Rev. J. B., born and ordained in Canada ; was received
into the diocese by Bishop Rappe in 1869 ; assistant to Rev. F. M. Boff
at St. Francis' church, Toledo, October, 1869, till February, 1871, when
he left the diocese of Cleveland. He was then received into the diocese
of Springfield, where he died in 1874.
CsuRGOviCH, Rev. John, a native of Hungary, was born April 18,
1861. Was ordained according to the Uniate-Greek rite, January 7,
1886. Came to Cleveland, January, 1893, and was appointed pastor of
St. John's L^niate-Greek church, of which he had charge until Septem-
ber, 1896, when he left the diocese.
CuLLEN, Rev. James, was born in Wexford, Ireland, June 29,
1814. He was ordained for the diocese of Philadelphia by Bishop
Kenrick, July 19, 1847. Remained in that diocese, holding various
positions, till 1870, when he went to Albany. In 1872 he was received
by Bishop Gilmour, who appointed him resident pastor of Wellsville,
with charge of East Liverpool as a mission. He was transferred to
East Liverpool in November, 1874, and remained till February, 1876.
From that time until December, 1882, he did pastoral duty in the
following places : Vermilion, Olmsted and, as assistant, at Canal
Fulton. In January, 1883, he was obliged to give up all pastoral work
owing to ill health and failing memory. In September, 1888, he went
to Chicago, where he died at St. Alexis' Hospital, May 21, 1891.
CzAKERT, Rev. Peter (Redemptorist), was born December 12,
1808, in Bohemia. In his twenty-fourth year he joined the Redemp-
torists ; was ordained January 12, 1834, and soon after came to the
United States. He was sent to Northern Ohio (Peru, Huron county),
in 1835, as assistant to Father Tschenhens, and remained till 1839,
when he returned to Baltimore. In 1844 he was appointed Provincial
©f the Redemptorists in this country, retaining this position till 1847,
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 467
when he was sent to Lafayette, near New Orleans, where he died
September 2, 1848. He was a model priest, full of missionary zeal.
Dacey, Rev. John J., a native of Massachusetts, was born July 11,
1860 ; ordained for the archdiocese of Boston, December 22, 1888 ; was
stationed at the Cathedral, in Cleveland, for nearly two months, in the
fall of 1898, when he left the diocese.
Daly, Rev. Cornelius, born in county Cork, Ireland, was ordained
by Bishop Purcell, March 2, 1844. For nearly a year he labored on the
mission in Southern Ohio. He was then appointed first resident pastor
of St. Vincent's, Akron (1845-46). Meanwhile he also attended
Doylestown, whither he was transferred, February, 1846. He also
attended Youngstown (184-5). When the diocese of Cleveland was
organized (October, 1847), he affiliated with the diocese of Cincinnati,
where he remained till his death, at Fayetteville, Brown county,
January 24, 1876.
Danenh OFFER, Rev. Aloysius, had temporary charge of St.
Peter's church, Toledo, during the illness of the pastor (his brother),
between 1893 and 1895, when he returned to the diocese of Vincennes,
for which he had been ordained. No other record of him.
Danenhoffer, Rev. Peter, a native of the diocese of Metz,
Lorraine, was born in the village of Redersching, February 21, 1834 ;
was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 28, 1863, and appointed first
pastor of St. Bernard's church, Akron, where he remained till July,
1866, when he was sent to Toledo, to organize St. Peter's parish, whose
pastor he remained till his death, April 20, 1898.
D'Arcy, Rev. Louis Florence, was born and educated in France
(diocese of Arras) ; came to Cleveland in August, 1850; was ordained
by Bishop Rappe, April 2, 1851 ; was assistant at the Cathedral till Sep-
tember, 1851, when he was appointed pastor of Louisville, remaining
till May, 1854. He then went to France for the benefit of his health,
returning in 1856. He again had charge of Louisville congregation,
till 1861, when he left the diocese of Cleveland. Whilst at Louisville
he also attended Strasburg. Between 1861 and 1866 he labored in the
dioceses of Mobile and Cincinnati, and for a short time he was also at
Notre Dame, Ind. In 1866 he was again received by Bishop Rappe
and appointed pastor of St. Ann's, Fremont, but remained in charge
only till July, 1867, when he returned to France, where he died a few
years later.
Daudet, Rev. John, was born in France, August 15, 1810, and
ordained for his native diocese (Nevers), October 26, 1834. Came to
Cleveland in June, 1865, and was appointed pastor of Holy Rosary
(now Holy Name) parish. In December, 1870, he was transferred to
the church of the Immaculate Conception, Grafton, where he remained
in charge until his death, February 10, 1892. His remains rest in St.
John's cemetery, Cleveland.
Davy, Rev. P., for a few months pastor of Elmore (1872) ; mean-
while attended the missions of Genoa and Woodville. No other record
of him.
468 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
De Goesbriand, Rt. Rev. Louis, was born at St. Urbain, Finis-
tere, France, August 4, 1816. He completed his ecclesiastical studie:
at the famous St. Sulpice, Paris, and was ordained in that city July 13
1840, by Bishop Rosati, of St. Louis, then in Europe on a visit. H(
came to Ohio in the same year, and was appointed successor to Rev. M
Wuerz, as the second resident pastor of Louisville, where he remainec
until January, 1846. He was then sent as assistant to the Rev.
Amadeus Rappe, who had charge of Toledo and the "Maumee sec-
tion" of Northwestern Ohio, and with whom he shared the hardships
and privations of that extensive and uninviting mission. Father Df
Goesbriand remained in Toledo until January, 1848, when Bishoj
Rappe appointed him vicar-general. He held this office until he was
consecrated first Bishop of Burlington, Vermont, October 30, 1853
He was also the first superior of the Cleveland Seminary, established b>
Bishop Rappe near his residence on Bond street. For forty-five years
he governed his diocese with honor and success. He resigned his
episcopal office in 1898 on account of his advanced age and ill health.
Died at Burlington, November 3, 1899. The 'Cleveland diocese always
held him in grateful memory. At the time of his consecration, St.
John's Cathedral parish presented him with a pectoral cross and chain.
His last visit to Cleveland was in July, 1885, when he ordained four
priests in the absence of Bishop Gilmour, then in Europe. Bishop De
Goesbriand was one of the most earnest and untiring of these early
workers in the wild north-country region that is now the populous
diocese of Cleveland. It was by the labor of a few ardent spirits like
himself that the foundations of a great and strong Catholicity in North-
ern Ohio were made stable and enduring. For all that Catholics of
today have or know of the faith, for all the spiritual blessings that are
theirs, they are indebted to such men as he.
Delbaere^ Rev. Polydore Henry, was born at Ingoyghem, West
Flanders, Belgium, December 21, 1838 ; made his studies for the
ministry in Flanders and at the University of Louvain ; was ordained
by Cardinal Stercks, Archbishop of Mechlin, May 81, 1864; was in
the diocese of Detroit for some years ; received by Bishop Gilmour, ad
interim, February, 1875, and appointed pastor of Archbold and mis-
sions. April, 1877, he was sent to Antwerp with charge of a number
of missions. April, 1879, he left the diocese, and was received into the
diocese of Peoria.
Delinikaitis, Rev. Joseph, was born in Poland, March 6, 1866,
and there ordained on June 21, 1890 ; was in this diocese as temporary
pastor of the Lithuanians, in Cleveland, from August, 1895, to Septem-
ber, 1896.
Deneny, Rev. Thomas, was born at Maghera, county Cavan,
Ireland, January 9, 1849 ; ordained by Bishop Hogan at St. Joseph,
Mo., September 9, 1874; was received into the diocese of Cleveland,
September, 1887, and had charge of Wellington, with the mission oi
New London, till June, 1889, when through illness he gave up pastoral
duty and left the diocese.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 469
De Raymacher^ Rev. Vincent (Dominican), a native of Belgium,
was ordained by Bishop Fenwick in 1822. He was stationed at Cin-
cinnati for a short time and then sent to the Dominican Convent near
Somerset, Perry county, whence he attended the stations and missions
in Stark and Columbiana counties between 1823 and 1835. He was
resident pastor of St. John's, Canton, in 1835. Returned to Belgium
where he died in 1870, aged 72 years.
DesmonDj Rev. John C, a native of Cork, Ireland, was born
September 19, 1849 ; ordained for the diocese of Cleveland, by Bishop
Gilmour, July 5, 1879. He had the following pastoral charges : South
Thompson and mission, Leetonia, Salineville and missions, Niles and
mission, Wellsville and East Liverpool. From July, 1881, to May,
1882, he was also curate at the Holy Name church, Cleveland. Whilst
pastor of East Liverpool he became seriously ill, and died at Mercy
Hospital, Pittsburg, December 5, 1893.
Devanny, Rev. Patrick J., was born in Ireland, May 15, 1851;
where he was also ordained on March 17, 1875. Was in the diocese
of Cleveland from September, 1894, to January, 1895, as curate at
St. Columba's, Youngstown.
Dick, Rev. Anthony (Sanguinist), a native of Ohio, was born
January 1, 1852 ; ordained at Cincinnati, for the Sanguinists, July 7,
1891 ; pastor of Ottawa, Putnam county, from July, 1891, to February,
1897.
Dickmann, Rev. Bernard (Sanguinist), was born at Minster,
Auglaize county, O., in 1839 ; educated at Carthagena, Mercer county,
O. ; ordained at Minster, O., by Bishop Rosecrans, for the Sanguin-
ists, August 17, 1862 ; was pastor at Glandorf from April, 1874, to May,
1881, where he also directed the building of the present beautiful
church. In 1881 he was sent by his Superior to California; is now
pastor of Ft. Recovery, Mercer county, 0.
Dickneite, Rev. Raynerius (Franciscan), was born at Bokel,
near Rietberg, Westphalia, November 11, 1832; in this country since
November, 1859; ordained July 2, 1860; member of Franciscan
Monastery, Cleveland, from 1870 to 1874 ; had charge of Independence
from 1871 to 1873. At present he is stationed in the diocese of Omaha.
Dillon, Rev. John. (See biographical sketch, pages 108-109
this volume.)
Doebbing, Rt. Rev. Bernard (Franciscan), was born at Muenster,
Westphalia, in 1855 ; ordained June 1, 1879 ; professor of philosophy
at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, and member of Franciscan Monas-
tery, same city, from February, 1880, to July, 1881. He is now Bishop
of Nepi-Sutri, in Italy.
Doherty, Rev. John J., was born at Glen of Aherlow, county
Tipperary, Ireland, November 20, 1817 ; studied for the priesthood at
Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, Emmittsburg, Md., was ordained by Bishop
Purcell, at Cincinnati, April 33, 1843. His first appointment was as
assistant at the Cathedral, Cincinnati, till September, 1844; was then
470 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
transferred to St. John's, Canton, where he remained till he left thi
diocese, July, 1848. From Canton he attended several missions, amonj
which were St. Mary's, Massillon and Canal Fulton. He died as pasto:
of St. John's, Honesdale, Pa., April 8, 1896.
DoLWECK, Rev. John Peter, was born at Benning, diocese o
Metz, Lorraine, August 26, 1828. He studied for the priesthood a
Metz and in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, and was ordained b;
Bishop Rappe, December 11, 1853. He was successively pastor o
St. Mary's, Sandusky; Peru, with charge of St. Peter's, Norwalk, ai
a mission ; Berwick ; and finally of Liverpool, Medina county, when
he remained till December, 1864. He then left the diocese to join thi
Benedictine Order, of which he has been a member ever since.
DoNOHUE, Rev. James F., was born in New York City, Octobe:
21, 1861 ; ordained for the diocese of Louisville, Ky., May 7, 1888
was stationed in the diocese of Cleveland from October, 1894, t(
November, 1898, viz : at Salineville ; Cleveland, Cathedral, as assis
tant ; Toledo, Immaculate Conception church, also as assistant ; Mans
field, as temporary pastor ; and at Summitville, where he was fron
September, 1897, to November, 1898, when he left the diocese.
Doyle, Rev. Richard Barry, a native of county Wexford, Ireland
was born November 8, 1870 ; ordained at Waterford, Ireland, Jum
17, 1894. He was curate at the Immaculate Conception church
Cleveland, from November, 1897, to July, 1899, when he left thi
diocese.
Drees, Very Rev. Henry Joseph (Sanguinist), was born at Garell
Oldenburg, Germany, March 5, 1830 ; in America since 1833 ; ordainec
November 7, 1861 ; was in this diocese from September, 1864, t(
August, 1866, as pastor of New Riegel, whence he also attendee
Kirby and Upper Sandusky as missions. He now resides at the San
guinist Convent, in Maria Stein, Mercer county, O.
Droessler, Rev. Dominic (Franciscan), was born in the diocesi
of Paderborn, Prussia, August 2, 1843 ; came to the United States
June, 1862 ; ordained January 13, 1867 ; belonged to the Franciscai
Monastery, Cleveland, from 1868 to 1871 ; and again from January
1873, to April, 1875 ; had charge of Independence from 1868 to 1869
Now in Germany.
Drolshagen, Rev. Gustave, was received by Bishop Rappe ii
1868 ; after a short stay at Antwerp, Paulding county, he was pasto
of Shelby Settlement, January, 1870, to September, 1872 ; then o
St. Peter's, Norwalk, till 1874, when he left the diocese and ministry
Was killed in his house by robbers, at Lawley, Fla., June 21, 1894
No other record of him.
Druon, Very Rev. Zephyrin, was born at Ven-din-le-Viel, Pas-de
Calais, France, March 14, 1830 ; made his studies for the ministry a
Arras, France, in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, and St. Sulpice
Paris ; was ordained in France by Bishop Beauvais, July 3, 1853
returned to Cleveland and was assistant at the Cathedral from Septem
ber to December, 1853, when he affiliated with the diocese of Burling
BIO-GRAPHICAL NOTICES. 471
ton, where he remained till his death, January 26, 1891. He was
Bishop De Goesbriand's vicar-general; also pastor of Immaculate
Conception church, St. Albans, Vt.
Eberschweiler, Rev. Frederick (Jesuit), was born at Maxweiler,
diocese of Treves, Rhenish-Prussia, July 19, 1839; ordained July 15,
1870 ; came to this country in 1870 ; was professor at St. Marv's Semi-
nary, Cleveland, from 1871 to 1873; assistant at St. Mary's church,
Toledo, from 1873 to 1881, and at St. Mary's, Cleveland, from 1881
to 1883. He was then sent to Montana, where he has been since on
the mission.
EiSENEiNG, Rev. Joseph Thomas (Sanguinist), was born at Mos-
nang, Canton St. Gallen, Switzerland, November 1, 1844; was educated
at St. Gallen, Switzerland, and at Carthagena, Mercer county, Ohio.
He was ordained for the Sanguinists by Archbishop Purcell, August
15, 1873 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland, from February, 1876, to
August, 1878, as pastor of St. Boniface's church, and local Superior
of convent. New Riegel. There he completed the present beautiful
church, which had been commenced by his predecessor. Father Laux.
He is now stationed in the diocese of Ft. Wayne, Ind.
EiSENRiNG, Rev. Sebastian (Sanguinist), was born at Wald-
kirchen, Switzerland, May 10, 1852. He was ordained for the San-
guinists by Archbishop Purcell, March 17, 1878 ; appointed assistant
at St. John's, Glandorf, where he died of consumption, July 30, 1880.
Ellwood, Rev. John, was first resident pastor of Ashtabula,
1862-63, and attended South Thompson as a mission. He left the
diocese in July, 1863. No other record of him.
Engelhardt, Rev. Zephyrin (Franciscan), was born at Bils-
hausen, Westphalia, November 13, 1851 ; came to the United States
in 1852 ; ordained June 18, 1878 ; in Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland,
from 1879 to 1880, and again from August, 1890, to August, 1894.
He is now on the mission in California.
EvRARD, Rev. Charles, was born in the city of Metz, Lorraine,
June 13, 1822. He was educated for the ministry at Versailles, where
also he was ordained by Mgr. Gross, Bishop of Versailles, June 22,
1845. After five years' service as chaplain and parish priest in France,
he came to Cleveland, August, 1850. September 15, the same year,
he was sent to Peru, Huron county, where under his direction the
present church and pastoral residence were built. January 6, 1854,
he was assigned to St. Mary's, Toledo. There he built the present
church, since enlarged ; also organized St. Joseph's, Toledo. He
remained at St. Mary's till September 29, 1867, when Bishop Rappe
appointed him pastor of Fort Jennings. This position he declined and
remained without pastoral charge till August 1, 1868, when he again
accepted the pastorate of Peru. There he resided till November, 1873,
when Bishop Gilmour appointed him pastor of St. Joseph's, Tiffin,
where he remained till his death, May 11, 1885. He was for many
years a member of the Board of Infirm Priests' Fund, and of the
472 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Bishop's Council for some time. Father Evrard was a man of strong
will, and clear views; a ceaseless and unselfish worker for the best
interests of religion.
Fahey, Rev. Anthony (Dominican), a native of Ireland, was
educated in Rome for the priesthood; came to the United States in
December, 1834. He had pastoral charge of St. Paul's, near Dun-
gannon, between 1834 and 1835, and of St. John's, Canton, between
1836 and 1837. Returned to Ireland, where he died. No other record
of him.
Fahle, Rev. Arsenius (Franciscan), was born at Paderborn,
Westphalia, September 23, 1843 ; ordained March 12, 1869 ; member
of Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from 1880 to 1881. At present
he is stationed at Hermann, Mo.
Fahle, Rev. Ewaldus (Franciscan), was born at Paderborn,
Westphalia, August 20, 1848 ; studied for the ministry at Duesseldorf ;
was ordained at Paderborn by Bishop Martin in 1873 ; came to Francis-
can Monastery, Cleveland, March, 1879, remaining till February, 1880.
During this time he was professor of philosophy at St. Mary's Semi-
nary, Cleveland. In 1880 he was sent by his Superiors to Germany,
where he is at present.
Falk, Rev. Stephen, was born in Kirchzarten, Baden, December
17, 1825. In 1848 he came to this country and joined the Sanguinists
at Thompson, Seneca county. He was ordained for them by Bishop
Rappe, November 21, 1853. He faithfully attended many missions
in Mercer, Putnam, Lorain and Huron counties, in spite of hardships
and often of privations, until ill health forced him in 1857 to resign
all priestly work and to sever his connection with the Sanguinist
Society. In September of the same year Bishop Rappe received him
into the diocese of Cleveland and sent him to St. Mary's, Massillon,
where he remained in charge until December, 1858. His next appoint-
ment was the pastorate of Shelby Settlement, until March, 1862, when
he was transferred to St. Mary's, Cleveland. He also founded St.
Stephen's parish, Cleveland, in 1870. In order that the Jesuit Fathers
might establish a college near his church he generously resigned his
parish in July, 1880. After a short vacation he accepted the pastorate
of French Creek, in September of the same year. There he labored
zealously and successfully until his death, August 26, 1899. He was
a true priest of God, and spent for God and souls his long life of 46
years in the sacred ministry.
Faulhaber, Rev. Bonaventure (Franciscan), a native of Baden,
was born March 28, 1843 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Constance
and Freiburg, Baden, and Teutopolis, 111. He was ordained at St.
Louis, Mo., for the Franciscans, by Bishop Ryan, January 6, 1873 ; was
in the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from July, 1873, to July, 1875,
and from July, 1881, to January, 1887; he attended the missions of
Independence, 1873-75 ; and Parma, from July, 1881, to January, 1887,
when he was sent by his superiors to Nebraska, where he now is.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 473
Fehlings, Rev. W., was stationed at Dungannon from February
to May, 1858. No other record of him.
Ferguson, Rev. Michael Joseph (Basihan), was born in Ontario,
Canada, March 23, 1839; educated at St. Michael's College, Toronto;
ordained by Bishop Lynch, October 23, 1861 ; in the diocese of Cleve-
land from 1872 to 1873, as one of the professors at Louisville College.
Returned to Canada, where he is now engaged as professor at Assump-
tion College, Sandwich, Ontario.
FiLiERE, Rev. Louis J., was born at Dohen, Pas-de-Calais, France,
March 31, 1822. Studied for the priesthood at Arras, France, where
he received part of Holy Orders. He was ordained by Bishop Rappe,
September 8, 1850 ; was pastor of St. John's, Defiance, November, 1850,
to March, 1854; had charge of Providence till 1852, also of eighteen
other missions and stations in Defiance, Henry, Wood, Paulding and
Fulton counties, between 1850 and 1856. He was resident pastor of
Providence from April, 1854, till Decem.ber, 1856, with Archbold,
Napoleon, Bryan, Stryker and Wauseon as missions. As resident
pastor he next had charge of Olmsted (1856-62), Berea, St. Mary's,
(1862-76). From Berea he attended Rockport till 1866, and Olmsted
till 1876. February, 1876, he gave up all pastoral duties and retired to
Milton Centre, Wood county, Ohio, where he has been since.
FiNUCAN, Rev. William J., a native of Toledo, Ohio, was born
November 30, 1853. He began his ecclesiastical studies at St. Louis'
College, Louisville, Stark county, and completed them in St. Mary's
Seminary, Cleveland, where he was ordained by Bishop Gilmour, June
15, 1878. Did pastoral work at St. Joseph's , Massillon ; Kelley's
Island, Put- in-Bay, Jefferson, Conneaut, Crestline, Salem, East Pales-
tine. In December, 1887, he was obliged to resign, because of pro-
tracted and serious illness. He received a leave of absence to spend the
winter in a southern climate. A few months later he returned, but not
improved in health. He retired to Toledo, remaining till his death,
October 18, ] 888. He was a man of more than ordinary ability, and an
excellent pulpit orator.
Fitzgerald, Rev. William J., was born in New York City August
7, 1853; educated at Toronto, Cincinnati, Montreal, and finished his
studies at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. He was ordained by Bishop
Gilmour, December 26, 1876 ; was appointed assistant at St. Malachy's,
Cleveland, remaining till July, 1880. Then he received charge of St.
Patrick's, Leetonia, where he began the erection of the present church,
but did not live to see its completion. It pleased God to call this
noble-hearted young priest after a brief illness, at a time when all,
to human eye, was fair and promising to him. He died at his father's
residence, Columbus, Ohio, March 22, 1882. His remains are buried
in Cathedral cemetery, same city.
Flammang, Rev. Nicholas, was born at Consdorf, Luxemburg,
May 9, 1844. He came to Cleveland Seminary, March, 1866, and,
after completing his theological studies, was ordained by Bishop Rappe,
March 7, 1869. He had the following pastoral charges in the diocese
474 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
of Cleveland : Findlay, Port Clinton, Doylestown, Avon, and New
Bavaria. He left the diocese in July, 1873. For several years he was
on the mission in Minnesota and Dakota, and from 1885 to the time of
his death, was a member of the Benedictine Order. He died at Yank-
ton, Dakota, February 10, 1887.
Fleck, Rev. William B., was born in Findlay, O., December 4,
1863 ; educated for the priesthood, at Mt. Calvary, Wis., and Sandwich,
Can. He was ordained July 8, 1893, by Bishop Foley, of Detroit,
for St. Francis' Institute, at Tiffin. He was chaplain of the institute
after the death of its founder, the Rev. J. L. Bihn — from August, 1893,
to December, 1895, when he was removed from the chaplaincy and
dismissed from the diocese.
Fleiscii, Rev. George (Sanguinist), a native of Austria, was
born at Goetzis, Tyrol, November 1, 1846 ; made his ecclesiastical
studies at Feldkirch, Austria, and St. Charles' Seminary, Carthagena,
Mercer county, Ohio; ordained at Cincinnati for the Sanguinists, by
Archbishop Purcell, June 30, 1874; was in the diocese of Cleveland as
pastor of Big Spring, from December, 1876, to August, 1877.
Florian, Rev. Dominic (Franciscan), was born in Germany,
March 15, 1837; ordained for the Franciscans, at St. Louis, Mo., April
19, 1874; stationed at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chap-
lain of various institutions in the city, from February, 1893, to August,
1894. He is now doing pastoral duty at Joliet, 111.
Flum, Rev. Philip, born at Constance, Baden, in 1839 ; was
ordained by Bishop Rappe, July, 1853. The pastorate of Maumee
was his first appointment, 1853-54. There he enlarged the church,
bought in 1843 by Rev. A. Rappe ; during this time also attended Prov-
idence. Between 1854 and 1855 he was Superior of St. John's Col-
lege, Cleveland. July, 1855, he was appointed pastor of Dungannon,
remaining till February, 1858, when ill health obliged him to resign.
He then left the diocese and went to Texas, where he died. Date of
death not recorded.
FocHENKRESS, Rev. P. (Dominican), a native of Belgiurn, was
stationed at Canton about 1836. Returned to Belgium, where he died.
No other record of him.
Foley, Rev. Philip, was born near Mallow, Ireland, about 1830,
and was ordained by Bishop Purcell, March 3, 1844. His first charge
in Northern Ohio and diocese of Cleveland was at Massillon, 1846 to
1848, whence he attended Canal Fulton and Wooster. He was then
transferred, February, 1848, to St. Francis', Toledo, where he
remained til! November, 1854, meanwhile attending New Bavaria
(Poplar Ridge), 1849 ; St. John's, Defiance, till 1849; Six Mile Woods,
1848;, St. Mary's Corners, 1853. He was then affiliated to the diocese
of Cincinnati, where he remained till 1857. Then he went to St. Louis,
Mo. ; died there May 1, 1857.
Frauenhofer, Rev. Thomas, was born at Pfefifenhausen, Bavaria,
December 6, 1817; ordained July 1, 1844; came to this country May,
1852 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland, as pastor of French Creek from
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 475
July, 1864, till January, 1867. He then went to the diocese of Chicago,
where he died August 21, 1881.
Freigang, Rev. Joseph, a native of Baden, came to this coun-
try in 1837; was first stationed at Boston, then at Detroit. From the
latter place he came to the diocese of Cincinnati in November, 1840,
and was appointed pastor of Peru, Huron county, whence he also occa-
sionally attended Shelby Settlement, New Washington and Tiffin.
Contrary to the wish of Bishop Purcell he organized St. Peter's congre-
gation, Norwalk, and in so doing caused his bishop much trouble. He
was suspended and dismissed, April, 1841. No other record of him.
Freimuth, Rev. Firmatus (Franciscan), a native of Germany,
was born April 10, 1838 ; ordained at MechHn, Belgium, May 26, 1877;
was at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chaplain, from July,
1885, to July, 1886, and again from August, 1888, to August, 1896.
Fremel, Rev. Francis X., a native of Poland, was born October
12, 1859 ; ordained at Troy, for the diocese of Albany, N. Y., Decem-
ber 22, 1888 ; was in the city and diocese of Cleveland, from Septem-
ber, 1895, to April, 1899, first as curate at St. Stanislas' church, till
February, 1896, then as pastor of St. Casimir's church. Because of
ill health he was obliged to give vip all pastoral work in April, 1899.
Died at New York, of tuberculosis of the throat, March 1, 1900.
Frensch, Rev. Christian (Sanguinist), was born at Hahn, near
Nassau, diocese of Limburg, Prussia, August 27, 1827. He came to
America, October, 1855 ; was ordained for the Sanguinists, October
24, 1863 ; in the diocese of Cleveland from January, 1864, to August,
1866, as assistant at New Riegel, and pastor of Big Spring ; from April,
1865, to August, 1866, he also attended Crawfordsville and Upper
Sandusky. Left the Sanguinists, March, 1869, and affiliated with the
diocese of Cincinnati, where he died August 4, 1899.
Frere^ Rev. Julius Alfred, was born at St. Germain-en-Laye,
France, June 23, 1821 ; studied at Versailles, France, where he was
ordained in June, 1853 ; did pastoral duty in his native country till 1858,
when he was received by Bishop Rappe and appointed pastor of
Harrisburg, Stark county, where he remained till 1863. He then left
the diocese and went to Detroit. In 1865 he joined the Society of the
Holy Cross at Notre Dame, Ind., where he died. May 2, 1892.
Friderici, Rev. Godfrey (Jesuit), was born in Heinsberg, Ger-
many, June 34, 1836 ; ordained at Maria Laach, Germany, for the
Jesuits, August 13, 1869. Was at St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland,
from October, 1891, to August, 1892, and then curate at St. Mary's,
Toledo, till his death, November 23, 1892.
. Fritz, Rev. Ehrhard (Sanguinist), was born at Buechlerthal,
Baden, January 4, 1848 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at St. Charles'
Seminary, Carthagena, Mercer county, O., and was ordained at Cincin-
nati by Archbishop Elder, May 30, 1885. He was in this diocese as
temporary pastor of Assumption church. Reed, from September till
December, 1885.
476 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Fruzzini, Rev. Joseph (Jesuit), was born at Brig, Canton Wallis,
Switzerland, April 13, 1816 ; joined the Society of Jesus, November 4,
1833 ; was ordained in 1847 ; came to America the following year,
after the expulsion of the Jesuits from Switzerland. He was stationed
for some time at Williamsville, N. Y. In 1853 he returned to Europe,
where he was employed in several colleges and houses of the society
in Germany, France and Switzerland. In 1869 he returned to America ;
was curate at St. Mary's, Toledo, O., in 1870 and again in 1877. After
an illness of several months, he died at Canisius College, Buffalo, N. Y.,
May 21, 1880.
Gaechter, Rev. Joseph (Jesuit), was born at Koblach, Austria,
November 6, 1847 ; educated by and for the Jesuits in Maria Laach,
and for them ordained at Liverpool, England, February 25, 1878. For
two years he was professor in Europe. In 1880 he was sent to Can-
isius College, Buffalo, N. Y., where he was engaged in like position till
August, 188G, when he was appointed one of the professors in St.
Ignatius' College, Cleveland. August, 1889, he was again transferred
to Canisius College, Buffalo. Is now stationed at Bombay, East India.
Gales, Rev. Nicholas (Sanguinist), was born in Wellensteiii
(Kleinmacher), Luxemburg, September 2, 1814; came to the United
States in August, 1846 ; joined the Sanguinists and was ordained by
Bishop Rappe, January 27, 1851. His field of labor was chiefly in this
diocese — Glandorf, New Riegel, Thompson, Fostoria, Crawfordsville
and St. Stephen's. For twenty-five years he abstained from the use
of meat and led a most mortified life. He died at Himmelgarten,
Mercer county, O., January 1, 1882.
Gallagher, Rev. Joseph F., was born at Newport, county Mayo,
Ireland, May 22, 1836, and came to Cleveland in July, 1847. Made
his studies for the ministry in St. John's College, Cleveland, at Loretto,
Pa., and St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. Bishop Rappe ordained
him, June 30, 1861. Mansfield was his first appointment, July, 1861,
till May, 1862. He was then sent to Wooster, where he remained till
October, 1865. From Mansfield he attended Crestline, till May, 1862.
While stationed at Wooster he attended Mansfield, till December, 1863,
and Loudonville, from May, 1862, till September, 1865. His next
appointment was as one of the curates at the Cathedral, October, 1865,
to September, 1870, when he was sent to Toledo to take temporary
charge of St. Patrick's congregation. December, 1870, he was
appointed pastor of Holy Rosary (now Holy Name) church, Cleve-
land, which charge he held till his death, January 30, 1886. Father
Gallagher was a zealous worker for Catholic education and total
abstinence.*
Galvin, Rev. John L., was born in Rutland, Vt., August 10, 1854.
Was educated for the priesthood at Montreal and Cleveland ; ordained
by Bishop Gilmour, June 15, 1878 ; pastor of Wellington and missions
from July, 1878, to January, 1888, when he left the diocese.
Ganther, Rev. Sebastian (Sanguinist), a native of Germany,
was bom in Unter-Munsterthal, Baden, August 30, 1821; in the
•See Vol. I, page 91.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 477
United States since May, 1847 ; ordained for the Sanguinists, by Bishop
Rappe, at Peru, Huron county, June 5, 1849. Between 1849 and 1873,
he attended from Thompson the missions of Bismarck, New Wash-
ington, St. Stephen's, Fostoria, Liberty, Crawfordsville, Big Spring,
Upper Sandusky and Reed. Since 1872 he has done pastoral duty in
the dioceses of Fort Wayne and Cincinnati. He is now stationed in
the latter diocese.
Gastacer, Rev. John, a Bavarian, was born September 15, 1861.
Made his ecclesiastical studies at St. Vincent's, Pa., and Cleveland.
Was ordained by Bishop Mullen, for the diocese of Cleveland, June 6,
1891. Was curate at St. Mary's, Sandusky, from June to November,
1891 ; temporary chaplain at Villa Angela, to March, 1892 ; pastor of
Holgate and missions to September, 1892, when ill health obliged him
to resign. Went to St. Joseph's Hospital, Lorain, where he died
December 4, 1892. He was a model priest.
Gauthier, Rev. F., D. D., was born in Quebec, Canada, January
22, 1836; studied at Quebec and Rome; was ordained at Rome by
Cardinal Patrizzi, October 7, 1860 ; was twice in the diocese of Cleve-
land, first, as pastor of St. Louis' church. East Toledo, from Septem-
ber, 1872, to March, 1876 ; and then as resident pastor of St. Mary's
Comers, from February, 1877, to October, 1880, when he left the
diocese.
Gayer, Rev. Adolph (Jesuit), a native of Germany, was stationed
at St. Mary's, Toledo, from March to June, 1875. He then left the
Jesuits, became a secular priest, and returned to Europe. No other
record of him.
Gelaszewski, Rev. Alexander, a native of Poland, was in this
diocese as first resident pastor of French Creek, from August till
December, 1850. During this time he also attended Sheffield and Avon
as missions. No other record of him.
Geron, Rev. Henry (Jesuit), was born in Germany, June 10,
1837 ; ordained for the Jesuits, December, 1868 ; was in Cleveland, at
St. Ignatius' College, from September, 1895, to August, 1897. Is now
stationed at Canisius' College, Buiifalo.
Gey, Rev. Engelbert (Franciscan), a native of Germany, was
born at Elberfeld, November 26, 1853 ; ordained at St. Louis, Mo., for
the Franciscans, July 24, 1877; at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleve-
land, as professor of philosophy, from August, 1896, to August, 1898.
Gezowski, Rev. Joseph, was born in Bohemia, February 13, 1811 ;
ordained January 29, 1838 ; came to the United States, July, 1850 ; was
in the diocese of Cleveland from 1854 to 1855, first as assistant at St.
Peter's, Cleveland, then as assistant at St. Mary's, in same city. In
1855 he left the diocese and joined the Carmelite Order. Was for a
time in the diocese at Covington. Then went to New York city, where
he died July 25, 1881, as chaplain of St. Joseph's Asylum, of which he
was the founder.
478 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Gibbons, Rev. Walter John, was born March 5, 1844, in Cleveland,
where he was also educated for the ministry. He was ordained by
Bishop Rappe, May 18, 1867. His charges were : Maumee, June,
1867, to September, 1870 ; professor at St. Mary's Seminary,
September, 1870, to July, 1871 ; Youngstown, St. Columba's, August,
1871, to July, 1872; Ravenna and Kent, July, 1872, to May, 1874.
After a few months' leave of absence on account of sickness he was
pastor of St. Augustine's, Cleveland, from September, 1874, to July,
1875. He was again compelled to give up pastoral work because of
ill health, remaining off duty till November, 1876. Next he was assist-
ant at St. Francis', Toledo, till February, 1877, when he again assumed
charge of St. Augustine's, Cleveland. May 30, 1878, he was appointed
pastor of Bellevue, where he died April 1, 1885, soon after completing
the present beautiful church. His remains rest in St. John's cemetery,
Cleveland. Father Gibbons was an earnest worker in the cause of
("atholic schools.*
GiLLiBERTi, Rev. A. R., a native of Italy, was stationed at the
cathedral as assistant from March to September, 1862. No other
record of him.
GiRSCHEWSKi, Rev. Cletus (Franciscan), was born in West
Prussia, March 11, 1846 ; ordained for the Franciscans, at St. Louis,
Mo., May 22, 1884; at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chap-
lain, from July, 1887, to July, 1891.
Gmeinek, Rev. Bartholomew (Jesuit), an Austrian, was bom in
Bregenz, March 24, 1851 ; made his ecclesiastical studies in Europe
with the Jesuits, and was ordained for them in England, August 28,
1887. Was in Cleveland, at St. Ignatius' College, as professor, from
August, 1889, to August, 1894, and at the Jesuit Novitiate, in Parma,
from September, 1897, to August, 1899. Is now stationed at St. Ann's
church, Buffalo, N. Y.
Gocke, Rev. Joseph J., was born at Howesville, Preston county,
W. Va., October 18, 1854. He made his collegiate studies at St. Vin-
cent's, Wheeling, 1871-72, and St. Vincent's, Westmoreland county. Pa.,
1872-76. In September, 1876, he was received into St. Mary's Semi-
nary, Cleveland. Was ordained by Bishop Gilmour, July 2, 1881.
Shortly after his ordination he was sent to South Thompson, Geauga
county, from which place he also attended Madison as a mission.
Four years later, June 2, 1885, he was transferred to Milan, with charge
of Prout's Station, as a mission. Was a faithful servant of his Master.
He died at Milan, after an illness of but five days, on January 31, 1890.
Goebbels, Rev. Joseph J., was born in Diisseldorf, Prussia,
August 30, 1816 ; came to the United States, February, 1857 ; was
ordained February 24, 1859 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland from
1861 to 1864 as pastor of Fort Jennings, whence he also attended Kalida
(1861) and Ottoville (1861-63). He died at Covington, Ky., October
11, 1885.
Goebbels, Rev. Peter L., a native of Rhenish Prussia, was born
March 8, 1845 ; entered the Capuchin Order in 1872 ; was ordained at
•See Vol. I, page 91.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 479
Milwaukee, June 11, 1878; left the Capuchins in October, 1891, and
•was received into the diocese of Cleveland in the following month.
He was pastor of West Brookfield from November, 1891, till his death,
October 30, 1894.
GoLDSCHMiDT, Rev. Henry (Sanguinist), was born in Baden,
September 11, 1865 ; was ordained for the Sanguinists, at Carthagena,
Mercer county, O., February 26, 1899. Was in the diocese of Cleve-
land from April to August, 1899, as curate at Glandorf.
GoNTHYN, Rev. Edward, a Belgian, was in the diocese from 1869
to 1870, and during that time had charge of the Catholic French in
Cleveland, who then attended Mass in St. Mary's church on the Flats.
He left Cleveland for Wisconsin, and died suddenly at Preble, in the
diocese of Green Bay, March 9, 1879.
Goodwin, Rev. Jacob, was pastor of St. Vincent's, Akron, from
1849 to 1850, when he left the diocese. From Akron he also attended
Doylestown and Hudson. No other record of him.
Grandmougin, Rev. Charles A., was born at Bezange-la-Petite,
France, in 1 843 ; finished his studies for the ministry in St. Mary's
Seminary, Cleveland, and was ordained by Bishop Rappe, February
14, 1867 ; was appointed pastor of St. Augustine's, Cleveland, where
he died, November 13, 1871, of smallpox, contracted whilst attending
a sick call.
Grevin, Rev. Louis, was born and ordained in France; came to
this diocese November, 1855, when he was appointed pastor of Harris-
burg. There he remained till 1858, when he was transferred to the
Cathedral, remaining, however, but a few months, when he left the
diocese. He was then received into the diocese of Ft. Wayne, where
he remained till 1865. Then he returned to France and died about
1870.
Griese, Rev. H. (Jesuit), a native of Germany, was born April
3, 1854 ; was ordained for the Jesuits, in Holland, August, 28, 1897 ;
stationed at the Jesuit Novitiate, Parma, Cuyahoga county, from
August to December, 1899, when, he left the diocese and the Jesuits.
Griessmayer, Rev. Francis X. (Sanguinist), was born at Sont-
heim, Wiirtemberg, December 26, 1829 ; was ordained for the Sanguin-
ist Society, October 24, 1863. He had charge of many Sanguinist
missions, in and outside of the diocese of Cleveland between November,
1863, and April, 1898. He was stationed at New Riegel from August,
1856, to July, 1868, and at Thompson (where he built the present
church), from March, 1878, to April, 1891. He was again stationed
at New Riegel, as curate, from February, 1897, to April, 1898, when he
resigned his position, on account of ill health, and returned to his native
village, where he died. May 18, 1898. He was an excellent priest.
Griss, Rev. Charles, an Alsatian, was born September 5, 1837;
he made his ecclesiastical studies in the diocesan Seminary at Cleve-
land; was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 28, 1863. He held the
following charges in the diocese: Perrysburg and missions, Elyria,
Sandusky — as temporary pastor of St. Mary's, Oak Harbor and
480 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Fostoria. He was pastor of the last mentioned place, from March,
1891, until his death, October 13, 1899. Father Griss always cher-
ished a love for music. This talent he manifested in the excellence of
his choirs organized under his direction. He was an earnest and
practical advocate of the highest and best in church music.
Groenings, Rev. Jacob (Jesuit), was born near Cologne,
Germany, February 15, 1883 ; made his studies for the ministry at Bonn
and Maria Laach; was ordained at Cologne, for the Jesuits, July 2,
1868 ; came to the United States in August, 1874 ; was in the diocese
of Cleveland, at St. Mary's, Toledo, from January to November, 1890,
and again from September, 1898, to September, 1899, when he was
transferred to Buffalo.
GuDENUS, Rev. Charles (Jesuit), was born in Vienna, Austria,
October 20, 1845 ; educated for the Jesuits, and ordained for them at
Louvain, Belgium, September 8, 1876. Was stationed at St. Mary's,
Toledo, as assistant, from July, 1896, to August, 1897 ; was then trans-
ferred to St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland, remaining there till Septem-
ber, 1900. He is now stationed at St. Ann's, Buffalo.
GuLDNER, Rev. Benedict (Jesuit), a native of Prussia, was born
March 10, 1845 ; was ordained for the Jesuits, at Laval, France,
September 20, 1878 ; was professor in various Jesuit colleges in this
country, from 1880 to 1892. In the latter year he was transferred to
St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland, where he remained till July, 1894.
He is now a professor at the Jesuit College, Woodstock, Md.
Hackspiel, Rev. John, was bom at Riefensberg, Tyrol,
Austria, August 15, 1825 ; ordained July, 1849 ; came to the United
States November 18, 1857 ; was at once received into the diocese of
Cleveland, when he was appointed pastor of Randolph, which charge
he held till July, 1861. His next appointment was the pastorate of
St. Mary's, Sandusky, where he remained till September, 1862. No-
vember, 1862, he was transferred to French Creek, from which place
he also attended Avon and Sheffield. March, 1864, he was sent to
St. Peter's, Canton, of which congregation he had charge till August,
1865, when he left the diocese to join the Jesuits. He remained with
them till his death in New York City, as pastor of St. Joseph's church,
March 31, 1885. He was a learned and saintly priest.
Haefely, Rev. Basil (Jesuit), a Swiss, was born February 4,
1822 ; entered the Society of Jesus, October 3, 1843 ; was ordained
September 14, 1854, at Liege, Belgium. He labored for 25 years as
a missionary in Bombay, and for 15 years in the United States. He
was in the diocese of Cleveland, from September, 1885, till his death,
January 16, 1897, viz., at St. Mary's, Toledo, St. Ignatius' College,
Cleveland, and again at St. Mary's. Toledo — at the last place from
August, 1892. He did much good for religion, and was an eloquent
preacher in his younger years.
Haemers, Rev. H. E., was pastor of Fort Jennings from 1864 till
September, 1866 ; had temporary charge of St. Joseph's, Toledo, and
MARIA STBIG SHRINE, THOMPSON.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 481
Sylvania, during the fall of 1866, when, in November of the same year,
he was sent to Peru. There he remained till January, 1867, when he
was dismissed from the diocese.
Haetscher, Rev. Francis Xavier (Redemptorist), was born in
Vienna, Austria, December 1, 1784; ordained there January 23, 1816;
was stationed at Peru, Huron county, between 1833 and 1833 ; during
the summer of 1833 he attended Tiffin from Peru ; returned to Europe
in the autumn of 1837; died at Leoben, Austria, January 3, 1863.
Hahn, Rev. Florian B. (Sangxiinist), a native of Wiirtemberg,
was born in the village of Ravensburg, September 4, 1850; was
ordained for the Sanguinists, at Carthagena, O., June 8, 1883. He was
in the diocese of Cleveland as pastor of Reed, from August, 1883, till
March, 1889. Is now stationed at Banning, Cal., where he has charge
of the Indian mission schools.
Halbfas, V. Rev. Vincent (Franciscan), was born in Germany,
September IS, 1833; was ordained for the Franciscans at Paderbom
March 13, 1856; came to the United States in July, 1875; was for a
time Provincial of the Franciscans, with residence at St. Louis, Mo. ;
was stationed at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from August,
1894, to August, 1895. Died at St. Louis, Mo., July 3, 1897.
Halley, Rev. Thomas F., was bom at Tramore, county Waterford,
Ireland, January 14, 1833 ; made his course of studies for the ministry
at Waterford, Mt. Melleray and All Hallows', Ireland, and Cincinnati,
Ohio, completing them at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where he
was ordained by Bishop Rappe, December 3, 1860. He was sent as
assistant to St. Francis', Toledo, whence, after a short time, he was
transferred to St. Mary's Seminary, as professor. August, 1863, he
was appointed pastor of the Immaculate Conception church, Grafton.
April, 1868, he was transferred to St. Mary's, Norwalk, where he
remained till his death, January 4, 1885.*
Hamelin, Rev. Armand, a native of France, was born April 18,
1841; was ordained in France, June 15, 1867; came to the diocese of
Cleveland in February, 1883, and was stationed at St. Ann's, Fremont,
as temporary pastor, till April, 1883. His next pastoral charges were :
Antwerp and missions to August, 1886, and Toussaint, till August,
1890, when he was removed.
Hamene, Rev. James, was born, 1835, in Chemery, Lorraine;
studied philosophy and theology in the diocesan seminary of Metz. He
was received as a student for the diocese of Cleveland in 1853, and was
ordained by Bishop Rappe, December 11, 1853. He had the following
pastoral charges in the diocese: Peru; St. Peter's, Norwalk; St.
Mary's, Sandusky, where, under his direction, the congregation built
their first church; St. Mary's, Cleveland; Maumee, with charge of
Perrysburg as a mission ; his last appointment was St. Mary's, Mas-
sillon, from 1863 to 1867, when he returned to France, where he did
pastoral work till his death, April 14, 1886.
•See Tol. I, page 91.
482 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Handtmann, Rev. John, was born in New York City, December
18, 1857 ; entered the Capuchin Order at Mt. Calvary, Wis. ; was
ordained at Milwaukee, May 21, 1881, for the Capuchins, whom he left
in 1892. He was stationed at St. Michael's, Cleveland, as temporary
assistant, from October, 1895, to November, 1896, when he left the
diocese.
Hannan, Rev. John. (See biographical sketch, page 179, this
volume.)*
Hansen, Rev. H. Beda (Franciscan), was born at Bedburg,
Rhenish Prussia, November 26, 1847 ; ordained March 21, 1874 ; in the
United States since July, 1875 ; at Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland,
from 1881 to 1882. He is now a secular priest, and stationed in the
diocese of Columbus.
Hartmann, Rev. Hubert (Jesuit), bom in Muenster, Westphalia;
was ordained in the same city by Bishop Brinkmann, August 10, 1873.
Was sent by his superiors to the United States, in September, 1888.
He was assistant at St. Mary's, Toledo, and pastor of Sylvania from
September, 1888, till September, 1889. Is now in Luxemburg.
Hauser, Rev. Theodore (Jesuit), a native of Freiburg, Baden,
was bom September 18, 1836 ; was educated for the sacred ministry in
his native city ; ordained for the Jesuits, at Maria Laach, September 10,
1867 ; was on the mission in Germany, East India, Holland and Eng-
land, until September, 1880, when he came to the United States. Was
in Cleveland at St. Ignatius' College, as a member of a missionary band,
from August, 1888, till May, 1893. He died at Buffalo, July 21, 1895.
He was a most excellent priest, an eloquent preacher, and of genial
disposition.
Haussner, Rev. Victor, was born at Erlinsbach, Switzerland,
December 7, 1833 ; came to the United States, April, 1856, when he
joined the Sanguinists and was ordained by Bishop Rappe, August 28,
1857. No record of his pastoral charges till 1861 (the year he left the
Sanguinists), when he was received into the diocese by Bishop Rappe.
He had the following pastoral charges : Avon ; Randolph, where he
built the present church ; St. Mary's, Sandusky ; Bismarck ; North
Ridgeville, where he labored till December, 1880, when he became seri-
ously ill. In January, 1881, he went to Charity Hospital, Cleveland,
and, after many weeks of suffering, died April 28, 1881.
Havermann, Rev. Henry, a Westphalian, was born June 6, 1846 ;
was educated for the Jesuit Society, in Germany, and was ordained in
England, August 29, 1878 ; stationed at St. Mary's, Toledo, as assistant
and chaplain from August, 1893, till July, 1894. Is now at Mankato,
Minn., doing pastoral work at Sts. Peter and Paul's church.
Hecht, Rev. Edward, D.D., a native of Alsace, was born at
Rufach, October 1, 1836. He made his ecclesiastical studies at Strass-
burg and Rome ; obtained in the latter city the doctorate in philosophy,
theology and canon law. Was ordained at Strassburg December 17,
1859. September, 1869, he came to the United States and was
appointed professor of philosophy and dogmatic theology at Mt. St.
•See vol. I, page 91.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 483
Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati, which position he held till the closing of
the seminary, in 1880. In September of same year he was received
into St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, and appointed professor of the
same branches he taught at Cincinnati. In August, 1887, he was
recalled to Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, where he died after a few days'
illness, January 9, 1888. He was a man without guile, learned, unos-
tentatious, devoted to his work as a professor, and a man of solid piety.
Hegemann, Rev. Theodore, a Westphalian, was born December
6, 1859 ; was ordained for the diocese of Milwaukee, June 24, 1883.
Joined the Jesuits in 1893 and was with them in Holland until July,
1897, when he was sent to Toledo, as assistant at St. Mary's. He
remained there till January, 1898, when he was sent to Prairie du Chien,
Wis. He is now stationed at St. Ann's, Buffalo.
Heidegger, Rev. Jacob, was born at Triesen, Austria, March 18,
1846 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Feldkirch, Austria, and St.
Mary's Seminary, Cleveland ; was ordained at Cleveland, July 5, 1871.
Had the following pastoral charges in the diocese: Navarre, Avon,
Fort Jennings, and St. Mary's, Sandusky. He was in last mentioned
place from November, 1888, till March, 1893, when he left the diocese.
He is now stationed in the diocese of Sioux Falls, S. D.
Heimo, Rev. Joseph A., was born in Freiburg, Switzerland;
ordained in his native country, from which he and the inmates of his
convent (Black Friars) were expelled by the Swiss government in
1848 ; came to Cleveland, July, 1860, and was sent to Calmoutier,
Holmes county, then in the diocese of Cleveland. He also had charge
of the missions of Strasburg and Harrisburg, which he attended from
1861 to 1863. He died at Napoleon, Holmes county, O., April 12, 1859,
aged fifty years.
Heitz, Rev. Joseph (Sanguinist), was born at Sherman (Bis-
marck), Huron county, Ohio, June 9, 1856; educated at Carthagena,
.Ohio, and Teutopolis, 111. ; ordained for the Sanguinists, June 11, 1881 ;
was in the diocese of Cleveland, as assistant at Glandorf, from January
to August, 1882 ; and as pastor of Big Spring from August, 1883, to
October, 1883.
Hendrick, Rev. Patrick J., a native of Ireland, was born February
5, 1886 ; was ordained for the diocese of Duluth, Minn., February 14,
1892. Was stationed at St. Edward's, Cleveland, as curate, from April
till June, 1899, then at St. Columba's, Youngstown, till November, 1899,
when he left the diocese.
Hengarten, Rev. Isadore (Sanguinist), was born at St. Gallen,
Switzerland, July 7, 1857 ; was educated by the Sanguinists at Cartha-
gena, Ohio, and was ordained for them at Cincinnati, March 9, 1884.
He was stationed at Thompson, as chaplain, from May to September,
1890. Is now in the diocese of St. Cloud, Minn.
Hennef.erry, Rev. Patrick (Sanguinist), a native of Ireland, was
born January 30, 1830 ; ordained by Bishop Rappe, at New Riegel, for
the Sanguinists, November 21, 1853. He had the following pastoral
charges in the diocese of Cleveland : St. John's, Defiance ; St. Rose's,
484 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Lima, with charge of the missions of Convoy and Spencerville. He
was also superior of the Sanguinist Convent at New Riegel, from
February, 1860, to August, 1864, meanwhile attending, at irregular
intervals, the missions of Kirby, McCutchenville, Crawfordsville and
Upper Sandusky. In 1864 he went to California to establish a college
under the direction of the Sanguinist Society. This project failing, he
went to preach missions and total abstinence in Australia, South Africa
and East India. He preached equally well in English and German.
He returned to California, where he died, September 19, 1897.
Hennessy, Rev. Edward M., was born in Auburn, N. Y., Novem-
ber 3, 1851, and ordained for the diocese of Dubuque, Iowa, February
25, 1876. Was in this diocese as assistant at St. Colman's, Cleveland,
from April, 1888, to February, 1889. Was then transferred to Dun-
gannon, where he remained to August, 1890, when he was dismissed
from the diocese.
Hennessy, Rev. James J., was born at North Brookfield, Mass.,
November 1, 1859 ; was educated in Boston, Montreal and Cleveland.
Bishop Gilmour ordained him for the diocese of Cleveland, December
19, 1888. He was pastor of Providence from January, 1889, to Feb-
ruary, 1890 ; assistant at the Immaculate Conception church, Cleveland,
till March, 1891 ; assistant at St. Columba's, Youngstown, from October
to December, 1892, when he was dismissed from the diocese.
Henni, Most Rev. John Martin, was born in Switzerland, June 15,
1806 ; ordained by Bishop Fenwick, February 2, 1829. He was pastor
of St. John's, Canton, from 1830 to 1834, and attended missions and
stations in Columbiana, Portage, Stark, Huron, Summit and Wayne
counties. Among these were Dungannon, Wooster, Akron, Randolph,
Doylestown, Canal Fulton and Peru. In 1834 he was transferred to
Cincinnati, where he organized Holy Trinity congregation. A few
years later he also established the Wahrheits Freund, which is still pub-
lished at Cincinnati ; it is the oldest Catholic German paper in the United
States. In May, 1838, he was appointed vicar-general of the Cincin-
nati diocese. March 19, 1844, he was consecrated first Bishop of Mil-
waukee. Died as Archbishop of same See, September 7, 1881, full of
years and merit.
Henriot, Rev. Stephen, was stationed at the Cathedral, Cleveland,
from March to May, 1854; came from and returned to the diocese of
New Orleans. No other record of him.
Henry, Rev. Francis J., was born near Dreenan, county Derry,
Ireland, April 14, 1848 ; made part of his ecclesiastical studies in Ire-
land, St. Vincent's, Westmoreland county. Pa., and finished them in St.
Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. May 7, 1871, he was ordained at Toledo
for the diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Luers, of Ft. Wayne. Had
temporary charge of St. Patrick's, Toledo, till May 1, 1872, when he
was appointed pastor of Briar Hill, with charge of Mineral Ridge,
Girard and Canfield as missions. June, 1876, he was sent to St. Rose's,
Lima, whose successful pastor he was till his death, February 22, 1886.
Father Henry was an earnest, hardworking priest.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 485
Henseler^ Rev. Augustine (Franciscan), a Westphalian, was born
at Giitersloh, August 8, 1836; ordained June 14, 1863; in the United
States since October, 1876 ; member of the Franciscan Monastery and
assistant at St. Joseph, Cleveland, from 1876 to 1879 ; then pastor of
St. Peter's, Chicago, till 1884. He returned to Europe, and died at
Diisseldorf, Germany, October 9, 1896.
Henzlek, Rev. Eusebius, was born at Miihlheim, Wiirtemberg,
August 14, 1823 ; ordained September, 1853 ; received into the diocese
of Cleveland, June, 1859, when he was sent to French Creek, meanwhile
attending Avon till June, 1861. He then left the diocese and went to
Wisconsin, where he died about 1870, as pastor of French Creek,
Kossuth county.
Herberth, Rev. Louis, was in temporary charge of St. Michael's
church, Cleveland, from July to November, 1895, during the absence in
Europe of the pastor, the Rev. J. M. Koudelka. Belongs to the diocese
of Louisville. No other record of him.
Herbstritt, Rev. Andrew (Sanguinist) was born at Fiihrenthal,
Baden, September 15, 1823 ; came to the United States July, 1844 ; was
ordained February 23, 1848, for the Sanguinist Society; did pastoral
work at Avon, New Riegel and Glandorf in the diocese of Cleveland,
and at Wapakoneta, Auglaize county, Ohio, whilst a Sanguinist. He
left the Sanguinists in 1865 and became a secular priest. Then, for
nearly three years, he was pastor of St. Mary's, Sandusky. July, 1868,
he was transferred to Randolph, remaining till February, 1869, when
he left the diocese and was received by the Bishop of Detroit. He died
at Wyandotte, Mich., September 3, 1880.
Herzog, Rev. Henry, was pastor of Ft. Jennings, between 1840
and 1841. Died at Minster, Auglaize county, Ohio, in 1851. No
other record of him.
Hetet Rev. Joseph M., was born at Auray, France, January 24,
1838 ; ordained at Laval, France, March 8, 1873. After filling various
positions in his native country he came to the United States in 1886, and
to the diocese of Cleveland in December, 1888, when he was given the
pastorate of Harrisburg, with the mission of Strasburg. He left the
diocese in January, 1890.
Heuchemer, Rev. August, a native of Maroth, Nassau, was born
October 4 1851 ; was educated for the ministry, in Europe, Qumcy,
111 and St Meinrad's, Ind. Was ordained for the diocese of Galves-
ton July 25 1885. Was stationed at Delphos as temporary curate from
September, 1891, to August, 1892, when he returned to his diocese.
Hieber Rev. John George (Jesuit), was born at Kleinkuchen
Wiirtemberg, July 22, 1837 ; educated for the ministry at Augsburg and
Munich; ordained by Mgr. von Dinkel, Bishop of Augsburg August
9, 1863 : held various positions in Europe and United States tirst as a
secular priest, then as a member of the Society of Jesus. Was in the
diocese of Cleveland as assistant at St. Mary's, Toledo, from 1869 to
July 1870; again from 1877 to 1883; then assistant at St. Marys,
486 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Cleveland, from 1883 to July, 1886 ; a third time at St. Mary's, Toledo,
May, 1891, to August, 1893. Died at St. Ann's, Buffalo, April 14,
1895.
Hill, Very Rev. John Austin (Dominican). See biographical
sketch, pages 194-197.)
Hills, Rev. E. M. W., a convert from Anglicanism, studied for
the priesthood for some time at Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati;
was ordained for the diocese of Covington, in 1871, and stationed at
Newport, Ky., till 1873, when he was received by Bishop Gilmour and
sent to South Thompson, where he remained till 1875. His next
appointment, after a few months' illness, was Kelley's Island, Novem-
ber, 1876, which charge he held till October, 1878, when he left the
diocese and the ministry, and again joined the Anglican sect.
HiPELius, Rev. Edward, D.D., was born at Stadtlauringen,
Bavaria, February 7, 1836 ; studied at the Royal College of Miinner-
stadt, Bavaria, St. Vincent's College, Westmoreland county. Pa., and
finally at Rome, where he received the doctorate in canon law. He was
ordained for the Benedictines by Bishop Young, of Erie, August 8,
1858. Became a secular priest in 1878 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland
as pastor of New Cleveland, from May, 1878, to June 20, 1880, when
he left. He was received into the diocese of Albany. Died September
8, 1900.
HoFFER, Rev. Louis. (See biographical sketch, pages 199-201.)
Hoffmann, Rev. F. S., a native of Strassburg, France, was pastor
of St. John's, Canton, from 1836 to 1837; also attended Louisville and
Doylestown, from Canton. Returned to Europe in 1838, where he
died.
HoFSTETTER, Rev. Nicholas, a native of Switzerland, was bom
June 5, 1835 ; was ordained in Switzerland June 25, 1864 ; was in this
diocese as pastor of Independence from June, 1888, to August, 1890.
He then returned to his native country where he did pastoral work until
his death, November 10, 1896.
HoGENFORST, Rev. Otto (Jesuit), a native of the city of Cologne,
Germany, was born April 20, 1838 ; ordained on August 24, 1869 ; was
stationed in the diocese of Cleveland, at St. Stanislas' Novitiate, Parma,
from August, 1899, to August, 1900 ; had pastoral charge also of Inde-
pendence from April to August, 1900.
HoMBURGER, Rev. Maximilian (Sanguinist), was bom at Gruen-
kraut, Wiirtemberg, Germany, in 1817. Came to the United States in
1844, and, after completing his studies under direction of Very Rev.
Father Brunner, was ordained for the Sanguinists by Bishop Rappe,
February 28, 1848. He was stationed at Thompson and Glandorf.
June, 1854, he returned to Europe, where he did pastoral duty in various
dioceses till his death, at Wolpertswende, Wiirtemberg, May 28, 1875.
He was a model religious and a zealous priest.
HoRSTMANN, Rcv. William John, was born, 1778, in Germany;
ordained at Osnabriick, May 31, 1806 ; was professor for many years in
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 487
Westphalia. He came to the United States in 1833, with a band of
emigrants, and with them settled in Putnam county, Ohio, founding the
village and congregation of Glandorf, where, in the midst of hardships
and privations, he labored among his flock till his death, February 21,
1843. He attended Fort Jennings from Glandorf. His remains are
buried at Glandorf, where the congregation, in grateful recognition of
his labors among them, erected a beautiful and costly monument to his
memory, in 1883.0««-i/s.c.rt.Wy.Yo<-ir-p-/zyp
Hours, Rev. Francis (BasiHan), born 1834, at Ardeche, France;
was educated at Annonay; ordained at Viviers, France, in 1856. Was
in the diocese of Cleveland as superior of Louisville College, from 1867
to 1873. Died at Detroit, Mich., April 23, 1897.
Howard, Rev. Maurice, was born, in the parish of Effin, county
Limerick, Ireland, January 4, 1813. He began his ecclesiastical studies
in Ireland and finished them in this country. He was ordained in the
old cathedral at Cincinnati, by Bishop Purcell, October 23, 1842. His
first charge, from December, 1842, to February, 1846, was Doylestown,
whence he also attended Akron, Canal Fulton, Mansfield, Wooster and
Cuyahoga Falls, and many other missions and stations. He was then
appointed pastor of St. Mary's, on the "Flats," Cleveland. From
Cleveland he also attended missions in Geauga and Lake counties.
In January, 1848, he received the pastorate of St. Mary's, Tiffin, where
he remained till he left the diocese. May 1, 1850. After serving various
dioceses he finally affiliated with that of Dubuque, in 1878, and was
appointed pastor of St. Francis de Sales' church, Keokuk, Iowa. This
charge he held till his death, February 25, 1887.
Hummer, Rev. J. C. (Sanguinist), a native of Minnesota, was
bom March 9, 1866 ; educated by the Sanguinists, at Carthagena, Ohio,
and ordained for them, June 21, 1893 ; attended Kalida from Glandorf,
as a mission, from June, 1894, to August, 1896. Was then transferred
to Collegeville, Ind., where he has been since.
Hunt, Rev. James, was born at Gurteen, county Sligo, Ireland, in
1849; completed his studies for the ministry in St. Mary's Seminary,
Cleveland; was ordained at Notre Dame, Ind., by Bishop Gilmour,
August 8, 1874. Some years previous to his ordination he failed in
health and never recovered. He was sent as curate to St. Columba's,
Youngstown, but was soon obliged to give up work owing to sickness.
He was taken to Charity Hospital, Cleveland, where he died October
31, 1875. He was a talented young priest and a thorough ecclesiastic.
Imhassly, Rev. Joseph (Jesuit), a Swiss, was born October 6,
1844; was ordained for the Jesuits, September 5, 1880; stationed at
St. Ignatius' College and St. Mary's church, Cleveland, between 1894
and 1896. Died at Cleveland, April 26, 1896.
IvERS Rev. Michael, was born, educated and ordained in Ireland ;
was in the diocese of Cleveland from 1869 till 1873, first at St. Francis',
Toledo, for several months, then as assistant at the Cathedral, whence
he also attended Niles, during 1871. He left the diocese in 1873. No
record of him till his death at sea, October 14, 1881.
488 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Jacomet, Rev. John B. (Sanguinist), was born in Switzerland,
June 17, 1811 ; ordained for the Sanguinists at Feldkirch, Austria, May
11, 1843. He remained with the Sanguinists till 1845, when he was
appointed curate at St. Peter's, Canton, where he resided till 1851.
During this time he also attended St. Mary's, Massillon, Navarre, and
occasionally St. John's, Canton. He also attended Tiffin about 1845.
In 1853 he left the diocese and ministry. In March, 1886, he returned
to the Sanguinists, and remained with them till his death, September
3, 1895.
Jakob, Rev. Edward (Sanguinist), a native of Ohio, was born at
Minster, Auglaize county; was trained at the Sanguinist Seminary,
Carthagena, Ohio, for the sacred ministry, and there ordained, July 29,
1883 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland, as pastor of New Riegel, from
April, 1891, to March, 1895. Left the Sanguinists in June, 1899, and
is now stationed in the diocese of Peoria.
Janietz, Rev. Wolfgang (Franciscan), was bom at Belmsdorf,
Silesia, November 21', 1833; ordained for the Franciscans April 15,
1860 ; was engaged on the mission in Europe till July, 1875, when his
superior sent him to the Franciscan Monastery at Cleveland. His first
appointment was the pastorate of the Catholic Poles of Cleveland,
whom he organized as a congregation, now known as St. Stanislas'.
He had charge of their first church as a mission until August, 1883,
when he was transferred to St. Louis, Mo. In July, 1886, he again
returned to the Cleveland Monastery, where he did chaplain's duty till
he returned to Europe in July, 1889.
Jecker, Rev. Modestus, was born, educated and ordained in
France; was received into the diocese of Cleveland in July, 1868, and
appointed pastor of St. Joseph's, Toledo, where he remained till Janu-
ary, 1878. Whilst at St. Joseph's, he also established and, for six
months in 1871, had charge of St. Louis' congregation, East Toledo,
and again for a few months in 1872. He left the diocese in 1878 and
returned to France, where he died in December, 1885.
JiRANEK, Rev. Francis, a Bohemian, was born January 3, 1863 ;
ordained May 15, 1882 ; had temporary charge of St. Ladislas' church,
Cleveland, from February to August, 1894, when he left the diocese.
JuNCKER, Rt. Rev. Henry Damian, was born August 32, 1809, at
Fenetrange, Lorraine, France; came to America in 1831, and was
ordained by Bishop Purcell, March 16, 1834. He was the first priest
ordained by that prelate. Did pastoral duty at Holy Trinity church,
Cincinnati, till April, 1840, when he was sent to St. John's, Canton,
whence he attended Louisville, Peru and Thompson. In August of
the same year he was appointed pastor of Chillicothe, remaining till
1844, when he was sent to Emmanuel church, Dayton. This charge
he retained till his elevation to the episcopate, as first Bishop of Alton,
April 26, 1857. While stationed at Dayton he did missionary work
among the Catholic Germans of Cleveland in April and May, 1847.
He was a saintly priest and bishop. Died October 3, 1868.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 489
Jung, Rev. August, an Alsatian, was born in 1842; ordained by
Bishop Rappe, December 21, 1867 ; had charge of Randolph from July,
1868, till February, 1869, when he left the diocese of Cleveland and
went to Grand Rapids, Mich., where he was appointed pastor of St.
Mary's church. No other record of him.
Jung, Rev. John B., was born in Zukenried, Switzerland, Novem-
ber 16, 1844 ; made his ecclesiastical studies in Europe ; was ordained at
Feldkirch, Austria, for the diocese of Cleveland, April 19, 1870; was
resident pastor of the following places in this diocese: Millersville,
from August, 1870, to March, 1871 ; Findlay, to October, 1878, during
part of which time he also attended Fostoria as a mission ; St. John's,
Defiance, from October, 1878, to October, 1891, when he was obliged
to resign because of protracted illness. He went to Europe, hoping he
might regain health, but died in his native country, December 31, 1891.
He was noted as an earnest promoter of church music. He was presi-
dent of the Cecilian Society for a number of years, and was a truly
good priest.
Kaercher, Rev. Fidelis (Franciscan), was born at Ersingen,
Baden, October 21, 1847 ; came to the United States in 1852 ; ordained
November 1, 1873 ; was in Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from 1876
to 1881 ; had pastoral charge of Parma from July, 1879, to January,
1881 ; and of Independence from February, 1879, to September, 1880.
During this time he was also a professor at St. Joseph's College, Cleve-
land. He is now stationed at Quincy, 111.
KjMSEr, Rev. Celestin (Franciscan), a Westphalian, was born July
2, 1871, ordained July 2, 1898 ; was in the Franciscan Monastery, Cleve-
land, as chaplain, from September, 1899, to September, 1900.
Kamp, Rev. Hermann J. (Jesuit), was born at Cologne, Germany,
January 27, 1836 ; was ordained in his native city September 3, 1860 ;
came to the United States in September, 1869 ; was twice in this diocese,
viz., from September to August, 1874, at St. Mary's, Toledo, as a mem-
ber of the Jesuit missionary band, and again at the same church, as
curate, from November, 1890, until his death, September 15, 1893.
Kanzleiter, Rev. John B. (Jesuit), was born February 28, 1828,
at Bierlingen, Wurtemberg ; ordained January 6, 1860 ; came to the
United States, September, 1869 ; was stationed at St. Mary's, Toledo,
as assistant, October, 1869-70, and then as pastor, to March, 1872. He
then left the diocese of Cleveland and Jesuits in 1872 and became a
secular priest. He was in the diocese of Chicago for a number of years.
Went to Europe in 1888 for medical treatment, and died there, March
29, 1889. He was an eloquent preacher and a facile writer, contribu-
ting largely to many of the Catholic German papers.
Kauer, Rev. Benno, a native of Prussia, was born August 29,
1866 ; ordained June 24, 1896, for the diocese of Fargo, N. D. ; was in
the diocese of Cleveland as chaplain of the Notre Dame Academy,
Woodland Hills, from March to November, 1898, when he returned to
his own diocese.
490 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES,
Kearney^ Rev. James F., was born in Frederick county, Md., in
1820 ; educated for the ministry at Cincinnati ; was ordained by Bishop
Purcell, December 28, 1844, and sent to Steubenville as assistant to the
Rev. James Conlan. In 1845 and 1846 he attended East Liverpool and
Wellsville from Steubenville, where he was pastor at the time. Later
he exercised the ministry at Springfield and Hamilton, and for many
years at Urbana, Ohio, where he died January 10, 1878.
KeelaNj Rev. Thomas J., was in this diocese as temporary pastor
of Salineville, from September to November, 1895. No other record
of him.
Kelley, Rev. Bernard B., was born at Cavan, Ireland, October 28,
1845 ; was educated at Fordham, St. Xavier's College, New York, and
St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland; ordained by Bishop Rappe, January
20, 1868. He had the following charges in this diocese : Cleveland,
St. Patrick's, as assistant ; Niles ; Cleveland, St. Bridget's ; Summitville ;
Warren ; Toledo, St. Patrick's, as assistant ; St. Mary's Comers. After
February, 1881, he had no pastoral charge in the diocese. Died at
Mobile, Ala., December 14, 1890.
Kendeler, Rev. , was in the diocese of Cleveland with the
Sanguinists at Glandorf for a few months during 1856, as assistant.
No other record of him.
Kenk, Rev. Matthias (Sanguinist), was born near Freiburg,
Baden, January 16, 1846. Came to America in November, 1863,
and joined the Sanguinists in the following year; was ordained for
them November 21, 1868 ; was in this diocese as pastor of Big Spring
from November, 1885, to April, 1892, and of Reed until March, 1895,
when he was transferred by his superior to another diocese. He died
at St. Alexis' Hospital, Chicago (where he had been chaplain), March
20, 1900.
Kennedy, Rev. Edward (Basilian), was born in Toronto, Canada,
in 1846 ; educated at St. Michael's College, Toronto ; ordained at Lon-
don, Ont., by Bishop Walsh, May 1, 1872. Was at Louisville, Stark
county, as one of the professors of St. Louis' College, September, 1872,
to June, 1873. and then returned to Canada. Died at Toronto, June
23, 1876.
Kennedy, Rev. Michael, a native of Ireland, was ordained by
Bishop Rappe, July, 1852. His first appointment, till December, 1852,
was as assistant to Rev. James Monahan, at Dungannon, whence he
also attended Summitville. He was pastor of St. John's, Canton, from
December, 1853, till August, 1854. He was sent to Cleveland, in
November, following, to take temporary charge of St. Patrick's during
the absence of Very Rev. James Conlan, till September, 1855. During
part of this time he also attended St. Patrick's, Rockport, and St.
Mary's, Berea. Left the diocese of Cleveland, October, 1855, and was
received into that of Cincinnati. His last charge there was as pastor at
Chillicothe. He died at St. John's Hospital, Cincinnati, January 13,
1864.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 491
Kenny, Rev. John C, was born in county Meath, Ireland,
February 6, 18-17 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Allegany, N. Y. ;
was ordained for the diocese of Rochester, June 20, 1872. March,
1888, he came to the diocese of Cleveland and was appointed curate
of Sts. Peter and Paul's church, Sandusky. October, 1889, he was
sent to Vermilion, where he remained till the following December,
when he was dismissed from the diocese.
Kerckhoff, Rev. Hermann (Jesuit), a native of Hanover, was
born June 26, 1836 ; ordained at Osnabriick for the Jesuits, July 16,
1861 ; came to the United States and was assigned various positions by
his superiors. August, 1886, he was sent to Cleveland as one of the
professors at St. Ignatius' College. Left Cleveland, September, 1887.
Died at St. Canisius College, Bufifalo, N. Y., January 29, 1892.
Kessel, Rev. John B. (Jesuit), was born at Crefeld, Germany,
October 12, 1860 ; joined the Jesuits, and was ordained for them at
Ditton Hall, England, August 30, 1891 ; was stationed at the Jesuit
Novitiate, Parma, from April, 1898, to March, 1899, when he was
transferred to Buffalo, N. Y.
KiKUEM, Rev. Henry, was born at Recklinghausen, Westphalia,
May 22, 1835. After completing his ecclesiastical studies at Miinster
he was ordained in that city, June 22, 1859. For a number of years he
filled a professor's chair in his native country. From 1870 to 1879 he
was director of the Notre Dame Sisters at Coesfeld, Germany. In June
of the latter year he came to Cleveland and held the same position in
regard to the Notre Dame community, until October, 1890, when he
was recalled by his bishop, and appointed pastor of Ascheberg, West-
phalia. He remained there until his death, April 8, 1889. Whilst in
Cleveland he was also quasi-assistant at St. Peter's church from
November, 1879, to March, 1884, and again from August to December,
1888. He endeared himself to the people of St. Peter's parish. Father
Kikuem was a scholarly man and an eloquent preacher.
Kleekam, Rev. Sebastian (Franciscan), was born in Germany,
April 25, 1844 ; ordained August 12, 1869 ; at Franciscan Monastery,
Cleveland, from 1869 to 1871, meanwhile (1870) attending Indepen-
dence and Parma. Died at Sherman, Missouri, September 13, 1875.
Knappmeyer, Rev. Henry (Jesuit), a native of Miinster, West-
phalia, was born June 9, 1835. He entered the Society of Jesus at
Miinster in April, 1857; was ordained at Maria Laach, diocese of
Treves, August 24, 1869. He came to this country one month after his
ordination ; filled various positions in the Prairie-du-Chien and Buffalo
Jesuit Colleges until November, 1888, when he was appointed rector of
St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland. He held this position until August,
1893, when he was sent to St. Mary's, Toledo. He remained there, ill
for many months, until his death January 4, 1897. He was a learned
man and respected by all who knew him.
KOCKEROLS, Rev. William (Jesuit), was born at Wiirm, near
Cologne, August 3, 1824; entered the Society of Jesus, in October,
492 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
1855 ; was ordained at Maria-Laach, Germany, September 14, 1868 ;
came to this country in 1869, and was engaged in giving missions in
the diocese of Buffalo and elsewhere. In February, 1876, he was sent
to Toledo as pastor of St. Mary's church. This charge he held till
June, 1886. His next appointments were Prairie-du-Chien, Wis., where
he remained nearly three years, and St. Ann's, Buffalo, where he took
seriously ill. Feeling that his end was rapidly approaching, he asked
to be taken to St. Vincent's Hospital, Toledo, there to prepare for death,
which, five weeks later, December 11, 1889, ended his sufferings. His
obsequies took place at St. Mary's church, Toledo, where for over
eleven years he had done faithful pastoral work.
KoEHN, Rev. John, was born in Germany, September 10, 1831,
and ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 24, 1866 ; had charge of Port
Clinton, Kelley's Island, Randolph, and St. Mary's, Massillon. His
health failed at Massillon, as he was unequal to the labor of attending
so large a congregation as St. Mary's, hence he resigned in March, 1879,
and went to Charity Hospital, Cleveland. After a few weeks he rallied
sufficiently to resume pastoral work. Bishop Gilmour then appointed
him pastor of Bismarck, but in October of same year he was again
obliged to resign because of his shattered health. After a lingering
illness and much suffering he died at Bismarck, January 24, 1880.
Father Kqehn was a hard-working, self-sacrificing priest.
KoENEN, Rev. N., was curate at St. John's, Defiance, for some
months, between 1856 and 1857. He also attended Providence during
this time. Left the diocese of Cleveland in 1857. No other record of
him.
KoERLiNG, Rev. Ignatius (Jesuit), a native of Westphalia, was
born February 11, 1838. He was educated in Europe, by and for the
Jesuits, and for them ordained at Maria Laach, September 13, 1868.
Two years later he came to the United States. Was stationed in the
diocese of Cleveland five times, viz. : At St, Mary's, Toledo, as assist-
ant, from 1871 to 1881; 1886-87; 1890-92; at St. Mary's, Cleveland, as
assistant, from 1881-83; 1887-88. Died at St. Mary's, Toledo,
January 12, 1892.
KoERNER, Rev. Wenceslas, was born in Bohemia, August 31, 1859 ;
ordained in Chicago, February 16, 1863 ; was in this diocese as tem-
porary pastor of St. Procop's church, Cleveland, from August, 1893,
to May, 1896.
KoHLER, Rev. Peter, a Swiss, studied for a time with the San-
guinists at Thompson, and was there ordained deacon by Bishop Pur-
cell, in 1844. Shortly after this he returned to Switzerland, but came
back within a year. Nearly eleven years after his ordination as deacon.
Bishop Rappe received him, and ordained him priest, December 31,
1854. He was sent to Shelby Settlement as assistant ; was next sta-
tioned at Navarre, from which place he attended Canal Fulton and
Doylestown. In the summer of 1855 he left the diocese of Cleveland.
No other record of him.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 493
KoLAR, Rev. Aloysius, a Moravian, was born May 21, 1866;
ordained at Prague, Bohemia, July 19, 1891. Came to this country and
to the diocese of Cleveland in June, 1896, and was appointed temporary
pastor of St. Martin's church. He held that position until June, 1899,
when he was transferred to Youngstown, where he organized a Slovak
congregation under the patronage of Sts. Cyril and Methodius. He left
Youngstown and the diocese in December, 1900.
KoLASiNSKi, Rev. Nicodemus, a native of Galicia, Austria, was
bom September 14, 1846; ordained at Bologna, Italy, September 18,
1875 ; came to this country and diocese in July, 1884, and was appointed
temporary pastor of St. Adalbert's, Berea. In March, 1889, he was
transferred to St. Anthony's church, Toledo, where he remained till he
left the diocese, in June, 1893.
KoLASZEWSKi, Rev. A. Francis, was born in Poland, September 5,
1851. Made his collegiate studies in the Franciscan College, at Teutop-
olis. 111. ; then entered St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where, after
completing the prescribed course in philosophy and theology, he was
ordained by Bishop Gilmour, July 1, 1883. He was appointed first
resident pastor of St. Stanislas' church, Cleveland, a few weeks after
his ordination. Resigned his pastorate in May, 1893, and then left the
diocese. He returned to Cleveland about two years later and organized
a schismatic parish, for which he was excommunicated by Bishop
Horstmann, June 20, 1894.*
KoLiN, Rev. Charles, a Bohemian, was born January 8, 1865 ;
ordained at Milwaukee, June 22, 1888 ; in this diocese as temporary
chaplain of the Notre Dame Academy on Woodland Hills, Cleveland,
from December, 1898, to June, 1899, when he was dismissed.
KoLOPP, Rev. Hyacinthe N. M., was born at Abreschwiller, Lor-
raine, May 7, 1850 ; made part of his ecclesiastical studies in France,
and completed them at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. August 8,
1874, he was ordained by Bishop Gilmour. He had the following
appointments : Elmore and missions ; Antwerp and missions ; Provi-
dence and Bowling Green. In August, 1883, he assumed charge of
his last appointment, Holy Trinity congregation, Bucyrus, where he
died, March 22, 1887.
KoLOPP, Rev. Peter, was born at Heinrichsdorf, Lorraine, July 4,
1834; was ordained for the diocese of Alton, July 14, 1858; was
received into the diocese of Cleveland, October, 1864, and sent as curate
to Louisville, where he remained till June, 1866. He was then, success-
ively, pastor of Doylestown; Six Mile Woods; St. Peter's, Norwalk;
and Avon. After an illness of nearly eight months he died at St. Vin-
cent's Hospital, Toledo, November 20, 1883.
Kramer, Rev. J. J., was born, educated and ordained in Alsace;
was received into this diocese in 1853, and sent as assistant to St.
Peter's, Cleveland. November, 1854, he was appointed pastor of St.
Mary's, Cleveland, and remained till May, 1856, when he was sent to
•See Vol. I, pages 172-176.
494 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Dungannon. This charge he held till he left the diocese, July of same
year. He was then received into the diocese of Alton. Later he
returned to Europe, where he died in 1882.
KrameRj Rev. M. Anthony (Sanguinist), was born in Wiirtem-
berg, February 3, 1817 ; came ta the United States, October, 1852, and
was ordained at New Riegel for the Sanguinists by Bishop Rappe,
November 21, 1853 ; did pastoral work in the diocese of Cleveland, off
and on, between 1855 and 1877, at Avon, French Creek, Thompson,
New Riegel and Glandorf. At other times he was on missions in the
dioceses of Cincinnati and Ft. Wayne. His last pastoral charge in this
diocese was at Thompson (for the third time) from December, 1874,
till his death, February 17, 1877.
Krasney, Rev. Anthony, was born, educated and ordained in
Bohemia; came to this country in 1857, and was stationed for a while
in New York City ; was received into the diocese of Cleveland in May,
1858, and from St. Peter's, Cleveland, attended Independence till 1862,
when he was appointed first pastor of St. Joseph's, on Woodland ave-
nue. There he remained in charge till October, 1867, when he was
appointed the first pastor of St. Wenceslas' (Bohemian) congregation,
Cleveland, then organized by Bishop Rappe. Ill health forced him to
resign, October, 1869 ; died at Charity Hospital, Cleveland, March 3,
1870. He was a fine German and Bohemian scholar.
Kraus, Rev. Gabriel, a native of Galicia, Austria, was born August
14, 1867; ordained July 20, 1890; in this diocese as temporary curate
at St. Stanislas' church, Cleveland, from May to September, 1897.
Kreidler, Rev. John B. (Jesuit), a native of Wiirtemberg, was
born June 8, 1848. He was ordained for the Jesuits, at Salpoint,
England, September 21, 1873 ; came to the United States in August,
1876. Was assistant at St. Mary's, Toledo, from 1881 to 1888. Dur-
ing this time he also had pastoral charge of the mission of Sylvania.
He now resides at St. Joseph's Hospital, in New York City.
Kreusch, Rev. Matthias (Sanguinist), was born at Longwich,
diocese of Treves, Prussia, October 7, 1820 ; came to the United States,
December, ] 843 ; was ordained for the Sanguinists by Bishop Purcell,
June 10, 1845 ; had pastoral charge of the Catholic Germans of Cleve-
land, about 1848 ; attended Avon from Cleveland, and later from
Thompson; was also at New Riegel and Glandorf. From 1864, till
his death, he was on duty in other dioceses where the Sanguinists had
charge of congregations. In 1859 he attended Lima, where he built
the first church. He died at Minster, O., July 31, 1874. "Father
Matthias," as he was called, did much for religion. He was a saintly
priest, a mart without guile.
Kreusch, Rev. Joseph (Jesuit), was born in Prussia, March 22,
1829 ; ordained September 4, 1854 ; was in the diocese of Cologne until
November, 1862, when he joined the Jesuits; came to this country in
September, 1868 ; was a missionary, with residence at St. Ignatius'
College, Cleveland, from May to August, 1890, when he was trans-
ferred to Buffalo, where he died December 19, 1896.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 495
Kreusch, Rev. John Peter, brother to Rev. M. Kreusch, was born
at Longwich, diocese of Treves, Prussia, December 2, 1818. About
1844 he came to the United States. Bishop Purcell sent him to the
Sanguinis! Fathers, at Thompson, where he continued his ecclesiastical
studies for a time. When the diocese of Cleveland was erected in 1847
he was received by Bishop Rappe as a seminarist; was ordained
November 19, 1848. He had the following pastoral charges in the
diocese of Cleveland between the time of his ordination and 1854:
Cleveland, St. Mary's on the "Flats," Shelby Settlement, with charge
of the missions of Crestline, Bucyrus, Gallon, Loudonville, New Wash-
ington and Mansfield. In 1854 he was received into the diocese of
Vincennes, where he remained about four years. He then was again
received by Bishop Rappe, who gave him pastoral charge of Dungan-
non, where he remained till 1859, when he was received into the diocese
of Wheeling. For over twenty-five years he had charge of St. Alphon-
sus' church, Wheeling. May 11, 1888, he died full of years and merit. In
order to aid his fellow-priests in obtaining pure altar wine he devoted
his savings and spare time to an extensive vineyard he had established
near Wheeling. Though he succeeded in supplying pure altar wine,
the project ended in financial failure, a short time before his death.
KuEHR, Rev. Ferdinand, D. D., was bom at Eslohe , Prussia,
August 35, 1806 ; made his studies for the priesthood at Rome, where
he was also ordained, August 10, 1830. He was stationed at St. John's,
Canton, from November, 1837, to January, 1838 ; was pastor of St.
Mary's church, Covington, from 1841, till his death, November 30, 1870.
KuEMiN, Rev. Charles, a Swiss, was born in 1802. He was in
the diocese of Cleveland from May, 1865, till February, 1867, as
pastor of Kelley's Island, with charge of Put-in-Bay as a mission. In
1867 he returned to his native country, where he died the following
year.
KuHN, Rev. Jacob A., was bom near Saar-Briicken, Rhenish
Prussia, April 30, 1836 ; was educated for the priesthood at Davenport,
la., and at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. He was ordained by
Bishop Rappe, June 38, 1863. He held the following charges in the
diocese : Newburg (now a part of Cleveland), whence he also attended
many stations ; Niles and missions ; Cleveland, St. Peter's, as temporary
pastor for a few months ; Mansfield ; Norwalk, St. Peter's ; Cleveland,
Holy Family (now St. Edward's) ; Massillon, St. Mary's. This last
charge he held from April, 1879, till his death, November 30, 1898.
KuHNMUENCH, Rcv. Peter (Sanguinist), was born in Baden,
October 31, 1843; was educated for the ministry, at Carthagena, O.
He was ordained for the Sanguinists, June 34, 1876 ; in the diocese of
Cleveland from July, 1881, to September, 1884, as assistant at New
Riegel. He is now stationed in the diocese of Ft. Wayne.
KuLA, Rev. James, was born in Gorreck, Silesia, July 8, 1858 ;
ordained in Italy, May 8, 1892; came to this diocese in September,
1893, and was temporary assistant at St. Stanislas' church, Cleveland,
until December of the same year, when he was transferred to the Sacred
496 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Heart church, in same city. He remained there until July, 1895, when
he left the diocese.
KuNKLER, Very Rev. Andrew (Sanguinist), was born at Glotter-
thal, Baden, November 25, 1825; came to the United States in 1843;
ordained at New Riegel for the Sanguinists by Bishop Rappe, February
23, 1848. Was stationed at Glandorf, from 1848 to 1849, and at St.
Michael's, Thompson, from April to September, 1857. From 1858 to
1874 he was Provincial of the Sanguinists in this country. He died
suddenly at Weston, Mo., December 6, 1889. He was a thorough
ecclesiastic and a model religious.
Lais, Rev. Joseph, was born at Griessheim, Baden, September 29,
1829; came to America in March, 1852, and entered the Cleveland
diocesan seminary. He was ordained by Bishop Rappe, July 8, 1855.
He had the following appointments in the diocese : St. Mary's,
Massillon, of which he had charge from 1855 to 1858. Then he was
pastor of Navarre, 1869-60; of Doylestown, with charge of Canal
Fulton and French Settlement as missions, 1860-62. In 1862 he was
appointed resident pastor of Canal Fulton, attending several missions
from that place. There he remained till 1867, when he again received
the pastorate of St. Mary's, Massillon, retaining this appointment till
he died, February 5, 1875. He was ever faithful to his sacerdotal
duties, and left the record of a devoted and true priest.
Langevin, Rev. Alfred, a Canadian, was bom at St. Pie, P. Q.,
April 1, 1861 ; ordained at St. Albans, Vt., for the diocese of Burling-
ton, June 22, 1884. In January, 1888, he came to the diocese of Cleve-
land, and was sent to Dungannon, where he remained but four weeks,
when he returned to Vermont.
Laux, Rev. Alphonse (Sanguinist), a native of Luxemburg, was
born September 11, 1835. He came to this country in 1859, and was
ordained at Cincinnati for the Sanguinists, November 7, 1861. From
1862 to 1863 he was stationed at New Riegel, whence he attended
Berwick, St. Patrick's Settlement, McCutchenville, Upper Sandusky
and Crawfordsville. In 1864 he attended Bismarck from Thompson.
From 1869 to February, 1876, he was pastor of New Riegel, where he
commenced, and brought almost to completion, the present beautiful
church. During its construction he met with a serious accident, which
disabled him for a number of years. From 1877, to February, 1880, he
was curate at Glandorf. Since 1880 he has held the position of chap-
lain in various hospitals and asylums. He is now stationed at Griine-
wald, Mercer county, O., charged with a similar position.
Lebreton, Rev. Elias V., a native of France, was born December
27, 1860 ; was ordained at Tucson, An, June 7, 1884 ; was in this diocese
from December, 1892, to March, 1893, at first, for a few weeks, at
Toussaint, and then as chaplain of St. Joseph's Hospital, Lorain.
Le Brun, Rev. Alfred, a Canadian, was born April 2, 1850 ;
ordained for the diocese of Three Rivers, Canada, March 25, 1878;
was stationed in the diocese of Cleveland, as temporary pastor of South
Thompson and mission, from January to June, 1892.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 497
Leddy, Rev. James H., was born at Newark, N. J., May 14, 1837;
made his ecclesiastical studies at St. Mary's College, Wilmington, Del.^
and Seton Hall, N. J. He was ordained for the diocese of Buffalo by
Bishop Timon, March 18, 1863. He was in the diocese of Cleveland
between 187G and 1877— at the cathedral for two months as assistant,
then pastor for four months at Van Wert, when he returned to the
diocese of Buffalo.
Le Halle, Rev. Joseph (Jesuit), a native of Prussia, was born
January 31, 1845; was educated by and for the Jesuits, in Germany
and England; was ordained at Liverpool, August 29, 1877; was
stationed at Bombay, E. I., from 1878 to 1886. In June, 1893, he was
appointed rector of St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland. This position he
held till January, 1897 ; from May to August of the same year he was
stationed at St. Mary's, Toledo, when he was transferred to Buffalo,
N. Y.
Letter, Rev. Anselm (Jesuit), a Swiss, was born January 20,
1826 ; ordained September 15, 1855 ; was superior of the Jesuits, at
Toledo, from September, 1884, to May, 1885, and again from Septem-
ber, 1889, to September, 1890. He was stationed at St. Ignatius'
College, Cleveland, from August, 1893, to September, 1898, when he
was transferred to Prairie du Chien, Wis.
Lewandowski, Rev. Vincent, a native of Gralewo-Posen, Austria,
was born May 31, 1841. He made his studies in the city of Posen,
where he was also ordained for the Franciscans, October 30, 1864. He
became a secular priest, and was in the diocese of Cleveland as pastor
of St. Hedwig's (Polish) congregation, Toledo, from October, 1875,
till July, 1885, when he left the diocese, and went to Milwaukee, Wis.,
where he did pastoral work until his sudden death, January 22, 1900.
Lochert, Rev. Gabriel M., was born in 1810 ; was educated and
ordained in his native Alsace. He came to the diocese of Cleveland in
April, 1859, and was appointed pastor of Navarre (Bethlehem), where
after a brief illness he died July 13, of the same year.
LuDWiG, Rev. Frederick C, a native of Germany, was born of
Protestant parents in the town of Wolfenbiittel, January 13, 1823.
After his entry into the Church he made his studies for the priesthood
at the seminaries of St. Mary's, Cleveland, and St. Sulpice, Paris. He
was ordained by Bishop Rappe, July 3, 1864. Louisville was his first
appointment, August to October, 1864. He then, successively, had
pastoral charge of the following places : Dungannon, Peru, Rockport,
Independence and Shelby Settlement. Then he became mentally
deranged and was a pensioner of the Infirm Priests' Fund from January,
1870, to October, 1882, residing in retirement at East Liverpo'^l, O.
On the supposition that he had recovered from his mental illness, Very
Rev. Administrator Boff, in absence of the Bishop in Rome, then
appointed him the pastor of St. Peter's, Norwalk, where he remained
only till January, 1883. He was assistant at St. Stephen's, Cleve-
land, February to July, 1883, when he was again on the sick list till
December, 1886. At last mentioned date he left the diocese of Cleve-
498 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
land, and went about as caprice dictated. Finally death put an end to
his blighted existence, June 25, 1889. His remains rest in St. Philip's
Cemetery, Dungannon, O. He was a musician far above the ordinary ;
•also a fine linguist.
LuHR^ Very Rev. John Henry, was born at Steinfeld, Oldenburg,
April 21, 1808, and was ordained, September 21, 1831. In 1844 he
was received into the diocese of Cincinnati. He was pastor of St.
John's, Canton, from October, 1844, till June, 1845, when he organized
St. Peter's church, in the same city. From Canton he also attended
Randolph, Massillon, Navarre and New Berlin. February, 1853,
he was transferred from Canton to Cleveland, where he organized St.
Peter's congregation, whose first school and present church were built
under his direction. He was pastor of the last mentioned congregation
till January, 1868, when he left the diocese and returned to Cincinnati,
where he was appointed pastor of St. Augustine's. This position he
held till his death, August 2, 1872. He was one of Bishop Rappe's
vicars-genera! from 1854 to 1868. Father Luhr was a faithful priest,
full of zeal, and an earnest worker in the cause of religion.
McAleer, Rev. Michael, born in county Tyrone, Ireland, March
4, 1811, was ordained by Bishop Purcell, November 23, 1837; did
pastoral work at Canton, Navarre and Dungannon, between 1837 and
1840. He then left Ohio and went to the diocese of Nashville with
Bishop Miles, and was stationed at Memphis, Tenn., where he remained
some years. Later he was received into the diocese of New York ; was
appointed pastor of St. Columba's, New York City, where he died
February 22, 1881.
McCafi REY, Rev. Patrick, was born in New York State, October,
1841 ; made his preparatory course of studies in Cleveland and Louis-
ville, O., and finished same in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where,
July 17, 1870, he was ordained for the diocese of Cleveland by Bishop
Mullen, of Erie. His first appointment was St. Ann's, Briar Hill,
from which place he attended as missions Girard and Struthers. In
the latter place, as also at Briar Hill, he built the present churches.
Being of delicate liealth, he was obliged to resigfn his charge, April,
1872. For two years after leaving Briar Hill he suffered greatly, till
his death at Toledo, April 7, 1874. His remains are buried at Toledo.
McCarthy, Rev. Timothy P., was born in Durrus, Cork county,
Ireland, November 6, 1843 ; made his ecclesiastical studies with the
Benedictines, at St. Vincent's, Pa., and St. Mary's Seminary, Cleve-
land. He was ordained by Bishop Gilmour, July 5, 1877. His first
appointment was as temporary pastor of Avon, with charge of North
Ridgeville from July to September, 1877. He had a similar appoint-
ment at North Ridge, from September, 1877, to June, 1878. He was
then given the pastorate of the Good Shepherd parish, Toledo, where
he labored most successfully, till his transfer to St. Ann's, Fremont,
in August, 1877. In the latter place he built and brought almost to
completion the present handsome church. In March, 1890, he was
transferred to the Immaculate Conception parish, Toledo, where, with
BIOGRAPHIQAL NOTICES. 499
characteristic zeal and utter disregard of self, he labored most faithfully.
Under his direction the present splendid church was built. It was the
strenuous work, connected with the supervision of the building, and
the raising of funds to meet the financial obligations incurred,' that
undermined and ruined his strong constitution. When the church was
dedicated, in November, 1896, Father McCarthy was a physical wreck.
Hoping to regain health, and to find rest from incessant labor, he went
to southern California. But the change of climate availed him noth-
ing. He returned to Toledo in March, 1897, and slowly but surely
neared the end of his earthly career. He died October 21, 1900.
Father McCarthy was a man of true Apostolic spirit, single-hearted
in the performance of his duty, never losing sight of his priestly char-
acter, or of the exalted share in the world's work that fell to his lot.
He was loved and respected by all ranks and classes in Toledo as a
truly good priest, whose influence was for the betterment of those
among whom and for whom he labored.
McClory, Rev. Augustine (Franciscan), was bom in Pittsburg,
Pa., November 15, 1847 ; ordained at St. Louis, Mo., for the Franciscan
Order, June 29, 1875 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland from January,
1883, to July, 1883, and from January, 1887, to August, 1894, at the
Franciscan Monastery as chaplain and confessor of religious institu-
tions in the city of Cleveland. He is now stationed at San Francisco,
Cal.
McDonald, Rev. Patrick, a native of Ireland, was born Septem-
ber 24, 1855. He made his higher ecclesiastical studies in the Louvain
University, and at Rome, where he received the divinity doctorate.
He was ordained at Liege, Belgium, for the diocese of Cloyne, April
14, 1879. After filling a number of positions in Ireland and elsewhere
he came to the diocese of Cleveland in November, 1888. Shelby and
its four missions were assigned to his pastoral care. He left the
diocese June 5, 1889. S^^«^ ^«'^^ /-//^ ^-^ (£>i^.-^»X« ruLlJu,
McGann, Rev. Francis, was born, 1823, in county Roscommon,
Ireland ; came to America in 1837 ; was received as a student by Bishop
Rappe in 1848, and ordained by him September 8, 1850. He was at
once appointed pastor of St. Vincent's, Akron, where he remained till
August, 1855, meanwhile attending Youngstown and Ravenna
(1854-55). He established a parochial school at Akron. Bishop
Rappe then recalled him to Cleveland, directing him to attend Rock-
port, Berea and Olmsted. Unwilling to accept this appointment he
left the diocese of Cleveland and was received by Bishop O'Regan, of
Chicago, under whose jurisdiction he remained about two years. Next
he was in the diocese of Milwaukee, where, as pastor of Mineral Point,
Wis., he died September 18, 1870.
IMcGlone, Rev. J. B., was bom in the parish of Glenfarn, diocese
of Kilmore, Ireland, December 23, 1853 ; came with his relatives some
years later to Am.erica, and for a time lived in the diocese of Provi-
dence. He made his ecclesiastical studies at St. Michael's College,
Toronto, and Holy Angels' Seminary, near Niagara Falls ; was received
by Bishop Gilmour as a student for the diocese of Cleveland, January,
500 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
1881, and by him ordained April 1, 1882. His first appointment was
as assistant at Holy Name church, Cleveland, where he remained till
February, 1883. In the following month he was sent to St. Columba's,
Youngstown, as assistant. March, 1884, he became seriously ill, and
till his death, at Providence, R. I., August 12, 1884, was unable to do
duty.
McGovERN, Rev. Francis, a native of parish Kinawley, county
Cavan, Ireland, was born March 18, 1843. He commenced his studies
for the priesthood in his native diocese of Kilmore. In 1868 he came
to the United States and entered the Augustinian College at Villanova,
Delaware county. Pa., where he remained about one year, when he was
admitted to the diocesan seminary of Philadelphia. In 1873 he was
received for the diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Gilmour, who ordained
him June 7th of the same year, and then stationed him at the Cathedral
as one of the assistants. This position he held for three years, when
he was appointed pastor of St. Ann's, Briar Hill. Such he was from
June, 1876, till his death (after five weeks' illness), August 28, 1887.
While stationed at Briar Hill, he also attended Mineral Ridge and
Lowellville as missions till 1881.
McGrady, Rev. John H. M. (Dominican), bom in 1799, of Irish
parentage, was ordained at Cincinnati by Bishop Fenwick in 1822.
He had pastoral charge of Dungannon from November, 1830, to
February, 1834, residing there as first resident priest from January,
1831, to November, 1833. From Dungannon he also attended,
occasionally. Canal Fulton, Canton and Youngstown. He died at St.
Rose's, Kentucky, December 27, 1838.
McGrath, Rev. John P., a native of Pennsylvania, was born at
Pottsville, April 6, 1853. He studied mental philosophy at St. Charles'
Seminary, I'hiladelphia, theology at Mt. St. Mary's, Emmittsburg, and
St. Mary's, Cleveland. Bishop Gilmour ordained him July 1, 1882,
and sent him to Defiance to take temporary charge of the church of
Our Lady. October, 1882, he was assigned the pastorate of Saline-
ville, where he remained till August, 1884. February, 1885, he was
sent to Providence. He left this charge and the diocese, December,
1888.
McGrath, Rev. Patrick C, born near Malleray Abbey, Ireland,
was ordained for the diocese of Erie by Bishop Mullen in 1869 ; was
received into the diocese of Rochester in 1870, where he remained till
1878, when Bishop Gilmour received him. He was sent to St. Mary's,
Tiffin, as assistant to Rev. M. Healy; remained but a few months when
he left the diocese of Cleveland and was received by the Bishop of
Peoria, whose subject he was till death, July 21, 1882. He died at
St. Mary's Hospital, Milwaukee.
McLaughlin, Rev. Peter, a native of Ireland, was born in 1805.
He was ordained at Cincinnati, in 1840, by Bishop Purcell, and sent
to Cleveland as its third resident pastor. There he finished St. Mary's
church on the Flats, begun by his predecessor. Father O'Dwyer.
From Cleveland he attended Avon, 1840-42 ; South Thompson, Akron,
BIOGRAPHIOAL NOTICES. 501
Cuyahoga Falls, Ravenna and Painesville, 1840-45; and Randolph,
occasionally, 1841-42. He left Cleveland in February, 1846, and went
to the diocese of Milwaukee, where he remained a short time. He
was then received into the diocese of Brooklyn (1854) and later into
that of Portland, Me.; died as pastor of Bath, same diocese, March
12, 1861, aged 56 years. His remains are buried in Calvary Cemetery,
Portland, Me. "Father Peter," as he was familiarly called, was a man
of medium height, stoutly built, and of a strong constitution. Every
feature of his countenance indicated force of character. He was to a
great extent a "self-made man," having had to undergo almost insur-
mountable difficulties to acquire an education. A part of his college
course he made while watching and attending to his father's flocks,
using his spare time in studying Latin and the higher mathematics.
His eloquence attracted great audiences of Catholics and Protestants.
Many times on Sundays and on Holydays the church on the Flats was
filled to overflowing by people who had come from all parts of the city
to hear his learned and impressive sermons. During his pastorate in
Cleveland he fought hard among his people against the vice of intem-
perance. He established the first total abstinence society in Cleveland,
and thus succeeded in reclaiming many from a drunkard's grave. In
his zeal for the elevation of his people he went even so far as to go to
their homes and teach them how to work, and to be clean and comfort-
able. On occasion of public or civic celebrations Father McLaughlin
was invariably invited as one of the speakers. He was universally
respected by the non-Catholic citizens of Cleveland for his zeal, earnest-
ness and blunt honesty. He was also a pungent and forcible writer,
as evidenced by a series of controversial articles he contributed to the
Catholic Telegraph, of Cincinnati, in 1843. For a further account of
his pastoral labors the reader is referred to the "Historical Sketch of
Early Catholicity in Cleveland, etc.," in the first volume of this work.
McLoY, Rev. John B., a native of Ireland, was educated in France
and in Rome. For fourteen years he was on the mission in Scotland
and in the diocese of Newark, N. J. ; was in the diocese of Cleveland
as curate at Holy Name church, Cleveland, from February to May,
1883. In November, 1888, he apostatized.
McNamee, Rev. Joseph, came to this country from Ireland about
1836. He was ordained at Cincinnati, April 8, 1839. After a few
months of pastoral duty at Cincinnati, he was sent to St. Mary's, Tiffin,
October, 1839. There he remained till July, 1847, meanwhile, though
in poor health, attending Maumee, Toledo, Providence and in fact all
the missions in Northwestern Ohio, 1839-41 ; Fostoria, Findlay, New
Riegel, McCutchenville, Mansfield and Fremont, between 1839-43. In
July, 1847, he left the diocese of Cincinnati. He died at Pawtucket,
R. I. (diocese of Providence), March 28, 1853. He knew German
and spoke it perfectly. He was a faithful and zealous priest.
McShane, Rev. Patrick A., was born in Ireland, April 8, 1854.
Made the latter part of his ecclesiastical studies in Rome. He was
ordained for the Peoria diocese by Bishop Spalding, May 15, 1878.
502 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
In April, 1888, he was received by Bishop Gilmour, who gave him
pastoral charge of Salineville and Summitville. He left the diocese,
January, 1889.
Macheheuf, Rt. Rev. Joseph Projectus, was born at Riom, diocese
of Clermont, France, August 11, 1812 ; made his studies at Riom, at
St. Sulpice, Paris, and at Mont-Ferrand, France. He was ordained at
Clermont by Bishop Feron, December 21, 1836. After nearly three
years of priestly labor in his native country he came to the diocese of
Cincinnati, August, 1839, and in the following month was sent to Tiffin,
as assistant to Rev. Joseph McNamee, pastor of St. Mary's, attending
Fremont (Lower Sandusky), Napoleon, Sandusky, Maumee and
Toledo as missions. He remained at Tiffin till December, 1840, when
he was transferred to Sandusky, where he organized Holy Angels'
congregation and built their first (and present) church. From San-
dusky he continued to attend Fremont, where he established St. Ann's
congregation and directed the building of their first church. He also
made pastoral visits to Peru for a few months. He was stationed at
Sandusky till January, 1851, when on invitation of his life-long friend.
Bishop Lamy, he went to New Mexico. He labored there and in
Colorado on the hard and scattered missions of these territories, till his
consecration as Vicar Apostolic of Colorado, August 15, 1868, with
residence at Denver. In 1887 he was appointed first Bishop of Denver.
He died there, July 10, 1889. He was a man of zeal, not sparing self,
but always busy with the things of God. His memory will be revered
as "the Apostle of Colorado."
Machnikowski, Rev. John, a native of Poland, was born May 22,
1864. Was ordained at Adrianopolis, Thrace, April 14, 1847. Was
stationed at St. Casimir's church, Cleveland, as temporary pastor, from
June to August, 1898, and then at St. Stanislas' church, Cleveland,
as assistant, to May 19, 1899, when he left the diocese.
Machut, Rev. Bonaventure (Franciscan), a native of Silesia, was
born at Gramschiitz, July 8, 1825. After completing his ecclesiastical
studies at Breslau he was ordained, June 22, 1850. He was a secular
priest till December, 1853, when he entered the Franciscan Order
at Breslau. He came to the United States in July, 1875. On arrival
in this country he was sent to the Franciscan Monastery, at Cleveland,
where he resided till his death. Father Bonaventure was a learned and
pious priest — a true religious. For nearly ten years he was a member
of the diocesan board of examiners of seminarists and junior clergy.
He was also repeatedly appointed assistant superior of the Franciscan
Monastery. For the last five or six years of his life he was in poor
health and hence unable to do active duty in the ministry. He died of
apoplexy, April 2, 1889.
Maeckfx, Rev. Herman J. (Jesuit), a native of Germany, was
born April 23, 1860 ; ordained for the Jesuits, August 28, 1872 ;
at St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland, from September, 1894, to August,
1896. During that time he was also chaplain of the city workhouse.
He is now stationed at Canisius' College, Buffalo.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 503
Maesfrancx, Rev. Elias, was born in Belgium, October 5, 1819 ;
ordained in 1846 ; came to the United States in 186G ; was received into
the diocese of Cleveland in 1867, and sent to Delphos as assistant.
After a short stay there he was transferred to Landeck, as first resident
pastor. This charge he left in April of the following year, when he
was received into the diocese of Detroit. He remained there a few
years and then returned to his native country.
Mahar, Rev. William G., a native of Cleveland, O., was bom
March 14, 1864; made his ecclesiastical studies with the Sulpicians at
Ellicott City, Md. ; Montreal; and with the Jesuits, at Mobile, Ala.
After completing the seminary course at Cleveland he was ordained
by Bishop Gilmour, July 6, 1890. His first and only appointment was
as assistant at St. Vincent's, Akron, from July, 1890, to October, 1893.
He was then obliged to give up all priestly duties on account of ill
health. Went to Denver, Col., for the benefit of his health, but did
not realize his hopes in that direction. He died there, August 25, 1894,
He was an exemplary priest.
Mahony^ Rev. Timotliy M., was born in Tipperary, Ireland,
August 16, 1836. He came to the United States in 1849. In his
eighteenth' year he began his ecclesiastical studies with the Dominicans,
at St. Joseph's, Perry county, O., and continued his collegiate course
at Bardstown, Ky. In 1861 he entered St. Mary's Seminary, Cleve-
land. June 29, 1863, he was ordained by Bishop Rappe, who appointed
him as one of the Cathedral curates. Bellevue was his next field of
labor, August, 1866, to August, 1871. He was then appointed pastor
of Niles, where he remained till November, 1873, when he was assigned
to the pastoiate of St. Vincent's, Akron, where he had a large parisK
to attend and a heavy debt to face. There he was the same zealous
and successful pastor as in his former and more limited sphere of labor,
and succeeded in largely reducing the burdensome debt. August 1,
1880, he entered upon the discharge of the duties of pastor of
St. Patrick's, Cleveland, where he remained till his death, September
29, 1889. Father Mahony was a man of kindly disposition, and untir-
ing zeal. Single in purpose, honest of intent, untiring in zeal, he was
always ready at the call of duty and the bidding of charity.
Major, Rev. Thomas S., a Kentuckian, was born July 13, 1844.
After serving in the confederate army he became a convert to the
Church and prepared himself for the priesthood at the Jesuit College
near Mobile, Ala., and Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, Cincinnati. He was
ordained for the diocese of Covington, Ky., November 14, 1875. After
serving in various dioceses he was received by Bishop Gilmour, who
appointed him resident pastor of Edgerton, with Florence as a mission.
This position he held from April, 1887, to March, 1892, when he was
recalled to his own diocese — Covington — where he now is.
Malin, Rev. Aloysius (Sanguinist), a Tyrolese, was born May
10, 1853; was educated for the Sanguinists at Carthagena, O., and
ordained for them at Cincinnati by Archbishop Purcell, June 24, 1876 ;
was stationed at New Riegel as pastor, from March, 1895, to February,
504 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
1897. He left the Sanguinists in June, 1899 ; is now stationed in
the diocese of Peoria, as a secular priest.
Manning^ Rev. William J., a native of Boston, Mass., was born
December 24, 1847; was educated for the priesthood at the seminaries
of Cincinnati and Cleveland. He was ordained in the latter city, July
5, 1879. His first appointment was Warren, with Mantua as a mission,
from July, 1879, to July, 1882. He was then transferred to Youngs-
town, where he organized the Immaculate Conception parish. Under
his direction the present beautiful church and the adjoining pastoral
residence were built, as also the first church, now used as a school.
He had been in ill health for nearly two years. He died at Youngs-
town, July 2, 1899, deeply mourned by his people whom he had served
faithfully.
Marechal, Rev. John B., born in Normandy, France, May 17,
1812, was ordained for the diocese of Arras, in 1835 ; was received
by Bishop Rappe in August, 1850, and appointed pastor of Louisville,
which charge he held from September, 1850, till September, 1851, when
he was appointed one of the professors in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleve-
land. He was connected with the seminary and assisted in the
parochial work at the Cathedral. He then returned to France to
assist the celebrated Abbe Migne, in publishing the voluminous edition
of the Fathers of the Church, a work for which, by his scholarly attain-
ments, he was eminently fitted. He was a learned man and a pious
priest. He died December, 1882.
Marschal, Rev. John A., a native of East Prussia, and for a
time a Dominican, was born at Allenstein, in 1819; ordained in 1844;
was in the diocese of Cleveland from 1866 to April, 1867, as pastor of
Maumee. Bishop Rappe then dismissed him, and for a number of
years he was on the mission elsewhere. October, 1877, he was again
received into the diocese by Bishop Gilmour to whom he was a
stranger. He was appointed pastor of the Poles, in Cleveland, then
worshiping in St. Mary's, on the "Flats." He also attended Parma
as a mission from January till March, 1878 ; Brighton, from October,
1877, to January, 1879, when he left the diocese and returned to Europe.
Marshall, Rev. Francis, was born in Adams county. Pa. ;
attended Chippewa, near Doylestown, in 1827. No other record of
him.
Marszalowicz, Rev. Louis, was born, educated and ordained in
Poland. He was stationed at St. Stanislas' church, Cleveland, as
assistant, from December, 1890, to February, 1891, when he left the
diocese. No other record of him.
Marte, Rev. Jacob (Sanguinist), was born at Rankweil, Austria,
in the year 1843 ; came to the United States in 1860 ; was ordained for
the Sanguinists, June 6, 1866 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland as pastor
of New Cleveland from August, 1872, to April, 1873 ; assistant at
Glandorf till July, 1877, and as pastor of Big Spring (where he built
the present church) till August, 1882, when he returned to Europe.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 605
Maktin, Rev. Anthony T. (See biographical sketch, pages
303-4.)
Martin, Rev. John Edward, was born at Grenoble, France, about
1827. After following the profession of a lawyer for a few years he
became a Franciscan, went to Rome and was there ordained priest.
Later he left the Franciscan Order, and in 1863 came to America, when
he was received into the diocese of Cleveland and appointed one of the
professors at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. In 1864 he was
appointed pastor of Harrisburg, remaining till 1865, when he left the
diocese.
Martin, Rev. Ricliard J. (Jesuit), was born in Germany, April
25, 1860 ; ordained for the Jesuits, in England, August 31, 1890 ; was
stationed at St. Ignatius' College from January, 1897, to August, 1899.
He is now a professor at Georgetown University.
Martin, Rev. Thomas H. (Dominican), was ordained by Bishop
Fenwick in 1822; attended Dungannon and several missions in Stark
and Wayne counties between 1825 and 1827, and was the first priest
to visit (1826) the Catholics of Cleveland. He was assistant at
St. John's, Canton, in 1830, and again from July to December, 1835.
He died in New York City, May 10, 1859.
Martvon, Rev. John, a Hungarian, was born January 5, 1857 ;
ordained in Hungary, April 15, 1884; came to Cleveland in August,
1890, and was appointed temporary pastor of St. Ladislas' church,
where he remained till his dismissal from the diocese, September, 1892.
Maszotas, Rev. Joseph, a native of Russia, was born at Wlad-
islawow, January 8, 1861. He made his ecclesiastical studies in St.
Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, and was ordained by Bishop Gilmour,
December 17, 1887. He was appointed assistant at St. Stanislas'
church, Cleveland, but left that position and the diocese in August,
1889. Was received into the diocese of Scranton, where he remained
, till March, 1898, when he returned to Cleveland. Was temporary
pastor of the Lithuanians until his dismissal from the diocese, in June,
1899.
Mauclerc, Rev. A. L., was born in 1820, and ordained in
his native country, France; no record of date of his ordination. Was
received by Bishop Rappe in September, 1859, and stationed at St.
Peter's, Norwalk, as assistant, until July, 1860. From January to
May, 1861, he had temporary charge of the parish at Louisville. He
then left the diocese and joined the Society of Mary, at Dayton, O.,
where he remained till 1876, when he returned to France (St. Remy)
and died there. May 6, 1876.
Mayer, Rev. Florian, a Bavarian, was born May 4, 1867, and
ordained in Switzerland, April 19, 1897. He was in the diocese of
Cleveland from January to the latter part of April, 1899, viz., temporary
pastor of Bismarck to March; then chaplain of the Notre Dame
Academy, Cleveland.
Mazuret, Rev. Peter Patrick, was born at Rouse's Point, N. Y.,
in 1834; made his studies for the priesthood at Montreal, and was
506 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
ordained at Sandwich, Ont., March 15, 1863. Was received into the
diocese of Cleveland, and appointed one of the Cathedral curates.
March, 1875, he was sent to Defiance to organize the congregation of
Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Under his direction their beautiful
church was also begun and partly finished. He left the diocese Janu-
ary, 1877.
Meili, Rev. Aloysius Maria, was born of Protestant parents at
Zurich, Switzerland, March 8, 1840 ; entered the Church when about
twenty-eight years of age ; made his studies at Zurich, Basle, St. Mary's
Seminary, Cincinnati, and St. Meinrad's, Ind. ; was ordained for the
diocese of Ft. Wayne, February 27, 1870. Came to the diocese of
Cleveland, September, 1872, and was sent as assistant to St. Joseph's,
Tiffin, remaining till July, 1873, when he was appointed pastor of
Crestline. There he remained till March 20, 1874, when he left his
charge and the diocese. July, 1883, he was received into the diocese
of Leavenworth, Kas., where he labored successfully on the mission,
till his death, at Clay Centre, March 80, 1893.
Mertes, Rev. Anthony, was born at Wagenhausen, diocese of
Treves, Prussia, January 8, 1826 ; ordained March 23, 1853. Did pas-
toral duty in his native diocese till April, 1876, when he came to the
diocese of Cleveland, and was appointed pastor of New Bavaria.
March, 1879, he was transferred to Edgerton, with charge of Florence
as a mission. August, 1883, he returned to Europe, where he died in
May, 1897.
Mevel, Rev. John M., was born in France, July 29, 1839 ; was
ordained in San Francisco, Cal., August 10, 1865. After serving in
various dioceses in the West, and in San Domingo, he was received
by Bishop Horstmann, in March, 1896, and appointed temporary pastor
of Big Ditch. This position he held till his death, November 3, 1897.
Meyer, Rev. Maria Anton (Sangninist), was born at Aesch,
Switzerland, February 21, 1817; studied for the ministry at Graubiind-
ten, Switzerland; was ordained at Feldkirch, Austria, September 8,
1843 ; came to Ohio in 1843, and till 1846 had charge of the following
places : Peru, Thompson, Tiffin, New Riegel ; also attended the
Catholic settlers in Huron, Richland, Crawford, Hancock, Stark,
Wayne, Ashland, Summit, Lorain, Lucas and Ottawa counties, making
the entire journey on horseback. In 1846 he went to the diocese of
Milwaukee, but was recalled in 1848, when he was stationed at Cleve-
land for a short time, with charge of Avon and French Creek as
missions. He then had pastoral charge of the following places in the
diocese : Glandorf , Fort Jennings, Thompson, Avon and New Riegel.
In 1858 he left the Sanguinists and became a secular priest, and as such
he continued until his death in Covington, Ky., in 1890.
Meyer, Rev. Thomas (Sanguinist), a native of Ohio, was born
at Minster, Auglaize county, July 25, 1869 ; was ordained at Cartha-
gena, O., for the Sanguinists, April 26, 1895 ; was stationed in this
diocese, at Thompson, as assistant, from May, 1895, to March, 1896.
During this time he also attended Reed.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 507
MiDDENDORF, Rev. Rogei" (Franciscan), was born in Quincy, 111.
October 10, 1866; was ordained for the Franciscan Order, April 25,
1891 ; was stationed at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from
August, 1898, to September, 1900, as chaplain.
MiELiNGER, Rev. Xavier (Sanguinist), a Bavarian, was born
March 26, 1865 ; made part of his studies for the ministry in his native
town of Billing, and completed them at the Sanguinist Seminary, in
Carthagena, O., where he was ordained, March 17, 1889. Was in
charge of the following places in the diocese of Cleveland : Reed, from
March, 1889, to April, 1892; Big Spring to January, 1893. From
August, 1892, to last mentioned date he also attended St. Patrick's
Settlement. He then left the diocese and went to Europe. Since 1896
he has been a secular priest, and stationed in the diocese of Dallas.
Miles, Rt. Rev. Richard P. (Dominican), a native of Maryland,
was bom May 17, 1791, and ordained in September, 1816. He had
pastoral charge of St. John's, Canton, between 1828 and 1830 ; was
consecrated first Bishop of Nashville, September 16, 1838. He died
February 31, 1860.
Ming, Rev. John (Jesuit), a Swiss, was born in Giswyl, Septem-
ber 20, 1838 ; joined the Jesuits and was ordained for them in Germany,
September 13, 1868 ; was stationed in the diocese of Cleveland, as
assistant at St. Mary's, Toledo, from September, 1879, to August, 1892 ;
at St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland, to August, 1893, and at the Jesuit
Novitiate, Parma, from August, 1897, to August, 1898. He is now
a professor at the Sacred Heart College in Prairie du Chien, Wis.
MisiCKi, Rev. Thomas, a native of Galicia, Austria, was born
December 31, 1866 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Cracow, Poland,
where he was ordained May 19, 1889. Was stationed in the diocese
of Cleveland, as temporary pastor of St. Adalbert's, from June, 1893,
to July, 1894, when he left.
MoENNiNG, Rev. Francis (Franciscan), was born in Bakum,
Osnabriick, Prussia, December 28, 1837; ordained at Teutopolis, 111.,
January 13, 1867. He was attached to the Franciscan Monastery,
Cleveland, from July, 1883, till January, 1887. While there he assisted
the secular clergy, and attended a number of reHgious communities.
Died at Memphis, Tenn., December 30, 1891. A most worthy priest.
MoES, Rev. Nicholas. (See biographical sketch, pages 313-314,
this volume.)
MoiTRiER, Rev. Francis, born at Saizerais, France, February 19,
1839, was educated for the priesthood at Nancy, and St. Mary's Semi-
nary, Cleveland. He was ordained January 6, 1865, and was then sent
to Shelby Settlement. August, 1865, he was appointed pastor of
Harrisburg, remaining till May, 1866, when he was sent to Alliance,
whence he attended Leetonia. This charge he held till 1867, when he
was received into the diocese of Vincennes. Since 1871 he has been
affiliated with the diocese of Columbus.
508 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
MoLLOY, Rev. James, was born at Tullamore, Kings county,
Ireland, October 13, 1844; was ordained at Nashville, Tenn., Novem-
ber 30, 1867. He was received into the diocese of Cleveland, in 1873 ;
was assistant at Sts. Peter and Paul's, Sandusky, till 1875 ; then assist-
ant at St. Columba's, Youngstown, till July, 1876, when he was
appointed pastor of Bellevue, remaining till May, 1879. Then he left
the diocese, but returned, July, 1880, when he received the pastorate of
Kent. There he remained till August, 1881, when he again left. He
is now in the diocese of Cincinnati.
MoLON^ Rev. Louis, was born in the diocese of Arras, France, in
1826 ; came to Cleveland as a seminarist, in August, 1850, and was
ordained September 8, following. Soon after his ordination he was sent
to Tiffin, as pastor of St. Mary's, remaining till September, 1852. Mean-
while (January to September, 1852) he also attended St. Joseph's
congregation, same place. His next appointment was St. Mary's,
Massillon, September, 1852, to July, 1855. He was next appointed
superior and professor of St. John's College, Cleveland. He retained
this charge but a few months, when, in January, 1856, he was sent to
St. Vincent's, Akron. In the fall of the same year he was appointed
pastor of Berwick, remaining till November, 1857. His next charge
was St. Ann's, Fremont, from December, 1857, to July, 1861. From
Fremont he attended Port Clinton, La Prairie, Marblehead, and Tous-
saint, from June, 1860, to July, 1861. Then, till April, 1863, he was
pastor of Holy Angels', Sandusky, and attended Kelley's Island as a
mission. In the fall of 1863 he visited his native France on a six
months' leave of absence, and on his return was sent to St. Joseph's,
Massillon, the congregation he had organized in 1854. There he
remained from January to September, 1865, when he was appointed
pastor of St- Mary's, Elyria, and attended for a while, as missions,
Norwalk, North Amherst, Port Clinton, Vermilion, Lorain (Black
River), and several small stations. He remained in Elyria till his
death, November 16, 1880, although he had resigned his charge in
March of same year, owing to an apopleptic stroke, which disabled him
from doing any pastoral work. His remains rest at Elyria.
MoLONY, Rev. Edward R., was born in Rutland, Vt., July 84,
1854 ; was ordained for the diocese of Burlington, July 18, 1878. Was
in the diocese of Cleveland, as temporary assistant at Sts. Peter and
Paul's, Sandusky, from May to September, 1891, and at Grafton, as
temporary assistant at the Immaculate Conception church, until
February, 1892, when he was recalled to his native diocese.
MoNAHAN, Rev. James, was born in parish Tubbercurry, county
Sligo, Ireland, December 8, 1822. He was ordained in St. Mary's
church, on the "Flats," Cleveland, November 19, 1848 — the first priest
ordained by Bishop Rappe. Between December, 1848, and 1855, he
was stationed at the following places : Cleveland, St. Mary's on the
"Flats"; Holy Angels', Sandusky; Dungannon, with Summitville,
Wellsville and East Liverpool as missions ; Maumee ; Toledo, as assist-
ant at St. Francis' church ; assistant at St. Patrick's, Cleveland, when
BIOGRAPHIOAL NOTICES. £09
(1855) he left the diocese. In 1863, he was again received by Bishop
Rappe and, until 1880, had the following pastoral charges : Bellevue •
St. Bridget's, Cleveland; South Thompson; Alliance; assistant at St'
Francis', Toledo; assistant at Holy Rosary church, Cleveland. July
1880, Bishop Gilmour gave him charge of St. Stephen's congre-
^tion, Niles, where he remained till his death, September 6, 1884.
His remains are buried in St. John's Cemetery, Cleveland.*
Montgomery, Rev. Charles P. (Dominican), was ordained in
1830; had charge of missions in Columbiana and Stark counties
between 1837 and 1840. For many years he was pastor of Zanesville,
where, on Easter Monday, April 15, 1860, he was found dead in bed
at the pastoral residence. He was an excellent priest and much beloved
by his people.
MoRAN, Rev. James, was curate at St. Francis' church, Toledo,
for a few months in 1848 ; from September, 1848, to July, 1849, he held
a like position at Dungannon, whence he also attended Youngstown as
a station. No other record of him.
MouRET, Rev. Casimir, a native of France, was pastor of St.
Vincent's, Akron, October, 1847, to June, 1850, meanwhile attending
Lxjuisville, Harrisburg and New Berlin as missions. No other record
of him.
MuEHE, Rev. Michael (Sanguinist), born in Bavaria, July 5, 1865,
was ordained for the Sanguinists, March 17, 1889 ; had temporary
charge of St. Mary's, Tiffin, in the latter part of 1889, during the
absence of the pastor.
Mueller, Rev. Michael, was bom in Bavaria, February 21, 1833.
Came to the United States in 1863 ; made his studies for the ministry
with the Benedictines at St. Vincent's, Pa., and in St. Mary's Seminary,
Cleveland. He was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 25, 1865. His
first appointment was St. Mary's, Rockport, from July, 1865, to March,
1868. During this time he also attended St. Patrick's, Rockport, and
Independence as missions. In March, 1868, he was transferred to
Ottoville, from which place he attended for a time, as missions, Fort
Jennings, Kalida and Cloverdale. He built the present churches of
St. Mary's, Rockport, Kalida and Cloverdale. Under his direction
the present splendid church at Ottoville was also built ; it is one of the
finest and largest in the diocese. He died at Ottoville, January 27,
1900.
MuLCAHY, Rev. Michael (Basilian), was born in Cork, Ireland,
December 28, 1840; educated at St. Michael's College, Toronto;
ordained at Lyons, France, May 21, 1864 ; was in the diocese of Cleve-
land for one year (1867-68) as one of the professors of St. Louis'
College at Louisville; also attended Salem as a station and Leetonia as
a mission, from September, 1867, to July, 1868.
MuLLON, Rev. James Ignatius, a native of Ireland, studied for
the ministry at Mt. St. Mary's Seminary, Emmittsburg, Md., and was
•See Vol. I, pages 91 and 95.
510 BIOGRAPHIOAL NOTICES.
ordained by Bishop Fenwick in 1834. Shortly after his ordination
he attended the Catholic settlers in Wayne and Columbiana counties,
and repeatedly made pastoral visits to Canton, Tiffin and Fremont.
He was stationed at the Cathedral in Cincinnati for nearly ten years,
and while there he published the Catholic Telegraph (1831-34), of
which he was the first editor. He was a facile writer, a brilliant
scholar, and an eloquent preacher. He left Ohio in 1834 and went to
the diocese of New Orleans, where he died in September, 1866, aged
seventy-two years.
Myler, Rev. James P., was born in Cleveland, O., July 37, 1856.
He was educated for the priesthood at Cincinnati and Cleveland. Was
ordained by Bishop Gilmour, July 6, 1884. Between July, 1884, and
January, 1885, he had temporary charge of the following churches :
St. Augustine's, Cleveland; St. Stephen's, Niles; St. Mary's, Norwalk.
January 30, 1885, he was sent to Holy Name church, Cleveland, as
assistant. This last position he held till July, 1887, when he was
relieved from all duty, owing to consumption, to which he had fallen
a victim. He then retired to his home at Painesville, O., where he
died, August 31, 1887. He was a model priest, and a young man of
much promise.
Neubrand, Rev. Francis X. (Jesuit), was born in Wiirtemberg,
December 7, 1833; was ordained in Germany, August 10, 1857. Came
to the United States in 1864 ; joined the Jesuits in 1868, and was
engaged in giving missions in many dioceses in the Northwest, until
1890. He was then transferred to St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland,
where he belonged to a missionary band, until August, 1893, and again
from August, 1894, to August, 1895. He is now at St. Ann's church,
Buffalo.
Neumann, Rt. Rev. John Nepomucene (Redemptorist), was
born on Good Friday, March 38, 1811, at Prachatitz, Bohemia. His
parents were from Bavaria, but in 1803 had settled in Bohemia. He
made his studies at the seminaries of Budweis and Prague, where he
distinguished himself by his talent and piety. He came to the United
States in 1836, and was ordained in New York City by Bishop Dubois,
June 35, of same year. Remaining a secular priest until October, 1840,
he sought admission from the Redemptorists and was received by them
at Pittsburg as a novice. During the summer of the following year
he was sent to Peru, Huron county, O., as assistant to the Rev. F. X.
Tschenhens, also a Redemptorist. On his way thither he met Bishop
Purcell at Canton, who asked him to go to Randolph for a few weeks
and there reorganize the congregation that had been without spiritual
attendance since the destruction of their church, by fire, in 1838.
Father Neumann did as asked, and then resumed his journey to Peru,
where he remained about six months. March 88, 1853, he was conse-
crated Bishop of Philadelphia. He died suddenly in that city, January
5, 1860. He was distinguished for his great humility, piety, learning
and zeal. In May, 1886, a commission was appointed to inquire into
the life, character and works of Bishop Neumann, and to send to Rome
the testimony procured, with a view to having him eventually canon-
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 511
ized. It is the belief of all who came in contact with Bishop Neumann
during his life that he possessed the virtues and attributes of a saint.
This belief has been strengthened since his death by the many
miraculous cures which are said to have taken place at the tomb where
his remains lie, in St. Peter's church, Philadelphia.
Neumann, Rev. Maximilian (Franciscan), was born in Neustadt,
Silesia, July 7, 1846. He was educated for the Franciscans in
Germany ; was ordained for their Order, at Cologne, March 13, 1875.
Came to this country in September, 1875. Was superior of the Fran-
ciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from July, 1885, to August 6, 1888.
He was then appointed pastor of St. Peter's church, Chicago. Is now
stationed at San Francisco, Cal.
Neumann, Rev. Nicholas Lawrence, was a native of Boulogne,
France, where he was also educated for the ministry. He was ordained
at Metz and was engaged on the mission in France, till 1850, when he
came to America. In January, 1853, he was received into the diocese
of Cleveland by Bishop Rappe, who directed him to attend the Catholic
Germans of Cleveland. Left the diocese about April, 1852, and went
to Toronto ; later he returned to Europe, where he died.
Neumueller, Rev. Matthias (Jesuit), a native of Bavaria, was
born February 8, 1843 ; he was ordained for the Jesuits, September
4, 1874; came to the United States in February, 1898, after having
been on the missions in England, Holland, East India and Germany.
Was in the diocese of Cleveland, as chaplain, at St. Mary's, Toledo,
from August, 1898, to September, 1899, and as assistant at St. Mary's,
Cleveland, from August, 1893, to July, 1894. Is now stationed at the
Jesuit College in Prairie du Chien, Wis.
Neustich, Rev. John B. (Jesuit), a Westphalian, was born May
19, 1840 ; was ordained at Paderborn, March 31, 1865 ; became a Jesuit
in October, 1869 ; in the United States since August, 1876 ; was pastor
of St. Mary's, Cleveland, from June, 1886, to July, 1894. He was then
stationed at St. Ignatius' College until September, 1897, when he was
transferred to Prairie du Chien, Wis. He is now at Mankato, Minn.
Niemoeller, Rev. Eustace (Franciscan), was born in Westphalia,
April 9, 1837 ; in the United States since August, 1860 ; ordained at
Teutopolis, 111., for the Franciscans, December 4, 1868 ; at the Fran-
ciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from September, 1871, to August, 1880,
where he was chaplain and spiritual director of several religious com-
munities. He is now stationed at Chicago.
Nightingale, Rev. William L., of English birth, was received
into the diocese of Cleveland, July 1848, and for a few weeks assisted
at the Cathedral, then on the "Flats," Cleveland. He was then
appointed first resident pastor of St. Ann's, Fremont, where he re-
mained till he left the diocese, some time during the early part of 1850.
No other record of him.
Nigsch, Rev. Francis (Sanguinist), was born in Tyrol, Austria,
May 34, 1846 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Einsiedeln, Switzer-
512 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
land, and at Carthagena, O. Was ordained for the Sanguinists, Janu-
ary 25, 1872. He was stationed in the diocese of Cleveland, as pastor
of Glandorf, from October, 1881, to February, 1897. He was then
transferred by his Provincial to Fort Wayne, Ind., where he is now
pastor.
NoLTE, Rev. Jacob (Franciscan), a Westphalian, was bom August
8, 1851 ; came to the United States, July, 1875 ; ordained July 25, 1877;
in Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from 1878 to 1879. At present
he is stationed at San Francisco, Cal.
NoLTEj Rev. Paschalis (Franciscan), was bom in Germete, West-
phalia, Germany, June 12, 1845; educated at Franciscan Monastery,
Quincy, 111. ; ordained at St. Louis, for the Franciscans, June 5, 1881 ;
stationed at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chaplain, etc., from
July, 1882, to July, 1885, when he was transferred to Chicago, where
he died, July 28, 1900.
NoTHEis, Rev. Philemon (Sanguinist), a native of Ohio, was
bom at Berlin, Shelby county, November 15, 1867; was ordained for
the Sanguinists, at Carthagena, O., February 14, 1896 ; had pastoral
charge of Reed, Seneca county, from March, 1896, to September, 1900.
He is now pastor of St. Peter's, Mercer county, O.
NuNAN, Rev. F. X., a native of Ireland, was bom May 10, 1845 ;
made his studies at St. Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, and St. Sulpice,
Paris; was ordained for the diocese of San Francisco, in September,
1869 ; in October, 1875, came to the diocese of Cleveland, where he
had charge of the following places: Wakeman, Vermilion, Clyde,
Archbold, St. Mary's Corners and Wellsville. He was dismissed in
September, 1884.
O'Bairne, Rev. — (Dominican), stationed at St. John's, Canton,
in 1835. No other record of him.
O'Brien, Rev. Cornelius L., was bom in Clonwell, Ireland,
November 17, 1837 ; was ordained at Baltimore, June 29, 1865 ; was in
the diocese of Cleveland from August, 1888, to January, 1893, viz.,
at St. Augustine's, Cleveland, for a few weeks after his arrival in
the diocese ; Carey, with the mission of Crawfordsville, to January,
1890, and Salineville, to January, 1893, when he returned to the diocese
of Covington, for which he had been ordained.
O'Brien, Rev. Denis P., born in Ireland, July 8, 1859 ; ordained
June 17, 1883. Shortly after his ordination he came to the United
States and was received into the diocese of Kansas City, Mo., where
he remained from November, 1883, to January, 1884. Came to the
diocese of Cleveland in February, 1884, and was appointed resident
pastor of Warren with charge of Mantua and a number of stations.
From Warren he also attended Niles for several months. He was
transferred to Niles, September, 1884, and remained till April, 1888,
when he left the diocese of his own accord and went to Chicago, where
he is now engaged in pastoral work.
O'Callaghan, Rev. Cornelius J., was born in Ireland, March 10,
1832 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Cork, Ireland, and Fordham,
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BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 513
N. Y. ; was ordained for the diocese of Portland, October 30, 1860.
Bishop Rappe received him in 1869 and sent him as assistant to St
Francis , Toledo, where he remained till 1871, when he was appointed
assistant at the Cathedral, Cleveland. There he remained till 1874
when he returned to the diocese of Portland, where he died, July 2l',
1895.
O'CoNNELL, Rev. Timothy, a native of Michigan, was born June
14, 1868 ; was ordained at Milwaukee for the diocese of Grand Rapids
June 24, 1894. Was stationed at the Cathedral, Cleveland, as tem-
porary curate from January to June, 1900. He was then transferred
to Rootstown where he remained until the latter part of July, 1900,
when he was dismissed from the diocese.
O'Connor, Rev. John B., bom and educated in Ireland, was
ordained at Pittsburg about 1854. Bishop Rappe received him into
the diocese of Cleveland and appointed him assistant at the Cathedral,
May, 1857, where he remained till June, 1860, when he left the diocese.
No other record of him.
O'Connor, Rev. William, was born in county Limerick, Ireland,
March 30, 1837 ; made his theological studies at St. Mary's Seminary,
Cleveland, and was ordained by Bishop Rappe, November 31, 1851.
He had charge of Berea, Olmsted, Ravenna, Elyria, Grafton, Rock-
port, Liverpool and Medina till 1853, attending these places from
Cleveland. Between 1853 and 1855 he attended Youngstown, Wells-
ville and East Liverpool from Dungannon. From July, 1855, to July,
1858, he was stationed at St. Francis', Toledo, as curate. During this
time he also attended Sylvania and several stations. Youngstown was
his next appointment, as first resident pastor of St. Columba's, with
Briar Hill, Warren, Niles and New Bedford as missions, besides a
number of stations — ^July, 1858, to May, 1861, when he left the diocese
of Cleveland and joined the Redemptorists, with whom he remained
till his death at Boston, Mass., September 9, 1899. He was a saintly
and truly apostolic priest.
O'DwYER, Rev. Patrick, a native of Cashel, Ireland, was ordained
at Quebec in 1829. September, 1837, he came to Cleveland, as successor
to Rev. John Dillon, where he did pastoral duty till June, 1840, besides
attending a number of missions and stations in Lorain, Summit and
Portage counties. He commenced the frame church on the Flats, for
which his predecessor had collected about $1,100. He left in 1840 and
went to London, Canada ; later he was received into the diocese of
Chicago. He died at St. Charles, 111., August 30, 1871.
O'HiGGiNS, Rev. William, of Irish birth, was educated at May-
nooth ; ordained in British Guinea about 1853. Came to this country in
1857. After serving in various dioceses he came to Cleveland in 1871,
and was appointed professor at St. Mary's Seminary, where he remained
till his appointment as pastor of St. Augustine's, Cleveland, December,
1871, to June, 1872. After a few months at Charity Hospital as a
patient, in 1872, he left the diocese and returned to Ireland, where he
died in 1875.
514 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
O'Keefe, Rev. Daniel, was born near Cork, Ireland, in 1835 ; began
his studies in Cork, continued at St. Vincent's College, Westmoreland
county, Pa., and finished them in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where
he was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 25, 1865. He was appointed
first resident pastor of South Thompson, 1865-66, attending Jefiferson
as a mission. He was then sent to St. John's, Defiance, as assistant, with
charge of Antwerp, Mud Creek, Delaware Bend, and several smaller
missions. October, 1869, he was appointed pastor of Providence, where
he remained till January, 1871, when he was obliged to resign, owing
to ill health. He was lying sick in the pastoral residence at Perrysburg
for ten weeks, when he was removed to St. Vincent's Hospital, Toledo,
where he died June 16, 1871. His remains are buried in St. Francis'
Cemetery, Toledo. Father O'Keefe was a zealous, earnest priest, and
won the esteem of his parishioners wherever he was engaged in the
ministry.
O'Leary^ Rev. D. J. (Dominican), a native of Ireland, made his
ecclesiastical studies at the Minerva, Rome ; came to the United States
in 1821, and was ordained by Bishop Flaget, at St. Rose's, Kentucky,
in 1823. He attended Dungannon, Columbiana county, from Somerset,
O., in 1835. Died at the Dominican Convent, near Somerset, Perry
county, February 8, 1845, aged fifty-one.
O'Mara, Rev. Patrick H. (See biographical sketch, page 343.)
O'Mealy, Rev. Joseph, was born in Ireland, 1815. He was sta-
tioned at St. John's, Canton, as curate, for a few months in 1840. Later
he was superior of the diocesan seminary, in Brown county, Ohio
(at present the Ursuline Convent) ; was also, for a number of years,
at Portsmouth and Dayton. He died at Dayton in 1856. His grave is
in Calvary Cemetery, Dayton, Ohio.
O'Meara, Rev. J. (Dominican), attended St. John's, Canton, from
Somerset, O., about 1830, and was stationed there for a short time
in 1840. Left Ohio about 1841 and went to Illinois, where he died.
No other record of him.
O'Neill, Rev. Michael, was born in Ireland, June 24, 1830 ; made
his ecclesiastical studies at Cork and Castle Knock, Ireland, and in the
diocesan seminary of Cleveland. He was ordained by Bishop Rappe,
January 1, 1855, and remained at the Cathedral as assistant, with charge
of Berea, Hudson and Mantua as missions, till July, 1856. Then he
was appointed pastor of Wooster, remaining till July, 1861. While
pastor of Wooster he also attended Mansfield, Crestline and Bucyrus as
missions, besides several small stations. July, 1861, he was transferred
to St. Ann's, Fremont, where he remained till May, 1865, when he left
the diocese and went to Cincinnati. There he was appointed pastor of
Holy Angels' church. This charge he held till his death, April 24, 1885.
O'Reilly, Rev. James, was born in Rossdufif, county Longford,
Ireland, February 14, 1841 ; studied for the priesthood at New Orleans,
Niagara Falls, and in St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. He was
ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 24, 1866, and made assistant at the
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 516
Cathedral. In October, 1869, he was then appointed pastor of St.
Rose's, Lima. In January, 1871, he was recalled to Cleveland to take
charge of St. Columbkille's congregation, just then organized. He
remained till October, 1872, when he was given the pastorate of St.
Francis de Sales' church, Toledo, where he continued till his death,
September 30, 1885.1
O'SuLLiVAN, Rev. Michael, was born in Ireland (no record of date
or place) ; finished his studies for the ministry at St. Mary's Seminary,
Cleveland, and was ordained by Bishop Rappe, August — , 1853. His
first appointment was at St. Mary's, Tiffin, September, 1852, to Feb-
ruary, 1859, where, under great difficulties, he built the present church.^
From Tiffin he attended Findlay till 1859, and Lima from 1852 to 1855.
In February, 1859, he was received by Archbishop Purcell, who sent
him to Urbana. Five months later he was appointed pastor of Holy
Angels' church, Cincinnati. In 1860 he went to the diocese of Chicago,
and remained there till his death, as pastor of Amara, 111., July — ,
1865. His remains were interred in Calvary Cemetery, Chicago, July
28, 1865. Father O'Sullivan was a man of sterling qualities, firm but
kind in his dealings with those committed to his care. He was also an
excellent preacher. The writer will ever treasure most pleasant recol-
lections of this warm-hearted priest, whose parochial school he attended,
and one of whose altar boys he was for several years. Father O'SuUi-
van's greatest delight was to be with the children of his parish. To
them, as well as to the adults committed to his care, he was indeed a
spiritual father, a wise counselor and true friend.
Oberle, Rev. Francis Joseph, born in Bavaria, May 7, 1842, was
ordained for the Redemptorists, April 1, 1865. In 1874 he became a
secular priest. He was in the diocese of Cleveland from February,
1877, till March, 1881, and had charge of Shelby, whence he attended
Chicago Junction, Plymouth and Republic. After his dismissal from
the diocese he was admitted, some time after, by Bishop Gross, to the
Vicariate of North Carolina, where he was on the mission till 1883,
when he became an invalid of consumption, of which he died at Ellen-
ville, N. Y., March 16, 1885.
Obermueller, Rev. Francis Xavier, a native of Austria, was born
at Schwarzenberg, Tyrol, October 6, 1810. He came to this country
in July, 1844, and was ordained for the diocese of Milwaukee, June 11,
1846. Shortly after his ordination he expressed a desire to join the
Sanguinist Fathers, whose community in Tyrol he had learned to
esteem. His wish was granted by his Ordinary. He was therefore
received at New Riegel, Ohio, by the Very Rev. Provincial Brunner,
under whose direction he did pastoral duty in various places m the
diocese of Cleveland, viz. : New Riegel ; St. Joseph's, Tiffin ; Fostoria
and Liberty. Next he was assistant at Thompson, from 1848 to 1850,
when he left the Sanguinists and returned to the diocese of Milwaukee,
where he had pastoral charges till 1852. He then returned to his native
Tyrol, where he was pastor till October, 1856. In the following month
»See Vol. I, page 91. =See Vol. I, page 637.
516 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
he returned to America with Very Rev. Father Brunner, having been
receiyed again as a member of the Sanguinist society. In September,
1857, he was sent to Cleveland, as pastor of St. Mary of the Assump-
tion congregation, then occupying the old frame church on the "Flats."
This charge he retained till August, 1861. Meanwhile, Decem-
ber, 1860, he again left the Sanguinists and became a secular
priest. August, 1861, he was sent by Bishop Rappe to Norwalk as pas-
tor of St. Peter's, where he remained till he again left the diocese,
October, 1865. From Norwalk he attended Peru, Milan and Monroe-
ville. In October, 1865, he returned to the diocese of Milwaukee, hav-
ing been reclaimed by Bishop Henni, who sent him to Jefiferson, Wis.
In 1871, he became affiliated with the diocese of LaCrosse, on invitation
of its first bishop, the Rt. Rev. M. Heiss, whose intimate friend he was
for many years. As he was of advanced years and delicate health he
was unable to do pastoral duty. Bishop Heiss therefore gave him a
chaplaincy at La Crosse, where he remained till his death, June 13,
1886. He was always held in high esteem by his superiors, and by his
co-laborers on the missions, for his priestly virtues and worth. He was
a fine scholar, a saintly and self-sacrificing priest.
Orzechowski, Rev. M. F., a native of Poland, was born May 30,
1838; was educated for the priesthood in Poland and in France. He
was ordained for the diocese of Galveston, Texas, November 1, 1866.
In August, 1884, he was received by Bishop Gilmour and appointed
pastor of St. Anthony's congregation, Toledo. This position he held
till November, 1887, when he left the diocese. He was received again
in August, 1891, and appointed . temporary pastor of Sacred Heart
church, Cleveland, remaining till July, 1893.
OsTERRATH, Rev. Leo (Jesuit), was born in Magdeburg, Ger-
many, May 17, 1847. Studied with the Jesuits and was for them
ordained, in England, August 29, 1878. Was in the diocese of Cleve-
land as assistant at St. Mary's, Toledo, from September, 1896, to
September, 1897. Is now stationed at St. Ann's, Buffalo.
Paganini, Rev. Angelo, was bom, educated and ordained in Italy.
After having been on the mission in New Jersey and Maryland for some
years, he was received by Bishop Gilmour in May, 1873, and appointed
resident pastor of Warren. There he remained till May, 1875, when,
after a visit to his native country, he was sent to Hudson, February,
1876, remaining till May, 1877. Then he left the diocese and returned
to Italy. He died there of cholera, near Assisi, August — , 1884.
Paganini, Rev. Joseph, was received into the diocese of Cleveland,
in 1875, and appointed pastor of Warren. Remained but a few months.
No other record of him.
Pauly, Rev. Lawrence (Franciscan), a native of Germany, was
born June 19, 1851 ; in the United States since November, 1875 ; was
ordained at St. Louis, Mo., for the Franciscan Order, June 14, 1889.
Was stationed at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chaplain,
etc., from August, 1895, to August, 1899. He is now on the mission
in Minnesota.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 517
Peudeprat, Rev. Peter, was born, educated and ordained in the
diocese of Clermont, France. He came to Northern Ohio in 1845, and
was sent to Sandusky as assistant at Holy Angels' church; also
attended the missions of Fremont and Toussaint. January, 1846, he
was sent to Louisville, whence he attended Harrisburg as' a mission.
He remained at Louisville till April, 1850, when he went to reside at
St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, for a few months. In September,
1850, he assumed charge of Painesville, as first resident pastor. He left
Painesville and the diocese of Cleveland, in the summer of 1853, to join
his life-long friend, Bishop Lamy, in the hard missionary life of New
Mexico. On his way thither he fell a victim to cholera, at St. Louis,
Mo., where he died, July 20, 1852.
Pfeil, Rev. Aloysius (Jesuit), was born in Cleveland, April 18,
1862 ; was educated by and for the Jesuits at Buffalo, in Holland and
England. He was ordained in England, August 27, 1893. Was sta-
tioned at St. Ignatius' College, as professor, from August, 1895, to July,
1899. During part of this time (1895-97) he also attended the City
Workhouse, as chaplain. He is now rector of St. Canisius' Colleg-e,
Buffalo.
Philipi'ARt, Rev. Michael, a native of Luxemburg, was born
March 21, 1854; was educated for the priesthood in Luxemburg and
in the diocesan seminary, Cleveland. He was ordained at Cleveland
July 3, 1886. Had the following appointments in the diocese of Cleve-
land: Sandusky, St. Mary's, as assistant, from August, 1886, to Jan-
uary, 1888 ; Medina and missions, to September, 1889 ; Toledo, assistant
at St. Peter's, to June, 1890 ; Bowling Green, to January, 1892 ; Delphos,
as assistant, to December, 1899 ; and Harrisburg, to June, 1900, when
he was obliged to resign because of ill health. Died of tuberculosis at
Pueblo, Col., June 24, 1900.
PiLLiOD, Rev. Francis X. (Jesuit), a native of Ohio, was born
June 25, 1859 ; was ordained for the Jesuits, at Liverpool, England,
August 30, 1890 ; was stationed at St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland,
from August, 1892, to July, 1894. Is now stationed at Buffalo.
PoNCHEL, Rev. Narcissus, was bom at Hermelinghen, France,
September 19, 1825 ; completed his studies for the priesthood in St.
Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where he was ordained by Bishop Rappe,
January 1, 1851. Till March, 1851, he attended Avon from Cleveland,
and was then sent as assistant to St. Francis de Sales', Toledo, remain-
ing until 1854. During his stay at Toledo he also had charge of the
missions of Six Mile Woods, Providence, Toussaint and Maumee.
February, 1854, he was appointed pastor of Doylestown, and attended
Canal Fulton as a mission, till January, 1855. Then he accepted a
professorship at St. John's College, Cleveland, but remained only until
June, 1855. Bishop Rappe sent him to Norwalk, in the following month,
to take charge of St. Peter's congregation. In July, 1856, he organized,
in the same place, St. Mary's parish, whose first church was commenced
and nearly completed under his direction. He was pastor of St. Peter's,
and attended St. Mary's as a mission, till his death, September 15, 1860.
518 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
He was a learned man, and of priestly bearing. By his refined manners
and gentle ways he made friends of all who had dealings with him. In
June, 1900, his remains were taken from the vault beneath the sanctuary
in St. Mary's church, in which they had rested for 40 years, and were
interred in St. Mary's Cemetery, Norwalk. They were found in a
perfect state of preservation.
Port, Rev. Martin (Jesuit), a Bavarian, was born June 8, 1832;
ordained at Munich, September 10, 1855 ; came to this country in 1876 ;
was stationed at St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland, as "Missionary-at-
large" from July, 1893, to August, 1895. Was a second time in the
diocese from September, 1898, to September, 1899, as assistant at
St. Mary's, Toledo.
Praessar, Rev. Hugo (Jesuit), a native of Germany, was born
January 11, 1838 ; ordained August 27, 1863 ; in this country since Sep-
tember, 1868 : was assistant at St. Mary's, Toledo, from 1871 to 1873.
He left the Jesuits and became a secular priest.
Prendergast, Rev. Michael, was born, educated and ordained in
Ireland. He was received into the diocese of Cleveland in 1855, and
stationed at the Cathedral for a few months. His next appointment,
from 1856 to 1858, was Summitville, with East Liverpool, Alliance,
Leetonia, Niles, Youngstown and Warren as missions. He then left
the diocese and resided with the Sanguinists at Wapakoneta, O., from
which place he attended Lima for nearly six months, in 1861. In
October, 18C1, he afHliated with the diocese of St. Paul, Minn., where
he was pastor at Winona. He died about 1862.
Primeau, Rev. John B., a French Canadian, was born April 29,
1836 ; ordained at Montreal, October 21, 1860 ; was engaged as pastor
and professor in the diocese of Montreal, from 1860 till 1869, when he
went to the diocese of Springfield, Mass. He remained there till July,
1882, when Bishop Gilmour received him and gave him temporary
charge of Archbold and missions. In November, 1883, he left the dio-
cese and went to France. In September, 1884, he petitioned Bishop
Gilmour to again give him pastoral work. The Bishop yielded to his
pleading and sent him to St. Louis' church. East Toledo. In December,
1888, Father Primeau was removed from this charge and dismissed
from the diocese, but he refused to leave. As a result his disobedience
gave rise to a law suit and grave scandal, the particulars of which the
reader will find in the first volume of this work, pages 157-161. Father
Primeau left the diocese in October, 1892. Died at Montserrat, West
India, June 3, 1899.
Prost, Very Rev. Joseph (Redemptorist), was born in Austria,
in January, 1804 ; ordained July 16, 1832 ; came to the United States in
1834 ; attended Peru, Huron county, between 1835 and 1839 ; was Pro-
vincial of the Redemptorists in the United States between 1840 and
1843 ; returned to Europe ; died at Tuchheim, Austria, March 19, 1885.
PuETZ, Rev. John Martin, was born in the town of Gillenbeuren,
Rhenish Prussia, September 11, 1836. Ten years later he came to this
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 519
country with his parents, who settled in Lorain county, O. After com-
pleting the prescribed course of studies at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleve-
land, he was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 28, 1863. He held the
following pastoral charges : Providence and Napoleon, from July,
1863, to October, 1864 ; Monroeville, to May, 1865 ; Tiffin, St. Joseph's,
till his death, January 21, 1897. The present church at Monroeville,
and the school and rectory at St. Joseph's, Tiffin, were built under his
direction. In the Synod of January, 1889, he was made an irremov-
able rector, a distinction he well merited. Father Piitz had been ill for
some years prior to his death. Hoping to find relief, if not a cure, he
went to Los Angeles, Cal., a noted health resort, where, however, he
received the final call a few days after his arrival. He was a zealous
and earnest priest, always devoted to the work and people committed to
his pastoral charge.
PuGH, Rev. William, a native of Ireland, was stationed at St.
Columba's, Youngstown, from September, 1863, to July, 1864, when he
left the diocese. From Youngstown he also attended for a short time
the convent at Villa Maria, Pa. No other record of him.
QuiGLEY, Rev. Patrick F., D.D., was born in Ireland, February 26,
1846 ; after completing the prescribed college and seminary courses in
Cleveland, he was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 19, 1869. He then
went to Rome, where, after three years' study, he was given the doctor-
ate in theology. On his return to Cleveland, in December, 1872, he was
appointed resident pastor of St. Mary's, Rockport. He was professor
at St. Mary's Seminary, from September, 1873, until November, 1885.
Meanwhile he also attended the following places as missions : Royal-
ton, Parma and Brighton. He was pastor of St. Francis de Sales'
church, Toledo, from November, 1885, until his removal by Bishop
Gilmour, March 19, 1889. Dr. Quigley appealed to Rome, in person,
against the Bishop. He was reinstated in December following, and
remained till his death, August 31, 1895. (See Vol. I, pp. 155, 156, of
this work.)
QuiNN, Rev. Bernard A., was born in Ireland in 1840. He made
his studies for the ministry, in part, at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland,
and was ordained by Bishop Rappe, July 3, 1865. He was pastor of
Upper Sandusky from July to October, 1865. His next appomtment
was St. Joseph's, Maumee, where he remained till July, 1866. He was
a professor at the Louisville college, from September, 1866, to June,
1867 ; then he left the diocese.
QuiNN Rev. Edmund, a native of Ireland, made his ecclesiastical
studies at Bardstown, Ky., and was ordained at Cincinnati by Bishop
Fenwick, January 1, 1831. He was the first resident pastor of bt.
Mary's Tiffin, receiving his appointment in May, 1831, after having
done pastoral duty in Cincinnati. He organized St. Mary s congrega-
tion Tiffin, and built its first church. From Tiffin he attended Maumee,
Fremont, and the Catholic settlers along and near the Miami canal, from
Providence, Lucas countv, O., to St. Mary's, Auglaize county, U., at
520 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
which latter place he died, September 5, 1835, a victim of the "Maumee
fever." He was a most zealous, self-sacrificing priest.
QuiNN^ Rev. John, was born at Kanturk, county Cork, Ireland,
December 1, 1824. He came to this country in 1852, and two years
later entered St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where he made his theo-
logical studies. June 13, 1858, he was ordained by Bishop Rappe, who
sent him to Toledo, as assistant at St. Francis de Sales' church. There
he remained till December, 1860, when he was appointed pastor of St.
Mary's, Norwalk. He held this charge till April, 1864, besides attend-
ing the mission of Wakeman about one year. April, 1864, he was
appointed superior of the diocesan seminary, and one of its professors,
and remained till July, 1866, when his impaired health obliged him to
resign. In 1867 he was appointed pastor of St. Ann's, Fremont. This
charge he held till August, 1868, when he was transferred to the pas-
torate of the Immaculate Conception congregation, Toledo. In May,
1878, he was removed to St. Mary's, Wakeman, where he remained till
illness obliged him to cease all pastoral work, January, 1885. He
lingered in sickness at St. Vincent's Hospital, Toledo, until his death,
March 26, 1887.
QuiNN, Rev. WilHam, D.D., a native of Ireland, was born in Lim-
erick, October 14, 1839. For nine years he was a student at the Propa-
ganda, Rome, and was there ordained for the diocese of Dublin. He
came from Cincinnati to Cleveland in September, 1873, and was
appointed one of the professors at the seminary, but remained only till
the following March. He died at Valetta, Isle of Malta, November
25, 1885. He was an able professor, a fine classical scholar and an
eloquent preacher.
Rafferty, Rev. Hugh, was born in Ireland December 17, 1859 ;
was ordained June 24, 1884; was stationed at the Cathedral in Qeve-
land, as a curate, from June to August, 1893, when he left the diocese.
Rauh, Rev. Ignatius (Sanguinist), a native of Ohio, was born
October 15, 1863 ; trained for the ministry at the Sanguinist Seminary
at Carthagena, O., where also he was ordained June 21, 1891. Was
pastor of St. Stephen's, Seneca county, O., from January, 1894, to Sep-
tember, 1897. Is now at Sedalia, Mo.
Reagan, Rev. Edward, was born in Ashland, Pa., September 29,
1865 ; was ordained at Philadelphia, August 24, 1893, by Bishop Horst-
mann, for the diocese of Monterey, Cal. ; was in the diocese of Cleveland
as pastor of East Palestine from January to December, 1899. Then he
went to Arizona for the benefit of his health which had been greatly
impaired for a number of years. He returned to East Palestine in the
latter part of March and died there April 12, 1900. He was an excel-
lent priest.
Reichert, Rev. Augustine (Sanguinist), was born in Baden, Feb-
ruary 20, 1831 ; came to America in 1834 ; was ordained at New Riegel
for the Sanguinists, by Bishop Rappe, Novernber 21, 1853 ; was
stationed at Thompson; twice at Glandorf; and New Riegel. May,
1874, he was sent by his superior to Kansas, where for fifteen years he
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 621
did pastoral duty, amid hardships and privations such as few would
care to endure. He died at St. Joseph's Hospital, Kansas City, Mo.,
February 13, 1889. He was one of his Master's faithful servants.
Reinhardt, Rev. Joseph, born in Bavaria, about 1842, was
ordained for the diocese of Cleveland by Bishop Rappe, January aS,
1865. New Bavaria (Poplar Ridge) was his first appointment, May,
1865, to May, 1867. For a few months he also attended Perrysburg
as a mission. His next charge was Upper Sandusky, with Bucyrus and
Kirby as missions. On the morning of February 23, 1868, he intended
to go to Bucyrus to meet Bishop Rappe, who was to give confirmation
there on that day. Having missed the passenger train, he attempted to
board a freight train and so reach Bucyrus in time for the ceremony,
although told by the trainmen that they could not take him. Shortly
after the freight train left Upper Sandusky his mangled remains
were found near the railway station. His untimely and sad ending cast
a gloom over the entire community of Upper Sandusky, where he was
highly esteemed by all classes for his amiable qualities.
Revis, Rev. Wenceslas, a Bohemian, was born in 1822 ; ordained in
1846 ; came to America in 1852, and was on the mission in the dioceses
of Philadelphia, Alton and Nashville. In January, 1870, he was given
charge of St. Wenceslas' (Bohemian) congregation, Cleveland;
remained till March, 1873, when he was received into the diocese of
Chicago. There he remained till death, at Feehanville, June 19, 1886.
Father Revis was a zealous priest and an eloquent preacher.
Rheindorff, Rev. Romuald (Franciscan), a native of Cologne,
was bom July 22, 1856 ; educated by the Franciscans, and was ordained
for them at St. Louis, May 12, 1883. He was stationed at St. Joseph's
church, Cleveland, as assistant, from August, 1885, to October, 1887,
and again from July, 1889, to July, 1890. He is now stationed at
Chaska, Minn.
Richard, Rev. Charles H. (Jesuit), was born in Hanover, Ger-
many, May 8, 1834; ordained August 25, 1866; came to America,
October, 1866 ; was stationed at St. Mary's, Toledo, as assistant, from
1869 to 1872.
RiNGELE, Rev. Jacob (Sanguinist), was born in 1806, at Dottingen,
Switzerland ; ordained December 21, 1843 ; came to the United States
in December, 1843. He was engaged on the mission in Northern Ohio
and diocese of Cleveland between 1845 and 1865, and from 1870 till his
death, at Bismarck, Huron county, December 15, 1871. Among his
charges were Peru, French Creek, St. Stephen's (Seneca county),
Cleveland, Dungannon, Defiance, Shelby Settlement, Thompson and
New Riegel, in all of which places he did faithful missionary work.
RiST, Rev. Philip (Sanguinist), a native of Germany, was born
May 9, 1843 ; ordained for the Sanguinists, at Carthagena, O., June 7,
1866. Had pastoral charge of the following places in the diocese of
Cleveland : Big Spring, from July, 1866, to July, 1867 ; St. Patrick s
Settlement, Crawfordsville and McCutchenville, to July, 1869 ; Liberty,
as a mission, from July, 1868, to September, 1873 ; Reed, from Septem-
522 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
ber, 1873, to February, 1874 ; St. Stephen's, Seneca county, as resident
pastor, from February, 1874, to January, 1894, when he left the diocese;
he is now stationed at Cassella, Mercer county, O.
RiVA, Rev. Peter, a native of Italy, was born July 23, 1864;
ordained in Italy, October 17, 1892 ; was temporary pastor of Holy
Rosary church, Cleveland, from October, 1893, to February, 1894.
RocKLifT^ Rev. James A. (Jesuit), was born in England, October
4, 1862 ; was educated in Europe for the Jesuits, and for them ordained
at Liverpool, December 18, 1887. He came to the United States in
August, 1890, and was stationed at St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland, as
professor, until August, 1893, and again from July, 1894, to March,
1895. He was vice-president of the same college until December, 1896,
when he was transferred to Buffalo, as rector of St. Canisius' College.
In July, 1898, he was appointed superior of the German Province of
Jesuits in this country, which position he has held since then.
RoEDiGER, Rev. Edmund (Franciscan), was born at Eichfeld,
Prussia, in 1857 ; ordained for the Franciscans, at Teutopolis, 111., May
28, 1882 ; in Cleveland Monastery as chaplain, etc., from July, 1883, to
April, 1884. Is at present stationed at Chicago.
RoESSNERj Rev. Clement (Sanguinist), was born in St. Peter's,
Mercer county, O., September 20, 1849 ; educated by and for the San-
guinists at Carthagena, O. ; ordained January 20, 1876 ; was in the
diocese of Cleveland as pastor of Ottawa, 1876-78 ; then pastor of New
Riegel, from July, 1878, to August, 1880. He died at Nashville, Tenn.,
October 1, 1887.
RoETHER, Rev. William (Jesuit), a native of Germany, was bom
January 1, 1837 ; was educated by the Jesuits, for whom he was ordained
at Maria Laach, September 13, 1858 ; came to this country in October,
1872 ; was stationed at St. Mary's, Toledo, as assistant, from Septem-
ber, 1890, to August, 1892. Died at St. Ann's, Buffalo, December 3,
1892.
RoETZER, Rev. John M., was born in Bavaria about 1834. He
came to Cleveland in 1856 and was received as a student for the diocese
of Cleveland ; was ordained June 26, 1859. He was professor at the
seminary for two months after his ordination ; then pastor of Findlay,
from Novernber, 1859, till March, 1862, meanwhile attending Fostoria
and Bluffton as missions. He next had charge of French Creek, as
resident pastor, from March to September, 1862, during that time also
attending Avon and Sheffield. He then left the diocese and died a
few years after in Michigan. No record of date and place of death.
Rohan, Rev. Edmund, was born in Kerry county, Ireland, January
8, 1854; completed his studies for the priesthood at St. Mary's Sem-
inary, Cleveland, where he was received in September, 1880. July 9,
1885, he was ordained for the diocese of Cleveland by Bishop de Goes-
briand, during the absence of Bishop Gilmour, then in Rome. August,
1885, he was appointed pastor of South Thompson, with charge of
Madison as a mission. April, 1886, he was transferred to Van Wert,
from which place he attended Convoy and Spencerville. January, 1888,
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 523
he was sent to the Holy Name church, Cleveland, as assistant; there
he remained about one month, when, owing to ill health, he performed
no priestly duties till the latter part of March of same year. He was
then sent to Dungannon, with charge of New Lisbon as a mission. This
position he held till his death, February 19, 1889.
RoLLiNET, Rev. August J., was born in 1796, at Long-Sancey,
France ; studied for the ministry in Provence ; was ordained about 1830,
and after doing pastoral work in his native diocese (Besancon) he came
to America in 1848. Remaining a few months in Canada, he came to
Ohio and was appointed first resident pastor of Calmoutier, Holmes
county, then under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Cleveland. This
charge he held till 1851. He then joined the Society of Mary at Day-
ton, which he left about two years later. He had temporary charge of
the congregation at Louisville, Stark county, June, 1854, till June, 1856.
Was then again pastor of Calmoutier, where he died suddenly, January
1, 1859. Father Rollinet was a most zealous priest, and enjoyed the
esteem of all who knew him.
Roos, Rev. John, a native of Bavaria, was born in 1838, at Dirm-
stein; came to the United States in 1850. After finishing his studies
at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, he was ordained by Bishop Rappe,
June 1, 1856. He was sent to St. Ann's, Fremont, shortly after his
ordination. During his pastorate the Qerman members of St. Ann's
organized a separate congregation, known as St. Joseph's. From Fre-
mont he attended Clyde and several other missions in Sandusky county.
In May, 1857, he was sent to St. John's, Canton, where he remained till
the following December, when he apostatized and became a member
and minister of the Episcopal sect. Is now and has been for many
years a resident minister of an Episcopal congregation in Baltimore,
and is known as Rev. Rose.
RosENBAUM, Rev. Balthasar (Jesuit), was born in Rhenish Prussia,
October 5, 1847 ; was ordained in Liverpool, England, August 31, 1877 ;
was on the mission in England till September, 1885, when he was sent
by his superior to St. Mary's, Toledo, as assistant, remaining till August,
1886. Is now on the mission in Germany.
Roth, Rev. Francis Xavier, a native of Alsace, attended Avon
between 1845 and 1847. He was next stationed at the Cathedral, from
November, 1847, to February, 1848, when he left the diocese of Cleve-
land. In 1854 he was in the diocese of Detroit, where he died.
RoucHY, Rev. James, a native of France, was born September 22,
1828. He was ordained in his native diocese of St. Flour, May 21,
1853, and received in the diocese of Cleveland, November, 1862. He
had the following pastorates in the diocese : Toledo, pastor of the Catho-
lic French, and chaplain of the Ursulines and St. Vincent's Asylum;
Harrisburg; Vermilion; St. Louis' church, Toledo; chaplam of the
Ursulines at Tiffin ; Canal Fulton, as assistant ; Big Ditch, from Janu-
ary 1892 till March, 1896. He then resigned, owing to sickness, and
went to St. Vincent's Hospital, Toledo, where he died February 26,
1898.
524 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Roupp, Rev. Nicholas, was born in Puttelange, Lorraine, April 25,
1825 ; made his ecclesiastical studies in the seminaries of Metz and
Cleveland. Was ordained by Bishop Rappe, August 15, 1849. Shelby
Settlement was his first appointment, August, 1849, to February, 1851.
He was then called to the Cathedral, Cleveland, to attend the Catholic
Germans, remaining till June, 1853, when he was appointed pastor of
St. Peter's, Norwalk. This charge he held till September, 1854, when
he was sent to Maumee, where he remained till June, 1858. He was
appointed pastor of St. Mary's, Massillon, December, 1858, after a six
months' visit to his native country. From Massillon he was transferred
to St. Mary's, Sandusky, November, 1863, and remained till he left the
diocese, June, 1864 ; returned to the diocese of Metz, where he is still
engaged in the ministry.
Rudolf, Rev. George P., was born in Switzerland, September 13,
1843. After completing his studies in the seminary at Cleveland, he
was ordained by Bishop Rappe, May 16, 1868. He had the following
pastoral appointments in the diocese of Cleveland : Defiance, St. John's ;
Port Clinton ; Liverpool ; Milan ; Clyde ; Findlay, from March, 1879, to
March, 1881, when he was suspended. He then left the ministry, and
for some time delivered lectures against the Church.
Ruff, Rev. Engelbert (Sanguinist), was born in St. Maergen,
Baden, October 5, 1817 ; came to this country in 1845 ; was ordained at
Thompson, Seneca county, for the Sanguinists, by Bishop Rappe, Feb-
ruary 23, 1848. He labored on the mission in the diocese of Cleveland
in the following places : New Riegel, Thompson and neighboring
missions, till 1867, when he was sent by his superior to missions in other
dioceses.
Russ, Rev. Bernard (Sanguinist), was born in Minster, O., Decem-
ber 25, 1851 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at St. Charles' Seminary,
Carthagena, O. ; was ordained at Cincinnati, for the Sanguinists, May
17, 1879 ; was assistant at Glandorf, Putnam county, O., from May,
1879, to November, 1880. He was then sent on the mission in Kansas.
In February, 1897, he returned to this diocese, and was appointed pastor
of Ottawa. Ill health obliged him to resign this charge in April, 1900.
Died at Banning, Cal., July 17, 1900. He was an excellent priest.
Russ, Rev. Boniface (Sanguinist), was born in Minster, Auglaize
county, O., November 12, 1855 ; trained by the Sanguinists for the
priesthood, at Carthagena, O., and ordained for them at Cincinnati, O.,
September 19, 1878. He was stationed in this diocese from August,
1880, to May, 1892, viz., at New Riegel, as pastor, to April, 1891 ; was
then transferred to Thompson, where he held a like position until March,
1892. In August, 1898, he was elected Provincial of the Sanguinists in
this country, and has filled that office since then.
Ryan, Rev. Edmund F., a native of Ireland, was born August 24,
1856. He was educated for the priesthood at Thurles, Ireland, and
Versailles, France, and ordained at Belfast, October 28, 1875. After
doing pastoral work in his native country till 1884, he came to the
LTnited States. Four years later he was received into the diocese of
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 526
Cleveland, and appointed curate at St. Malachy's church, Cleveland,
July, 1888. He left the diocese in August, 1889.
Saendeul, Rev. Simon (Redemptorist), was born at Malgersdorf,
Bavaria, September 30, 1800 ; ordained June 2, 1825 ; came to the United
States, March, 1832; was stationed at Peru, Huron county, 1835-37,
and occasionally attended New Riegel during this time. Left the
Redemptorists in 1847, and joined the Trappists at Gethsemani, Ky.,
where he died February 22, 1879.
Salaun, Rev. John F., was born in France, November 18, 1818 ;
was ordained in the same country June 10, 1843. Came to the diocese
of Cleveland in December, 1855, and shortly after his arrival he was
appointed rector of St. Mary's Seminary. This position he filled with
distinction till August, 1864, when he left the diocese. Whilst superior
of Cleveland seminary he had charge of the following missions:
Hudson, Euclid and Newburgh (Cleveland). For many years he did
pastoral duty at South Orange, diocese of Newark, N. J., where he died
a few years ago.
Sanner, Rev. Sebastian, was born, educated and ordained in Ger-
many. He was received into the diocese of Cincinnati by Bishop Pur-
cell, in 1846, and sent to Calmoutier, Holmes county. In 1848 Bishop
Rappe appointed him assistant at St. Francis de Sales' church, Toledo,
to attend the Catholic Germans residing there. In 1850 he was given
the pastorate of St. Joseph's, Maumee, from which place he attended
New Bavaria, Six Mile Woods, Defiance and Providence. He remained
at Maumee till he left the diocese in 1852.
Scanlon^ Rev. Matthew A., was born in Huntington, Pa., January
13, 1830. After having served his apprenticeship as a printer he com-
menced his studies for the priesthood at St. Vincent's College, near
Beatty, Pa., and completed them at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland,
where he was ordained by Bishop Rappe, June 26, 1859. He had the
following pastorates in the diocese: St. Vincent's, Akron, from July,
1859, to November, 1873 ; Niles, to July, 1880 ; Holy Family (now St.
Edward's), Cleveland, till his death, February 22, 1899.*
ScHALK, Rev. Frederick (Sanguinist), was bom in New Riegel,
O., March 2, 1850 ; educated by the Sanguinists at Carthagena, O., and
was ordained for them January 17, 1873. He was pastor of Ottawa
from February, 1873, to February, 1876. Is at present stationed in
Chicago.
ScHEDLER, Rev. Caspar (Sanguinist), was born in Bavaria, May
6, 1842 ; came to the United States in 1866, and was ordained for the
Sanguinists, November 21, 1868. Was in the diocese of Cleveland as
assistant at New Riegel from August, 1869, to September, 1870, and
during that time also attended Big Spring. Is now stationed at St.
Rose's, Mercer county, O., in the diocese of Cincinnati.
ScHELBERT, Rev. Aloysius (Sanguinist), a native of Switzerland,
was born October 12, 1813 ; ordained July 28, 1850, and came to this
country October of the same year. He was in the diocese of Cleveland
*See Vol. I, page 152.
526 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
between October, 1853, and November, 1864, viz. : at Glandorf till
November, 1858, and at New Riegel till 1864. In July, 1876, he
returned to Europe ( Schellenberg, Austria), remaining there as local
superior of the Sanguinist convent till his death, April 10, 1878.
ScHERER, Rev. Peter D., a Swiss, was born June 29, 1840 ; made
his studies for the ministry in his native town of Liesberg, and at Mt.
Calvary, Wis., with the Capuchins for whose Order he was ordained
July 25, 1863. As a Capuchin he held- various positions from 1863 to
1886. In December, 1887, he became a secular priest, and was received
by Bishop Gilmour, who appointed him resident pastor of Independence,
with charge of Brighton as a mission. He remained till June, 1888,
when he returned to Switzerland.
ScHiLL, Rev. Kilian (Sanguinist), was born in Baden, July 8,
1854 ; was educated at St. Charles' Seminary, Carthagena, O., and there
ordained for the Sanguinists, June 8, 1882 ; was assistant at Glandorf,
from September, 1882, to July, 1885. Is now stationed at Collegeville,
Ind.
ScHiRACK^ Rev. Peter W. (Sanguinist), was born in New Cory-
don, Ind., February 22, 1859 ; was ordained at Carthagena, O., for the
Sanguinists, September 8, 1887 ; had temporary charge of St. Bernard's,
Akron, from March to August, 1890, and of Bellevue, from Septem-
ber 1 to the latter part of October of the same year.
ScHLOESSERj Rev. Kilian (Franciscan), was born in Cologne,
Rhenish Prussia, May 9, 1826 ; ordained March 11, 1857 ; in the United
States since 1860. Was superior of Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland,
from 1871 to 1879, and pastor of St. Joseph's, same city, from 1871 to
July, 1885. During his pastorate in Cleveland the, present church of
St. Joseph's congregation was built. He is now stationed at Santa
Barbara, Cal.
ScHMiD, Rev. Anselm (Sanguinist), a native of Bavaria, was born
February 23, 1864 ; was ordained for the Sanguinists, January 16, 1887 ;
was assistant at Glandorf from August, 1889, to August, 1900.
Schmidt, Rev. (Sanguinist) ; at Thompson from 1856 to
1857. No other record of him.
Schmidt, Rev. Benedict (Franciscan), a native of Silesia, was
born September 15, 1857; was ordained at St. Louis, Mo., for the
Franciscans, May 22, 1884 ; was stationed at the Franciscan Monastery,
Cleveland, as professor of Scholastics, from August, 1893, to August,
1896. Is now at St. Louis, Mo.
ScHMiTT, Rev. Matthias (Jesuit), a native of Germany, was bom
November 26, 1862 ; was stationed as professor at St. Ignatius' College,
Cleveland, from September, 1898, till April, 1900. He is now at Rose-
bud, S. D., where he has charge of the Indian schools. No other record
of him..
ScHMiTZ, Rev. Meinolph (Franciscan), was born in Cologne,
February 18, 1840; came to America, December, 1867; ordained Feb-
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 527
ruary 7, 1868 ; was at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chaplain,
etc., from 1875 to 1879; he was also superior of Franciscan College,
same city. Became a secular priest in the diocese of Jamestown, N. D.,
and died there in 1893. ^'^—*7'y'
Schneider, Rev. Thomas (Franciscan), was born December 31,
1860, in Silesia; in the United States since October, 1869; ordained
June 18, 1878 ; was attached to the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland,
from July, 1881, to July, 1885, during which time he also attended
Parma and Independence. He became a secular priest and was sta-
tioned in the diocese of Grand Rapids, where he died in 1893.
ScHNiTZLER, Rev. Peter (Jesuit), was born in Sigmaringen,
Prussia, June 29, 1837 ; was ordained at Maria Laach, for the Jesuits,
September 13, 1868; came to the United States in September, 1870;
was stationed at St. Ignatius' College, as a member of the Jesuit Mis-
sionary Band, from October, 1889, to August, 1893, when he was
appointed pastor of St. Mary's, Toledo. There he remained till his
death, March 19, 1900. He was a tireless worker for God's cause,
a whole-souled man, kind, gentle and sincere. He was especially beloved
by the children of his parochial school, whose temporal and spiritual
welfare he had always at heart.
ScHOCH, Rev. Theobald (Sanguinist), born at St. Peter's, Mercer
county, O., July 34, 1848 ; was educated for and by the Sanguinists, at
Garthagena, O. ; ordained January 18, 1873. He was stationed at New
Riegel from February, 1873, to September, 1875, with charge of
Big Spring and Crawfordsville. He then went to Europe (Schellen-
berg, Austria), where he died, November 19, 1889.
ScHORB, Rev. Basil, was bom in 1810, in Adams county, Pa. ;
ordained by Bishop Purcell at Cincinnati, May 20, 1837. Shortly after
his ordination he was sent to Chippewa, near Doylestown, Wayne
county, from which place he attended Canal Fulton ; St. John's, Canton ;
St. Mary's, Massillon; Peru, Liverpool, Randolph and Wooster. In
the fall of 1843 he left Ohio and returned to Pennsylvania, where he
died as pastor of York, April 4, 1871.
ScHUETZ, Rev. Benignus (Franciscan), was born in Germany,
February 19, 1852; ordained at St. Louis, Mo., for the Franciscan
Order, June 18, 1878. He was pastor of St. Joseph's, Cleveland, from
August, 1897, to September, 1900. Is now stationed at Chicago, 111.
ScHWEiGER, Rev. Andrew J. M., was stationed in Cleveland from
October, 1852, till some time in 1853, to minister to the spiritual wants
of the Catholic Germans. No other record of him.
Schweitzer, Rev. Clement (Sanguinist), was born in Baden,
Germany, in 1810 ; ordained by Bishop Rappe for the Sanguinists in
April, 1849 ; was stationed at Thompson, Seneca county, from 1849 till
his death, April 23, 1850. During the cholera scourge at Sandusky, in
1849, he did splendid service in behalf of its many victims. His subse-
quent and fatal illness was brought about in consequence.
528 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
ScHWiCKj Rev. Joseph, a native of Cologne, was born December
24, 1833 ; v^fas educated by the Jesuits, in Germany, and was ordained
for them, September 26, 1866 ; was stationed at St. Mary's, Toledo, as
assistant, from November, 1877, to 1878. He then left the Jesuits,
became a secular priest, and did pastoral duty in the diocese of Grand
Rapids. He was received into the diocese of Cleveland, and was
appointed pastor of Landeck, in January, 1893. He left there in
September, 1894, because of illness, and returned to Europe. He was
again received into the diocese by Bishop Horstmann, in July, 1895, and
appointed pastor of Brighton, where he remained till June, 1896. He
was then made chaplain of the Notre Dame Convent on Woodland
Hills, Cleveland, but was obliged to resign on account of ill health. He
left the diocese, and died at Cincinnati, June 1, 1899.
Seeberger, Rev. Cosmas (Sanguinist), was born near Feldkirch,
Austria, March 4, 1840 ; in the United States since January, 1866 ;
ordained for the Sanguinists June 30, 1874; assistant at New Riegel
and pastor of Big Spring from October, 1875, to December, 1876.
Settele, Rev. Charles, a native of Baden, was born September 6,
1835; was educated at Freiburg, Baden, where he was also ordained
August 6, 1867. He was received in the diocese of Cleveland in April,
1893, and appointed pastor of Liverpool in the following June. Four
years later he was given the pastorate of Sheffield, but owing to ill
health he was obliged to resign in September, 1897. He died at Shef-
field, March 19, 1898. He was a zealous priest, and beloved by his
parishioners.
Sheridan, Rev. John, was born in Ireland, August 15, 1818 ; w&s
ordained in New York City, August 15, 1844. In August, 1873, he was
received by Bishop Gilmour and appointed curate of St. Patrick's,
Cleveland. He remained there till February, 1890, when he was ap-
pointed chaplain of the Sisters of Charity. This position he held until
four weeks before his death. He died at Charity Hospital, August 14,
1892.
Shunk, Rev. Dominic (Sanguinist), was born at Canal Fulton,
O., November 26, 1855. Was educated at Carthagena, O., and
ordained for the Sanguinists, June 10, 1881 ; was in the diocese of Cleve-
land from July to December, 1899, viz. : At New Riegel as chaplain ;
at Fostoria, and East Palestine, as temporary pastor.
Sidley, Rev. Alexander R., was born in South Thompson, Geauga
county, O., August 19, 1843 ; was trained for the sacre^ ministry at
St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland; was ordained by Bishop Rappe
June 25, 1865. He had the following pastorates in the diocese : Niles,
from July, 1865, to January, 1868; Immaculate Conception church,
Grafton, to December, 1870 ; St. Rose's, Lima, to June, 1876 ; Immacu-
late Conception church, Cleveland, till his death, October 14, 1893. In
the parish sketches of the places in which Father Sidley served as pas-
tor the reader will find an account of his successful labors in the sacred
ministry.
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BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 529
SiGG, Rev, Aloysius (Jesuit), a native of Wiirtemberg, Germany,
Wfas born December 4, 1839 ; ordained November 5, 1865. Until 1874
he was engaged in various positions, the last two years as secretary to
Bishop Heiss, at La Crosse, Wis. He then went to Holland and became
a Jesuit. In 1880 he was sent back to this country. Five years later he
was appointed pastor of St. Mary's, Toledo, which position he held till
January, 1890. At Toledo he was superior of the Jesuit Fathers for
four years. Is now at Mankato, Minn.
Simeon, Rev. Nicholas (Jesuit), a Swiss, was born at Lenz,
November 28, 1834. Was ordained at Maria Laach, for the Jesuits,
August 29, 1865. He was stationed at St. Ignatius' College, Cleveland,
from September, 1889, to February, 1890, engaged giving missions and
retreats. He is now at Buffalo, N. Y.
Slowikowski, Rev. Emanuel J., a native of Poland, was born
May 16, 1823 ; ordained at Cracow, Poland, December 26, 1849 ; was in
the diocese of Cleveland, as pastor of St. Anthony's, Toledo, from
November, 1887, to March, 1889; at St. Adalbert's, Berea, to May,
1890, and for a short time at St. Stanislas' church, Cleveland — to
August, 1890, when he returned to his native diocese in Poland.
Smith, Rev. William J., was born in Ottawa, Canada, May 6,
1859 ; completed his studies for the ministry at Baltimore ; was ordained
at Brooklyn, N. Y., for the Fathers of Mercy, September 23, 1883. In
July, 1888, he was received by Bishop Gilmour and appointed curate at
the Cathedral. In September, 1888, he was given pastoral charge of
Elmore and missions. In December, 1888, he was appointed pastor of
St. Louis' church, Toledo. This charge he held till September, 1890.
He was then temporary pastor of Bellevue till January, 1891, when he
returned to the Society for which he had been ordained. He is now
stationed at St. Vincent de Paul's church. New York City.
SoMMER, Rev. Severin, was received by Bishop Rappe, October,
1854, and appointed resident pastor of Shelby Settlement, where he
remained about a year, when he left the diocese. No other record of
him.
Spicher^ Rev. Peter (Jesuit), was born in Switzerland, December
22, 1811. He joined the Society of Jesus, October 1, 1832, and was
ordained in 1842; came to America in 1848, and was appointed pro-
fessor of theology for the members of the Society of Jesus at St. Louis,
Mo. For many years he was superior of several houses of the Society
in Germany, and was also for a time Master of Novices. In 1868 he
was sent to this country to found a Province of German Jesuits, whose
first superior he was appointed the following year. In 1869 he took up
his residence at Toledo, where Bishop Rappe had given the Jesuit
Fathers of that Province charge of St. Mary's church. Relieved, at his
request, in 1870, of the office of superior, he went to Buffalo, N. Y.,
where he died at St. Ann's church on March 29, 1874. Father Spicher
was a man of great learning, meekness and humility.
Spiekers, Rev. Adolph, a native of Germany, was born July 3,
1858 ; was educated at Innsbruck, Tyrol, and ordained March 14, 1883.
530 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
In June, 1893, he was received into the diocese of Cleveland and ap-
pointed chaplain of the Notre Dame Convent, Cleveland. In Septem-
ber, 1895, he resigned the chaplaincy because of ill health and returned
to Germany.
Spierings, Rev. Gerard Augustine, a native of Holland, was born
August 34, 1828. He was ordained in France, November 17, 1855.
October, 1865, he was received into the diocese of Cleveland, and
appointed pastor of Upper Sandusky. There he remained till April,
1867, when he was sent to Dungannon. This charge he retained till
1869, when he left the diocese.
Stafford^ Rev. Denis J., D. D., a native of Washington, D. C, was
born November 3, 1860; completed his studies for the sacred ministry
at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland. He was ordained in the same city,
December 19, 1885. Was a curate at Sts. Peter and Paul's church,
Sandusky, for a few weeks in January, 1886, when he was transferred
to the Cathedral, where he served as curate until September, 1890. He
was then appointed pastor of St. Joseph's, Massillon. Held that charge
till August, 1891, when, at his own request, he was received into the
archdiocese of Baltimore. At present (1900) he is a curate at St. Pat-
rick's church, Washington, D. C. In June, 1890, Georgetown Univer-
sity conferred on him the Divinity degree.
Steffen, Rev. Edward (Jesuit), a Westphalian, was born Octo-
ber 18, 1841 ; was ordained in Wales, for the Jesuits, September 19,
1875 ; stationed at St. Ignatius' College as professor, from August, 1894,
to August, 1897 ; then at the Jesuit Novitiate, near Parma, till April,
1898, when he was transferred to Prairie du Chien.
Stein, Rev. George, a native of Baden, was in the diocese of Cleve-
land from 1852 to 1857, first as pastor of Randolph, till 1857, then for a
few months in the latter part of same year, as pastor of St. Mary's, Mas-
sillon, when he left the diocese. No other record of him.
Stiefvater, Rev. Andrew (Sanguinist), was born in Baden,
November 28, 1830 ; ordained at Thompson, by Bishop Rappe, August
27, 1857. He had the following charges in the diocese of Cleveland,
viz : Glandorf , assistant, 1857-60 ; Reed, as pastor, and Thompson, as
assistant, 1877-83; chaplain of Ursuline Convent, Tiffin, 1883-86;
Thompson, assistant, June, 1886 — September, 1887; same place, chap-
lain, October, 1888— September, 1889. He is now at Burkettsville, O.
Stremler, Rev. James, D.D., was born, educated and ordained in
Lorraine. Came to the diocese of Cleveland from Laval University,
Quebec, and was superior of St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, from
September, 1866, to August, 1870, when he left. He then affiliated with
the diocese of Alton, and later with Vincennes (1873), where he was
pastor of Floyd Knobs, Ind., till his death, July 17, 1899. In 1860 he
published the well known and frequently quoted work, "Traite des
Peines Ecclesiastiqites."*
•See Vol, I, pag-e 91.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 531
Stroker, Rev. Francis, was born at Strokestown, county Roscom-
mon, Ireland, in 1829. He made his theological studies at the seminary
in Cleveland, and was ordained by Bishop Rappe, December 11, 1853.
Dungannon was his first appointment, December, 1853, to June, 1855.
He was then transferred to Summitville, where he remained till April,
1856. While stationed at Dungannon, and later at Summitville, he also
attended Niles, East Liverpool, Warren and Youngstown. April,
1856, he left the diocese and was received into that of Milwaukee,
where he remained as pastor of Milford, Wis., till his death in a railway
collision, some time in 1864.
Strumia, Rev. Joseph, an Italian, was bom August 3, 1863;
ordained at Turin, September 18, 1886; was pastor of Holy Rosary
church, Cleveland, from October, 1891, to October, 1893, when he left
che diocese.
Stuecker, Rev. Quirinus (Franciscan), a native of Germany, was
born at Bidefeld, August 6, 1851 ; educated for the sacred ministry at
Teutopolis and St. Louis ; ordained in latter city, for the Franciscans,
June 21, 1879. He was stationed at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleve-
land, from October, 1887, to August, 1888. Is now at Santa Bar-
bara, Cal.
Sturm, Rev. Edmund M. (Jesuit), was born in Milwaukee, Wis.,
November 16, 1859; ordained at La Crosse, Wis., August 31, 1884;
became a Jesuit in August, 1895 ; was stationed at St. Ignatius' College,
Cleveland, from July, 1897, to July, 1900.
Sullivan, Rev. Francis A., was born in Ireland, August 2, 1837.
He was received by Bishop Rappe, as a student, in 1854, and after a few
years' stay in the diocesan seminary, was sent to the Sulpitian seminary
at Paris to complete his studies. There he remained about three years.
He returned in October, 1860, and was ordained by Bishop Rappe,
December 2, 1860. He was professor of philosophy at St. Mary's
Seminary, Cleveland, and for a short time attended Ravenna and New-
burgh (Cleveland) as missions. Owing to failing health he resigned his
position as professor and accepted the pastorate of St. Mary's, Elyria,
July, 1863, with charge of Vermilion as a mission. He died of con-
sumption at Elyria, February 3, 1864.
SuTER, Rev. Aloysius (Jesuit), was born in Switzerland, February
16, 1835 ; ordained September 10, 1867 : in this country since September,
1868 ; was assistant at St. Mary's, Toledo, from 1876 to 1880, and from
August to September, 1889.
SwiERCzYNSKi, Rev. Adolph L., was born in Russian Poland,
September 11, 1870 ; was educated in Italy for the priesthood, and there
ordained, August 11, 1895. He was received in the diocese of Cleve-
land, in June, 1897, and appointed assistant at St. Anthony's, Toledo.
In January, 1898, he was given pastoral charge of the Poles at Lorain
and Grafton. In June, 1898, he left the diocese.
SzABO, Rev. Simeon, D. D., a native of Hungary, was born August
15, 1863 ; v^as pastor of St. John Baptist (United-Greek) church, Cleve-
632 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
land, from September, 1896, to April, 1898, when he returned to
Europe.
Thiele, Rev. Henry L., was born in the diocese of Muenster, Ger-
many, in 1819; ordained for the diocese of Marquette in 1854; received
into the diocese of Cleveland in 1861 and sent to Akron, where he
organized St. Bernard's congregation. His next appointment was St.
Joseph's congregation, Massillon, whose first resident pastor he was,
from July, 1863, to December, 1864. During this time he also attended
Navarre (Bethlehem). From January to June, 1865, he had charge
of Liverpool. He then returned to the diocese of Marquette, where
he did pastoral duty till 1873, when he went to Notre Dame, Ind.
There he died August 17, of same year. He was a man of fine literary
taste and wrote much for magazines and other periodicals.
Thienpont^ Rev. Emanuel, a native of Belgium, was ordained in
Cincinnati, January 20, 1833. In 1835 he was sent to attend the
missions along the Miami canal as far north as Toledo. In 1835 he
was also at St. Mary's, Tiffin, for six months, as successor to Rev. E.
Quinn. From 1836 to 1842 he was pastor of the Catholic Germans of
Dayton. Then he had charge of Portsmouth, Steubenville and other
places. Died October 19, 1873, aged about 70 years.
Thom.'V, Rev. John M. (Sanguinist), born in Baden, August 13,
1833, was educated at Rome, and there ordained, for the Sanguinists,
August 19, 1857. After doing pastoral duty in Europe till 1868, he
came to the diocese of Cleveland during the same year, and from
Thompson attended Bismarck, from July, 1868, to July, 1869. He then
returned to Europe, but came back to this country in February, 1886,
as a secular priest, and was received into the diocese of St. Joseph, Mo.,
where he died April 18, 1887.
Tighe, Rev. Denis, was born in Ireland ; received into the diocesan
seminary, Cleveland, about 1855 ; was ordained by Bishop Rappe, in
1857, and sent to Holy Angels', Sandusky, as assistant. In 1859 he was
appointed pastor of Summitville, where he remained till September,
1864, meanwhile also attending East Liverpool and Wellsville as mis-
sions. He was first resident pastor of St. Bridget's, Cleveland, which
position he held till his death, June 19, 1866. His simplicity of char-
acter and earnest piety won the love and esteem of all who were
committed to his spiritual guidance.
Treacy, Rev. James, was born in Ireland, May 12, 1857. He made
his collegiate studies and one year of theology in Ireland. September,
1883, he was received as a student for the diocese of Cleveland; was
ordained January 8, 1885, and appointed as one of the assistants at the
Cathedral. Not of strong frame, and never of robust health, he soon
showed signs of failing strength, and consumption. In May, 1887, he
was given an indefinite leave of absence, to return to his native Ireland.
He returned in October, 1888, very little improved in health. One
month later he went to Santa Fe, but his ailment had gone too far in its
destructive course to leave hope for recovery. Grim Death summoned
him, March 21, 1890. His remains were brought to Cleveland and
BIOGRAPHIOAL NOTICES. 533
laid to rest in St. Jolm's Cemetery. Father Treacy had a sweetness of
soul which won men to God, and made him a favorite with all who
knew him.
Truemper, Rev. William (Jesuit), a Prussian, was born Novem-
ber, 1840 ; v^as ordained for the Jesuits at Maria Laach, May 31, 1871.
He was stationed at St. Mary's, Cleveland, as assistant, from July, 1887,
till September, 1889, and during this time also attended Willoughby for
some months. He is now at Canisius College, Buffalo.
TscHENHENS, Rev. F. X. (Redemptorist), was born in Holland,
July 24, 1801; ordained August 15, 1827. He was among the first
Redemptorists that came to the United States, landing June 20, 1832.
He went directly to Cincinnati, where he resided for some time. In
1834 Bishop Purcell sent him to Peru, Huron county, whence he
attended Tiffin, Liberty, Shelby Settlement, New Riegel, McCutchen-
ville, Norwalk, Sandusky and Fremont. He had charge of Peru till
1839, but returned in 1841. He remained for nearly two years, when
he was sent to Pittsburg. Wherever he labored on the mission in
Northern Ohio his memory is revered by the old Catholic settlers yet
living, as that of a saintly, self-sacrificing minister of God. His last
visit to Ohio was in December, 1858, when he preached the funeral
sermon of a dear friend and former parishioner of his, who died in
Tiffin. He was a priest devoted to his work with apostolic zeal. He
died at Baltimore, May 10, 1877.
Uhlmann, Rev. John Baptist, was born at Constance, Baden,
February 19, 1804; ordained at Freiburg, Baden, September 17, 1828.
He did pastoral duty in the diocese of Freiburg until 1850, when he
concluded to come to America. In September, 1852, he was received
by Bishop Rappe and appointed pastor of St. Joseph's, Tiffin, where he
remained till May, 1856, when he was transferred to St. Peter's,
Canton, and remained there till June, 1864. He was then appointed
pastor of St. Mary's, Sandusky, where he resided till he left the diocese
of Cleveland, in June, 1865, to return to his native country. He died
at Bonndorf, Baden, February 18, 1882. Father Uhlmann was a man
of varied and deep learning and an eloquent preacher.
Valentin, Rev. Columbanus (Franciscan), a native of Silesia,-
was bom August 9, 1865; ordained for the Franciscans at St. Louis,
Mo., July 3, 1893 ; at the Franciscan Monastery, as chaplain, etc., from
August, 1894, to August, 1896. Is now stationed at Joliet, 111.
Van den Broek, Rev. John (Sanguinist), was born at Oss, Hol-
land, December 3, 1819 ; was ordained at Feldkirch, June 19, 1843, and
came to the United States in December of same year. He had pastoral
charge of the following places in the diocese of Cleveland : Randolph ;
assistant at Louisville, with charge of New Berlin ; Tiffin, St. Joseph's ;
French Creek and Avon ; New Riegel ; Liverpool. He left the diocese
in 1861. Died at Egypt, Mercer county, O., September 24, 1892. He
was one of the pioneer missionaries of Northern Ohio and did much for
religion.
534 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
Van de Weyer, Rev. A. F. (Dominican), a native of Holland,
attended Dungannon between November, 1833, and April, 1835, and
Louisville, Stark county, from Canton, between 1835 and 1838.
Returned to Europe. Died at Louvain, Belgium. No other record
of him.
Verlet^ Rev. George, was born in Lorraine, France, March 27,
1839 ; began his studies for the priesthood in his native city of Phals-
burg; came to this 'country in 1858, and completed them in St. Mary's
Seminary, Cleveland, where he was ordained September 30, 1861. His
first appointment was as assistant at St. Mary's, Sandusky, whence he
also attended Kelley's Island, Oak Harbor, Port Clinton, Marblehead,
Toussaint, and a number of stations, October, 1861 — January, 1862.
He was then sent to Port Clinton as first resident pastor. From this
place he continued attending the above named missions till June, 1865,
when he was transferred to St. Joseph's, Massillon. In May, 1888, he
was appointed pastor of New Bavaria, where he remained til! his death,
August 3, 1889.
Vernimont, Rev. Raymund (Sanguinist), a native of Ohio, was
born at Berwick, October 13, 1856 ; was educated for the Sanguinists at
Carthagena, O., and for them ordained at Cincinnati, May 30, 1885.
He had charge of St. Mary's, Tiffin, during the absence of the pastor,
from December, 1889, till February, 1890. He is now stationed in the
diocese of Dallas, Texas, as a secular priest.
ViERE, Rev. Christian, was born at Osnabrueck, Germany, October
9, 1831 ; ordained March 14, 1856 ; came to America in 1865, was
received into the diocese of Cleveland in 1866, and appointed pastor of
Fort Jennings, remaining till September, 1867, when he was made pas-
tor of St. Mary's, Toledo. In August, 1869, he was transferred to St.
John's, Defiance, where he was stationed until his removal by Bishop
Gilmour, October, 1878. He then left the ministry and lived in retire-
ment at Fort Jennings, O. He died there, reconciled with the Church,
January 21, 1893.
ViGEAUT, Rev. Alfred, a Canadian, was born May 10, 1844;
ordained October 12, 1873 ; was in the diocese of Cleveland, as pastor
of Toussaint, from June, 1881, to February, 1883. He then left the
diocese.
Vlcek, Rev. Anthony, was born in Moravia, Austria, June 5, 1862 ;
completed his studies for the priesthood at St. Mary's Seminary, Cleve-
land ; was ordained at Wheeling, W. Va., for the diocese of Cleveland,
August 7, 1885 ; stationed at St. Procop's church, Cleveland, as pastor,
from August, 1885, to July, 1893, when he left the diocese and ministry.
VoiSARD, Rev. Joseph A., a native of France, was born June 29,
1828 ; ordained September 18, 1858 ; was received into the diocese oi
Cleveland, September, 1865, and appointed temporary pastor of St.
Ann's, Fremont. Left Fremont and the diocese in April, 1866.
VoLMj Rev. Frederick A., a native of Baden, was ordained at Cin-
cinnati, December, 1860. He was in the diocese of Cleveland from
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 535
July, 1866, to March, 1867, as pastor of Millersville. No other record
of him.
Von Braun, Rev. JuHan, born and ordained in Germany, was
received into the diocese of Cleveland, September, 1851 ; had charge of
St. Mary's congregation, Massillon, till 1852, meanwhile attending
Navarre. He died, August 2, 1853, at Massillon, where his remains
repose.
Von Haza-Radlitz, Rev. Anthony (Jesuit), a Prussian, was bom
October 25, 1844; ordained for the Jesuits, in England, September 20,
1874 ; in the diocese of Cleveland, as a missionary, from August, 1894,
to August, 1895. Is now at the Jesuit College, in Prairie du Chien, Wis.
VoN Packisch, Rev. William (Jesuit), was born in Prussia, April
14, 1849; was ordained in England for the Jesuits, August 28, 1878.
Was stationed at St. Mary's, Cleveland, as assistant, from August, 1883,
to June, 1885, and as professor at St. Ignatius' College, same citv, from
September, 1888, to August, 1893.
VuiLLEMOT, Rev. F.. a native of Lorraine, France, was born in
1834 ; ordained in 1859 ; came to the diocese of Cleveland, April, 1864 ;
was assistant at Louisville, from May to July of same year ; was then
sent to St. Mary's Seminary, Cleveland, where he taught philosophy for
a few months. Returned to France in 1865.
Wagner^ Rev. Nicholas M. (Jesuit), was born in Brooklyn,
N. Y., May 30, 1873 ; was ordained in his native city, August 23, 1896 ;
at the Jesuit Novitiate, Parma, from September to December, 1898. He
then left the Jesuits ; is now a secular priest.
Waldron, Rev. Anthony, was born in county Mayo, Ireland,
September 3, 1864. After finishing his studies for the ministry at May-
nooth, he was ordained September 3, 1888 ; was stationed at St.
Malachy's church, Cleveland, as curate, from August, 1898, to October,
1900, when he left the diocese.
Walsh, Rev. Francis (Basilian), a Canadian, was born in 1843;
ordained at Louisville, O., for the Basilians, by Bishop Rappe, in
December, 1867 ; was at Louisville College, as professor, about four
years, 1867-71. Is now at St. Michael's College, Toronto, Canada.
WalsHj Rev. John, a native of Ireland, v/as born December 13,
1844 ; completed his ecclesiastical studies at Maynooth, and was there
ordained, June 15, 1870. In June, 1888, he was received by Bishop
Gilmour and sent sent to St. Columba's, Youngstown, as assistant,
where he remained till his transfer to the Cathedral, as assistant, Sep-
tember, 1888. In January, 1890, he was appointed pastor of St. Mary's
Corners, Fulton county, where he remained two months. He then left
the diocese and went to that of Duluth, Minn., where he now is.
Walsh, Rev. Thomas, was born in Ireland, about 1830. Bishop
Rappe ordained him in January, 1854 ; until December, 1856, he was
assistant at the Cathedral, whence he also attended Berea, Olmsted and
Ravenna as missions. Went to the diocese of Alton, 111., in January,
536 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
1867. He was pastor of St. Joseph's church, Cairo, 111., where he died,
March 5, 1863. He was a fine preacher and of amiable disposition.
Whilst at the Cathedral, in Cleveland, he was the confessor of the
students at the seminary, by whom he was loved, and highly esteemed
as a spiritual director.
Walsh^ Rev. Thomas J., was born near Wexford, Ireland, in 1828 ;
was educated for the ministry in Wexford College, and St. Mary's
Seminary, Cleveland; ordained by Bishop Rappe, July — , 1852, and
appointed pastor of St. Ann's, Fremont, remaining till 1856, when he
was sent to St. Vincent's, Akron. From Akron he attended Ravenna.
In 1858 he was appointed pastor of Summitville, where he remained till
1859, when he left the diocese. He died as pastor of St. Patrick's, in
the city of St. Joseph, Mo., November 27, 1881.
WardYj Rev. Charles T., was born, educated and ordained in
France. He came to the diocese of Cleveland in July, 1865, and until he
left it in October, 1875, he had the following charges : Port Clinton,
with charge of La Prairie and Toussaint as missions ; St. Joseph's,
Toledo; Kelley's Island, and New Bavaria. In October, 1875, he was
received into the diocese of Fort Wayne, where he remained till 1879,
when he joined the Benedictines. Died at Monte Casino Priory, near
Covington, Ky., October 29, 1880. He was a zealous priest. Although
he learned the English language late in life he had perfect command of
it, speaking and writing it with greatest ease.
Weber, Rev. Peter (Sanguinist), was born in Germany. Date
and place of birth or ordination not recorded. Had pastoral charge of
the following places in the diocese : Randolph, Harrisburg, Avon and
French Creek. In 1854 he left the diocese and Sanguinists and was
received into the diocese of Vincennes. No other record of him.
Wegrzynowski, Rev. Francis, a native of Poland, was bom
September 3, 1852 ; was ordained at Detroit, Mich., April 28, 1894. He
was temporary pastor of Sacred Heart church, Cleveland, from July,
1899, to July, 1900, when he left the diocese and returned to Europe.
Weikmann, Rev. John Baptist, a native of Wiirtemberg, was
born June 24, 1811 ; was ordained September 12, 1838 ; was received by
Bishop Rappe in December, 1855, and appointed pastor of St. Peter's,
Canton, in the following month. This position he held till February 26,
1856, when he was dismissed. Died as pastor of New Vienna, Iowa,
October 11, 1870.
Weiss, Rev. Paulinus (Franciscan), born at Lindau, diocese of
Augsburg, March 21, 1831; in the United States since 1862; ordained
November 9, 1865 ; was in the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, from
1882 to July, 1885. Died at St. Peter's church, Chicago, 111., February
18, 1894.
Westerholt, Rev. Francis. (See biographical sketch, pages
440-441.)
WiCKART, Rev. Lucien J., a native of France, was born December
9, 1831 : ordained at Detroit, Mich., October 18, 1857 ; in this diocese
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 537
from September, 1899, to May, 1900, with temporary charge of Annun-
ciation parish, Cleveland, during the illness and absence of the pastor.
WiLHELMi, Rev. Peter (Sanguinist), a native of Luxemberg, was
born March 18, 1817 ; made his ecclesiastical studies at Thompson and
New Riegel. He was ordained at Tiffin by Bishop Rappe, January 27,
1851. He was stationed in the diocese of Cleveland from 1853 to 1856 ;
1884 to 1886, 1887, 1888,— first at Thompson, then at Glandorf, and
again at Thompson, in each of which places he was curate. Died at
Maria Stein, Mercer county, O., March 28, 1893.
Willi, Rev. Willibald (Sanguinist), was born in Ems, Switzer-
land, in 1820. He came to America, August, 1850, and was ordained
for the Sanguinists by Bishop Rappe, in January, 1851. Owing to ill
health, even at his ordination, he was never able to do much of pastoral
work. He was stationed at Glandorf till October, 1853. He died at
Maria Heim, Ind., December 15, 1854.
WiRTz; Rev. Hermann (Franciscan), was born at Cologne, Janu-
ary 6, 1842 ; in the United States since April, 1861 ; ordained September
7, 1872. Was in the Cleveland Monastery, and professor in St. Joseph's
College, December, 1878, to July, 1879. Is now on the mission in
California.
WiTTMER, Rev. John (Sanguinist), was born at Ober-Erlinsbach,
Switzerland, November 4, 1818; ordained at Feldkirch, Austria,
November 21, 1841 ; came to this country with the first Sanguinist
Fathers in December, 1843. He had the following pastoral charges in
the diocese of Cleveland : Assistant at Peru, 1844-46 ; first resident
pastor of Randolph, 1846 ; assistant at Thompson, and attended
(1847-48) St. Joseph's, Tiffin; pastor of Thompson, 1849 to 1853. He
was then for many years on the mission in the archdiocese of Cincinnati,
especially in Mercer, Auglaize and Shelby counties. In 1885 he was
sent by his superior to the diocese of Nashville, where he remained about
seven years. He di^d at Maria Stein, Mercer county, O., June 20, 1893.
He was one of the early missionaries of Northern Ohio, and by his zeal
and earnestness did much for the spread of religion.
WocHNER, Rev. Henry (Jesuit), was born, 1839, in Haslach,
Wiirtemberg ; ordained September 8, 1868 ; in the United States since
1876; was assistant at St. Mary's, Cleveland, from 1881 to August,
1885. He is now stationed at Mankato, Minn.
WozNY, Rev. Sigmund, an Austrian, was born August 16, 1861 ;
educated at^Louvain University, and was there ordained, June 25,
1885 ; was stationed at St. Casimir's church, Cleveland, from Septem-
ber, 1894, to February, 1896. He then left the diocese of his own
accord, and went to Natchez, Miss.
WuERZ, Rev. Matthias, was born, 1807, in Schoenbach, Province
of Lorraine' France. Came to America in 1833 and made his theo-
logical studies at Cincinnati, where he was ordained, June 13, 1835.
In February, 1838, he was appointed first resident pastor of Louisville,
Stark county whence he also attended Randolph. Was pastor of St.
538 BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.
John's, Canton, from August, 1840, to September, 1844, and had charge
of Massillon and Navarre as missions; also occasionally visited the
missions of Peru and New Riegel. Returned to France in 1845, where
he died of apoplexy, April 2, 1858.
YoDYSZus, Rev. Matthias V., D. D., a Lithuanian, was born July
26, 1855 ; was educated in Poland, where also he was ordained, July
18,1880; was in this diocese as temporary curate at St. Anthony's
church, Toledo, from September, 1899, to April, 1900, when he was
dismissed.
Young, Very Rev. Nicholas D. (Dominican), nephew of Bishop
Fenwick, first Bishop of Cincinnati, was born in Maryland, in 1783 ;
studied at St, Rose's, Ky., and Rome ; was ordained by Bishop Flaget,
December 10, 1817; came to Northern Ohio, from Kentucky, Novem-
ber, 1818 ; attended Dungannon, from Somerset, Perry county, about
1820, and again between 1833 and 1835. In January, 1833, he was
elected Provincial of the Dominicans in the United States. He was
stationed for many years at Somerset, O., St. Rose's, Ky., and Wash-
ington, D. C. Died at Giesboro, Md., October 28, 1878, aged 95. He
was one of the pioneer priests of Northern Ohio, and a man full of
apostolic zeal.
Zalewski, Rev. Vincent, a native of Russian Poland, was born
January 23, 1853 ; ordained in his native country December 20, 1881 ;
was stationed as assistant at St. Anthony's, Toledo, from November,
1894, to January, 1896, when he was dismissed from the diocese. Had
chare^e of a Schismatic Polish congregation at Philadelphia, where he
died November 11, 1899.
Zanders, Rev. Raymundus (Franciscan), was bom in Rhenish
Prussia, August 8, 1846 ; ordained at Paderbom in 1873 ; came to the
United States in 1884 ; July, 1885, he was sent to the Franciscan Monas-
tery, Cleveland, remaining till February, 1886, when he was appointed
chaplain of St. Francis Hospital, Jersey City, N. J. Returned to Ger-
many, where he died.
Zareczny, Rev. Victor, born at Lemberg, Galicia, Austria, Decem-
ber 3, 1841, was ordained in Galicia, July 21, 1868; received into the
diocese of Cleveland, December, 1873, and appointed pastor of the
Poles in Berea, where he organized St. Adalbert's congregation ; also
attended Royalton, and the Poles in Cleveland. He left Berea, and the
diocese, in February, 1884.
ZiEGLER, Rev. Odilo (Franciscan), a native of Alsace, was born
April 12, 1820 ; was ordained at Strasburg, Alsace, December 20, 1856.
Was a secular priest in his native country and in the United States till
January, 1886, when he entered the Franciscan Order. Was stationed
at the Franciscan Monastery, Cleveland, as chaplain and confessor of
various institutions, from August, 1896, till his death, August 26, 1897.
He was a model religious and a most excellent priest.
ZiswYLER, Rev. Beatus (Sanguinist), was bom in Switzerland, in
1844; was trained for the ministry, at Carthagena, O., where he was
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES. 539
ordained for the Sanguinists January 17, 1873. Was pastor at Reed,
Seneca county, from June to September, 1873. No other record of
him.
ZuMBUEHL, Rev. Leonz, was born in Luzern, Switzerland, May 1,
1846 ; was ordained at Feldkirch, Austria, for the diocese of Cleveland,
by Bishop Amberg, April 19, 1870. In September, 1870, he was ap-
pointed pastor of Fort Jennings, where he remained till January, 1872,
when he was given the professorship of philosophy in St. Mary's Semi-
nary, Cleveland. This position he held till July of same year, when he
was again given pastoral charge of Fort Jennings. In September, 1873,
he was recalled to his former position at the seminary, remaining till
July, 1877, when he left the diocese. From April, 1876, to July, 1877,
he also had pastoral charge of Independence. Since August, 1877, he
has been in the diocese of Peoria.
ZwACK, Rev. George M. (Jesuit), a Bavarian, was born April 1,
1861 ; was ordained in England, for the Jesuits, September 2, 1894 ;
stationed at St. Mary's, Toledo, as assistant and chaplain, from Decem-
ber, 1897, to August, 1898. He is now stationed at Georgetown
University, as professor.
ZwiNGE, Rev. Capistran (Franciscan), was born in Grosender,
diocese of Puderborn, Prussia, March 30, 1823 ; ordained September 4,
1849 ; came to the United States in September, 1858. He was first supe-
rior of Franciscan Monastery, and pastor of St. Joseph's church, Cleve-
land, from 1867 to 1871. By his zeal and kindness he won the confidence
and aflfection of all committed to his spiritual guidance. He was a
model religious, and a successful pastor. Died at Chicago, 111., July 23,
1874.
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
THE INFIRM PRIESTS' FUND.
The undertaking to establish a Fund on which, under specific
limitations, the disabled, seriously sick, or superannuated clergy of
the Diocese of Cleveland may draw for creature-comforts, was success-
fully begun as far back as 1865. It was a most timely, just, and very
necessary movement.
For years previous — in fact from the beginning — it was apparent
that the priest seized with infirmity, or overtaken by fast advancing
decrepitude, was allowed to drift about in the cold world seemingly
bereft of friends, and without a retreat in which to rest his weary and
broken body. Not unfrequently, like his Divine Master, he had "not
where to lay his head." While vigor remained, and he was equal
to performing his labors, he was sure of obtaining a quantum of neces-
sary food and raiment ; but once incapacitated by sickness, accident,
or weight of years, he usually passed from view into the realm of
oblivion, and was compelled to take home to him and live with the
pains, deprivations, and utter neglect which were to be his sad lot
often even unto the end.
If it be argued that the priest's salary of seven hundred dollars
a year, — which figure, today, is far in advance of what it was years
ago, — together with what is known as "perquisites," mere bagatelles,
ought to be enough to provide for the present and also leave a little
margin looking to the future, it can be answered in reply that those
thus viewing the case do not fully consider the cost of maintaining
a house supplied even in the scantiest way. Evidently the multiplied
demands made daily on the slender purse of the priest are not taken
into consideration by those who argue along this niggardly line, and
even the diocese itself does not appear to closely consider them in
view of the small stipend allowed in the way of salary. If, according
to St. Paul, "Those who minister at the altar should live by the altar,"
it is a layman's opinion that the word "live" should be broadly inter-
preted, at least in our day, and that such provision should be made
for the ministering priest as to afiford him not only a decent living,
together with something to dispense in charity, but also enough from
which to lay aside a little something against the day of sickness,,
pressing necessities, and painful isolation. If "the laborer is worthy
of his hire," that hire should be large enough, not only for the day,
NOTE.— Although this and the succeeding sketches belong more properly in the his-
torical volume, the author of this one has written find given them a place here, as much
because ol pressure on the first, as with a view to equalize the size of both volumes.
540
BOARD OF THE INFIRM PRIESTS' FUND.
The Rt. Rey. Mgr. T. P. Thorpe The Rev. William McMahon
The Rt. Rev. Ig.\. F. Horstmann, D. D., Bishop of Cleyeland, Pres.
The Rev. Feidolin Ankly, Treas. The Rev. Skraphin Bauer, D. D., Sec'y.
The Rev. Casdiir Reichlin The Rev. Thomas F. Mahar, D. D.
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES. 541
but also as against the sunset time of life— the advancing night, "when
no man can labor."
What the Rev. William Mahoney said in strong language in
1885,, in his work entitled, "The Rights of the Clergy Vindicated,
or a Plea for Canon Law in the United States," has been known to
all observing priests and laymen in this country from the beginning.
The portraiture he drew of the miserable condition of antiquated or
broken priests ordained under the title of Mission was not a too highly
colored or unfamiliar picture. What he then said was in the minds
of all, both at the time and previously ; but the vigorous way in which
he put the case called attention to the law of the Church by which
clergymen in the higher orders, ordained under the name of Mission,
and who retain such title, have a just claim to support and sustenance
from the jurisdiction, whether Diocese, Vicariate, or Prefecture, to
which they belong. This recognized title to a living they have, not
as a charity, but as a right, and it is along these lines that the Infirm
Priests' Fund of the Diocese of Cleveland was projected and estab-
lished.
The original plan, and that which now obtains in the more
perfect working out of the Fund, were predicated on simple justice
only. The idea was not, and is not, to make the priest an object of
charity, or to keep him out of the poorhouse while yet placing him
in the attitude of a dependent, or a pauper. Not at all. The notion
was held, and it has grown stronger with the years, that "the laborer
is worthy of his hire," and that, having been a faithful husbandman
in the Vineyard, he, with his fellow workers, is to receive "every
man a penny" for his day's toil, and half of that daily wage when he
shall have become unequal to bearing "the burden of the day and the
heats." How to provide that other daily half-penny was the difficult
task proposed to themselves by the founders of the Infirm Priests'
Fund of the Diocese of Cleveland. But they discovered a way, and
now for over thirty-five years the result of their work has been
productive of great good.
In the Diocesan Synod, convened after the annual Retreat of
1865, a number of priests with the Rev. Seraphin Bauer, of Fremont,
at their head, began the work of disseminating the good seed relative
to the project in view. They were fully aware of the conditions
which had prevailed in the infant missions of the whole country
previous to that time, and they were likewise apprised of the complex
situations in population, finances, customs, etc., which had prevented
the purveying of provisions for an Infirm Priests' Fund in the various
dioceses throughout the United States. Up to that time the Fund
which they moved in establishing was the first in the country, and
it has since been the pattern after which other dioceses have copied.
The closer these dioceses kept to the rules and methods adopted in
the Diocese of Cleveland the more they prospered in the upbuilding
and management of their respective Funds.
The assembled priests having regarded the undertakmg with
favor, a resolution was presented and passed unanimously that a
Fund for Infirm and Disabled Priests be established. Bishop Rappe,
542 MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
who presided at the Synod, heartily favored the undertaking. Accord-
ingly a committee was appointed to formulate "Tlie First Rules and
Regulations." The priests comprising the committee were the follow-
ing: The Revs. Seraphin Bauer, Eugene M. O'Callaghan, John
Quinn, Robert A. Sidley, and Francis Westerholt.
They met at the residence of the Rev. R. A. Sidley, in Sandusky,
September, 1865, and promptly proceeded, in frontiersmen's style,
to blaze the way and march on. They had nothing to copy from,
above, beneath or around, but they had the situation before them,
and evidently the ability to meet it. The result of their labors was
a set of "Rules and Regulations" which, owing to the low ebb of
canon law at the time, appeared to some a trifle glaring. They
inserted a liberal clause in the "Rules" which was stricken out by
the approving authority, but which is now generally accepted as good
canon law. However, the work of the committee, with this one
exception, was approved by Bishop Rappe, December 18, 1865.
.'\mong the many other points covered by the instrument were :
(1) that an infirm or disabled priest should receive for board and
keep a pecuniary assistance at the rate of $400 per annum, which in
later years was increased to $500 ; and (2) that each congregation
or mission should pay into the Fund's treasury the tenth part of the
penny collection taken up at each Mass on Sundays and Holydays,
or an equivalent when other collections took the place of the penny
collection. Subsequent revisions of the constitution and laws
improved the government, management, and method of raising and
dispensing the Fund, until now the organization can be said to be,
or after some minor changes proposed to be made in the laws are
effected, will be in the most approved and perfect working order.
Since the adoption of the Rules as revised by the Rev. Seraphin Bauer
and others, in 1883, the Fund has been unusually prosperous. Instead
of relying on the penny collection, an annual tax of twenty cents for
each paying family reported in each congregation in the diocese was
substituted. It then Ijecame the duty of the pastors in charge of
congregations to send the amount due to the treasurer of the Fund.
Later this tax was reduced to fifteen cents for each paying family.
The Management Board, like the Senate of the United States,
is, in a sense, self-perpetuating. The oi^cers are elected annually,
and three new members of the Board are incoming each year to take
the places of three retiring ones, who, vmder the rules, may be elected
to succeed themselves. Of these the Board elects one, the Bishop
appoints one, and the clergy at large elect one. In any case there
is a quorum, with the Bishop as ex ofHeio president, for the transaction
of business. In case the Bishop is unable to attend he may be repre-
sented by his Vicar-General.
The secretary is the really active officer of the institution. For
nearly twenty-seven years the Rev. Dr. Seraphin Bauer, of Fremont,
has held and faithfully discharged the duties of that important posi-
tion. The office of treasurer, too, is very important. For a number
of years past it has been acceptably filled by the Rev. Fridolin Ankly,
of Wooster.
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES. 543
What might be called the First Period of the Fund was the
eleven years from 1865 to 1876. The members of the first Board
of Managers were the Revs. Felix M. Bofif, of Toledo, president;
Seraphin Bauer, of Fremont; Eugene M. O'Callaghan, of Youngs-
town ; John Quinn, of Norwalk ; Robert A. Sidley, of Sandusky, treas-
urer, and Francis Westerholt, of Cleveland. After the Retreat of
1868 the Rev. Charles Evrard was elected in place of the Rev. Seraphin
Bauer, the Board remaining otherwise unchanged. In the Synod
of 1872 the Rev. Nicholas Moes was elected in the place of the Rev.
Eugene M. (3'Callaghan, the Board remaining as before with this
one exception. The following changes in the officers were also made :
The Rev. Francis Westerholt was elected vice president; the Rev.
Felix M. Boff , secretary ; and the Rev. Charles Evrard, treasurer. He
remained treasurer until 1882. The other treasurers were the Rev.
Robert A. Sidley, from 1865 to 1868 ; and the Rev. John Quinn, from
1868 to 1873.
The Second Period of six years was from 1876 to 1882. The
priests attending the Retreat, in 1876, had their attention called by
the Board of Managers to the fact that the Rules and Regulations
governing the Fund stood much in need of revision, and of additions
to cover cases and points that had come up for action and settlement.
To meet these requirements a committee of three, the Revs. Charles
Evrard, Seraphin Bauer, and Robert A. Sidley, were chosen. Their
work was approved by Bishop Gilmour, October 1, 1876, and com-
prised with other regulations the fixing of the assessment at twenty
cents for each paying family reported from each congregation ; the
deduction from the full sum of $500 regularly allowed of all sums
received by partially disabled priests for occasional services ; and the
rather impractical rule that partially disabled priests who had been
twenty years on the Mission were not obliged to labor, or if they did
labor occasionally the sum or sums received by them in compensation
were not to be deducted from the $500 to which they were entitled
from the Fund under its rules.
The Board of Managers from 1876 to 1882 was composed of the
following: The Rt. Rev. Bishop Gilmour, president; the Rev. Sera-
phin Bauer, secretary: the Rev. Charles Evrard, treasurer; the Revs.
Robt. A. Sidley, Nicholas Moes, Fridolin Ankly, and the Rt. Rev.
Mgr. Felix M. Boff, V. G.
Under the revised rules the Fund continued to prosper, the
administration of its affairs to give good satisfaction, and the amount
in its treasury to give such promise of being adequate to meet all
reasonable demands that, in view of the latter fact, the assessment
was lowered from twenty to fifteen cents for each paying family in
the several congregations.
While these averments are true touching the general facts, it
would not be in keeping with truth to allow the reader to be impressed
with the notion that there were, in the early stages of the organization,
no approaches to clashing and indifference. These were to the fore
in many cases ; and, moreover, there were but four elections and few
meetings of the Board during the first seventeen years of the life of
544 MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
the Fund. It was mainly due to the exertions of a few noble spirits,
chief among whom was the Rev. Dr. Seraphin Bauer, the present secre-
tary of the Board, that the business of the Fund was so faithfully
attended to during that period. To him and his confreres belongs the
credit that the organization was not allowed to pass into such desuetude
as would be almost unpardonable in view of the great need there was
and is for its continuance and activity.
The period from 1882 to the present might be regarded as the
most prosperous, satisfactory, and assuring since the establishment
of the Fund. This excellence of administration includes not only
the work of receiving and disbursing of funds, but also the practical
and systematic management of the organization. Every transaction
of consequence is made in the sessions of the Board of Managers,
which meets quarterly. Blanks covering all acts, authorizations,
reports, etc., are provided and their use enforced. For this exactness
and business method the organization is indebted to the zeal and
fertile brain of the Rev. Dr. Seraphin Bauer. The treasurer is required
to keep his accounts on the regular double entry plan, and the secre-
tary to write out an exact record of every transaction under the head
of minutes, and to read these for approval, together with all the vouch-
ers at each meeting of the Board. No banking house, no matter how
perfect its system, can be said to be in advance of the business methods
under which the Infirm Priests' Fund of the Diocese of Cleveland is
administered.
These excellent results have been brought about by the constitu-
tion of 1882, for the drafting of which Bishop Gilmour appointed the
Revs. Seraphin Bauer, Fridolin Ankly, and Charles Evrard. They
made it liberal, specific, and comprehensive, and to emphasize the
original aim they wrote in conclusion,
NGN MISERE VIVIT, QUI PARCE VIVIT.
The present Board of Managers, which Board has held office
for the past seventeen years, gives the evidence of its faithfulness,
ability, and zeal under all circumstances. It is an honor to the Fund
and a credit to the diocese. It has the implicit confidence of the Rev.
Clergy, a fact which is proved by its having been continued in office
for so long a period. The following are the officers and members:
The Rt. Rev. Ign. F. Horstmann, ex oMcio, President.
The Rev. Dr. Seraphin Bauer, Secretary.
The Rev. Fridolin Ankly, Treasurer.
The Rt. Rev. Mgr. Thomas P. Thorpe.
The Rev. Dr. Thomas F. Maher.
The Rev. Casimir Reichlin.
The Rev. William McMahon.
To feel . compassion for a priest broken in affliction and reduced
to want, to sympathize with him in his distress, to comiserate his sad
condition, to grieve for his sufferings, to sorrow over his sadness,
and to pity him in his poverty, privation, or neglected condition are
but exhibitions of the emotional nature which produce no practical
good results. They are subjective rather than objective, and if they
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES. 545
have any worth at all it is wholly because of their reHex effect upon
the modern good Samaritan who weeps over men's misfortunes until
he feels better, then passes on. But if this imitation Samaritan be
transmuted into the Good Samaritan of old, and if he pours oil into
the priest's wounds and seats him on his beast, brings him to the
nearest inn, and pays for his keep, he is but obeying the natural senti-
ment common between humans — the law that yet finds a faint echo
in the breasts of straying humanity, and that holds touching the
unworthy as well as the worthy. Into that law the element of justice
does not enter, for if it did the unworthy might be passed by.
In the case of the infirm and incapacitated priest, however, the
law of justice towers above the law of sympathy, or even that of charity.
As a soldier of the Cross who has been wounded in the battle, as a
man who has fought the good fight and both kept and taught the
faith, the priest is entitled to those creature-comforts which the Fund
has provided for him against the time of infirmity, illness, or old age.
He has earned these from the people because he left father and mother,
home and friends, and often bright worldly prospects, to devote his
life to their spiritual interests, and often their temporal interests also.
If in olden days considerateness forbade the muzzling of the ox that
treaded out the corn, surely justice yet holds with sufficient force
among men to requite the faithful and profitable servant, the priest
who treads out the spiritual corn. If it were measured unto the priest
m the measure in which he measures it unto the people, his w'ants
in adversity would, indeed, be most generously supplied.
It is an easy task at times to arouse human sympathy, to play
upon the heart-strings until every fibre of men's make-up is all
atremble with the thrill of tender emotions. This the founders and
perpetuators of the Infirm Priests' Fund could have done and are able
to do, but they did not, and would not play that part. They con-
ceived and yet hold to the idea that justice is what is required rather
than sympathy or active charity. Justice preserves intact the honor
of both priests and people, whereas the employment of other consid-
erations in providing for infirm priests might be as disagreeable as
they would be unbecoming. Fiat Justitia ruit coelum — 'Let justice
be done 'though the heavens fall.
CLEVELAND.
CALVARY CEMETERY.
Modern interment-grounds, like Calvary Cemetery, Cleveland,
mark the welcome transition from the catacomb and charnel-house of
earlier ages to the park-like God's acre of today. This change for the
better, in the laying to rest of the mortal remains of Christians, began in
the seventeenth century, and was evidently intended to rob death of
some of its habilaments of gloom and woe, and substitute therefor
exterior or surface surroundings that are better in keeping wifji Chris-
tian hope, and suggestive of the glories of the resurrection. No bird
might sing, or ever did sing in the subterranean vaults in which the
bodies of the early Christians were laid away in great tiers ; but in our
546 MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
modern church-yards and burial-parks each returning spring contrasts
bloom, freshness, and beauty above with blight, ashes, and decay
beneath. It delights us with the chorus of the woods as against the
silence of the grave, and sets life, and light, and inspiring hope above
death, and darkness, and the great dread of nothingness.
If the "memory of things precious keepeth warm the heart that
once did hold them," and if tear-showers are destined to fertilize this
dreary world of ours, it is most becoming that joy in hope, and memory
with faith be the rosy-tinted medium through which we view both the
past and the future. And since our loved ones are not dead, but
sleepeth, and since faith teaches of the final awakening, it is fitting that
their last earthly resting place, their slumber-couch, be made a bower
of beauty redolent of the hoped-for spiritual springtime of the life and
light, and joy promised on the farther shore.
The first Catholic cemetery to be established in Cleveland was St.
Joseph's ; the second was St. John's ; the third was that for St. Mary's
parish. It is situated on Burton street. The fourth is the subject
of this sketch, and the one which will ultimately be the union
burial place for all the congregations of that city. It was pur-
chased in 1893. It comprises 105 acres about six miles south of the
center of the city, and was known originally as the Leland farm. In
July of that year the work of improving the property was begun. One-
half of the grounds was blessed by the Rev. Chancellor George F.
Houck, as the Rt. Rev. Bishop's delegate, on the 36th of the following
November, and on December the first it was opened for interments.
The beautiful receiving vault, too, was then ready for use.
Calvary Cemetery was the inauguration in Cleveland of enlarged
advantages for Catholics relative to the burial of their dead. It had
long been the cherished hope of the people to see these looked-for
things brought about. Their patience, it is true, had been severely
tested in earlier years relative to order and necessary improvements
in their cemetery affairs ; but since Calvary, the prospective union
cemetery, was established, they felt repaid, in great measure, for what
inconveniences were theirs from the beginning. Because of these things
they evidenced an excellent disposition, and were ready at all times
to do their part, not only in practically sustaining the manager, but
also in obeying his rulings and the strict and eflfective laws which he
laid down for the regulation of everything connected with burials,
purchase of lots, adornments, etc. In fact their appreciation and good
disposition were a great encouragement to the manager who put forth
his best efforts for the good of all.
The successful management of the cemetery, together with prompt-
ness and efficiency in point of service, was assured to the Catholic public
by the appointment of the Rev. Chancellor Houck to the office of
manager, and by his calling Mr. Charles D. Carroll to be superinten-
dent. This augury of efficiency and prompt and faithful service, which
satisfied, the people in 1893, has since been realized in practical results,
and today (1900) a continuation of these things, with promise of addi-
tional betterment both in service and further adornment, is not only
indicated but assured, and is, in consequence, a great satisfaction to all.
nute
SA1.U5
ST. JOSEPH'S CEMETERY (Central Cross), CLEVELAND.
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES. 547
The cemetery grounds are admirably adapted for the purpose to
which they are devoted, and the situation could scarcely be improved
respectmg ease and convenience of access. A forty-five minutes' ride
by street car lands one at the grounds, and since a funeral car has been
provided by the street car company all approach to inconvenience has
been practically done away with. Moreover, the leading thoroughfare
to the place is well kept, thereby affording additional facility for visit-
ing the cemetery.
The land is gently undulating and affords rare opportunity for
those happy collocations and adornments which hill and vale, winding
path, and roadway suggest. The lay of the land called originally for
the lawn plan of plotting, which was adopted ; and in keeping with it
provision has been made for shade trees, shrubs, flowering plants in
cozy corners, an artificial lake, and also inviting savanna stretches.
Much has already been accomplished in these directions, including the
fine macadamized driveways in the improved portion, the entrances
from Miles avenue, and from the electric railway station near Broad-
way, etc., while still more is in prospect — all of which gives promise
that in the next decade Calvary Cemetery will rival in happy arrange-
ment, beautification, and efficiency of service any other God's acre in
the central west.
As an evidence of the faith which the people have touching the
future of this cemetery, as an appreciation of the work done, and also
as an argument looking to its becoming the union burial place for all
the parishes, the superintendent's report shows that at this writing
(1900), considerably over 8,000 interments have been made in Calvary
Cemetery.
In the observance of All Souls' Day, Calvary Cemetery has always
been made the great central point. Thither flock thousands to attend
the devotions, and these are made of great note by those having charge
of the place. While the devotion is yearly growing in observance
throughout the diocese, all eyes turn to Calvary Cemetery to witness
the imposing spectacle which is sure to be presented. The management
has always made it a point to enforce the diocesan rule against funerals
on Sundays, except in cases of necessity, which necessity points particu-
larly to demises through contagious diseases. In line with this, too, is
the respect for the rules governing the cemetery which the people mani-
fest at all times. This is a great improvement upon the past, and is the
evidence of a just appreciation of what has been accomplished in Cleve-
land touching becomingness in the burial of the dead, and the keeping
of the "city of polished white mansions" a place sacred to religion and
suggestive of faith and prayer.
ST. JOSEPH'S CEMETERY.
Previous to 1849 the Catholics of Cleveland interred the bodies of
their dead in what was called the "Old Erie Street Cemetery," they
having none of their own. However, January 22, 1849, Bishop Rappe
purchased a fifteen acre tract of land out Woodland avenue, which loca-
tion was then in the suburbs, but is now nestled in the resident portion
548 MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
of the city. Of the original fifteen acres, but four, comprising the level
portion, were improved for burial purposes, the rolling portion being
then regarded as not suitable. The first interment was made in St.
Joseph's in 1850.
In 1878, Bishop Gilmour broke through the local prejudice against
the use of rolling ground for cemetery purposes, and at once ordered
undertaken the work of grading, rolling, and tiling what is now known
as the new allotment. The lawn system of beautifying was adopted,
and with shrubs, flowers, and well made drives the place was made
quite inviting. An heroic granite cross twelve feet high, on a pedestal
six feet high, occupies a central position. It cost nearly $1,000. A
handsome fountain plays continually except in winter. A receiving
vault which cost $1,200, with a capacity for fifty bodies, is conveniently
located, and with the several private vaults owned respectively by the
Sisters of Notre Dame, the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, and the
family of the late Mr. and Mrs. Peter Daly, adds much to the beauty
of the place. The new allotment was blessed in 1891.
In 1878, the Rev. Chancellor George F. Houck became the mana-
ger of St. Joseph's Cemetery, which responsible position he yet holds.
Under his direction most of the improvements above referred to were
made, and also many more, to enumerate which would be impracticable
here. Among these latter, however, might be mentioned the diverting
of the creek in the ravine, the drives on either of its banks connected
by two iron bridges, and the retaining wall which alone cost $3,500.
The total cost of improvements made under his management exceed
the sum of $10,000.
St. Joseph's, though small in area, is notably well kept and quite
handsome. Its original state of comparative chaos, both as regards
territory, title of lot-owners, and identification of graves, has given way
to the opposite ; and much desired order has been brought about to the
satisfaction of all concerned. Those who have special interests in the
cemetery are the descendants of the pioneer Catholics whose mortal
remains rest there. These descendants are quite numerous, a fact which
accounts for the wide spread veneration and affection in which Cleve-
land's first Catholic cemetery is held by a very large portion of the
Catholic population of Cleveland.
Mr. Charles D. Carroll has been for almost twenty years the pains-
taking and capable superintendent of St. Joseph's Cemetery. To Father
Houck and to him the Catholic people owe a debt of gratitude for what
has been accomplished in the way of beautifying and efficiently manag-
ing this earthly resting place of many of the Catholic pioneers of
the See city of the diocese.
ST. JOHN'S CEMiETERY.
The second cemetery provided for the Catholics of Cleveland was
called St. John's. It is situated on Woodland avenue, convenient to St.
Edward's and Holy Trinity Churches. The land, . comprising thirteen
acres, was purchased May 4, 1855, and the first interment was made in
1858. It is a sort of companion burial place to St. Joseph's, which was
H
g
H
H
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES. 549
the first, and the demand for it was occasioned by the increase in the
Catholic population.
St. John's and St. Joseph's Cemeteries, up until 1878, were in
charge of the curates of St. John's Cathedral. Among these, until the
Rev. Chancellor Houck became manager in that year, were the Revs.
T. P. Thorpe, Thomas J. Conlon, Joseph F. Gallagher, T. F. Mahar,
D. D., and others. In those days, too, Mr. Patrick Roach was, and for
twenty years had been, the faithful sexton. He died, November, 1883.
The unmodern plan and appearance of St. John's Cemetery are
accounted for from the fact that, in 1855, it was laid out after the old
system. Lot owners, too, were permitted to make their own improve^
ments and adornments. Some made a little showing in these respects,
while others neglected them entirely. In consequence the place wore a
forlorn appearance. It looked deserted, neglected. However, a change
for the better took place with the advent of Father Houck as manager,
in 1878, and since then the face of things there has been renewed and
beautified. It is now enclosed by a neat iron fence ; a receiving vault
that was built at a cost of $1,500, in 1865, remains an adornment and
convenience, and the private vault of Mr. Thomas Maher is a notable
addition to the improvements.
It is in St. John's that all the priests of Cleveland who have passed
away, and many others dying outside of Cleveland, who belonged in the
neighborhood, are buried. The plot set apart for them is both central
and handsome and is adorned with several monuments, notably those
erected in memory of the Very Rev. James Conlan, V. G., the Rev.
Francis Westerholt, the Rev. A. R. Sidley, and others.
Considering the old-time plan of the cemetery, and the difficulty
of building creditably on a foundation which in great measure precludes
improvement in design and possibly in ornament also, it can, neverthe-
less, be said that St. John's is a cosy "city of the dead," for it is kept
neat, clean and orderly. Its management is all that can be looked for,
and to a large portion of the Catholic people it is a cherished spot whose
plainness and neatness tell of a simplicity which, to many minds, is most
becoming in a place set apart for the burial of the dead. It does seem
in good keeping, too, that, since a portion of it is devoted to the inter-
ment of priests, whose lives are expected to be plain and far removed
from ostentation, it can at least rejoice in this evidence of the harmony
of its lack of omateness with the simple lives of many whose mortal
remains rest in its bosom.
Of late years no efforts have been spared by Father Houck as
manager, or by the superintendent, Mr. Charles D. Carroll, to keep it
in good repair, and to add a blossom here and there to relieve the barren-
ness and give an additional glow to the rosy hope of the living that, m
the great day of general resurrection, it will not matter much how
poorly planned our cemeteries were, or how neglected our graves, so
long as the trumpet note that will call us from the tomb will be but
the invitation to enter into the garden of delights in the Paradise of God.
550 MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
TOLEDO.
CALVARY CEMETERY.
A much needed and economical improvement for the Catholics of
Toledo was the founding, in 1886, of Calvary Cemetery as the burial
place for the dead of all the congregations of that city. It was also a
thing much to be desired, for the four cemeteries then in use were any-
thing but well managed, and besides they were far from approaching
what religion and piety demand in Christian sepulchral surroundings.
Bishop Gilmour was aware of these things, and to remedy them
he resolved upon establishing a union burial place which, when properly
conducted, would meet the wants of all the parishes and satisfy the
requirements of religion. He impressed the great necessity for the
improvement he had in mind upon both the priests and laity, and to the
perfecting of the undertaking he devoted much of his time and not a
little of his private means. It now stands prominent among the many
other things in the diocese which bear the evidences of his wisdom and
great care.
The cemetery is situated west of the city, and is reached by two of
the principal thoroughfares, one of which is macadamized from the city
limits to the cemetery and has a street car line which gives good service.
It comprises fifty-one acres. The land is rolling and sandy, with a
natural stream of water passing through it, and an artificial lake.
Twenty acres have been drained, platted and improved, wherein over
6,000 interments, including the bodies transferred from the old ceme-
teries, have been made since the opening of the cemetery, in 1887, when
Bishop Gilmour blessed it. The improved portion is irrigated with city
water; an artesian well to supply drinking water has been sunk; and
trees and shrubs abound which add materially to the lawn plan of beau-
tifying which has been adopted. Among the substantial improvements
are a sexton's house, a greenhouse, macadamized roadways, and a
receiving vault with a capacity for seventy-five bodies.
The plot set apart for the interment of priests of Toledo and
vicinity is centrally and beautifully situated, and the circular arrange-
ment for the graves has been adopted. An impressive statue, the Pieta,
is proposed by the board of managers to adorn the sacerdotal plot, and
granite marking blocks with appropriate emblems and mortises for
names will be used to designate the graves.
The excellence of the business management has enabled those in
charge to meet all the running expenses of the place, and even to
gradually lessen the debt incurred in the purchase of the land. Look-
ing to the raising of revenue, the price of lots range from fifty cents
to seventy-five cents a square foot, according to location. The charge
for single graves is from four to eight dollars, according to size. The
greenhouse, too, has been made a source of profit, and the demand for
its product has increased to such proportions that an addition was an
absolute necessity. The old one was enlarged and a new one erected,
together with a large and commodious heating plant. The Catholic
people are so well pleased with the cemetery that they gladly comply
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES. 551
with all laws and requirements making for its betterment and adorn-
ment, and are prompt in attending All Souls' Day exercises on the
grounds. Even at this writing such progress has been made in improv-
mg and beautifying the place as to entitle it to more than passing recog-
nition. With this much accomplished within the space of fifteen years
the present generation may be privileged to witness greater things
before they are called to peaceful sepulture within its sacred precincts.
The Rt. Rev. Bishop Horstmann is president of the Board of
Managers; Rev. P. O'Brien, vice-president; Rev. A. Eilert, treasurer;
Mr. Charles J. Kirschner is the efficient secretary and superintendent,
and Mr. Henry Bresser the competent and faithful sexton.
YOUNGSTOWN.
CALVARY CEMETERY.
The present union burial place for the Catholics of Youngstown
became a necessity in 1883, not only on account of the old cemetery,
"Rose Hill," being nearly filled with interments, but also because a
city ordinance extended one of the streets through it, thereby rendering
it almost useless for its original purpose.
Accordingly, in 1882, and in compliance with the provisions of a
decree of the Diocesan Synod, held in that year, a move was made to
provide a union burial place. The preliminaries culminated in the pur-
chase of twenty acres of land, in 1884, for the sum of $6,500. Six
being $1,700 ; while, in 1901, a parcel of land abutting on the east, and
comprising over twenty-one acres, was added at a cost of $4,374, mak-
ing the cemetery grounds about fifty acres in extent. The credit for
all this is largely due to the Rev. Edward Mears, rector of St. Columba's
Church, who, despite much opposition, carried the enterprise through
from the beginning and wisely appointed Mr. George Rudge as superin-
tendent. In 1885 the first parcel of land constituting the cemetery was
blessed by the Rt. Rev. Mgr. F. M. Boff, V.G., and named "Calvary
Cemetery." The added ten-acre tract was blessed in the fall of 1890,
but the parcel purchased in 1901 has not as yet been blessed, although
geographically a part of the cemetery.
Calvary Cemetery is situated on the main road leading west, and is
about two miles from the center of the City of Youngstown. It has a
frontage on said road of 1,145 feet, with a compact hedge of Arbor
Vitae, four feet high, neatly trimmed, and extending the entire frontage
of the two parcels first purchased.
The receiving vault of stone was built soon after the first purchase
was made. It cost $1,600, and has space for twenty bodies. Removals
from the old cemetery to the new were commenced soon after the bless-
ing of the first parcel of land, but not until the spring of 1898 was there
an entire clearance of the remains. The sexton's house was built dur-
ing the summer of 1889, and cost something over $1,000. The land
being clayey and in some places wet, it was decided to sub-drain the
sections as they may be laid out. The matter was referred to Mr.
George Rudge, who had previously been appointed superintendent, with
552 MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
instructions to carry out what was required. Mr. Rudge had the lots
laid out, underdrained with tile laid from six to eight feet deep, the
drains being thirty feet apart. It was costly work, but the desired
effect was accomplished. The great crucifix of copper, with brown
stone pedestal, was erected during the spring of 1893 at a cost of $616.
The size of the corpus is six feet. The well for pure water for drink-
ing purposes, and looking to providing a supply for the cemetery, was
drilled in August, 1894, and is ninety-two feet deep. A water tower
of four cylinders, three feet in diameter and fifty feet long, placed
vertically, and anchored to a solid foundation of masonry, with a wind-
mill on the top for the pumping power, and a two-inch main pipe with
one-inch branches and California garden hydrants, makes an excellent
and economical system for sprinkling and watering. The whole cost
over $1,000.
The new entrances cost $3,300. They consist of the main entrance
and two side entrances, the one near the sexton's house, the other near
the east line, including a column at the west end of the hedge at the
northwest corner of the cemetery. They were commenced in 1899,
and completed in 1900. The main entrance gates are of wrought iron,
the bars being one inch square, all solid hammered work, each picket
finished on top with a fleur de lis, which is electro-coppered, and gilded.
The gates are ten feet high, and the opening between the gate columns
is fourteen feet. The main gate columns are each five feet square, six-
teen feet ten inches high, and surmounted by Celtic crosses five feet
high, and richly carved. The quadrant fences, with a radius of four-
teen feet at either side of the main entrance gate columns, by which the
main entrance is recessed from the road, are of three-fourths inch
square wrought iron, six feet high, upon a stone base twenty inches
high. The blocks are securely fastened together and are made fast to
the columns with bronze dowels and clamps. The columns terminating
the quadrant fences at either side of the main entrance, and on a line
with the evergreen hedge, are each three feet square and twelve feet
nine inches high to the top of the ball-cap. They stand fifty feet apart
in the line of the hedge. The side entrance gates are of three-fourths
inch wrought iron, four feet nine inches high, and have an opening or
drive of twelve feet in a line with the hedge. The columns for these
gates, also the columns in the northwest corner, are two feet six inches
square, and eight feet high. All the masonry is of reddish brown sand-
stone from quarries near Ashland, Wisconsin, and the whole makes a
pleasing contrast with the evergreen hedge.
A feature of consequence in a cemetery is good roads. As soon as
Superintendent George Rudge was appointed he began the necessary
work looking to this end, by grading and excavating. That accom-
plished, spalls of stone were hauled from a quarry near by, till a bed
was made eighteen to twenty inches in thickness, and then rolled with a
ten-ton steam roller. Over this was scattered a thick coating of gravel,
and thus Calvary Cemetery has as good, smooth, solid roads as can be
desired.
The latest improvement is the Mater Dolorosa statue erected
MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES. 553
October, 1900, in the place of the wooden cross in the center of the
circle in the main drive. The figure was designed from a copy of the
pamting of Carlo Dolci, in the Dulwich Gallery, London, sometimes
called the Madonna of the Thumb. The statue and pedestal are of
white bronze, the latter six feet high, the former rive and one-half feet
high. The foundation, of concrete, is raised one foot above the road.
The cost of statue and pedestal was something over $600.
The lawn adjoining the sexton's residence is very beautiful, and,
like other portions of the grounds, is interspersed with flower beds and
rare varieties of flowering shrubs, evergreens and deciduous trees.
This "city of the dead" will compare favorably with the finest in the
diocese, and redounds to the credit of Mr. George Rudge, who, as
superintendent, devotes his best efforts to its beautification and practical
advancement.
CLEVELAND.
THE CATHOLIC CENTRAL ASSOCIATION.
The year 1874 witnessed the beginning of a closer union between
the Catholics of Cleveland, Ohio, through the establishment of the
Catholic Central Association. The nucleus of the organization was
the Irish-American national societies, whose representatives met each
year to make arrangements for the fitting celebration of St. Patrick's
Day. Bishop Gilmour took advantage of the meeting of these dele-
gates to impress on them the necessity and utility of enlarging their
mission and making it so Catholic and American that each society of
the laity, having a regularly appointed priest as its spiritual director,
might become affiliated with them. The Irish-American organizations
readily assented to the suggestions of the bishop, and at once the
famous association, above mentioned, sprang into existence.
The first meeting rejoiced in having seventy-five delegates repre-
senting fifteen organizations, whose total membership exceeded 3,500.
The number of societies was subsequently increased until, in later years,
almost the entire Catholic body in the city of Cleveland was included
and represented as societies or parishes, in the association. In its
palmy days it spoke for over 50,000 of the Catholics of Cleveland.
The scope of the association's purpose was along the lines of
religious and civil liberty as provided for in the Constitution of the
United States. Demand was made that Catholic priests be not debarred
from the exercise of their right, guaranteed by the organic law, to min-
ister to unfortunate Catholics who might be confined in the penal or
reformatory institutions of the State. Much opposition on the part of
non-Catholic preachers, the daily press, and politicians was exhibited,
and loud and long was the cry raised on every side against allowing
priests to enter and minister to Catholics in State or municipal institu-
tions. This was quite marked in the case of the Workhouse in Cleve-
land, where every obstruction was placed in the way of the association,
and of priests intent upon the exercise of their religious rights, and
554 MISCELLANEOUS SKETCHES.
of the liberty of conscience of the prisoners. But so persistent and
determined were the priests and the association, and so glaringly illib-
eral and untenable was the stand of the opposition that public opinion
and justice prevailed, and the rights of Catholics, although grudg-
ingly recognized, were not openly impeded. Although the preachers
and politicians swore that "Romish worship" should never be tolerated
in the Cleveland Workhouse, they had, nevertheless, to relent. A port-
able altar was constructed, and each alternate Sunday since then the
holy sacrifice of the Mass is offered up in the institution. Until 1877
the Workhouse was attended from St. John's Cathedral, and for a short
time from the Franciscan Monastery, but since then, until 1894, a period
of seventeen years, the Rev. Chancellor Houck was the chaplain. After-
wards, until 1896, the Jesuit Fathers had charge. By Father Houck's
zeal and faithfulness, coupled with his gentlemanly deportment, he won
the esteem of the inmates and the confidence and respect of the officials.
In recent years the Apostolate Fathers have sent a chaplain there.
In the State, too, the battle for liberty of conscience was waged
with great vigor until, in 1875, the Geagan bill became a law, command-
ing that, "those in charge of the penal and reformatory institutions of
the State shall furnish ample and equal facilities to all persons con-
fined therein, for receiving the ministrations of the authorized clergy-
man of their own religious denomination or persuasion, provided that
such ministration entail no expense to the public treasury."
The organization continued its triumphs in the interests of civil
and religious liberty for all, demanding nothing for Catholics that was
not accorded to every citizen. It had an awakening effect upon all,
and opened the eyes of everyone to the apparently forgotten principles
of the organic law of the land.
It is to be regretted that the association was allowed to decay, and
that agencies were permitted to be active in its ranks that, before final
dissolution, in 1893, marred the harmony that had characterized it from
the beginning. However, it only sleeps to be awakened again to fight
with renewed vigor the battle for Hberty of conscience for every Amer-
ican citizen. When will the trumpet note be sounded calling it to
action ?
End of Volume II.
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