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Australian Mission

The Irish Jesuit Mission to Australia was initiated due to the will of Fr John Joseph Therry (1790-1864), who named the Irish Jesuits as beneficiaries to his property in Australia, and by an invitation to the Irish Province by James Alipius Goold, Bishop of Melbourne (later Archbishop) (1812-1886) to set-up a mission in his diocese. The first two Irish Jesuits, Frs William Lentaigne (1805-1884) and William Kelly (1823-1909), arrived in Melbourne in September 1865. Previously, two Austrian Jesuits, Frs. Kranewitter (1817-1880) and Klinkowstroem (1819-1896) had arrived in 1848 after Jesuit expulsion from Austria. The Austrian Mission centred on South Australia and the Northern Territory. In 1901, the Austrian and Irish missions amalgamated. Australia was made a Vice-Province in 1931 and Fr Austin Kelly SJ (1891-1978) was named the first Provincial of the Australian Province in 1950.

The papers of the Australian Mission provide a comprehensive history of the Irish Jesuit Mission, concentrating on the years 1865-1931. The Irish Jesuits worked as missionaries, educators, writers, chaplains, theologians, scientists, pastors and directors of retreats, mainly in the urban communities of eastern Australia.

Subjects touched upon include: agreements with Archbishops in establishing Jesuit houses in a particular diocese; reflections on the journey to and from Australia; administration of schools, colleges, universities and Jesuit residences - (St Patrick’s, Melbourne; St Francis Xavier College, Kew, Melbourne; St Aloysius, Dunedin (NZ); St Aloysius College, Sydney ; St Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney; St Louis, Claremont, Western Australia; Newman College, University of Melbourne); parishes - (Norwood and Sevenhills in South Australia; Invercargill (NZ); Melbourne; Sydney; Toowong and Indooroopilly in Queensland); financial documents; expansion of the Mission; and correspondence between Father Provincial in Ireland and Jesuits in Australia. By far the greatest number of letters sent to Father Provincial in Ireland was from Fr John Ryan SJ (1849-1922) (Superior of the Mission from 11 February 1901-14 June 1908; 9 April 1913-24 October 1917). Until the creation of the Australian Mission as a Vice-Province, the Irish Provincial was kept informed of every minor detail about the Mission and often decision making in Australia was delayed until approval from Dublin was given.

Although this collection provides a comprehensive history of the Australian Mission, there are some gaps. For example, the collection does not contain any deeds or other legal documents relating to property obtained by the Society of Jesus in Australia and it is presumed that these documents would have been kept by the Superior of the Mission and later the Vice-Provincial of the Vice-Province in Australia, where they remain today.

Superiors of the Irish Jesuit Mission to Australia (1865-1931)
Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ 1865-1866
Fr Joseph Dalton SJ 1866-1872
Fr Thomas Cahill SJ 1872-1879
Fr Joseph Dalton SJ 1879-2 September 1883
Fr Aloysius Sturzo SJ 2 September 1883-5 April 1890
Fr Patrick Keating SJ 5 April 1890-1 February 1895
Fr Timothy Kenny SJ 1 February 1895-11 February 1901
Fr John Ryan SJ 11 February 1901-14 June 1908
Fr Thomas Brown SJ 14 June 1908-9 April 1913
Fr John Ryan SJ 9 April 1913-24 October 1917
Fr William Lockington SJ 24 October 1917-20 June 1923
Fr Jeremiah Sullivan SJ 20 June 1923-19 March 1931

Vice-Provincials of the Vice-Province of Australian (1931-1950)
Fr John Fahy SJ 19 March 1931-25 August 1939
Fr John Meagher SJ 25 August 1939-1 October 1947
Fr Austin Kelly SJ 1 October 1947-1 November 1950

Irish Vice-Province of the Society of Jesus, 1830-

Letters to Dr Charles Russell concerning his book on the Life of Cardinal Mezzofanti

A file of letters to Dr Charles Russell concerning his book on the Life of Cardinal Mezzofanti, 'The life of Cardinal Mezzofanti; with an introductory memoir of eminent linguists, ancient and modern', Longman, Brown, and Co, London, 1858

The letters offer praise and compliments to Dr Russell and suggestions for a second edition of the book. The following is a list of the people who wrote to Dr Russell concerning his book on Cardinal Mezzofanti:

25 March 1859; George [ ]

7 June 1858; P. J. [Aerts]

17 April - 7 May 1855; Edward Badely

23 August 1866; L'Abbe Blanchot

19 January 1859; [ J. B. Borrcho]

4 February 1863; F. C. Brooke

25 August - 3 November 1858; Lord Broughman

11 July 1860; A. Bruni SJ

16 October 1858; [ ] Bunsen

6 May 1858; L. Major Cavagnari

13 April - 26 August [ ]; John Dalberg Acton (Lord Acton)

3 [ ] 1858; Luigi Da Via

22 December 1859; Joseph Barnard Davis

n.d.; Auguste Donnet

19 May [ ]; James E. Doyle

11 February 1859; [Fernando]

21 April 1958; Goodwin Son & [ ]

5 May 1858; Thomas Grant

5 October - 1 December 1858; Imperial Austrian Legation

19 - 28 April 1860; Evan Jones

4 July 1858; Pierre Le Croix

23 April 1858 - 9 March 1860; Longman Brown and Company

6 May 1858; E. C. Lewis

[1858]; Henry E. Manning (later Cardinal)

17 June 1858; Patrick F. Moran (later Cardinal)

25 May 1858; John Morris

[ ] 1858; A. Pezzanat

5 - 10 May [1858]; E. H. Reeves

19 April 1852; James Roche

2 March 1858; James Hope Scott

12 May 1858; [ ] Shilman

15 June 1858; W. H. Smyth

[1858]-[1859]; James Spencer Northcote

5 May 1858; A. P. Stanley

15 [ ] 1856; Franco Venditti

9 May 1858; Dr. [Wals]

19 April 1855; Charles Ward[ ]th

29 March 1858 - 12 February 1863; Thomas Watts

[1857]; Vladimir Petcherine

Will of Fr John Joseph Therry

A file relating to the will of Rev. John Joseph Therry. The Irish Jesuits are named as beneficiaries. He bequeathed the management of his entire property in Australia to the Irish Jesuits for religious, charitable and educational purposes.

Therry, John Joseph, 1790-1864, Roman Catholic priest

Letter from Fr John McEncroe to Rev. R. Healy concerning the administration of St John's College

Letter from Fr John McEncroe to Rev. R. Healy concerning the administration of St John's College. Remarks that the fellows of the College have 'expressed their 'unanimous' wish and desire to procure, if possible, a member of your Society for this important office'.

McEncroe, John, 1794-1868, Catholic priest and archdeacon

Articles on the history of the Jesuit mission to Australia, includes articles on Ireland

Series of articles bound into book format concerning the history of the Jesuit mission to Australia:

  • 'The Woodstock Letters'. Vol. XXXVII. No. 3 'The Society of Jesus in Australia' pp303-318; Vol. XXXVIII. No. 1 pp1-9; Vol. XXXVIII. No. 2 pp161-176; Vol. XXXVIII. ? pp341-349; Vol. XXXIX. No. 2 pp145-160; Vol. XXXIX. No. 3 pp304-318; Vol. XL. No. 1 pp1-16; Vol. XL. No. 2 pp145-160; Vol. XL. No. 3 pp274-288; Vol. XLI. No. 1 pp1-6;

  • catalogue of the Adelaide residence of the Australian Mission (1862; 1869-1870; 1874; 1877; 1880; 1886; 1889) and the Australian Mission (1887; 1893; 1902; 1912);

  • contemporary newspaper clippings of Jesuit houses in Australia;

  • copy of 'Edmund Campion’s History of Ireland' by the Rev. John Hungerford Pollen SJ with an inscription to Fr John Conmee SJ by J. H. Pollen SJ reprinted from ‘The Month’, December, 1905, and February, 1906.

  • articles by Fr Matthew Devitt SJ on 'Summerhill, County Meath and its neighbourhood', published in Kildare Archaeological Society;

  • 'Irish University Education: A plea for Fair Play' by Fr William Delany SJ (1904);

  • 'Brief memoir of Fr Patrick Duffy SJ' (1904);

  • 'The Annual Report of the Apostolic School of Ireland' (Society of Jesus) 1884-1885, 1886, 1895;

  • extracts from the diary of Mungret College (1884-1885);

  • copy letters from Rev. F. Ronan to the Fathers and Students of Mungret College during the journey through the United States (September 1884- Christmas 1885).

Letters to Irish Fr Provincial Edmund J O'Reilly SJ

A file of letters to Irish Fr Provincial Edmund J O'Reilly SJ (term as Fr Provincial 1863 - 19 April 1870). Includes an index/précis to the letters by [ ]. Other letters including undated letters have been added to, but not described, Fr E O'Reilly's list, J455.

Will of Matilda O'Donnell

A file relating to the will of Matilda O'Donnell in which she bequeathed the residue of her property to her trustees and executors, Fr. Thomas V. Nolan SJ and Fr Michael Browne SJ, Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin. The file contains extensive background material that appears to have little to do with the Society of Jesus and their bequest. However, as Frs. Nolan and Browne were appointed as trustees and executors of the will it may have been necessary to acquaint themselves fully with Miss Matilda O'Donnell's affairs.

Letters from Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ to Irish Provincial Fr Edmund J O'Reilly SJ concerning the Australian Mission

A file of letters from Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ to Irish Provincial Fr Edmund J O'Reilly SJ concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia (18 September 1865,4pp). Includes a letter referring to the Archbishop's wish that the Jesuit Fathers 'take up the absolute care of this (St. Patrick's) college and he will give us two additional things viz.: the parish of Richmond and the ground for a University College...The Bishop will sign a document giving it over to us exclusively and declaring that it can never be taken from us unless we wish to give it up.' (25 September 1865, 4pp). Includes a letter expressing his delight that two more Fathers are to be sent out to St. Patrick's College. Describes the pupils that attend the college (24 March 1866, 8pp). Includes a letter concerning Fr Dalton's arrival in Melbourne. Refers to Miss Therry's threat of legal action concerning her brother's will (25 April 1866, 2pp). Includes a letter referring to his return to Ireland and his travel arrangements. Remarks 'I have often written in fulfillment of what I believed to be my duty as a Consultor and expressed a difference in opinion from Fr Dalton and some of his advisers in many points of importance.' Continues by referring to various matters he feels need attention.' Remarks '...I cannot but despond at the prospects of this mission.' (3 March 1868, 8pp).

Lentaigne, Joseph, 1805-1884, Jesuit priest

Letter concerning the two fathers setting out from Ireland to establish the Australian Mission

Letter from the Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ, Milltown Park, Dublin to [ ] concerning two fathers setting out from Ireland to establish the Australian Mission (Fr William Kelly SJ and Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ). Refers to Fr Therry's brother in Cork who has agreed to co-operate in anyway so that the Jesuit fathers may secure their bequest.

O'Reilly, Edmund J, 1811-1878, Jesuit priest

Letter from the Irish Fr Provincial to the Bishop of Melbourne, on the arrival of two Jesuits

Copy of a letter from Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ, Milltown Park, Dublin to the Bishop of Melbourne, James Alipius Goold, concerning the arrival of Frs Lentaigne and Kelly in Australia in order '...to take preliminary steps for the establishment of our Society in Melbourne.'

O'Reilly, Edmund J, 1811-1878, Jesuit priest

Account for the Melbourne Mission

Account for the Melbourne Mission, total receipts and expenses in Australia, '3 students and one teacher were fed daily'.

Irish Jesuit Mission to Australia, 1865-1931

Material relating to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ - notebook and calendar of letters

A file relating to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ. Includes a calendar of letters received by Fr Joseph Dalton SJ compiled by Errol Lea-Scarlett, Archivist, Riverview (1977-2001, 17pp). Includes notebook compiled by Fr Joseph Dalton SJ entitled 'Consultations St. Patrick's College, Melbourne.' The notebook in fact contains other notes including copies of letters to Irish Fr Provincial and notes relating to other communities in Australia e.g. Sevenhills, St Francis Xavier's College, Kew, Richmond Parish, St. Kilda House, Riverview. (3 November 1870 - [ ] January 1883, ca. 60pp). Includes notes on Sir Edward Strickland compiled by Fr Dalton SJ (1 March 1899, 2pp).

Dalton, Joseph, 1817-1905, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Thomas Keating SJ to Irish Fr Provincials Edmund O’Reilly and Thomas Brown

  • IE IJA MSSN/AUST/241
  • File
  • 27 November 1868; 28 February 1885-3 February 1887
  • Part of Irish Jesuit Missions

A file of letters from Fr Thomas Keating SJ, St Aloysius College, Auburn, Bourke Street, Sydney to Irish Fr Provincials Edmund O'Reilly and Fr Thomas Brown, concerning the college and its administration. Includes a letter with another letter written on the back by Fr Sturzo SJ (Superior of the Mission) to Fr Thomas Brown SJ concerning the names of those he feels would be unsuitable for the management of St Aloysius College (3 February 1887, 1p).

Keating, Thomas, 1827-1887, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Joseph O'Malley SJ, Australia concerning his voyage to Australia and the Mission

  • IE IJA MSSN/AUST/242
  • File
  • 20 May 1870 - 22 February 1883; 11 March 1908 - 8 June 1909
  • Part of Irish Jesuit Missions

A file of letters from Fr Joseph O'Malley SJ, Australia to Irish Fr Provincial concerning his voyage to Australia and the Mission. Includes a letter referring to Fr Dalton SJ (Superior of the Mission). Remarks 'Fr Dalton has no firmness of character. Even when he sees most clearly what is to be done, the slightest opposition makes him abandon it.' (16 July 1870, 1p). Includes a letter concerning the Bishop's offer of the parish of Invercargill, New Zealand (8 June 1881, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to a manuscript he wrote entitled 'Complete Theory of Music' which he sent to Fr Sturzo in the hope of having it published (19 September 1881, 3 items).

O'Malley, Joseph, 1832-1910, Jesuit priest

Letters from Superior of the Mission, Australia to Fr Daniel Jones SJ

A file of letters from the Superior of the Australian Mission Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ, St Patrick's College, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia to Fr Daniel Jones SJ (Socius) concerning the Australian Mission and the work being carried out.

Lentaigne, Joseph, 1805-1884, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Joseph Dalton SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission

A file of letters from Fr Joseph Dalton SJ, (Superior: 1866 - 1872; 1879 - 2 September 1883) to irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission. (Note: undated fragments - 17 items).

14 May 1866 - 6 December 1869, 52 items
Includes a letter concerning a 'serious hitch' with the Bishop over the boundaries of the Mission (24 May 1866, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning a successful agreement between the Society and the Archbishop. Remarks that the Archbishop is very anxious that the Jesuit Fathers obtain the best sites for their houses and to this end has applied to the government for a 'church reserve.' (26 June 1866, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to an invitation by Dr Murphy for the Jesuits to set up a Mission in Tasmania. Remarks that he discussed the matter with his Consultors who felt it was not a desirable offer 'But the real danger is - if Dr. Murphy calls in the Marists or any other body and if they open a community in...Tasmania before we shall have opened one here we may be "cut out" by them; a college in Tasmania even if not a great success might interfere seriously with our college here..' (22 August 1866, 10pp). Includes a letter expressing his disappointment that Fr Provincial can provide neither men nor money for the Australian Mission. Remarks 'It is a great delusion to imagine that gold in Australia is like coal in Newcastle - would it were! The lucky golden days out here are all past and gone and it now requires great capital and great machinery to work the mines... which...lie out here some 200 or 300 feet underground.' Refers to Sir Charles Gavan Duffy lately arrived in Australia. Remarks that he (Fr Dalton) is his Parish Priest and that he has called to see him (26 November 1866, 7pp). Includes a letter referring to the laying of the foundation stone of the church of St Ignatius. Includes a rough plan of the design (25 July 1867, 4pp). Includes a letter marked private concerning the crisis over appointing a new Bishop. Remarks that Dr Goold is acting as administrator temporarily but asks if one of the Jesuit Fathers could be appointed. Remarks 'The laity were about sending a petition to Rome for one of us - I dissuaded them...it will ruin the Melbourne Mission and I intend to impress this on Dr Goold...' (nd, 2pp). (Note: this letter is see also filed after the letter dated 27 July 1867). Includes a letter referring to the litigation over Fr Therry's will. Remarks that this is hindering their plans to secure a site for a new college (26 August 1867, 6pp). Includes a letter describing a visit he made to Fr Therry's sister in Hobart. Remarks that everything has been settled '..I found Miss Therry and her brother most favourably disposed towards us and most anxious that Fr Therry's will and "instructions" should be carried out: they were under the impression however that the Trustees were making away with the property and hence the lawsuit.' (25 September 1867, 8pp). Includes a letter referring to the building of the churches at Richmond and Hawthorn. Remarks 'The two churches are going on well TG - Hawthorn mason work will be completed in a month TG - the Richmond church ("dear and ugly") is rising more slowly and winning admiration as it grows..' (4 January 1868, 8pp). Includes a letter concerning Fr Therry's property and the various allotments left to the Society of Jesus (28 February 1868, 4pp). Includes a lengthy letter replying to a series of charges levelled against the Mission by Fr Lentaigne. Remarks '...I feel that Fr Lentaigne's bill of indictment is greatly exaggerated and in some respects childish - it is almost entirely made up of charges against Fr Nolan...' (11 September 1868, 14pp). Includes a letter referring to the Benedictines in Sydney. Remarks '...(they) are broken down completely - they have failed in every way, their school, their convent - their priests and their Lay Brothers - all a failure. The laity and some of the clergy are very anxious that the Archbishop should give us Lyndhurst for a college, the Marist too are most anxious to see us there..' (4 December 1868, 10pp).

3 January 1870 - 11 May 1879; 87 items
Includes a letter referring to the endowment by Dr McEnroe of a Chair in St John's College (27 March 1870, 11pp). Includes a letter concerning the General Elections and the Education Bill and the Bishop's directive that the clergy should use all their power to ensure the Bishop's directive that the clergy should use all their power to ensure that men opposed to the Government's Education Bill should be returned. Remarks that he did as much as he could quietly. Continues 'We all abstained from voting tho' the B(isho)p was very anxious - Fr General has already forbidden ours to vote under any pretence.' (23 March 1871, 8pp). Includes a letter discussing the pros and cons of the Mission's first attempt at convictus. (20 May 1871, 8pp). Includes a letter describing a visit he paid to South Australia to give a series of retreats. Describes the Mission of the German Fathers of the Society of Jesus in detail. Remarks 'I have had a special reason for giving you...(a) very detailed...account of the Mission of our German Fathers (because... our German Fathers...are very anxious for an amalgamation of the two missions - theirs and ours).' Remarks that he would not approve of an amalgamation and sets out his reasons for this opinion.' (22 August 1872, 8pp). Includes a letter referring to his attempt to raise money for the new colleges. Remarks that he is in Castlemain '...begging for our new colleges, I fear I shall not make my fortune - the place is poor and I am not a good walker and a beggar should be a good walker and a good rider also - I am neither...' (25 February 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to the new secular Education Bill coming into operation. Remarks that it is the Jesuit Father's duty to provide for the schools 'Xtian Brothers for our boys and nuns for our girls are only hope..' (2 January 1974, 4pp).

16 October 1880 - 17 June 1889; 21 items
Includes a letter regarding his health and requests to be relieved from his position as Superior of the Mission as soon as possible. Refers to a meeting of Land League sympathisers at which Fr Joseph O’Malley SJ spoke very strongly. Remarks that he wrote to Fr O'Malley SJ on the matter. Continues 'To make matters worse I learned that the "Land League" had arranged to have 5000 copies of Fr O'Malley's speech...printed...I wrote at once to the printers but was too late...Fr Mulhall and Fr Clancy...agree with me in looking on the speech as very imprudent.' (24 July 1881, 12pp). Includes a letter concerning the conduct of Fr James Kennedy SJ at the graveside of Archbishop Steins which caused great upset to the Jesuit Fathers and members of the diocese. Remarks that he had to severely reprimand Fr Kennedy SJ ([September 1881], 6pp).

Dalton, Joseph, 1817-1905, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Edward Nolan SJ to Irish Fr Provincials concerning the Australian Mission

A file of letters from Fr Edward Nolan SJ to Irish Fr Provincials concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia (16 April 1866, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to St Patrick's College and the poor reputation it has. Remarks '...I am sorry to say that the college was fast losing ground in the estimation of the public for want of management and even yet the evil is not completely checked...we have been informed lately by the priests that we had not succeeded as was anticipated...the college has been looked upon as a failure.' Refers to Fr Dalton and his position as Superior of the Mission. Remarks '...he seems to me to want firmness of purpose and resolution to face the difficulty...My conviction is that if he goes on we cannot succeed.' (26 April 1867, 8pp). Includes a letter describing a trip to Ballarat to preach a sermon and a visit he paid to one of the gold mines called "the Band of Hope". Remarks 'The yield on the day I was there was 437 oz; a few days before it had been 1637 oz for one day, the largest yield ever obtained in a gold mine in Australia and worth over £6,500.' Remarks that he was presented with a nugget which he sold '...for the benefit of Richmond Church.' Continues 'Four hundred miners are employed at this one mine...the close bad air of the mines tells very quickly on them and they die off rapidly. Three batches of them relieve one another every eight hours...the work goes on night and day - Sunday and holiday - otherwise the water would go in upon them and flood the mine.' (22 August 1867, 8pp). Includes a letter referring to a plot of ground made available for the construction of a church at Hawthorn (24 October 1867, 4pp). Includes a letter describing the church at Hawthorn. Remarks '...the...church is greatly admired by all - Catholic and Protestant. It will be...one of the prettiest in the colony (11 October [1868], 12pp). Includes a letter, describing, in detail, a trip to New Zealand, the people he met there and the landscape. Remarks 'There is a complete dearth of good respectable Catholic boys-schools throughout the whole of New Zealand.' Remarks that there is a lack of clergy and as a result many people have lost their faith. (12 August 1870, 12pp). Includes a letter referring to the opening of a boarding school. Asks Fr Provincial for more fathers who can teach in the school (28 March 1872, 4pp).

Nolan, Edward, 1826-1893, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Joseph Mulhall SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial concerning the mission in Australia

A file of letters from Fr Joseph Mulhall SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial concerning the mission in Australia. Includes a letter concerning the upkeep of ecclesiastical students. Remarks that he does not agree with Fr Kelly that '...we have no right to accept...money for (their) maintenance...' Continues '...in the written contract with us the Bishop promises to pray us for their maintenance. They teach for 3 hours and during Mr. Lentaigne's time, they got lectures for 2 hours now these 2 things may be said to balance each other...' (DATE). Includes a letter referring to the establishment of a boarding school in Australia. Remarks that the Society accepted St. John's University and that the Board has promised not to interfere. Remarks '...they are most anxious that we should have it - for they are most apprehensive that the government will take it into their own hands...' (29 January 1870, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to the need to build a house for the community beside St Ignatius church, Richmond (6 November 1871, 6pp). Includes a letter concerning Fr James Cullen SJ and remarks that he would welcome him to Australia. Remarks '...he is a very zealous missioner, one that would save a great number of souls here living in this parish entrusted to our care - he is exactly the father we want in Richmond...' (29 January 1884, 4pp)

Mulhall, Joseph, 1820-1897, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr David McKiniry SJ, St James', Richmond and St Patrick's College, Melbourne, Australia to Fr Edmund O'Reilly SJ

A file of letters from Fr David McKiniry SJ, St James', Richmond and St Patrick's College, Melbourne, Australia to Fr Edmund O'Reilly SJ. Includes a letter written from Melbourne describing Prince Alfred's visit to the city. Describes the situation in St Patrick's College and remarks that its reputation is rising but that further money is needed. Remarks 'We will not be able to work the college even as a day-school for another year without help.' (26 November 1867, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning remarks made by Fr Lentaigne SJ to Fr Dalton SJ (Superior of the Mission). Refers to the estrangement between the Bishops and some of the priests and remarks 'It appears to me...that neither the Bishop nor the leading priests in the city were ever friendly, but that they required of us to work for them and to perform those duties especially which demanded a great deal of time and labour and for which there was no remuneration whatever...' (11 September 1868, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to a lecture delivered by Dr Bromby, headmaster of the Church of England Grammar School on Scripture. Remarks that the lecture was 'most heretical' but that Fr Moore SJ gave the vote of thanks. (13 August 1869, 3pp).

McKiniry, David, 1830-1896, Jesuit priest

Letter from John Fitzpatrick, Melbourne, on the annual collection for the Ecclesiastical Seminary, Melbourne

Letter from John Fitzpatrick, Vicar General, Melbourne to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ, Superior of the Mission, requesting him, on behalf of the Bishop, to make the annual collection for the Ecclesiastical Seminary, Melbourne. Includes a copy reply from Fr Dalton. Remarks 'Don't you think it places us in a... false position before the diocese? It makes the "Jesuit Fathers" the applicants for the money whereas the collection is in reality not for us but for his Lordship...'

Fitzpatrick, John, 1810-1890, priest and Vicar General

Letter from the Superior of the Australian Mission, Fr Joseph Dalton SJ to Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ

Letter from the Superior of the Australian Mission, Fr Joseph Dalton SJ, Villa Maria, Hunters Hill, Sydney to Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ concerning the Australian Mission. Refers to a number of topics he wishes to be passed on to Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ when Fr Lentaigne returns to Ireland.

Dalton, Joseph, 1817-1905, Jesuit priest

Letter from Fr John Forrest to the Superior of the Mission concerning the will of Archdeacon McEncroe

Letter from Fr John Forrest, Rector, St John's College, University of Sydney to Fr James Dalton SJ (Superior of the Mission), Melbourne concerning the will of Archdeacon McEncroe in which he made provisions for a Jesuit to be appointed to the Chair of Logic and Theology in St John's College, University of Sydney. Includes a copy of a letter sent by Fr Dalton SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ concerning the matter.

Forrest, John 1820–1883, Catholic priest and college rector

Letter from Fr Edward Nolan SJ concerning a paper he had made to make arrangements for the payment of debts

Letter from Fr Edward Nolan SJ, St Patrick's College, Melbourne to [ ] concerning a paper he had drawn up, before leaving Ireland, to make arrangements for the payment of debts. Remarks that the paper has gone astray. Asks for a donation towards the building of the church of the Immaculate Conception.

Nolan, Edward, 1826-1893, Jesuit priest

Printed circular letter from Fr Robert Kelly SJ

Printed circular letter from Fr Robert Kelly SJ to [clergy and prelates]. Urges the introduction of his Association of Prayer against intemperance. Refers to its rules, and to ‘the organ of the Association’, the Monitor. Also reports on its success in various dioceses of Great Britain and Ireland. Includes handwritten note from James Quinn, Archbishop of Brisbane, to Fr Kelly. Archbishop Quinn expresses his approval of Fr Kelly’s Association.

Letters from Fr Thomas Cahill SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning his life and work in Australia

A file of letters from Fr Thomas Cahill SJ (Superior of the Mission 1872-79) to Irish Fr Provincial concerning his life and work in Australia. Includes a letter written from Macao, China concerning the expulsion of the Society from the colony due '...to the hostility of a newly appointed Administrator of the diocese. He's the chief author of a new code of rules for his seminary one of which excludes foreigners.' Continues '...I am to go to Australia.' (20 July 1871, 4pp) Includes a letter referring to the laying of the foundation stone of St Francis Xavier, Melbourne on 8 December 1872. Refers to the passing of the Education Bill. Remarks 'The Bill establishes compulsory free and secular education Catholics cannot therefor accept it...' (2 January 1873, 6pp). Includes a letter confirming his appointment as acting superior of St Patrick's College (21 May 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning the provision of education for the poor and the possibility of the Christian Brothers and the Sacred Heart Sisters establishing such schools in the Richmond Mission (10 September 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to the erection of a wooden house at Kew to establish a school for the sixty Catholic children in Kew (10 August 1874, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to the building of Kew College. Remarks that work has been stopped because the tenders were far higher than expected. Refers to the opening of St John's College in Sydney. Remarks '(The)...college was opened with great eclat by Dr. Vaughan last week. This college under him will be a formidable rival.' (19 April 1875, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to Fr Dalton and a story concerning him and his endeavours on the part of two children whom he promised (to their dying Mother) to see reared as Catholics. Remarks that the incident has attracted a lot of publicity and that a question will be asked in Parliament on the subject. (12 July 1875, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to Dr Moran, Bishop of Dunedin, New Zealand and his invitation to the Society to set up a college at Dunedin (14 November 1876, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to a meeting with the recently appointed Archbishop of Sydney who offered an invitation to the Society to establish a Mission in Sydney (10 March 1877, 7pp).

Cahill, Thomas, 1827-1908, Jesuit priest

Manuscript by Fr Joseph O'Malley SJ on his system of teaching sight-singing and harmony

Manuscript, ready for the publisher, by Fr Joseph O'Malley SJ, Norwood, Australia of a book on his system of teaching sight-singing and harmony. Includes a table of contents (3pp). ‘Dedicated to Charles Levy, Leader of the Lyric Orchestra & the Hawthorn Choir.’ Includes a number of testimonials by various individuals and a photograph of Fr O'Malley.

O'Malley, Joseph, 1832-1910, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Patrick Duffy SJ to Sr Mary Agnes, Carmelite Convent, Firhouse, Tallaght, Dublin

  • IE IJA J/130/1
  • File
  • 10 September 1873 - 9 February 1901
  • Part of Irish Jesuits

A file of letters from Fr Patrick Duffy SJ to Sr Mary Agnes (later Mother Prioress), Carmelite Convent, Firhouse, Tallaght, Dublin concerning his life and work as a priest. The majority of these letters are written from Australia and describe his work in this mission. The letters also discuss news from the convent of Firhouse and Fr Duffy offers constant encouragement in spiritual matters and discusses the numbers of novices in the convent. Many of the letters were written while his sister (Sr Mary Gabriel) was ill and could not write herself. Includes a letter concerning his sister's health. Remarks that he is glad to have been told how serious her attack was. Remarks 'I am anxious about her, of course I am, we are brother and sister and the last remaining two of a family of eleven. No wonder, then, that we should look towards each other - now especially, when we are both coming so near to the end of the journey.' (21 June 1894, 4pp). Includes a letter congratulating Sr. Mary Agnes on becoming Mother Prioress of the Carmelite Convent in Firhouse. Remarks 'And so the burden of authority has been laid upon your shoulders! Well - God's will be done. And that it is God's will that you should be put into your present position.' (25 April 1895, 4pp). Includes a letter enclosing a cutting from The Argus concerning Edward Grennan who took part in the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War. Advises Sr Mary Agnes to read the cutting to the novices. Remarks 'The lesson taught is grand! I would advise the Mistress of Novices to read both (cutting and letter) to her novices and give them a lecture on obedience. The analogy between the two warfares, the warfare of this world and the warfare of the soul is very close.' (22 November 1896, 2 items).

Letters from Fr Christopher Nulty SJ to Irish Fr Provincial

  • IE IJA MSSN/AUST/245
  • File
  • 7 April 1873 ; 17 January 1882 - 3 July 1882; 5 February 1900; 10 February 1908
  • Part of Irish Jesuit Missions

A file of letters from Fr Christopher Nulty SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia (7 April 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning the possible closure of St. Aloysius College, Sydney. Describes the finances of the college and academic life. Expresses his opinion on what should be done. (5 February 1900, 4pp)

Nulty, Christopher, 1838-1914, Jesuit priest

Letter from Fr Thomas Cahill SJ, Bathurst to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ

Letter from Fr Thomas Cahill SJ, Bathurst to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ asking him to write to the Irish Fr Provincial on a matter discussed by Fr Cahill and Fr Dalton. Remarks that he has been suffering from ill health and has been unable to give the triduum to the nuns of Bathurst.

Cahill, Thomas, 1827-1908, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Michael J Watson SJ to irish Fr Provincial

  • IE IJA MSSN/AUST/246
  • File
  • 10 April 1873; 4 June 1881; 5 September 1884-4 January 1886; 21 May 1901
  • Part of Irish Jesuit Missions

A file of letters from Fr Michael J Watson SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia. Remarks 'I wish you could have seen Fr Nulty, S.J. at the end of our voyage. He allowed his beard to grow, as indeed did Father Hughes and myself but Father Nulty's grew to a surprising degree and presented a bushy and fierce appearance. How imposing he looked as he walked about the deck...' (10 April 1873, 4pp). Includes letters written as a Consultor for St Francis Xavier's College, Kew. Includes a letter remarking that Fr Sturzo SJ (Superior of the Mission) wishes to transfer the Novitiate to Kew (4 January 1886, 4pp).

Watson, Michael J, 1845-1931, Jesuit priest

Letter from Fr Joseph Tappeiner SJ to Fr Nicholas Walsh SJ concerning the prospect of two Jesuit Fathers being sent out to Norwood

Letter from Fr Joseph Tappeiner SJ, Superior of the Austro-Hungarian Mission, St. Ignatius, Norwood to Fr Nicholas Walsh SJ concerning the prospect of two Jesuit Fathers being sent out to Norwood. Expresses his satisfaction at the news and advises that the Fathers should be young men. Remarks 'We find that it is always more difficult for men whose habits are already formed to get into the way of colonial life.'

Tappeiner, Joseph, 1820-1882, Jesuit priest and missionary

Letter from Sr Mary [ ] Williams to Fr James Dalton SJ concerning the transfer of the Sisters of Charity to Richmond

Letter from Sr Mary [ ] Williams, Convent Sisters of Charity, Hobartown (Hobart, Tasmania) to Fr James Dalton SJ concerning the transfer of the Sisters of Charity to Richmond. Includes a note on the back of the letter from Fr Dalton to Irish Fr Provincial N. Walshe SJ remarking, 'They are not prospering there, because the Presentation Nuns...have the support of the Bishop and Clergy. They must leave or die out...'

Williams, Mary, Sister of Charity

Letter from J. A. Hoare to Fr Nicholas Walshe SJ on the opening of a Christian Bros house in Melbourne

Letter from J. A. Hoare, Novitiate of the Christian Brothers, Belvidere House, Drumcondra to Fr Nicholas Walsh SJ concerning a letter he received from the Brother Director of one of their houses in Melbourne referring to the Bishop's decision that until the needs of Melbourne had been addressed he would not sanction the opening of another house in his diocese (i.e. Richmond).

Hoare, J. A.

Letters from Earl Spencer to Dr Charles Russell

A file of letters from Earl Spencer to Dr Charles Russell. Includes a letter thanking Dr Russell for the Preface of the Calendar of the Irish State papers of James I by Dr. Russell and remarks how glad he is to have the book to put in his library at Althorp. Invites Dr. Russell to visit him (17 April 1874, 4pp). Includes a letter thanking Dr. Russell for sending him verses written on '...the occasion of laying the first stone of your new church...I am glad...you will soon have a church worthy of the college over which you preside.' Admires the design and remarks 'I presume Pugin originally designed a church to go with the college...'.

Spencer, John Poyntz, 1835-1910, 5th Earl Spencer and lord lieutenant of Ireland

Material related to Fr Albert Power SJ

A file relating to Fr Albert Power SJ. Includes a group photograph taken at Corpus Christi College, Melbourne on the occasion of his golden jubilee (1931, 1 item). Includes photographs of himself, members of his family and the family grave in Glasnevin cemetery. Includes letters written to his cousins Daisy and Vonnie, John Comford and Georgie Power. Includes various personal items.

Power, Albert, 1870-1948, Jesuit priest

Letter from the Archbishop of Melbourne concerning the procurement of a community of religious

Letter from Joseph Alipius Goold, Archbishop of Melbourne, Archbishop's Residence, St Patrick's, Melbourne to Fr Thomas Cahill SJ (Superior of the Mission) concerning the procurement of a community of religious to take charge of schools for girls.

Goold, James Alipius, 1812-1886, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne

Letter from Roger Bede Vaughan, Archbishop of Sydney to Fr Thomas Cahill SJ, concerning the establishment of the Society in Sydney

Letter from Roger Bede Vaughan, Archbishop of Sydney, St John's College, Sydney to Fr Thomas Cahill SJ (Superior of the Mission) concerning the establishment of the Society in Sydney. Remarks that he has no objection but wishes to discuss a number of conditions. Refers to the closure of Lyndhurst College. Remarks 'The result of this very painful duty will be at all events to clear away complications and you will have no reason for feeling any delicacy in accepting the offer I am going to make to you when you come.

Vaughan, Roger William Bede, 1834-1883, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Sydney

Copies of the St Patrick's College Gazette

A file containing copies of The St. Patrick's College Gazette. The Gazette was produced on behalf of the members of the college debating association.

St Patrick's College, East Melbourne, 1854-1968

Letters from Fr Patrick Duffy SJ to Sr Mary Gabriel, Carmelite Convent, Firhouse, Tallaght, Dublin

  • IE IJA J/130/2
  • File
  • 3 May 1879 - 15 August 1897
  • Part of Irish Jesuits

A file of letters from Fr Patrick Duffy SJ to his sister Sr Mary Gabriel, Carmelite Convent, Firhouse, Tallaght, Dublin concerning his life and work as a priest in Australia and elsewhere. The vast majority of the letters (over 50) are written from Australia describing in detail his work and life in this mission. Includes letters discussing his health, his sister's health, family matters, retreats and missions he gave in Australia and masses and prayers offered for the convent and community at Firhouse. Includes a letter from Fr Duffy, Ursuline Convent, St Joseph's, Sligo to Sr Mary Gabriel. Remarks 'Now that you and I are alone left of all we must, from this on, take on more than ever special interest in each other.' (6 August 1888, 4pp). Includes a letter informing his sister of his departure for Australia. Remarks 'Say God's will be done for it is the will of God. Don't fret about me, for before very long you and I will meet in a happy eternity.' (15 August 1888, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning his sister's health and the loss of sight in one of her eyes. Encourages her not to read if she finds it a strain. Refers to the noviceship in her convent. Remarks 'Put away those gloomy thoughts about the noviceship. There is nothing wrong in your convent. Just let us keep on praying and trusting and leave the future to God.' (22 August 1891, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning his move from North Shore to Hawthorn. Remarks that he has more work to do in Hawthorn and that it is 'more pressing'. Remarks 'As I write the weather is harsh and we have much sickness - the influenza - and many deaths.' (7 October 1891, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to the death of Fr General (Fr Anderledy SJ) at Fiesole. Remarks 'He and I were fellow students in the Roman College of the Society, some 44 years ago! He was about my age. A warning to look out!' Refers to his change of address and remarks that he will be working at Kew, Melbourne. (letter dated 4 December 1891, 4pp, section dated 20 January 1892). Includes a letter written from New Zealand where he was conducting retreats. Remarks 'I am in my element.' Continues 'I like New Zealand very much a fine country and climate - greatly superior to Australia. Every one is kind to me and I get on well. Wellington is a nice clean city with a fine harbour and a brisk trade.' Describes a journey to Reefton to give a retreat to the Mercy nuns. Remarks that he made the journey on top of a stage coach 'Pretty smart going! Through the bush and over the mountains! Five horses to the coach and galloping all the time for nearly 4 days! What say you to that? But young men like me don't mind these things.' (this section dated 8 January 1893) (29 December 1892, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to his duties at St. Francis Xavier's College in Kew. Remarks that he is in charge of the Sodality of the B V Mary 'Tis from the sodalities in our colleges that the noviceship is recruited.' (7 February 1892, 4pp). Includes a letter describing a visit he made to one of the Melbourne hospitals to see an old friend, Edward Grennan, '…Irish and Catholic a native of Mountrath, Queen's county. He had been in the army - a cavalry regiment - Lord Cardigan's Light Brigade - had ridden in the famous charge - 25 October 1854. He is now the remnant of a well looking man - was then a youth of 20. Well we fraternized of course - he and I old Crimean-and fellow-soldiers. We chatted of the war, and of the Charge of the Light Brigade, his brigade in particular. Step by step we got along until I stood with him and his companions 600 strong - in thought and imagination - at the end of the valley - at the other end of which was the Russian Battery of some 10 or 12 pairs of canon.' Describes how the order was given to seize the guns. Continues 'Without a moments hesitation, the 600 are in their saddles and away they go…Oh! My poor fellows, my poor brave fellows! Over 600 they commence their ride to return later on all that was left of them about 200 men! Half an hour did the whole business.' (21 November 1896, 4pp).

Letters from Fr Michael Dooley SJ to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ relating to finances of the Australian Mission

A file of letters from Fr Michael Dooley SJ, St. Francis Xavier's College, Kew, Australia to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ Includes a letter referring to the finances of St. Francis Xavier's College. Expresses his concern over the debts that have accumulated. Remarks that the Archbishop has opened a new High School and appears to have lost confidence in St. Francis Xavier's College. Refers to Fr Therry's estate and remarks that it has been sold off '...and what has become of the money, I can't say.' Concludes that a debt of £20,000 has accumulated. (3 July 1881, 4pp).

Dooley, Michael, 1850-1922, Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Daniel Clancy SJ to Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission

A file of letters from Fr Daniel Clancy SJ to Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter concerning the outlay on the primary school at Lavender Bay and remarks that the school could have been built for a lot less 'I think most of us here, if not all, feel that it was a gross mistake to put Fr Kennedy at the head of any mission as Superior...he is absolutely unfit - that he lacks not only judgement but knowledge and temper.' (28 February 1881, 12pp). Includes a letter referring to a site in Sydney he feels would be suitable for the Jesuit fathers to establish a school. Remarks that the house was lived in by the present Agent General Sir S. Samuel. Refers to the extravagance of the school at Lavender Bay. Remarks 'It is said...that the blunder at Lavender Bay is so foolish that the reputation of the Society here cannot be restored unless the Jesuits undertake some work in the city that will prove they are not incapable.' (16 July 1881, 10pp). Includes a letter referring again to Lavender Bay. Remarks 'A lawyer who knows all our affairs very accurately has told me this very month that we shall never be able to meet the liabilities on Lavender Bay and that the best and only thing to do is to part with that mission for this can be done.' Concludes in a postscript 'You will observe that the tenants lease for Auburn House (Saul Samuel's) expires the same time as our lease for St Kilda House. But the time to secure that is now most urgently - or never.' (5 August 1881, 8pp). Includes a letter asking for more Fathers to be sent out. Refers to rumours of a new mission being started in Invercargill, New Zealand. Remarks 'The fact is help is very urgently wanted without undertaking fresh work and unless help comes quickly and of the right kind it is better we should be all recalled in good time.' (25 September 1881, 6pp). Includes a letter containing a sketched plan of St Aloysius College. Describes the property (19 April 1885, 3pp).

Clancy, Daniel, 1836-1895, Jesuit priest

Query by Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ on North Shore Mission

Letter from [ ], Northshore to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ concerning a query made on Fr Tuite's behalf of two people - John and Joseph Morrissey and information about the North Shore Mission. Describes the financial situation of the school. Remarks 'It will be an awful disgrace if we have to sell out...The full extent of the N.shore folly you can never understand unless you pay us a flying visit...you would hear a thousand stories...which...would thoroughly convince you that Fr Kennedy ought never be allowed to do parish work again'.

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Letters from Fr James Kennedy SJ to Irish Fr Provincial relating to various matters in Australia

A file of letter from Fr James Kennedy SJ to Irish Fr Provincial relating to various matters in Australia including his concern over the finances of the Australian Mission. Remarks that money has been managed 'with very little order'. (8 April 1885, 9pp).

Kennedy, James, 1841-1918, former Jesuit priest

Letter from Fr Joseph Clery SJ to Irish Fr Provincial urging him to send out a visitor

Letter from Joseph Clery SJ, The Presbytery, North Shore to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ urging him to send out a visitor as soon as possible. Remarks '...nothing short of a visitorial inspection by a "visitor" such as I have described will meet the difficulty, will elicit "the truth - the whole truth" '.

Clery, Joseph, 1837-, former Jesuit priest

Letters from Fr Edward Nolan SJ to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ describing New Zealand

A file of letters from Fr Edward Nolan SJ to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ. Includes letters concerning matters in the college at Kew (9 November 1881 - 29 April 1882, 3 items). Includes a letter describing his visit to New Zealand and the journey from Hokitika to Greymouth. Remarks: 'Those who have seen the European Alps say that the Southern Alps of N. Zealand are quite equal to them for grandeur. The scenery too is most varied...The roads over the mountains are cut out of the rock and the precipices hundreds of feet deep along which they run make many a stout heart quail.' (1May [ ], 4pp). Includes a letter concerning his visit to Greymouth, New Zealand. Remarks '...(it) is the most stirring town on the west coast and I believe the most so in N.Z. for its size. A new rush broke out about two months ago...There are 'tis said a thousand Irish there.' (6 May [ ], 4pp).

Nolan, Edward, 1826-1893, Jesuit priest

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