INDIANAPOLIS
1839: First Catholic Church in Indianapolis -- see Large File
1847: Brothers Vincent and Stephen try to collect money from Railroad workers for Novitiate at Indianapolis MINOR CHAPTER, Local Council, June 24, 1847
See "Bishop Hailandiere to Sorin" 1843
1848: "Father Drouelle (Visitor) still retains a lively remembrance of his travels over the 'corduroy road' between South Bend and Indianapolis" SILVER JUBILEE, p.38
Indianapolis Property -- see under "Deery" in Large File
" . . . it (Dec. 31) was the first time the Holy Sacrifice was offered up in Indianapolis. The Catholic Church was practically none existence there at the time, and did not possess a foot of ground in the capital city of the state. There were but few Catholics there, and these were mostly laborers on the public works then in progress. This mass was said by Fr. J.C. Francois in "Power's Tavern" on W. Washington H . . . . somewhere between Meridian St. and White River." CAUTHORN: ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHEDAL, 1835
Fr. Bacquelin: "Monsignor, it is time for us to have a foothold in the capital of the state. We must buy a lot and build a church."
Bishop de la Hailandiere: "Well, how much will a lot cost in Indianapolis?"
Fr. Bacquelin: "Three hundred dollars"
Bishop de la Hailandiere putting his hand in his pocket: "Here's $150. Get the people to pay the balance."
So that until the end of December 1839 or January 1840, the Catholic Church did not possess a foot of ground in Indianapolis. CAUTHORN, 1840
Novitiate, (St. Mary's)
From 1842, Bishop Hailandiere wanted Brother's Novitiate at Indianapolis, but impossible to realize. In 1844 when Hailandiere was in Europe he and Moreau made contract for the house and the Ordinary of Vincennes. One clause said that if Society agreeing with Bishop moved Novitiate to Indianapolis, Hailandiere would give $500 plus 375 acres he owned near Bertand. In Sorin's absence, Hailandiere learned of project of making a foundation at St. Mary's Lebanon, Kentucky. Naturally he condemned it and let it be known that if some members of Holy Cross went to Kentucky, he would send them all there. On Sorin's return from Europe the Bishop pressed for foundation, and asserted Sorin had delayed too long and threatened to do away with the Community if he didn't obtain satisfaction.
"At this time Brother Joseph was sent to Indiana on a mission dear to Hailandiere's heart: selling Catholic books cheap to each house in that place. He sold almost none, and thought more, Sorin said, of buying than of selling. Having been told to look around for a house suitable for a Novitiate for the Brothers, he concluded he was authorized to buy a place and he bought property with a house and 27 acres for $4,500. This astonished and worried the administration. But as a refusal to honor the deal would compromise the Community in the eyes of the public and especially in the Bishop's good grace. The local Council ratified the deal but it left the Mother House the right to order a resale. But administration made an unpardonable eror in letting it appear that the deal depended on Moreau's approval rather than on Brother Joseph's stupidity.
"The Methodists, it seems, had a revival in order to induce the owner not to sell his property to a Catholic. Brother Joseph, fearing their influence, concluded the bargain before he had received a reply from Notre Dame."
Journal of Brother Gatian: Chronicles 1847-48
"Bishop was delighted. Wrote Propagation of Faith for a special allocation and let it be known that he expected a double amount. Six months later the Council was chagrined on learning that there would be no allocation. That meant a financial crisis. Need the worst ever.
The unexpected arrival of Fr. Saulnier from the Mother House, June 1847, was an event. He had a "mrmoire" about Brohter Joseph's purchase, which he was ordered to read in chapter the day of his arrival. And he scrupulously did. With a little foresight he might have forseen the effect and softened it a bit. Either he didn't or didn't want to do so. Not only did he read it but he defended it in a way that produced the most unfortunate and nerve-racking effect on all the members of the chapter. Sorin said he would never forget its displeasure. A few days later Saulnier, whohad an obedience for Louisville and St. Mary's, left Notre Dame. He had hardly arrived there when he wrote for four Sisters; six weeks later he got Brother Theodulus.
"From the beginning to end one is astonished that such an important foundation could be conducted by such a long series of misunderstandings, or in truth, of administration bungling." 1847-48
"The foundation at Indianapolis took place in September. Fr. Granger was appointed to reside. Brother Louis and Brother Anselm went with Fr. Granger.
Brother Bernard went to Madison, Brothers Basil and Emmanuel to Ft. Wayne, Brother Benedict to Washington, Dariess Co., Indiana.
Brother Ambrose and Mr. Gallan left for Indianapolis on last Thursday, 18th of November 1847, in order to perform their novitiate.
Brother Thomas was sent to Indianapolis on March 24, 1848 to teach English to the Novices.
The Novitiate at Indianapolis has involved the institution in great expenses. An account drawn by the Secretary shows a total amount of $3,475,29, which might have been saved if the Novitiate had remained at Notre Dame du Lac. Moreover, they do not get any postulants there and they do indeed a very poor business. 1847
The Postulate and Novitiate will be made at Indianapolis; the candidates who came here will spend some time at Notre Dame du Lac as an essay; than at the first favorable appearance they will be sent to Indianapolis. This might be done two or three times a year. Some members object because the constitution says that the Postulants and Novices are to be separated, and one of the members was of the opinion that those who do not want to study should stay at Notre Dame du Lac, and this to avoid expenses, and because, he added, several mechanics will be at a loss what to do during their novitiate . . . .
Mr. Shaw shall be corrector at table.
MINOR CHAPTER, October 24, 1847
Bishop de la Hailandiere petititioned the Propaganda at Rome for permission to move his See to some of the other towns in the State of Indiana which promised by the energy of the population and greater natural advantages, a more rapid growth, designating three towns in particular, chief among these was the very capital of the state -- Indianapolis. (Above: Vincennes would not grow. The flow of immigration passed on north and south of Indiana leaving only a few families here and there at the extremeties.) His petitition was granted, the choice being left to him, and at once he set to work to secure property in Indianapolis, waiting, however, to move his See there for further signs of its growth and more certain indications of future prosperity. ALERDING'S "VINCENNES", p. 176, 1844
A long discussion arose to know whether it was expedient to send Bro. Vincent as a collector for the payment of the Novitiate at Indianapolis. The majority thought he was to go, alleging that otherwise it would perhaps be impossible to pay. LOCAL COUNCIL, May 10, 1847
He (Fr. Sorin) informed the Council that Mr. Bathe had disposed of the money he had offered for the payment of the Novitiate at Indianapolis. It was unanimously resolved that money should be borrowed at the bank for the payment of the Novitiate. It would be impossible, it was said, to refuse to ratify the contract, without exposing ourselves to the danger of losing a law-suit. The honor of the Establishment would be greatly injured, a true injustice would be commited against the seller, and the Rt. Rev. Bishop, who had already sent his subscription, would be justly displeased, and his favorable dispositions be totally altered. But, as the payment will require much money, and in order to spare it and get some, Brother Vincent will not go to France, as it had been decided in the preceeding chapter (council), but he will go to collect money on the Railroad, and he will be accompanied by Bro. Stephen. Local Council, June 26, 1847
In early September Fr. Granger with six novices left for Indianapolis. Step was not favored by most, but could not be put off without incurring the just indignation of the Bishop who had advanced $3000 to pay for the property and who was not bound to give the $500 and the 375 acres of land promised, until the Brothers had done theirs which he did without delay.
"Father Granger established himself andhis novices,according to the Rules and Constitutions for Novitiates, without delay. Half the property was within the city limits and was removed from the noise of the streets. Offered nearly all advantages necessary for the purpose except for the brick building that served as a novitiate, which was too near the street. Except this, all around was silence, and the location agreeable. Father Granger was occupied exclusively with the novitiate and was not allowed to do anything in the city for the Congregation.
"Time showed inopportunities of undertaking. With hardly any returns, expenses were three times as great as at the Lake. Administration couldn't afford this . . .
"Meanwhile a new bishop came to Vincennes instead of Msgr. de la Hailandiere, who had resigned" Msgr. Bazin. In April, 1848, Father Sorin met him at Vincennes when they had a five point agreement. One of the articles related to Indianapolis. It permited the recall of the novices to the Lake and the sale of the Indianapolis property on condition that the $3000 advanced by Bishop de la Hailandiere should be paid back while the $500 and the 375 acres should be retained." 1847
"They (Brothers of St. Joseph), have schools at Vincennes, Madison, Ft. Wayne, and Washington, Indianapolis." CATHOLIC ALMANAC, p.211, 1848
(July 29, 1845; Bacquelin -- Sorin) "I have not been able to secure property for you yet. The gardens I saw are not as large as the one you desire. Agreeable to your wishes I shall try to get a place centrally located enough for a day school if you intend to have one. I believe you can get a number of boys here to study grammar, mathematics, and languages. I have asked several persons to look out for a good location. On my return from Shelbyville and Columbus, I hope to find suitable property and suitable cost. I should like to be a helper of the project of securing a house here for your order. In case a new church is built next year, the house that now serves as a chapel might suti you. Of course you would have to arrange this with Bishop de la Hailandiere.
"The sudden death of good Brother Anselm, of which I learned from some Sisters of Providence, who were here yesterday on their way to St. Mary of the Woods, is a warning to all of us to be on our guard. Happily, he had received the Sacraments that morning." PROVINCIAL ARCHIVES, 1845
Indianapolis land bought by Brother Joseph in 1846 during Sorin's absence in Europe.
"Since 1842 Bishop de la Hailandiere had the idea that the Brothers' Novitiate should be at Indianapolis. At that time it was evidently impossible to carry out his plans. In 1844 on his visit to Le Mans he entered into an agreement with Father Moreau by which the Ordinary and the Mother House boudn themselves reciprocally. One clause declared that if, adopting the Bishop's views, the Society would transfer the Novitiate from Notre Dame to Indianapolis the Bishop would give $500 and 375 acres near Bertrand, Michigan.
" . . . .was more urgent then ever regarding the moving of the novitiate. He complained of the long delays and finally threatened to rid himself of the whole community if his project weren't carried out.
"The purchase delighted the Bishop. He wrote the Propagation of the Faith for a special grant and held out hopes of double assistance from the Society, but six months later it transpired no grant at all would be forthcoming for Notre Dame that year. This, of course, was a cause of much embarassment to the struggling community.
"The return of Father Granger and his novices was too earnestly desired to be long delayed. In the month of May the necessary measures were taken adn the little family returned to their own with sentiments of reciprocal affection, which the temporary separation had made only stronger and more sensible. the whole interior of the novitiate on St. Mary's Island was plastered anew for their return.
"And this new habitation, which nature has surrounded with all the charms, seems to put on a fresher and more smiling air than ever for its inhbitants." 1848
(January 25, 1847) "A letter from Brother Joseph showed the critical condition which he was in and his questions answered as follows: 'No land shall be bought . . . Brother Joseph must continue his travels if possible. If he cannot, he may sell his mules, but not for less than $140. and he may then teach school. If so, a man will be sent to Indianapolis to get the wagon and the books'.
"Brother Joseph bought the land without permission, and so embarassed the administration. Father Gouesse to go and ratify it, if sale couldn't be called off."
"(February 8, 1847) Sorin wrote he was going to transfer Brothers' Novitiate to Indianapolis, according to agreement between Bishop Hailandiere and Moreau, dated February 2, 1845. If he didn't, Bishop Hailandiere threatened to get rid of the Community. Brother Joseph sent to Indianapolis to fulfill mission dear to Bishop, that is, selling cheaply priced Catholic books, etc. Sold hardly any; was asked to look for a piece of land there suitable for a novitiate. Concluded he was to buy it and he purchased some 24 acres of 22,500 francs, including stables, carts, horses and equipment. Administration at Notre Dame surprised and hurt, but a refusal to accept it would compromise house in public eye, especially as regards Bishop Hailandiere. Hence property accepted and Ste. Croix informed, but Minor Chapter said it was bought according to agreement of 1845 (Bishop H.-M.) and we didn't state clearly mission of Brother Joseph.
"An agreement or treaty obliged Hailandiere to give 2500 francs and 375 acres near Bertrand, and as he had given nothing, the conduct of Sorin and his administration, which wrote June 22 to Msgr. Chabrat, co-adjutor of Louisville, that he had been told that the business affairs of Notre Dame were in bad shape", was severly blamed in a conference of April 22, while by a letter of May 26, in reply to one written to Hailandiere April 23 to have his opinion Hailandiere approved of the move, announcedhis intention of keeping his treaty promise, and express his disapproval that in the last Baltimore Council the Bishops were asked to spread the Brothers over the whole United States, which idea Hailandiere opposed. The deliberation of April 23 read to Notre Dame Chapter by Fr. Saulnier, charged with this mission, produced bad impression, but Minor Chapter (Local Council) was left no choice but to accept. June 17, all criticisms made to it. Sorin complained that he was so bitterly judged; he wa stempted to quit the Society; aske dstorngly for a Visitor to calm the worries of Ste. Croix concerning Notre Dame finances. Ater deliberations of August 20, the General Chapter iteself satisfied with information and documents sent, declared itself satisfied. When it realized that the assets overbalanced liabilities, it promised to forget the past.
"Anyway, Granger started the novitiate with 3 novices, September 14, 1849, at indianapolis because Hailandiere insisted and had advanced more than $3000. (15,000 francs), but time showed the folly of the project as the expenses were three times more than at Notre Dame.
"By a decision of the Minor Chapter, Granger and six Brothers (novices) left Notre Dame in early September, 1847. Although not favorably regarded by most its opening couldn't be defered without exposing the Community to just resentment of Hailandiere, who had just advanced $3000. to pay for the property, and to give the $500. plus 375 acres pledged when the Brothers had carried out their part -- which he did without any delay.
"Granger had little difficulty getting settled according to the Rules and Constitutions concerning novitiates. The property, half of which was within the city limits, was removed from the noise of the streets and had all desired advantages except that the brick building itself was too near the stret. Apart from that all was quiet and agreeably situated. Granger was occupied only with the Novitiate and was forbidden parish work. Time soon proved the inopportuneness of the enterprise and the almost unjustified expense of its upkeep, which was three times more than six months when Granger and the novices were recalled to Notre Dame.
"From May measures were taken to close Indianapolis. Group returned with reciprocal sentiments of affection which the brief separation had made all the stronger. Interior of the Novitiate at St. Mary's island plastered for their return. Chapter room, which had never been completed, was now prepared. All returned to stay June 25." 1847
(August 23, 1847) "As to transfer of Novitiate from Notre Dame to Indianapolis, General Council can give no decision without knowing the cost to Notre Dame and to the Association of Holy Cross as well as requirements in personnel, equipment, chances of success.
"Novitiate transferred to Indianapolis, September 14, 1847; closed May 15, 1848"
"1848: Treaty or agreement of 1845 annulled. In the new agreement, Art. 2 permitted the sale of Indianapolis property used for the Novitiate on condition the 3,000 piastres be paid the Bishop in return for expenses in establishing the place, for which he could cancel all life rent and leave 375 acres and $500. at Bertrand given by Bishop Hailandiere."
"Brother Thomas will be sent to Indianapolis to teach the novices and to make himself his novitiate" LOCAL COUNCIL, Jan. 10, 1848
"Father Superior proposed to send Brother Vincent to New Orleans to make a collection for the novitiate at Indianapolis" LOCAL COUNCIL, 1848
"Father Superior will request Father Vagnier to write the Chronicle of Indianapolis." Ditto
"Brother Thomas will be recalled from Indianapolis, and he will teach Mr. Nightingale's Class, and oversee the boys" Local Council, March 6, 1848
(Brother Joseph -- Sorin; January 25, 1847) "A gentleman named Phipps has for sale 27 acres of excellent land and splendidly situated; the city boudnary line passes right through the centre. Fifteen acres are cleared; there is a good orchard with all kinds of fruit, including grape vines. There is a good size new brick house just finished, with a cellar; a nice frame house added to it, which would serve as a parlor, refectory, or kitchen . . . a new barn with an excellent stable, a granary, cow-house, sheds for carriages and wagons, a good cistern and well -- in a word, it is the most complete thing that can be desired. He has just spent $3,700. for improvements but he will sell all for $4,000. One half in cash, the rest on six months or twelve months time. You can get nothing better or cheaper . . . There is a prospect of a good school. there are more Catholics in this town than you thought . . . .
"I have a notion to trade off Geneleman Jack and Lady Dulcine (mules) I think I can get a good span of horses for them and something to boot." Provincial Archives, 1847
(February 2, 1847) "Perhaps you will scold and be dissatisfied with me in reading the following but I could not repent for what I have done. I have concluded the bargain for the property mentioned in my last letter . . . .
"Now Mr. Phipps would not sell me the property if I did not buy these things (Horses, wagon, plow, tools) because he wouldn't know what to do with them . . . he charged $450. extra.
"If you ask me why I did not wait till you told me, I will tell you: the Methodists had a revival in the town and they were storming the house of Phipps, in order to prevent him from selling the property to the Papists! I tried to get hold of him. We concluded the bargain because the Methodists would not pay his debts. Now it is bought and you have to keep it . . . .
"We must take possession of the property the first of May . . . .
"I have plenty of friends and even friends of note. I have given to the Catholic Ladies in town a sewing party. They make me all my bedding, etc. for nothing. You don't need to trouble yourself about me. I will get along until you come and fetch me some help. I will have a good day school for children and a good evening school for young men, who will learn French and German, at $20. a quarter per child. I tried to sell the mules, but I do not think I will get more than $100 or $110."
(February 18, 1847) "As far as I can see I think some or all were dissatisfied with my conduct . . . If you will allow me to lay out 5 or 6 acres in lots of one third acres I can sell them right away and bring from $225-$300 . . . I am certain I could sell more than 20 lots of Catholic families around our house.
"Today is the second of my keeping school. I had 22 scholars and in a few days I shall have about 30. I have $12. per scholar per quarter. If I had Brother Bernard here I could gain a great deal in teaching French and particularly German; there is a great call for German here, and in fact this langugage is indispensable . . . It would be worth $500. if I could see you but for 4 hours in Indianapolis."
(March 7, 1847) "Whatever is coming from you is sweet and pleasing to me; scoldings, and praises are equally welcome . . . I did notknow for some time what to think when I received no letter, but I perceive that I have to be but a little cross and will soon get a sweet little scolding by letter, and this is all I want in such circumstances . . . .
"The mules are sold . . . They were a daily trouble to me being always kept in good feed. Jack became so wild that nobody could do anything with him; he ran away ever so many times.
"Whatever will be the success of the Novitiate in this town, I do not know (however, there is more chance that it would work here than at S.B.) but a day school now and in a very few years a college will prove successful. There is a great deal of good to be done in this town and I do not know why we should not have here if not a novitiate, at least a good establishment. I was once opposed to it, but now being on the spot and seeing what can be effected, I'm inclined to it. However, I was only opposed to the arbitrary measures, proceedings and pretentions of the Bishop."
"Postscript..2: I received your telegraphic dispatch. I am sorry that you decline. You may depend that there is a gain, not a loss in the goods . . . Please send me another telegraphic dispatch, only YES or NO; it will cost you but 11 cents."
(June 8) "I have given up the day school and I have some trouble to get the few dollars due for this quarter. I have no mind to take up another quarter unless $50. is assured me for each quarter, or $200. per annum."
(March 26, 1846) . . . "We must keep pace with the other schools. There are already some Protestants who think my school superior to their own . . . . tomorrow I shall begin to give lessons to the Governor (in German). He seems to be very favorable to our establishment."
(Brother Joseph -- Sorin; enroute to Indianapolis; January 11, 1847, Provincial Archives)--"We have met with the most horrible roads, they are so rought that I expect a breakdown of the wagon at every step. If it was not for the stubborn efforts of my dear little mules, I should stick in some mud hole . . . The mail from Indianapolis and Lafayette could not come in for ten days., not even on horseback. Nearly all the bridges from Logansport to the Ohio are swept away. All the mills in Indianapolis are swept away, so that a barrel of flour costs $5 or $6 . . . ."
(January 19, 1846) I arrived last Sunday, the 17th instant in Indianapolis, after great labor and trouble, through swamps, creeks, holes, broken bridges, cross-ways, difficulties by roads, mud, and water. The roads were never so bad. I suffered a great deal indeed as the fever returned after I had left Logansport. To increase my misery my wagon broke down in crossing a broken bridge 26 miles from Indianapolis. Brother Thomas in this as in many other difficulties was of great assistance and service to me as I could do but little on account of the fever. I hired a man and a team to take wagon and all to Indianapolis, which cost me nearly $9., but the poor man almost ruined his horse . . . Brother Thomas left for Madison last night . . . I stayed with Mr. McDermot, an excellent man. He and many others keep me here to teach their children; he would board me to teach him German, and with 5 or 6 others would make up $100 for the school. I saw different lots in town . . . the best location is Mr. Merrill's place. It had advantages no other piece of ground around the town possesses. He will sell 19 acres for $150 an acre. On it there is a barn, 6 acres of locust trees, and the balance in timber. We must avail ourselves of this opportunity lest we mis it as it has happened to the Bishop (Hailandiere). When some knew who he was, he lost out."
"I do not believe I shall be able to proceed on my journey; no man can have an exact idea of the roads if he has not seen them. Still, I shrink at the thought of returning by hat monster road to Logansport . . . I might go by the railroad to Louisville to get the books for the College. I might brink some apples and peaches. They are cheap here. This is a good fruit country. 1847
(March 15) "Mr. Herman, whom the Rev. Mr. St. Palais announces in a letter, stays with me. He was afraid to proceed to Notre Dame for the road is almost impassible. He is a showmaker and he suits me better than for you, because he is German, and you have shoe-makers aplenty.
"I long for a Brother to keep the day school . . . I have a great name in the city . . . "
(March 20) "I received your letter with great satisfaction; it always givesm great pleasure when I hear of sweet home, just as it happened to a little child when he hears the charming voice of his mother." 1847
(January 23, 1849) "I wish you wouldn't worry about the Indianapolis question; I am certain to sell the lots well. Several have spoken to. Let the month of March come."
(March 20, 1847) "I have a boarder who is learning German; he pays me $2. per week. The shoemaker (a postulant) is going to work for a storekeeper (Mr. Preston, a real friend of mine who comes to my French class). He furnishes the leather and all and pays him 60 cents a pair, but I have to take it in store goods . . . If only I had a Brother able to teach the day school. I am insufficient to teach the day school, to keep a French and German class in the evening, and look out for the business of the house . . . We are now 7 persons and in a few days we shall be 8 or 9.
"For he advice you give me about the property of Mr. Phipps, I am very thankful . . . .I can say (not to praise of myself, because I know what I am, my daily weakneses show me) thatI am looked upon as smart and keen and have by my way of proceeding, throughthe mercy of God, secured to the community, a good name and credit for you and for me respect, which, as you know is needed in such circumstances.
"I have applications for classes in French, German and Latin, but no time. If we had a little college here I know for certain we should do a good business . . . If we had two priests, a Master of Novices, and one to teach and two or thre teaching Brothers, we could do a great deal more and with less trouble than at Notre Dame du Lac.
"Notre Dame will be, I hope, the center of our institution in the New World, and it is from Notre Dame that we shall always look for help in all our wants, not so much from the place or its inmates, but from her whose name it bears. My heart is overflowing and my eyes are actually bathed in tears when I think of Notre Dame du Lac: "Super flumina Babilonis illic sedimus et flevimus, dum recordare Mount Sion," But Indianapolis will always be more advantageous.
"The chance we have in this town is not little. We must improve it . . . You promise me an assistant. After my day school,i.e., from 4-5 o'clock every day I have French class in which I have persons of all ranks and conditions: merchants, doctors, lawyers, etc. (and ladies into the bargain if you say so). I had applications from the first ladies in town, but I refused them with the exception of one. And I suppose you will approve of my conduct in this circumstance: she is the wife of Judge Week, our present Senator in Congress. She is a person of most refined education, converted to our holy religion by Rev. Mr. Bacquelin not long before he died . . . "
(June 21, 1847) "Now shall we give up the property when in less than one year we shall be able to sell the half of it for the same price we paid for the whole? It is probable that the railroad (Cincinnati to Terre Haute) will pass through our wood pasture about 600' from the house, but whether or not, let us pay the first payment and we will find means to meet the second on January 1."
(June 17, 1847) "I have applications for lots almost every day, but I can do nothing."
(June 27, 1847) "If you have the first payment, send it and I engage to make out the second. In order not to be long, do you decline, or do you accept? I must know this by next Saturday."
(July 13, 1847) "Regarding your letter, I understand you will immediately send $929. to satisfy a draft on Philadelphia, and in the course of 6 weeks, $3,260., making together with the premium 1 1/2%, $63., $4,252.
"Concerning my projects: They are the cultivation of the grape vine. You will very likely laugh at my simplicity. I am assured there is nothing more lucrative. The grape vine grows most lucuriously in this country. My travels in various European countries enabled me to see which is the best stock at the lowest calculation and which is the best way of cultivating it. One acre can easily receive 2500 stocks, each stock at the lowest calculation will pay 50 cents per annum, if they are well taken care of. We will in this manner render service to the country, and it is in this manner we must work ourselves into favor and gain the hearts of those who differ from us in belief; it is by an unblemished life and habits of industry that the Jesuits have in many places done more good than by teaching and preaching. I have 100 stocks growing beautifully and I have engaged 700 more for next fall; in the course of a few weeks, I will have grapes to sell."
(July 8, 1847) "Since I received your letter I did all I could to obtain a loan of the money, but I have failed where I least expected it. There is no capital in the town . . . Had I received your last letter before I had spoken to Phibbs, I would hve dropped by degrees the property. I had already make a conditional bargain with General Drake for something else on my own responsibility so as not to leave Indianapolis, because to leave it now after all the talk that has been made over town, it would be a deadly stroke to the Catholic cause.
"I will suggest another way if it be of any service to you: I will take the property in my own name, but you must procure me the money for the present and you will take a mortgage on the property. I will pay the interest and manage the whole. I know for certain that I will succeed.
"What they say at Ste. Croix, I do not mind, Father Rector is the first cause of it . . . ."
(July 8, 1847 -- con't) "It is with the greatest satisfaction I mention to you that the Brothers Benedict and Michael are with me . . . I have a man engaged who is splitting posts (7 or 800) for the vineyard I intend to plant."
(August 3, 1847) "I see that my shoemaker's shop is not in a fit place. Everyone that has to do with the shoemaker goes right in without any consideration and of course this would be very unpleasant to the novitiate. We need a porter's house which will be at the same time the shoemaker's shop."
(August 24, 1847) "I am always waiting for Father Granger but I believe it is useless. I received a letter from the Bishop stating that he sends $3,000. to be paid to Mr. Phibbs under the condition that the titles be examined by lawyer Smith and that a deed in fee simple be made to Celestine R. Guynemer de la Hailandiere, his heirs and assigns, etc., that if the title should not be good the money should remain in the hands of Mr. (Father) McDermott's hands. Now it is a whole week since I received this letter and I see no money? To you? To Mr. McDermott? Mr. McDermott is absent for four weeks and will not be here for six weeks. He is in Cincinnati. His horse ran away with him and mangled him in a dreadful manner . . . I received a letter from him today . . . The $3,000. of the Bishop is not sufficient."
(September 5, 1847) "I received from the Bishop a draft for $3,000. He sent it directly to me upon my writing to him concerning Mr. McDermott's absence. I will close the deed tomorrow and leave it in Lawyer Smith's hands until you send the balance . . . ."
(January 16, 1848) "there are now 11 persons to eat . . . we ought to make provisions for summer. I bought 260 pounds of sausage meat . . . all eatables are very dear here except meat; potatoes are 50 cents a bushel, and all other thing in proportion; happily we are well supplied with such things. I hav emade great preparations in my garden for marketing . . . Try to draw us out of the mire for 18 months more. I hope we shall not trouble you much more than if all goes well."
(May 4, 1848) "It is not determined whether the railroad depot will be on our land or that of one of our neighbors . . . I offered the company for nothing land enough to build the depot on if they will build in the center of the land. If they do, we will sell every acres all around the depot for $1,000 and we will be certain to make 15 or 20 thousand dollars. I can sell now every acre for $200 or $300. Now it is not needed to sell all in a hurry, for we will make 3 or 4 thousand dollars before we will have to pay the Bishop."
(June 1, 1848) "If I had $25 more I could pay all my debts. In fact, I don't know when I will be able to pay all because the hail and all other mishaps which came over my garden, destroyed three-fourths of my expectations. Lawyer Smith tells me that wherever the depot will be located it will be near enough to double the value of our land."
"I have a plan drawn up by Squire Sullivan on which he has laid out the 17 acres on which are within the city limits of the corporation, into 40 lots, which will be worth $100 each . . . we don't cook anything in hot weather. We have 3 times a day, milk and butter and bread like the patriarchs of old."
(September 8, 1848) "Mr. de St. Palais wants to send one of his seminarians here. I should board him for pay, and Mr. Gueguen teach him. I do not like to do it, but however tell what I shall do. They have shut up the College and seminary in Vincennes . . . .Mr. Fisher has made his retreat here for a week."
(September 27, 1848) "I had the satisfaction of enjoy the presence of Father Drouelle for nearly two days. He is a very amiable man and I am sorrry he went away so soon. We have fully discussed the examined everything concerning our spiritual and temporal interests, present and future. He has adopted all my views in their full extent, particularly so if the things succeed as we fondly anticipate; he will write you from Louisville."
(October 13, 1848) "Now the contest begun. The committee receives proposals at the Railroad office for not less than 5 acres of land for the depot. After mature consideration and the advice of clear-minded friends, I proposed to sell the company 5 acres required for the consideration of one share of the Capital stock of the Corporation, and to further the incudement of my proposals I subscribed in addition for 60 more shares of the same stock. This very likely will seem to you an exhorbitant sum, and you with the community will be inclined to blame me more than ever; but pray do not judge until you are well informed on the matter. If I succeed, I will make $15,000 besides keeping 4 acres with the improvements, for us. If I do not make this I will consent to be disgracefully and without one cent in my pocket, be chased out of the community."
(January 15, 1849) "In my last two letters I gave you notice of my defeat in the depot business . . . There are many judicious men in town who believe I have lost nothing because of the vicinity of the depot, which is not father from men than the novitiate from the College. Besides, the Peru depot is to be located this week. This latter must of necessary be located on my lot or the one immediately west. Therefore I will make no great efforts to get it because I will be between two or three depots whichever way its result. The Lafayette is coming n at the same point . . . My opinion is to make a public sale of the lots next spring."
(January 9, 1849) "Against me in the depot question was the president who went to the City Clerk's office and finding that Msgr. de la hailandiere had never transferred it to Msgr. Bazin, who is dead, and the land always in the same name, so they thought I could not give them a good deed. Now, as the things stand, nobody will buy from me unless I can prove by records that I can make a good deed."
(January 21, 1849) "The value of the property is greatly enhanced by the depot, which is not more than 300 yards from me."
(February 8, 1849) "I already have lettuce to eat. I expect I will hav eplenty things before you will have a spade in the ground."
(February 21, 1849) "I had two maps drawn of the land (lots) . . . There will be about 55 or 60 lots, which should bring at least $100 on an average, but we must give them good terms, either 18 months as you say, or two years . . . there is a great movement among Catholics for lots from me, because they think they will be near a religious house and that they will have a school. I have no doubt but that Indianapolis will be in the course of a very few years our finest establishment if we keep hold of the ten acres out of the corporation."
(February 27, 1849) " . . . .before I left N.D. Ilaid up a great quantity of all kinds of flower seeds in the desk of the printing office. I wish I could get them . . . ."
(March 1, 1849) "By the present I inform you of a visit we had from the Bishop. He is determined to propose to you to change the college into an orphan asylum, which if you consent to he will assit you with all his might. If, on the contrary, you refuse to do it, he will have part in the profits of the property in Indianapolis. He thinks that the asylumwill be more advantageous to the Community and the diocese. I write you concerning it that you might be prepared for it."
(March 18, 1849) "The pasure has been laid out this week past. I will not sell any lots for a week or two, for I do not know what turn things will take."
(March 18, 1849) "If the Bishop insists upon getting a part of the profits, he must get no interest, and let him take his part in land and do with it what he pleases . . . "
(April 1, 1849) "Mr. Phipps is very anxious to get his money; he wants to leave and besides it needs it badly."
"In reply to some of your remarks I answer:1) I send you no scholars because I do not find any: the chance is too good in this town..and the Catholics are all poor . . . 2) I send no postulantsbecause I find none fit for a religious community."
(April 29, 1849) "I expect Father Granger has told you I am not able to sell anything because my power is not legal. I have written to the Bishop to this effect, sending him a formula of power of attorney, but I am afraid he had left Madison before my letters reached that place."
(May 13, 1849; to Fr. Granger) "My garden is beautiful. I shall have a good many peaches and apples in spite of the late frosts. I shall likewise have a good vintage this fall. My vineyard is splendid. I hope at any rate that I will eat a few bunches of good grapes and drink a glass of wine of my own growth before I will have to sing the "Nunc Dimittis" . . . next year. Next year I will confine myself to grapes and strawberries."
(June 10, 1849) "The Bishop has been here and he has done nothing. he told me that he wants to see you first. I have greatly calmed him down. I think he will make you the conscession of the $3000 if we make an orphan asylum, but he prefers to have it at Indianapolis, so would I for many reasons. I wish these things would take a speedy end. I am sure I couldhave sold the half of the lots since. I sold one last week."
(Minor Chapter; June 24, 1847) "it was unanimously resolved that money should be borrowed at the Bank for the payment of the Novitiate."
(1847) "Permit me to correct a report going the round of the papers that the Brothers of St. Joseph have removed their institution from Notre Dame du Lac to Indianapolis. The novitiate only has been removed but their chief house as heretofore will be at Notre Dame duLac. This arrangement has been made at the request of the Right Reverend Bishop of Vincennes, who has very liberally contributed in purchasing 25 acres of choice land in a beautiful location exactly one mile from the State House. Some of the most necessary buildings have already been erected, and Father Granger, the vice-President of the university, is now engaged there as Master of Novices. Those, therefore, who wish to join the Brothers will hereafter serve their novitiate at Indianapolis, and not as heretofore at Notre Dame du Lac." M.R.K., Keegan Bertrand, Nov. 5
(Bishop Bazin's contract) (April 10, 1848) (Provincial Archives) Consents to letus sell the property at Indianapolis, serving at present as a Brother's novitiate. Notre Dame to pay the Bishop $3,000 whereby he will be free of any life annuity; leaves as compensation for life expenses incurred $500 and the land given by Bishop de la Hailandiere. (See "Novitiate . . . .2) (See Hailandiere -- Sorin,,79) (See "Novitiate, 1846)
(Fr. St. Palais -- Sorin . . . 1848; Provincial) " . . . I can promise you nothing about the property at Indianapolis. Msgr. Purcell, executor of Bishop Bazin, gave me power of attorney, but that confers no rights to dispose of diocesan property. I asked him for more extensive powers. In case he should grant it, I would do everything for the good of your community, without, of course, compromising the interests of our diocese. I hope the present condition won't last, and that a bishop will be named soon. If the further power shouldn't be given, perhaps you could see Msgr. Purcell."
"On the next he (sorin) started for Vincennes, where he found Bishop Bazin well disposed to the institution. He obtained that the Novitiate should be removed back to Notre Dame du Lac and the land at Indianapolis resold." 1848
"May 24 -- Brother Gatian, Reverend F. Granger, and his novices have already been 15 days here: they have returned from Indianapolis. Brother Joseph alone remains there. Brother Gatian has been appointed to teach for an hour each morning in the Novitiate. There are three new students, Brothers Anselm, Aloysius and Louis. A new postulant has arrived, Mr. Thos. John Walsh, who is well instructed. Father Superior ordered that all the exercises should be performed at the Novitiate, even by the collegians." 1848
(January 10, 1848) "Father Superior will require Father Granger to write the chronicles of Indianapolis." MINOR CHAPTER
"Father Superior proposed to send Brother Vincent to New Orleans to make there a collection for Indianapolis, but the majority of the councillors were of the opinion that the question should be adjourned until we should receive some letters from France, and some news about the allocation of the Propagation of the Faith we wait for." MINOR CHAPTER, January 10, 1848
Brothers of St. Joseph . . . . 1848, Indianapolis, Indiana
1) "The Brothers of St. Joseph have their novitiate at Indianapolis, under
the direction of Rev. A. Granger, Master of Novices.
2) They have charge of a manual labor school near South Bend.
3) They have schools at Vincennes, Madison, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, and
Washington, in each of which places there are from 60 to 70 pupils."
CATHOLIC ALMANAC, 1848, p.211
"Register shows that on March 20 and 25 habit was conferred on two." 1848
"The return of Father Granger and his novices was too earnestly desired to be long delayed, once it was possible." 1848
(Property in exchange; 1851; Provincial) "Mrs. Laux of Indianapolis desires to know whether you would exchange property in this city for property which she owns in South Bend."
Sorin -- "I shall pay $125 in exchange if a fair price be offered for one of our city lots of Indianapolis" March 6, 1851
"Indianapolis, although the capital city of the state, had no free school till 1853, and then it lasted only two months." R.J. Aley, "The Story of Indiana, 1853
"Property subdivided in 1855 and is known as the "Edward A. Sorin, addition". It is about one mile north of the monument. This land was originally sold to Bishop Hailandiere on September 6, 1847, and was conveyed to his successor Bishop Bazin, November 9, 1847. On the death of the latter the title passed to his successor through Archbishop Purcell to Bishop Palais. On November 21, 1849, the last named Bishop conveyed all this land to Father Sorin for $3.00 and other valuable consideration." DEARY'S LETTER, Feb. 12, 1926 -- 1855
"Msgr. F.H. Gavisk, V.G., now dead, told me that when the late Bishop Chatard became Bishop of Indianapolis in 1878, he questioned the right of Father Sorin to subdivide the land and sell it -- as it was deeded to him soley for use as a novitiate for the Brothers of St. Joseph, and the matter was referred to Rome. Father Sorin's right was upheld." DEERY'S LETTER TO BROTHER WILLIAM, 1878
"While the Brothers were here a Catholic Book Store was opened in Indianapolis. I read this is a local paper at the time." DEERY LETTER, 1943
(Msgr. Bessonies, V.G.-- Sorin; May 7, 1884; Provincial) "Now I would like to know if I could get four good Brothers from you for next September, and on what terms?"
(May 14) "I have just made new arrangements with my Brothers (Sacred Heart); I will try them one year longer, and if things do not change, I will apply to you again. As they have a novitiate here, I dislike to send them away, although if you had promised some of yours positively I would have accepted them . . . ."
"Upon the invitations of the Right Reverend Joseph Chartrand, co-adjutor Bishop of Indianapolis, Notre Dame University will open a high school for boys at Indianpolis in September. Brother Bernard, former superior of Sacred Heart College, Watertown, Wisconsin, was appointed superior for the new school, and will leave in a short time to make arrangements for the opening.
"In announcing the opening of the new high school, the Rev. Dr. Andrew Morrissey, c.s.c., Provincial, asserted it had been the wish of Bishop Chartrand for a long time to have a high school in his city under the direction of the Brothers of Holy Cross." South Bend, "NEWS-TIMES", July 8, 1918
" . . . .and that land, about ten acres, was held for some years by the Catholic Church for the purpose of building a Catholic University on it; I think Notre Dame was to have been established on that site." L.M.B. (Picture of residence at 951 North Delaware Street, at head of news story in Sunday edition of INDIANAPOLIS STAR, July 19, 1931
"This handsome house stands on the nrothwest corner of St. Joseph and Delaware Streets, and the story of the tract is interesting. The land was bought in 1834 by Isaac Pgipps from Ebenezer Sharpe, agent of the State. In 1847 Phipps and his wife sold ten acres of their holdings to the Right Rev. Celestine Reni Laurant Gurnemer de la Hailandiere, bishop of the diocese of Vincennes, who signed his name C. de la Hailandiere.
"The first Catholic church in our city built in 1840 on California Street, and it was not until the latter part of that decade that the Church began to buy other property in the city . . .
"In 1850, ten acres, comprising city blocks, were transferred to Father Edward F. Sorin, who came to Indianapolis with several priests and Brothers from Daviess County, with the idea of establishing on this property a school or university to be called "Holy Cross". After mature consideration that idea was abandoned. Father Sorin went to South Bend, and began to organize Notre Dame du Lac, the present famous University. The connection of Indianapolis and Notre Dame is made clear when it is known that the funds received by Father Sorin from the sale of the property, through William Sullivan,his attorney, were sent to him as President of the University, on Lake Michigan. This addition is called Edward Sorin's addition to the city of Indianapolis, and that is proof of his title to this local property.
"In 1854 and 1856 John Henry and Charles H.G. Bals, father and son, men of German origin, bought from Father Sorin's representative this large lot. The names of Catholic Saints had already been given to streets running through it. St. Mary was on the north and St. Joseph on the south side of the tract. Charles H. Bals owned this corner, and 1869, he gave the contract for this fine house . . . ."Agnes McCullough Hanna" (Her article, as will readily be seen, if filled with hopeless inaccuries.-- Brother Aidan) 1931
(Summer School; 1933) "Last summer Cathedral High School, Indianapolis conducted its first summer session covering six weeks. About 60 students were in attendance. The purpose of the session was to enable those who failed in one or more subjects to make up deficiences, and at the same time to provide practice teaching for prospective teachers. Those who taught were Brothers Columba, Felix Jude, Piere, Ronald and Aurelius. Their teaching was supervised by Brother Richard, principal; Bros. Daniel, Aidan, Owen. Brother Daniel was local superior." ASSOCIATE OF ST. JOSEPH, 3:4 (The school was maintained for five summers.)
Erection of first church called Holy Cross, at 126 W. Georgia St. 1840