1869 Apr. 1
Hendricken, Father Thomas F.:
Waterbury, Conn(ecticut)
to Bishop F(rancis)P. McFarland (of:
Hartford, Connecticut)
It is a joy to have the Bishop back but he must take greater care of himself. The collection for which he encloses a draft is larger than last year. The Bishop's circular was very convincing. He would have gone to Providence Monday but the examinations were being held in the public schools and he was one of the examiners. This is the second year without Confirmation but the children are small and it will not hurt to delay another year. If he comes, a week-day will be suitable.
I-1-c - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1869 April 3
Brownson, O(restes) A.:
Eliz(abeth), (New Jersey)
to Maj(or). H(enry) F. Brownson, U.S.A.:
Brownson supposes that (Henry) is better acquainted with the late infamous law passed by the Congress than he is. He did not require the instant consolidation of the infantry regiments but left it to the discretion of the President and General of the Army who, in Brownson's eyes, acted with undue precipitancy. Six hundred and four officers are ordered to their homes awaiting orders and all under the pretense of economy, which in the end will prove to be no economy at all. (Henry's) mother is sending him The Times in which he will find a well-written plea for the Regular Army. (Henry's) father supposes his son to be much better off than if he had been one of the six hundred and four. Brownson would like to know who can be instrumental in helping (Henry) return to the Artillery if he wishes and asks his son if General Sherman's influence would be of any help. The New Administration has made a poor beginning and now stands at a heavy discount. The President has turned out to be a poor judge of men and has already succumbed to the politicians. He has blundered as much as he did in the campaign of 1864 when he sacrificed the greater part of the noble army of the Potomac. General Sherman's sympathies are civilian not military, and he hopes to succeed Grant as President but would most likely be a poor general for the army in time of peace. He and Grant could have saved the army in spite of Butler, Schenck and Garfield, for had they cared for the interests of the army the friends of the army in Congress would not have remained silent. The only consolation Brownson finds is in the severe castigation which Senator Sprague has given both Houses of Congress and the Government. Fifine must remain quiet and not worry, but rather pray that she will have an easy time and that there will be safe delivery for both mother and child. Brownson is troubled as he was a year ago but not quite so badly. (Mrs. Brownson) is feeling well and she sends her love to (Henry) and Fifine along with her husband. P.S. 1869, April 4. (Brownson) has no errand boy and so his letter will not get to the post-office until the next day. Father (Isaac) Hecker has raised (Brownson's) wages to 4 dollars per page but he is cut down to fewer pages so that he gets less money for more work since it is more work to write an article of 10 than of 16 pages. (Brownson) wishes to know whether Father Hecker accepted (Henry's) Gorini. Hecker has got so many old women working for him that a gentleman stands little chance with him. He promised (Brownson) to insert two articles of his, but Brownson has not yet received proof of the second. Chandler, Berian and Wm. Seton visited (Brownson) on the previous Saturday and both asked him to pay their respects to (Henry), Berian especially. Brown has another contract and has gone to Texas. (F.A.) Spencer, the Paulist, is now a priest and said his first mass on Easter Sunday.
III-3-a - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {3}
1869 April 3
Sadlier, James:
New York (City), (New York)
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
On April 13th Sadlier and his wife will visit the Brownsons. If possible, he will bring Judge Quinn along. Yesterday he attained a trade rate at which their books were sold. He is very busy and writes hastily, with regards to Mrs. Brownson and (Sarah).
I-4-d - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}
(1869) (Apr. 4)
Wollowski, Father John:
(Paris Town, Michigan)
to Father (Peter) Hennaert:
Detroit, (Michigan)
During his last visit to Detroit, Wollowski received an order from Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefevere to notify Father (Peter Kluck) Cluck to leave Port Austin, that he was discharged from the stations around them and that Catholics in these stations could and should make their Easter confession in their church. On Hennaert's advice Wollowski wrote Cluck to that effect. Cluck hurled insults at him. He asks Hennaert to write Cluck.
- L.S. - (French) -
1869 Apr. 4
Wieczorek, C.R., Father Simon:
Paris Town, Michigan
to (Father Peter Hennaert:
Detroit, Michigan)
Wieczorek agrees with Wollowski's opinions. After ten years of discord with his people, he is hated. Everyone has left him. After Wieczorek's return from Detroit he and Wollowski and two witnesses visited, Cluck; Wieczorek explained Hennaert's orders. Cluck claimed that according to the Council of Baltimore he need not obey the bishop who had no right to transfer him. For six years the French people have not confessed, many have contracted civil marriages. Without Hennaert's written orders, they cannot end Cluck's evil doings.
- L.S. - (French) -
III-2-l - L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {6}
1869 Apr. 6
Odin, Archbishop J(ohn) M(ary):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Martin John Spalding:
Baltimore, Maryland)
Father G(eorge) H. Doane left last evening on his way to Mobile. He exerted himself as much as he could in the city but met with poor success. Their people have been ruined by the war and by the failure of crops for the last 3 or 4 years and are continually appealed to. They could do little for the American College (in Rome). In a few weeks, (Odin) will have the last circular read in all the churches of the diocese and a general collection taken up. It may produce a few thousand dollars. They have had so many fairs during the last weeks, in many convents, that they are compelled to postpone the collection for the American seminary to give people a rest. On Easter Sunday the collection for their seminary took place. Next Sunday their Catholics are preparing for a demonstration in honor of (Pope Pius IX) and hope for a contribution to aid him. (Odin) has sent (Spalding) the constitution of their last diocesan synod. (Odin)'s health does not improve much. He feels that it will be impossible to go to council.
VI-2-n - A.L.S. Copy (Copy made from Baltimore film) - 3pp. - 16mo. - {4}
1869 Apr. 6
Rosecrans, S(ylvester) H. Bishop of Columbus:
Columbus, O(hio)
to Archbishop J(ohn) B(aptist) Purcell:
(Cincinnati, Ohio)
It did not occur to Rosecrans until some time afterward that Purcell's offer to recommend the Cathedral at Columbus to the people of Cincinnati indicated an impression that Purcell thought Rosecrans involved in a remark made in a communication in the Telegraph by Studor some weeks ago. Rosecrans disclaims any knowledge of the communication. He has been obliged to send (Rev. John H.) Nordmeier from Zanesville. If Rosecrans could get a loan of $10,000 or $15,000 he could get through the summer and have the roof on the Cathedral. At present things look very blue. He goes to Brown County tonight.
II-5-d - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
1869 April 8
Brownson, Orestes A.:
Eliz(abeth, New Jersey)
to Frank (Henry Francis) Brownson:
Brownson informs his son that it is hard to say which course to follow. He believes that Congress will master out all those who are waiting orders at home. If Frank is in such a spot, he is liable to be called anytime. If mustered out of service, he is likely to receive $40.00 per month pension. Brownson wishes his son were out of the service and believes Detroit is his best location. He should go in partners with his brother-in-law or with someone who is already established in business, at least, for a while, all Frank needs is a start. It is Brownson's belief that Frank's regiment will not be ordered away because a war with England is not impossible because England must fight now or never. If there is anything which Brownson can do for Frank, let him know. Brownson could disclaim loudly against the injustice of Congress under the advice of Grant, Sherman and others but he can see no point in doing it. Our government is the most corrupt because it is controlled by bondholders, hence the army no longer affords an independent position and matters are likely to be worse before they are better so Brownson advises Frank to get independent of the government as soon as possible. If Frank goes into law he must stoop merely to make as many friends as he can which Brownson 45 years later resolved not to do. Brownson will not promise anything unless things come to the worst and then he will see what can be done. Don't be afraid that he cannot furnish his wife with a fine house as planned or if his pride will worry him. "She is like a sunlight to you in your darkest hours". Frank should get back to law as soon as he can because his genius is for the law. Brownson wants Frank to stick to Detroit unless he is absolutely obliged to leave. Brownson wil answer Frank's letter first and then Frank's wife next. I was threatened yesterday with the return of my old enemy but today he seems to have made up his mind to depart. I am taking the Arabian Mineral Spring Water. P.S. Father Gerard, a German Benedectine, heard Brownson's confession and gave him Holy Communion.
III-3-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1869 Apr. 8
Brownson, O(restes) A.:
Eliz(abeth) N(ew) J(ersey)
to Mrs. J(osephine) V(an) D(yke) Brownson:
Brownson owes Fifine two letters; he has just written the Major (Henry Francis Brownson) and he writes Fifine to tell her not to worry. Things look a little dark now but not so dark as a year and half ago. Ever since (Henry) left the 3rd Artillery, Brownson has looked forward to (Henry)'s disconnection with the army and his return to law. If (Henry) will put on his amiable manners he can gather friends around him, get clients, and become one of the first lawyers of the country. He must try to get the business of the Church, of the new Bishop when he comes, and of the clergy. Fifine is to be brave and keep up (Henry)'s courage and rely on Brownson to help, if he recovers his health. Brownson is charmed with the account Fifine gives of her mother (Mrs. Van Dyke); he would be delighted to receive a letter from her in either French or English. Brownson is glad that Fifine's brother took his expression of sympathy kindly. Brownson has lost children that he dearly loved but he has never murmured and has never regarded death with horror. Fifine's mother-in-law grows anxious about her but Brownson simply prays God to convey Fifine safely through her trials. He prays Fifine to love him as a father and believe that he loves her as his very dear daughter. P.S. Fifine is to remember Brownson to her mother and to her brother Philip (Van Dyke). He will answer her, if the gout keeps off.
I-3-c - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {4}
1869 Apr. 8
Kindekens, Father J(oseph):
Monroe, (Michigan)
to Father P(eter) Hennaert:
(Detroit, Michigan)
Kindekens would like a place for himself as there are many new missions open, like Berlin, Mount Moris. He would not object to either. He asks this not on account of any difficulties between Father (Edward) Joos and him but because he would like a place to himself.
III-2-l - A.L.S. - 1p. - 12mo. - {3}
1869 Apr. 9
Herbstrit, Father Andreas and Father August Young:
Eagletown, (Michigan)
to Father (Peter Hennaert):
(Detroit, Michigan)
They wished to get all possible information about their missions before writing. He cannot yet state the exact number of Catholics under their care. The following places have no church: Travers(e) City, Travers(e) Lacke, Cedar Runn Settlement, Frankfurth, Benzie, Glean Arbor, Port Unity, Carp River, Leeland, Northport, Sutton's Bay, New Mission, New Schweden, Glean Lacke, Plattai Lacke, Cristal Lacke, Schleaping bare, Antrim City, Old Mission, Haits, Mapletown, Witewatter, Elk Rapids, Brownstown, Eastport, Au Sabie River, Manastee River, Silver Lacke, Monroe. Eagletown has a little rotten frame chruch, Carp Lacke a little rotten log church. None have Catholic schools. All the Missions are very difficult due to long neglect and different languages. They are all mixed with French, German, Irish, Bohemians and Indians. Catholics are so poor that they give nothing. They need help or will be lost. The agents of secret societies—Free Masonry, Odd Fellows— and Methodists and Presbyterians work hard on them. Could they not get some assistance from the Propagation of the Faith, or other sources? They are making preparations to open Catholic schools.
III-2-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {33}
1869 Apr. 10
Anderdon, Father William H.:
N(ew) Y(ork) (City)
to Archbishop (John Baptist Purcell):
(Cincinnati, Ohio)
Since his last letter, Anderson finds that he is not engaged for the early part of May and can begin work at Cincinnati as proposed to him. He hopes to be in Cincinnati on the evening of Apr. 30. He is glad of this and shall have great pleasure in doing something for the children.
II-5-d - A.L.S. - 1pg. - 12mo. - {1}
1869 Apr. 12
Anderdon, Father William H.:
N(ew) Y(ork) (City)
to Archbishop (John Baptist Purcell):
(Cincinnati, Ohio)
Difficulty of arranging his time to fit odd portions and plans must make him appear very changeable. He will be unable to reach Cincinnati until the evening of May 1st. Since this is on Saturday, perhaps the next day will be better for beginning instructions anyway. He apologizes for not having foreseen this and hopes it puts Purcell to no inconvenience.
II-5-d - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}
1869 Apr. 12
McQuaid, B(ernard) J. Bishop of Rochester:
Rochester, N(ew) Y(ork)
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
Cincinnati, Ohio
Purcell's letter of the 9th was received. McQuaid's impression of the meaning of the paragraph was that the word used was once very highly respected. It was evident that Purcell condemned all opposed to episcopal authority with very strong and telling language. McQuaid wrote to Purcell, as he feared that the latter might entertain a better opinion of (Father Thomas) O'F(laherty)'s antecedents than they were entitled to. Father (Martin) Kavanaugh celebrated Mass in peace and quiet on Sunday. O'Flaherty tried to arouse his friends by an appeal published in Saturday's paper, but they were so few that nothing occured. It will now be McQuaid's fault if he does not indicate this spirit of rebellion to ecclesiastical authority. It shall never again raise its wicked head in Auburn, (New York). He expects the paper of today or tomorrow to contain an account of affairs in Auburn and he will send them on to Purcell.
II-5-d - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {4}
1869 April 12
Sadlier, James:
New York (City), (New York)
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Because of the serious illness of Sadlier's sister who has inflammation of the lungs, they can not go to visit the Brownsons this week. Sadlier has two doctors, one doctor for consultation. If the sister recovers, he and Mrs. Sadlier will pay Brownson a call.
I-4-d - A.L.S. - 1p. - 12mo. - {1}
1869 Apr. 14
Young, Father N(icholas) R.:
West Liberty, O(hio)
to Archbishop (John Baptist Purcell):
(of Cincinnati, Ohio)
He regrets that his expectations have not been realized and he is unable to meet notes that are fast falling due. He is somewhat disheartened but he must make new and more vigorous efforts. He proposes that Purcell sanction his visit to one of the larger English-speaking churches in Cincinnati one Sunday in May. One of his notes for $1000 is due the first of June, so he must work fast. Perhaps Purcell can suggest the best mode of procedure. He also plans on giving a lecture and concert the middle of May in the hall just completed in West Liberty. Miss Jeannie Sullivan and other members of the Cathedral Choir have volunteered their services. He requests Purcell to give the lecture, or if he cannot come, he asks if Father Edward (Purcell) or Bishop (Sylvester) Rosecrans can make it. He is well satisfied with the earnestness of his congregation. He visits Kenton on alternate Sundays and regularly visits his stations in Hardin Count. He is expecting the arrival of his sister.
II-5-d - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1869 April 15
Spalding, M(artin) J. Archbishop of Baltimore:
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
(Cincinnati, Ohio)
On his return from a visitation he found (Purcell's) letter among a huge pile of correspondence. He has been very anxious concerning the health of Father (James M.) Lancaster, which is represented as very critical. Their council will meet on the 25th, and he is very busy. It seems that they are alone in celebrating a provincial council, yet, the Cardinal tells him to refer a question concerning the American College in Rome to the provincial councils soon to be convened. Spalding is surprised that (Purcell) has heard nothing yet concerning the appointment at Covington, where he learns there are certain pecuniary difficulties. He supposes that Purcell has sent names for Detroit. Father (J.P.) Roles writes him a certificates from Dr. Cook from Rock Island that Bishop (James)Duggan has lost his mind. Spalding did not answer but enclosed the letter and certificate to the Archbishop of St. Louis (Peter Richard Kenrick). He expects Father (George H.) Doane that evening on his return from the South. His subscriptions exceed $150,000 but will scarcely reach $200,000 all told. He asks Purcell if, in his pastoral, he should refer to the status of the pastoral clergy as fixed by the Plenary Council and to the late troubles or keep silent. P.S. The "Monde" has ominous articles on the probability of war in Europe, the last setting the time for 6 weeks after March 23. Spalding has much confidence in the confidence of the Holy Father, that they will be able to hold a council. It seems that nearly all the bishops are going. He hopes the sessions may be of short duration.
II-5-d - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12vo. - {7}
1869 Apr. 20
Baudri, Father J(ohn):
Cologne, (Germany)
to Brother Bernardine, (C.F.P.):
St. Anthony's HomeCincinnati, Ohio
In reply to Brother's letter of March 16, 1869 they certify that Hub(ert) Ferdinand Frederick Gõbbels was born on January 25, 1849 at Dusseldorf and educated in the parish of Gerresheim. They also certify that his moral conduct was good and find nothing, in regard to the Apostolic decree of January 25, 1848, which would prevent him from being accepted by the Franciscan Brothers (of the Poor of St. Francis Seraph) at St. Anthony's Home in Cincinnati. Baudri signs as vicar-general. (In the Archbishop John Baptist Purcell papers.)
II-5-d - L.S. - (German) - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1869 Apr. 20
De Montaubricq, Father A(drian):
Newport, (Michigan)
to Father (Peter Hennaert):
(Detroit, Michigan)
On his return from Huron River he received Hennaert's letter of the 15th. It is false that he often takes walks with his housekeeper. What is true and frees him from blame is that in some cases of necessity he took her along to take back his buggy. He does not believe the public out of spite of stupidity could go so far! For such trips there is no one else in the neighborhood whom he can employ, even with money. He has struggled to reduce the cost of maintaining his two churches which has caused opposition among some bad families. Some have formed intrigues with Father (Edward) Joos. There was no more evil in what he has done than in the neighboring confreres bringing their servants to festivals and a vicar-general bringing his. He accepts with respect Hennaert's warning and shall do all in his power to conform himself in the future.
III-2-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 6pp. - 12mo. - {4}
1869 April 20
Freitag, C.SS.R., Father A(ugust) W.:
Annopolis, (Maryland)
to James Alphonsus McMaster:
(New York, New York)
Freitag received the sad news of Alphonsus' illness yesterday noon and it disturbed him greatly. He offered up Mass for him that morning and all the students and novices of the house are praying for him. Freitag hopes that Our Dear Lord and His Blessed Mother will graciously hear their prayers and spare the boy. He inquires as to the health of the girls and Mrs. McMaster. He wishes to be informed as to his son's, Alphonsus, condition and hopes that it will be good news.
- A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. -
1869 April 20
Duffy, Father Jo(h)n B.:
Annapolis, (Maryland)
to James A. McMaster:
(New York, New York)
He extends his sympathy to McMaster over the illness of the latter's son, Alphonsus. He expresses the sentiments of Father Freitag that Our Lord will hear the many prayers that are being offered up for the recovery of Alphonsus (McMaster). Father Duffy hopes that McMaster may see his son grow up to be as good a man as his father is and prayers that God will sustain him in this time of trial and affliction.
I-1-n - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1869 April 22
Spalding, M(artin) J. Archbishop of Baltimore:
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to (Archbishop John Baptist Purcell):
Cincinnati, Ohio
Spalding acknowledge Purcell's letter and gives him the advice about his health which he has received so often. Good men are scarce and no constitution is made of iron or steel. He is glad Mr. Springer gave Purcell that good advice. He sends regards to Mr. and Mrs. Springer. He does not know the three men proposed for Detroit well enough to pass on them but Father (Casper) Borgess appears to be a man of business, as well as a gentleman. Archbishop (Peter Richard Kenrick) is pressed to find an administrator and coadjutor for Chicago. Father (G.) Limpens of Detroit has been recommended by some one. Why cannot Father (James M.) Lancaster be induced to make his will? His estate must be considerable. He trusts that Bishop (William McCloskey) of Louisville has got through his debts without sacrificing the valuable property of the church in Louisville. From the statement sent Purcell he thinks that the stocks, bonds, etc. would suffice to meet all pressing demands, and the other debts could be easily managed. He wishes and has offered to transfer all Father (Benjamin Spalding's) estate to trustees with the aprobation of the ordinary the proceeds to go towards supporting a Catholic protectory for boys in danger of losing their faith, and until that can be established, it should be employed for the poor boys of St. Thomas' Asylum. He is anxious to get rid of the burden. Archbishop (John) McCloskey is with him and is well.
II-5-d - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {10}
1869 Apr. 23
Meuffels, Father Henry:
Manistee, (Michigan)
to Father P(eter) Hennaert:
(Detroit, Michigan)
He is thankful for the jurisdiction granted the Rev(erend) gentlemen of Wisc(onsin). About a dozen letters by and to him have been lost. He desired Hennaert's opinion of a case of a woman who remarried but how cannot prove the death of her first husband. By her second marriage she has several children, hence no hope of separation. Father (Stanislaus P.) Lalumiere, S.J., can find no evidence that the first husband is living. What is Hennaert's opinion of admitting the couple to the sacraments? He considers nearly impossible that Father (Henry) Rievers should attend Manistee as they have more than they can attend to. P.S. Meuffels feels much better but has to live on gruel. (Hennaert's notation on back of letter): "Was the man in good faith at the time of the marriage? If so, is he still in good faith?"
III-2-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {4}
1869 Apr. 25
Wood, James F(rederick), Bishop of Philadelphia:
Balt(imore, Maryland)
to Bishop (Francis P.) McFarland of:
Hartford, (Connecticut)
Archbishop (Martin John Spalding) asks him to request a meeting of the Committee of Bishops on the affairs of the American College, Rome at his home next Thursday, April 29. They want to lay before the Committee the collection so far, the efforts of Father George H. Doane and a special communication from Propaganda on the same subject. P.S. McFarland is to telegraph so that they can arrange accommodations.
I-1-c - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {4}
1869 Apr. 26
De Neve, Father John:
American College
Louvain, Belgium
to Father P(eter) Hennaert:
Detroit, (Michigan)
In compliance with the request of March 30, De Neve encloses the bill (no enclosure). He hopes to collect the pension from them and he hopes Mr. (Matthew H.) Schaeken will pay his traveling expenses to America in September, if not he will have to charge it to Detroit. If Hennaert wishes to adopt or to secure more students for Detroit, De Neve will send the expenses in the next bill. Does Hennaert want Bohemians for the diocese? Why does the Redemptorist Father not preach any longer for the Bohemians? Is he gone? Father (Peter) Kindekens is not very well.
III-2-l - A.L.S. - 1p. - 12mo. - {4}
1869 Apr. 27
O'Connor, S.J., Father M(ichael):
New Haven, (Connecticut)
to Bishop (Francis P.) McFarland of:
Hartford, Connecticut)
Father (Edward J.) O'Brien asks him to communicate the following. A Mr. Hewitt, previously of Boston and friend of Bishop (John) Cheverus died and left $10,000 to the Catholic orphan asylum of New Haven. The will was accepted in court according to O'Brien who wishes him to tell the Bishop. He has been laying over between appointments with the intention of using Father (Matthew) Hart's permission to collect for the colored brothers. He is pleased that the Bishop's health is improving.
I-1-c - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}