Item 23 - Letter from W.M. Wooldridge to Fr. Laurence Dowling

2 pp; typescript

Letter from W.M. Wooldridge to Fr. Laurence Dowling OFM Cap., Rochestown, County Cork. The letter outlines a proposal to establish a Catholic church and an industrial training school in the Milk River Valley in Montana. Wooldridge notes that while Bishop Brondel was initially hesitant due to a past incident with an unauthorized priest, the bishop has become supportive. The letter emphasizes the region’s rapid development, the strong presence of influential Catholic families, and the unique opportunity to build an educational institute that bridges the gap between common schools and universities. Wooldridge explicitly offers his cooperation, leveraging his position and connection with the Great Northern Immigration Department, and suggests that Father Laurence consult with a Mr. William Murphy to further discuss the valley’s potential.