Identity area
Reference code
IE CA WA/1/12/22
Title
Letter from W.M. Wooldridge to Fr. Laurence Dowling
Date(s)
- 23 Apr. 1903 (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
2 pp; typescript
Context area
Name of creator
(1615-2023)
Repository
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Letter from W.M. Wooldridge to Fr. Laurence Dowling OFM Cap., Rochestown, County Cork. Wooldridge is described as an industrial agent for a railway company in Hinsdale, Valley County, Montana. The letter discusses the potential establishment of Irish priests in Montana, noting that the current local bishop has not taken kindly to the idea despite local interest. Wooldridge mentions discussing the matter with a well-known County Cork man, John McGuire, and expresses a strong desire to see Capuchin members establish a church and college in the rapidly developing Milk River Valley, where Catholic growth has stalled compared to other denominations. The letter closes with personal updates regarding local families.