175 Years in New England: Part One
Students Mary Quinn, Adeline Hennessey and Doris Donohue at Lowell Academy in 1921.
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, based in Namur, Belgium, made a courageous decision to send Sisters to America, a nation barely 80 years independent, despite harboring concerns about the women’s safety and unknown challenges awaiting them. Yet, steadfastly committed to the vision of co-foundress Julie Billiart, they embarked on a mission to share their charism and educate those in need. Their historic venture began in 1840 when eight Sisters arrived in Cincinnati, established a school and became essential community members.
Five years later, a visiting Bishop implored them to extend their educational mission to Boston, a burgeoning hub of immigrant influx. In November 1849, amidst a nation still grappling with its identity, three Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur clandestinely arrived in Boston from Cincinnati. Their objective was to manage the parish school at St. Mary’s in the West End, marking the beginning of a pioneering journey that would shape education and community service in New England for generations to come.
Mid-1800s
Establishing a Presence in Boston
The Sisters’ arrival in Boston was not without adversity. Undeterred by the prevailing anti-Catholic sentiment, the Sisters demonstrated resilience through early setbacks and their efforts soon gained positive attention, leading to requests for schools in nearby cities. In 1852, they opened St. Patrick’s School in Lowell.
Always mindful of society’s pressing issues, the Sisters realized that many children could not attend school because many immigrant parents worked in the textile mills. In response, the Sisters pioneered childcare services to address the needs of working-class families. This initiative marked perhaps the earliest childcare center in the U.S.
Late-1800s to Mid-1900s
Expanding Schools and Ministries
The impact and the reputation of the Sisters continued to grow across Massachusetts, as did the ever-increasing need for education. They swiftly established schools in Roxbury, Salem, Lawrence, East Boston and South Boston, and by 1867, they expanded to Chicopee, Worcester and Springfield. Recognizing child labor as a prevalent issue, the Sisters set up ‘Night Schools’ and an Industrial School in Boston. By 1891, their influence extended beyond Massachusetts with the opening of St. Teresa’s in Providence, Rhode Island, marking the beginning of a broader expansion. Their presence burgeoned throughout Connecticut, and they assumed leadership roles in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
Read part two of An Enduring Legacy of Goodness ⋙
