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Booklet commemorating 100 years of the Society of Jesus in Australia entitled 'A Century of Jesuit Achievement 1865-1965.'

A century of Jesuit achievement 1865-1965

Account by Fr Sturzo of the novices in Australia.

Account for the Melbourne Mission, total receipts and expenses in Australia, '3 students and one teacher were fed daily'.

Account of the Australian Mission by Fr Michael J Watson SJ.

Account sheet for the Australian Mission.

A file of general account statements for the Australian Mission.

Copy of the agreement between the Archbishop of Brisbane, James Duhig and the Society of Jesus to establish a community in the parish of Toowong, Birsbane.

Agreement between Daniel Mannix, Archbishop of Melbourne and Fr Jeremiah Sullivan SJ (Superior of the Mission) concerning the administration of Corpus Christi College, Werribee.

Album depicting various views of Sydney (drawn).

Article concerning the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of St Aloysius Church, Sevenhills published in The Southern Cross.

Series of articles bound into book format concerning the history of the Jesuit mission to Australia:

• 'The Woodstock Letters'. Vol. XXXVII. No. 3 'The Society of Jesus in Australia' pp303-318; Vol. XXXVIII. No. 1 pp1-9; Vol. XXXVIII. No. 2 pp161-176; Vol. XXXVIII. ? pp341-349; Vol. XXXIX. No. 2 pp145-160; Vol. XXXIX. No. 3 pp304-318; Vol. XL. No. 1 pp1-16; Vol. XL. No. 2 pp145-160; Vol. XL. No. 3 pp274-288; Vol. XLI. No. 1 pp1-6;

• catalogue of the Adelaide residence of the Australian Mission (1862; 1869-1870; 1874; 1877; 1880; 1886; 1889) and the Australian Mission (1887; 1893; 1902; 1912);

• contemporary newspaper clippings of Jesuit houses in Australia;

• copy of 'Edmund Campion’s History of Ireland' by the Rev. John Hungerford Pollen SJ with an inscription to Fr John Conmee SJ by J. H. Pollen SJ reprinted from ‘The Month’, December, 1905, and February, 1906.

• articles by Fr Matthew Devitt SJ on 'Summerhill, County Meath and its neighbourhood', published in Kildare Archaeological Society;

• 'Irish University Education: A plea for Fair Play' by Fr William Delany SJ (1904);

• 'Brief memoir of Fr Patrick Duffy SJ' (1904);

• 'The Annual Report of the Apostolic School of Ireland' (Society of Jesus) 1884-1885, 1886, 1895;

• extracts from the diary of Mungret College (1884-1885);

• copy letters from Rev. F. Ronan to the Fathers and Students of Mungret College during the journey through the United States (September 1884- Christmas 1885).

The Irish Jesuit Mission to Australia was initiated due to the will of Fr John Joseph Therry (1790-1864), who named the Irish Jesuits as beneficiaries to his property in Australia, and by an invitation to the Irish Province by James Alipius Goold, Bishop of Melbourne (later Archbishop) (1812-1886) to set-up a mission in his diocese. The first two Irish Jesuits, Frs William Lentaigne (1805-1884) and William Kelly (1823-1909), arrived in Melbourne in September 1865. Previously, two Austrian Jesuits, Frs. Kranewitter (1817-1880) and Klinkowstroem (1819-1896) had arrived in 1848 after Jesuit expulsion from Austria. The Austrian Mission centred on South Australia and the Northern Territory. In 1901, the Austrian and Irish missions amalgamated. Australia was made a Vice-Province in 1931 and Fr Austin Kelly SJ (1891-1978) was named the first Provincial of the Australian Province in 1950.

The papers of the Australian Mission provide a comprehensive history of the Irish Jesuit Mission, concentrating on the years 1865-1931. The Irish Jesuits worked as missionaries, educators, writers, chaplains, theologians, scientists, pastors and directors of retreats, mainly in the urban communities of eastern Australia.

Subjects touched upon include: agreements with Archbishops in establishing Jesuit houses in a particular diocese; reflections on the journey to and from Australia; administration of schools, colleges, universities and Jesuit residences - (St Patrick’s, Melbourne; St Francis Xavier College, Kew, Melbourne; St Aloysius, Dunedin (NZ); St Aloysius College, Sydney ; St Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney; St Louis, Claremont, Western Australia; Newman College, University of Melbourne); parishes - (Norwood and Sevenhills in South Australia; Invercargill (NZ); Melbourne; Sydney; Toowong and Indooroopilly in Queensland); financial documents; expansion of the Mission; and correspondence between Father Provincial in Ireland and Jesuits in Australia. By far the greatest number of letters sent to Father Provincial in Ireland was from Fr John Ryan SJ (1849-1922) (Superior of the Mission from 11 February 1901-14 June 1908; 9 April 1913-24 October 1917). Until the creation of the Australian Mission as a Vice-Province, the Irish Provincial was kept informed of every minor detail about the Mission and often decision making in Australia was delayed until approval from Dublin was given.

Although this collection provides a comprehensive history of the Australian Mission, there are some gaps. For example, the collection does not contain any deeds or other legal documents relating to property obtained by the Society of Jesus in Australia and it is presumed that these documents would have been kept by the Superior of the Mission and later the Vice-Provincial of the Vice-Province in Australia, where they remain today.

Superiors of the Irish Jesuit Mission to Australia (1865-1931)
Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ 1865-1866
Fr Joseph Dalton SJ 1866-1872
Fr Thomas Cahill SJ 1872-1879
Fr Joseph Dalton SJ 1879-2 September 1883
Fr Aloysius Sturzo SJ 2 September 1883-5 April 1890
Fr Patrick Keating SJ 5 April 1890-1 February 1895
Fr Timothy Kenny SJ 1 February 1895-11 February 1901
Fr John Ryan SJ 11 February 1901-14 June 1908
Fr Thomas Brown SJ 14 June 1908-9 April 1913
Fr John Ryan SJ 9 April 1913-24 October 1917
Fr William Lockington SJ 24 October 1917-20 June 1923
Fr Jeremiah Sullivan SJ 20 June 1923-19 March 1931

Vice-Provincials of the Vice-Province of Australian (1931-1950)
Fr John Fahy SJ 19 March 1931-25 August 1939
Fr John Meagher SJ 25 August 1939-1 October 1947
Fr Austin Kelly SJ 1 October 1947-1 November 1950

Bound volume of the accounts of the Australian Mission in account with the Irish Province. Includes Robert Little Estate (23 March 1922 - 25 February 1926, pp. 246 - 247), Fr Joseph Canavan's Estate (1 March 1924, p. 399), Half Year's Contribution (25 March 1884 - 29 September 1884 pp. 401 - 402).

Typescript calendar of letters relating to the Australian Mission detailing date, writer and recipient.

Catalogue for the Australian Mission.

Chronological catalogue of the Fathers, Scholastics and Brothers of the Irish Province who worked in Ireland, Australia and other places from 1800 - 1900. With index.

Vol. 1, Menologies

Chronological catalogue of the fathers, scholastics, and brothers of the Irish Province 1900-1930.

Circular letter from Fr E Nolan SJ, Treasurer, St Patrick's College, Melbourne requesting financial help in order to build a church of the Immaculate Conception in Melbourne.

A file of Consultor's letters from the various communities of the Australian Mission to Mission Superior, Fr John Ryan SJ.

Copies of articles (taken from catalogue/souvenir) concerning the history of the Jesuit mission to Australia (1871-1964). Includes note from Fr Stephen Redmond SJ to Tom (20 July 1991).

Copy college mems in Fr Isaac Moore's hand from Fr Nolan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. Includes a note written by Fr Moore concerning the college and expanding some points.

Copy letters from Fr General Peter Beckx SJ to the Superior of the Australian Mission Fr Joseph Dalton SJ.

Copy of 'Laurels' (vol. 25, no. 86), a quarterly publication devoted to the interests of Old Xaverians, with article on the Irish Jesuit mission to Australia, 1865 onwards.

Copy of the agreement between the Archbishop of Sydney and the Society of Jesus and the establishment of the Australian Mission.

Cuttings from 'The Catholic Press' of an article entitled 'How the Irish Came to Queensland. The Voyage of the "Erin-go-bragh" and a tribute to Fr Aloysius Sturzo SJ'.

Document which briefly outlines the history of the beginnings of missions in Australia, Hong Kong and Northern Rhodesia.

Draft cable from Irish Fr Provincial John Fahy SJ, St Francis Xavier's, Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin 2 to the Australian Mission concerning the finances of one of the colleges.

A file of envelopes, stamped (Queen Victoria) and postmarked from Australia to Ireland.

Rough financial accounts for various houses in Australia.

Form letter allocating money to the Australian Mission.

Ground plan and first floor plan of Hawthorn College, Melbourne, by T. A. Kelly, architect, Melbourne.

Hand-written index/precis to the Australia collection, 1835-1903. It is not known who prepared this precis (perhaps Fr James Rabbitte SJ, check handwriting).

Historia Domus for Loyola, Sydney.

Historia Domus of Loyola, Greenwich, Sydney.

Historia Domus of the SS. Cordis Residence, Sydney.

Historia residentiae for Manresa, Norwood, Australia.

History of the Novitiate, Sydney.

House history of Sevenhill.

Index librorum for the Australian Mission, which list books by Jesuits in Australia.

Index of those have died in the Australian Mission between 1923 and 1926.

A file of letters from Joseph Alipius Goold, Bishop of Melbourne, Bishop's House, Melbourne, Australia to Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ concerning an invitation to the Irish Province to set up a mission in his diocese.

Leaflets of lecture delivered by Dr. Bromby entitled 'Truth of Eternal Punishment Vindicated' and 'Dr Bromby refuted: A lecture', by Fr William Kelly SJ, Town Hall, Melbourne, 12 December 1870.

Letter from the Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ, Milltown Park, Dublin to [ ] concerning two fathers setting out from Ireland to establish the Australian Mission (Fr William Kelly SJ and Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ). Refers to Fr Therry's brother in Cork who has agreed to co-operate in anyway so that the Jesuit fathers may secure their bequest.

Letter from Fr Michael Watson SJ, St Francis Xavier's College, Kew, near Melbourne, Australia to the Irish Novices concerning news about various members of the Australian Mission of the Irish Province who have died. They include Frs Aloysius Kranewitter, James Joyce, Bros. John O'Flynn, William Aloysius Wrigley, Michael Goodwin and Archbishop Steins.

Letter from Archbishop Daniel Mannix, Raheen, Kew, Victoria to Irish Fr Provincial John Fahy SJ thanking him for sending a copy of Fr McKenna's book on Fr Cullen. Refers to the work of the Society of Jesus in Australia and praises it making special reference to Newman College and Corpus Christi College.

Letter from Archbishop Thomas J Carr, St Patrick's Cathedral, Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial Timothy Kenny SJ concerning Fr Kenny's visit to Australia. Expresses his gratitude to the Jesuit Fathers for the work they have carried out. Refers to relations between himself and the Jesuit Fathers and describes them as unsatisfactory until Fr Kenny's arrival. Remarks 'You have met all my representations in an open, disinterested and religious spirit. You have framed wise and salutary regulations...You have carried out...the whole object of your mission in a very successful manner.'

Copy letter from Archbishop Thomas J Carr, St Patrick's Cathedral, Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial Timothy Kenny SJ thanking Fr Kenny for his letter and expresses the wish that the work of the Jesuit Fathers in the Archdiocese will be a 'great gain both to the diocese and to all their works. This is certainly my wish and desire as I know it is yours.'

Letter from Austro-Hungarian Fr Provincial Anton Forstner SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Patrick Keating SJ describing the Austro-Hungarian Mission in Australia and the possibility of it joining with the Irish Mission.

Letter from Cardinal Moran, St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney to Irish Fr Provincial Timothy Kenny SJ praising the work of Jesuit priests in Australia.

Copy of a letter from Cardinal Patrick Moran, Archbishop of Sydney, St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney to Fr James Colgan SJ (Fr Superior), Manresa, Hawthorn concerning the boundary between St Mary's Parish and Chatswood.

Letter from Dr Thomas Carr, DD, St Patrick's Cathedral, Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial John Conmee SJ concerning the introduction of the Loreto nuns into the Hawthorn Mission.

Letter from Christopher Nulty SJ, St Aloysius College, North Sydney to Fr Daly concerning news from St Aloysius College and general details about the Australian Mission.

Letter from Fr Boursaud, Secretary to the Fr General, to Fr Tuite. Reports that the Fr General is very pleased to hear of the ‘good disposition shown by F. Clery’, and thanks Fr Tuite for sending him the ‘Australian paper’, which gave news of the work of the mission in Australia, including a reference to St Ignatius’ College. Sends the greetings of Fr Porter, who asks Fr Tuite to look in the archives for an instruction from the Fr General around 1878, which modified the ordination of Fr Roothaan on the Minervale.

Copy of part of a letter from Fr Edward Corish SJ to [ ] concerning Archbishop Kelly and his intention to take more territory from the Franciscan Fathers and a misunderstanding that arose.

Letter from Fr General Peter Beckx SJ, Fiesole, Italy to Irish Provincial Fr Aloysius Sturzo SJ concerning the work of the Society in Sydney.

Letter from Fr General Peter Beckx SJ to the Superior of the Australian Mission, Fr Joseph Dalton SJ discussing the Australian Mission.

Copy letter from Fr General concerning mass stipends. Includes a note by Fr John Ryan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ seeking advice.

Copy letter from Fr General concerning the appointment of only four Mission Consultors. Includes a note by Fr John Ryan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ asking him to correct the status for Australia.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Conveys the Fr General's desire that Fr Joseph Clery SJ is to be dismissed from the Society in Ireland, and not in Australia. Refers to Fr John O'Carroll's claim to a share of his aunt's property, and also to Fr Saurin's position in relation to property and his father's will. Adds that reports from America do not give accounts of the success of Fr Murphy’s expedition there.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Thanks his correspondent for ‘the paper & for the good news’. Sends the congratulations of the Fr General, who was particularly pleased by the part played by Fr Delany. Hopes that ‘the business of the college may be brought to an equally favourable termination’. Refers to the case of a member of the Limerick community, whose removal is left to the discretion of Fr Weld's correspondent. Adds that the Fr General is anxious that the man in question should be removed as his behaviour could cause scandal. Also refers to the ‘Montgret lease’, and states that if this Limerick diocesan seminary succeeds it ‘well may lead the way to very important work for the Society in Ireland’. Discusses the importance of helping the development of the Australian province, and refers to the sending of Frs Thomas Keating and Joseph Brennan there.
Note: The name of the man in Limerick, who may be removed from there is blacked out in this letter. The letter is accompanied by an envelope marked: ‘F. Rabbitte; 1. Letter enclosed for archives. 2. I am keeping the other (two) letters; [ ]’.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Thanks the latter for sending a copy of the Catholic Directory. States that the Fr General gives his consent to Fr Dalton to accept the 10 acres of the Catholic reserve. Advises Fr Tuite that the Fr General wishes that ‘more important matters’ be addressed to himself and in Latin. Refers to the Australian mission and its need for ‘some young blood’. Reminds Fr Tuite that he and the Fr General are awaiting his letter about 'Montgret'. Also refers to the Dublin College, and to Cardinal McCabe, to whom Fr Armellini is to visit; and to a proposed convent of the Sacred Heart at Sydney.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Refers to the latter's letter on 12 March, and addresses some of the points in it. Refers to Fr Tuite's proposals in relation to Montgret, and passes on the Father General's authorisation to send Fr Brennan to Australia. Also discusses the Terna for Australia, and an offer to the Society of 10 acres of the Catholic Reserve. With regard to the question of the New Zealand mission raised by Fr Dalton in his letter, asks Fr Tuite's opinion on the proposed removal of the missioners from there to Australia. Asks for a copy of the Irish Catholic Directory for 1882.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Reports on a ‘very serious charge’ against Fr [Joseph] Clery in Australia. He is to be dismissed if the charge is substantiated. Refers to the terna for the new Superior in Australia, and to the ‘University Reserve’. Asks Fr Tuite what has been done about Fr Murphy's expedition to America, and about studies at Milltown Park. Adds that Fr Chambellan has recalled Fr René.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Refers to the terna for the successor of Fr Thomas Kelly SJ, and asks Fr Tuite to observe Fr Donovan to see whether he would make a good superior. Also requests that he names a Prefect of Studies for Milltown Park. Explains about a reminder for ‘extra [wines]’. Reports that complaints have reached the Fr General about the fathers at Upper Temple Street. Refers also to Fr Denis Murphy’s leave of absence, to the Frs Kelly’s visits to externs, and to Fr E. Murphy's missions in America. Reports on the Fr General’s views in relation to the new College.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Urges the latter to reconsider his decision not to send any novices to the University that year. Reports that Fr Finlay’s grand act was received very well in Spain, and suggests that he be appointed to teach philosophy in place of Fr Baron. Asks again about the terna for a successor to Fr Dalton.

Letter from Fr George Porter SJ, writing from Fiesole, to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Refers to Dr Goethals, a bishop in Calcutta, who runs a newspaper there. Discusses the question of the ‘Dublin College’ and Fr Delany's involvement in the matter. Refers to the negative attitude of Cardinal McCabe to the latter, and to his (Delany's) extravagant tendencies in relation to the College. Believes that ‘the very best professors should be engaged (even Protestants, in cases where no Catholic professor was prominent)’. Suggests that the studies at Miltown be put ‘on a more satisfactory footing’, through the use of the various Jesuits that Fr Tuite has in Dublin, including Fr Finlay, who Fr Porter sent back to Ireland ‘after his grand act’. Asks if he has heard anything about the terna from Australia.

Letter from Fr H Walmesley SJ, Via S. Nicola da Tolentino, Roma to Irish Fr Provincial William Delaney SJ concerning a representative from the Australian Mission to the Provincial Congregation. Includes a copy of a reply on the same issue from the XXV General Congregation (1906).

Letter from Fr James O'Dwyer SJ, Xavier College, Kew to Fr Maher SJ concerning news from the Australian Mission and asking Fr Maher for items (chalices and vestments) for the altar.

Letter, written in Latin from Fr Joannes Hinteroecker SJ to [ ] describing his work amongst the Aboriginal people (Indigenous Australians) in Australia.

Letter from Fr John McEncroe, Archdiocese, Sydney, Australia to Fr John Callan SJ concerning the introduction of Fathers from the Society of Jesus into the Diocese of Sydney.

Letter from Fr John Ryan SJ, Xavier College, Kew, Melbourne to Irish Fr Provincial Patrick Keating SJ concerning the Austro-Hungarian Mission in Australia and the possibility of unifying the two Missions.

Letter from Fr John S. Bourke SJ, St Patrick's College, East Melbourne to Fr Thomas Wheeler SJ, Dublin, Ireland concerning news from Australia. Expresses concern over Fr Patrick Tighe's landing in Australia. Remarks 'consumptives are not admitted nowadays and three who came as far as Fremantle with us were turned back there.'

Letter from Josef Polk SJ, St Aloysius College, Sevenhills, Australia to Fr [ ] concerning St Patrick's, Melbourne. Offers advice on various matters relating to the school.

Letter from Fr Thomas Cahill SJ, Bathurst to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ asking him to write to the Irish Fr Provincial on a matter discussed by Fr Cahill and Fr Dalton. Remarks that he has been suffering from ill health and has been unable to give the triduum to the nuns of Bathurst.

Photocopy letter from Irish Fr Provincial Patrick Keating SJ, The Presbytery, Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin to Fr General concerning a letter Fr Keating received from John O'Reily, Archbishop of Adelaide and the suggestion that the Austro-Hungarian and Irish Mission should unite in Australia.

Letter from Roger Bede Vaughan, Archbishop of Sydney to Fr [ ] praising the work being carried out at St Kilda's.

Copy of a letter from Roger Bede Vaughan, Archbishop of Sydney to Fr Joseph Dalton SJ concerning the conditions imposed by the Archbishop for the Society of Jesus' entry to the Archdiocese of Sydney.

Letter from Roger Bede Vaughan, Archbishop of Sydney, St John's College, Sydney to Fr Thomas Cahill SJ (Superior of the Mission) concerning the establishment of the Society in Sydney. Remarks that he has no objection but wishes to discuss a number of conditions. Refers to the closure of Lyndhurst College. Remarks 'The result of this very painful duty will be at all events to clear away complications and you will have no reason for feeling any delicacy in accepting the offer I am going to make to you when you come.

Letter from Joseph Alipius Goold, Archbishop of Melbourne, writing from Brussels, Belgium to Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ concerning an urgent request by Fr Joseph Dalton SJ for a community of teaching nuns to go to Australia.

Letter from the Archbishop of Sydney, Patrick Cardinal Moran, The Irish College, Rome to Irish Fr Provincial James Murphy SJ concerning the change of the site of the Jesuit's High School from it's present site to North Sydney.

Copy of a letter from the Micheal Kelly, Archbishop of Sydney, St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney to Fr John Ryan SJ (Superior of the Australian Mission) concerning two issues raised in letters from Fr Ryan SJ to the Archbishop, namely sanction for a loan to extend St Mary's Church, Milson's Point and the restoration of parish duties to the Fathers at Loyola.

Letter from the Bishop of Geraldton, William Bernard Kelly, Geraldton, Western Australia to Fr John F O'Brien SJ releasing him from his duties in the Northern Territory. Remarks 'I...have no desire whatever to detain you any longer...To my mind your stay there has already been an extremely long and trying one and apart from all considerations of your order, I could not bring myself to ask you to prolong it.'

Copy of a letter from Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ, Milltown Park, Dublin to the Bishop of Melbourne, James Alipius Goold, concerning the arrival of Frs Lentaigne and Kelly in Australia in order '...to take preliminary steps for the establishment of our Society in Melbourne.'

Letter from the Superior of the Australian Mission, Fr Joseph Dalton SJ, St Patrick's, Melbourne to Fr John Ffrench SJ regarding the Australian Mission and worries expressed by Father General concerning the observance of spiritual matters and the customs of the Society.

Letter from the Superior of the Australian Mission, Fr Joseph Dalton SJ, Villa Maria, Hunters Hill, Sydney to Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ concerning the Australian Mission. Refers to a number of topics he wishes to be passed on to Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ when Fr Lentaigne returns to Ireland.

Copy letter from the Superior of the Australian Mission Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ to Father General Peter Beckx SJ concerning the Australian Mission.

Copy letter from the Superior of the Australian Mission Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ, St Patrick's College, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia to Father General Peter Beckx SJ, Rome, Italy concerning the Australian Mission and his visit to Australia.

A file of letters from Fr Aloysius Sturzo SJ (Superior: 2 September 1883 - 5 April 1890) to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Mission in Australia. Includes a letter asking permission to open a novitiate if he felt it was needed (12 November 1883 , 6pp). Includes a letter expressing his frustration over the delay in receiving answers to his letters. Remarks 'I feel very much embarrassed when there is anything to be done that requires the signing of a contract. I think that Fr General should give me as much power as he can communicate...' Refers to the lack of men and remarks that Fr Bietal SJ, an Austrian Jesuit is likely to be recalled to his own Mission in Adelaide (17 December 1883, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to the type of person suitable for the Mission in Adelaide (17 December 1883, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to the type of person suitable for the Mission. Remarks 'I hope you will not send to Australia anyone who is in any way weak concerning drink and the other fault that comes after drinking to excess. In this country...our dealings are more before the public and any fault in those two matters would ruin our character entirely.' (14 October 1886, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to Fr Joseph O'Malley's return from New Zealand. Remarks that Fr Thomas McEnroe SJ remains in New Zealand but that he is not certain whether the Mission has been closed or not. Includes a letter referring to the election of Fr Clancy as Rector of St John's College. Remarks that his election has been declared invalid. Describes how this has occurred. (10 January 1889, 4pp). Includes a further letter concerning Fr Clancy and the Rectorship of St. John's College. Remarks that they have consulted a lawyer who felt the election was invalid '...we saw that this was the best opportunity for us to retire with honours and without offending our friends from the truly dangerous battlefield...' (7 February 1884, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to the need for more Fathers to be sent out particularly a German or French Father that could be employed as a prefect in one of the colleges (17 September 1884, 8pp). Includes a letter concerning a decision to publish the Messenger of the Sacred Heart in Melbourne. Refers to the sale of land at St Patrick's Melbourne for the construction of a portion of the railway. Remarks that Fr Christopher Nulty SJ (Rector) has paid off all debts and wishes to spend the remainder on finishing the college (9 August 1886, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to the closure of Tullabeg and the possibility of Fathers being sent out to Australia. Remarks 'I hope that even independently from the closing of Tullabeg you will send me some good prefects and masters who are wanted here very badly...' (20 August 1886, 3pp). Includes a letter concerning an offer by the Bishop of Tasmania to the Society of a house for the purposes of opening a seminary for the Bishop's diocese and that it could also be used as a sanatorium for Jesuit Fathers '...I wrote to him that...it would not be prudent...for us to accept an offer...which we could not accomplish through want of men and money (1 October 1886, 10pp).

A file of letters from Fr Edward Nolan SJ to Irish Fr Provincials concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia (16 April 1866, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to St Patrick's College and the poor reputation it has. Remarks '...I am sorry to say that the college was fast losing ground in the estimation of the public for want of management and even yet the evil is not completely checked...we have been informed lately by the priests that we had not succeeded as was anticipated...the college has been looked upon as a failure.' Refers to Fr Dalton and his position as Superior of the Mission. Remarks '...he seems to me to want firmness of purpose and resolution to face the difficulty...My conviction is that if he goes on we cannot succeed.' (26 April 1867, 8pp). Includes a letter describing a trip to Ballarat to preach a sermon and a visit he paid to one of the gold mines called "the Band of Hope". Remarks 'The yield on the day I was there was 437 oz; a few days before it had been 1637 oz for one day, the largest yield ever obtained in a gold mine in Australia and worth over £6,500.' Remarks that he was presented with a nugget which he sold '...for the benefit of Richmond Church.' Continues 'Four hundred miners are employed at this one mine...the close bad air of the mines tells very quickly on them and they die off rapidly. Three batches of them relieve one another every eight hours...the work goes on night and day - Sunday and holiday - otherwise the water would go in upon them and flood the mine.' (22 August 1867, 8pp). Includes a letter referring to a plot of ground made available for the construction of a church at Hawthorn (24 October 1867, 4pp). Includes a letter describing the church at Hawthorn. Remarks '...the...church is greatly admired by all - Catholic and Protestant. It will be...one of the prettiest in the colony (11 October [1868], 12pp). Includes a letter, describing, in detail, a trip to New Zealand, the people he met there and the landscape. Remarks 'There is a complete dearth of good respectable Catholic boys-schools throughout the whole of New Zealand.' Remarks that there is a lack of clergy and as a result many people have lost their faith. (12 August 1870, 12pp). Includes a letter referring to the opening of a boarding school. Asks Fr Provincial for more fathers who can teach in the school (28 March 1872, 4pp).

Letters from Fr Edward Sydes SJ to Fr John Ryan SJ. Includes a letter discussing wills of Jesuits with specific reference to members of the Society in Australia.

A file of letters (six are undated) from Fr Isaac Moore SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Edmund O'Reilly SJ concerning the Australian Mission. Fr Moore spent time in Australia (1867-1870; -1890).

A file of letter from Fr James Kennedy SJ to Irish Fr Provincial relating to various matters in Australia including his concern over the finances of the Australian Mission. Remarks that money has been managed 'with very little order'. (8 April 1885, 9pp).

An extensive file of letters from Fr John Ryan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial. As Superior of the Mission (11 February 1901 - 14 June 1908 & 9 April 1913 - 24 October 1917), Fr Ryan wrote to his superior, the Irish Fr Provincial on all matters concerning the administration (including visitations he made to the various communities) of the Mission and members of the Society living and working in see also Australia. Includes a letter to Fr J. Murphy SJ concerning Fr John O'Neill's health. Remarks '...there is only one proper course open to us viz. to send Fr O'Neill to Europe where he will have, at least, a chance of recovery...He is a source of constant anxiety, and we have no institution in Australia where we can put him, except the public Lunatic Asylum.' Remarks that following discussion with his Consultors he has decided to send Fr O'Neill home. (8 December 1902, 2pp). Includes a memorandum concerning the mission of the Jesuit Fathers in North Sydney. (5 March 1912, 7pp). Includes a letter concerning the Sydney Synod. Remarks 'It seems the secular clergy are urging His Grace to dock more and more the missionary districts of Regulars and apparently he means to satisfy them as much as possible.' (6 August 1913, 2pp). Includes a letter discussing the proposed additions to St. Aloysius College (6 August 1913, 5pp). Includes a letter referring to the war and the difficulty of sending letters. Remarks '…it is a blessing that so far none of our mail boats have been sunk'. Refers to Sevenhills and remarks that he will do his best '…to work up the Altar Wine Industry which I hope will be of great help to Loyola. And I do hope you will succeed in getting some Bros. That understand the making of wine.' Concludes by remarking that more chaplains are needed by the Military Authorities and remarks that he cannot supply even one Father. Refers to Fr Hearne SJ, at the front and remarks '…everyone who has met him is loud in his praises.' (9 February 1914, 2pp). Includes a letter concerning a loan for Riverview (a second mortgage on the property) (18 February 1914, 3pp). Includes a letter regarding the reopening of the Novitiate at Loyola (18 February 1914, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning the proposed administration of St. John's College in the University of Sydney by the Jesuit Fathers (23 - 25 February 1914, 3pp). Includes a letter (with rough drawings) regarding the alterations made at Loyola for the reopening of the Novitiate (16 June 1914, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to a statement sent to Fr General concerning the lax discipline at Riverview. Remarks that the statements made by Fr General were too sweeping (1 September 1915, 2pp). Includes letters concerning an offer made by Archbishop Dunne (Archbishop of Brisbane), Toowong Parochial District, Brisbane. In a letter from Fr Ryan to Fr Thomas V Nolan SJ he remarks that Toowong would be the most suitable district in Brisbane for the work of the Jesuits (29 August 1915 - 18 June 1916, 9 items). Includes letters see also concerning the property Ellangowan (Adelaide) and the desire of the Society of Jesus to secure the property (9 March 1916, 3pp). Includes a number of letters concerning a new Superior for Norwood and problems with Fr McCurtin over the matter (8 March 1916 - 27 March 1916, 6 items). Includes a letter expressing his surprise at the employment of female cooks at Xavier College, Kew, Melbourne. Remarks that he challenged Fr O'Dwyer SJ (Rector) about it at once as 'It was well known that I would not consent without referring the matter to Your Reverence.' Includes a letter from Fr O'Dwyer to Fr Ryan explaining the reasons why he employed female cooks (1 April 1917 & 2 April 1917, 2 items). Includes a memorandum concerning the sending of Juniors to Ireland and opposition of the Consultors to sending them to Ireland. Outlines various reasons why the Consultors are opposed to this (2 May 1917, 1p). Includes a letter referring to a meeting with the Consultors at which the question of a Juniorate in Australia was fully discussed (30 October 1917, 1p).

A file of letters from Fr Joseph Dalton SJ, (Superior: 1866 - 1872; 1879 - 2 September 1883) to irish Fr Provincial concerning the Australian Mission. (Note: undated fragments - 17 items).

14 May 1866 - 6 December 1869, 52 items
Includes a letter concerning a 'serious hitch' with the Bishop over the boundaries of the Mission (24 May 1866, 4pp). Includes a letter concerning a successful agreement between the Society and the Archbishop. Remarks that the Archbishop is very anxious that the Jesuit Fathers obtain the best sites for their houses and to this end has applied to the government for a 'church reserve.' (26 June 1866, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to an invitation by Dr Murphy for the Jesuits to set up a Mission in Tasmania. Remarks that he discussed the matter with his Consultors who felt it was not a desirable offer 'But the real danger is - if Dr. Murphy calls in the Marists or any other body and if they open a community in...Tasmania before we shall have opened one here we may be "cut out" by them; a college in Tasmania even if not a great success might interfere seriously with our college here..' (22 August 1866, 10pp). Includes a letter expressing his disappointment that Fr Provincial can provide neither men nor money for the Australian Mission. Remarks 'It is a great delusion to imagine that gold in Australia is like coal in Newcastle - would it were! The lucky golden days out here are all past and gone and it now requires great capital and great machinery to work the mines... which...lie out here some 200 or 300 feet underground.' Refers to Sir Charles Gavan Duffy lately arrived in Australia. Remarks that he (Fr Dalton) is his Parish Priest and that he has called to see him (26 November 1866, 7pp). Includes a letter referring to the laying of the foundation stone of the church of St Ignatius. Includes a rough plan of the design (25 July 1867, 4pp). Includes a letter marked private concerning the crisis over appointing a new Bishop. Remarks that Dr Goold is acting as administrator temporarily but asks if one of the Jesuit Fathers could be appointed. Remarks 'The laity were about sending a petition to Rome for one of us - I dissuaded them...it will ruin the Melbourne Mission and I intend to impress this on Dr Goold...' (nd, 2pp). (Note: this letter is see also filed after the letter dated 27 July 1867). Includes a letter referring to the litigation over Fr Therry's will. Remarks that this is hindering their plans to secure a site for a new college (26 August 1867, 6pp). Includes a letter describing a visit he made to Fr Therry's sister in Hobart. Remarks that everything has been settled '..I found Miss Therry and her brother most favourably disposed towards us and most anxious that Fr Therry's will and "instructions" should be carried out: they were under the impression however that the Trustees were making away with the property and hence the lawsuit.' (25 September 1867, 8pp). Includes a letter referring to the building of the churches at Richmond and Hawthorn. Remarks 'The two churches are going on well TG - Hawthorn mason work will be completed in a month TG - the Richmond church ("dear and ugly") is rising more slowly and winning admiration as it grows..' (4 January 1868, 8pp). Includes a letter concerning Fr Therry's property and the various allotments left to the Society of Jesus (28 February 1868, 4pp). Includes a lengthy letter replying to a series of charges levelled against the Mission by Fr Lentaigne. Remarks '...I feel that Fr Lentaigne's bill of indictment is greatly exaggerated and in some respects childish - it is almost entirely made up of charges against Fr Nolan...' (11 September 1868, 14pp). Includes a letter referring to the Benedictines in Sydney. Remarks '...(they) are broken down completely - they have failed in every way, their school, their convent - their priests and their Lay Brothers - all a failure. The laity and some of the clergy are very anxious that the Archbishop should give us Lyndhurst for a college, the Marist too are most anxious to see us there..' (4 December 1868, 10pp).

3 January 1870 - 11 May 1879; 87 items
Includes a letter referring to the endowment by Dr McEnroe of a Chair in St John's College (27 March 1870, 11pp). Includes a letter concerning the General Elections and the Education Bill and the Bishop's directive that the clergy should use all their power to ensure the Bishop's directive that the clergy should use all their power to ensure that men opposed to the Government's Education Bill should be returned. Remarks that he did as much as he could quietly. Continues 'We all abstained from voting tho' the B(isho)p was very anxious - Fr General has already forbidden ours to vote under any pretence.' (23 March 1871, 8pp). Includes a letter discussing the pros and cons of the Mission's first attempt at convictus. (20 May 1871, 8pp). Includes a letter describing a visit he paid to South Australia to give a series of retreats. Describes the Mission of the German Fathers of the Society of Jesus in detail. Remarks 'I have had a special reason for giving you...(a) very detailed...account of the Mission of our German Fathers (because... our German Fathers...are very anxious for an amalgamation of the two missions - theirs and ours).' Remarks that he would not approve of an amalgamation and sets out his reasons for this opinion.' (22 August 1872, 8pp). Includes a letter referring to his attempt to raise money for the new colleges. Remarks that he is in Castlemain '...begging for our new colleges, I fear I shall not make my fortune - the place is poor and I am not a good walker and a beggar should be a good walker and a good rider also - I am neither...' (25 February 1873, 4pp). Includes a letter referring to the new secular Education Bill coming into operation. Remarks that it is the Jesuit Father's duty to provide for the schools 'Xtian Brothers for our boys and nuns for our girls are only hope..' (2 January 1974, 4pp).

16 October 1880 - 17 June 1889; 21 items
Includes a letter regarding his health and requests to be relieved from his position as Superior of the Mission as soon as possible. Refers to a meeting of Land League sympathisers at which Fr Joseph O’Malley SJ spoke very strongly. Remarks that he wrote to Fr O'Malley SJ on the matter. Continues 'To make matters worse I learned that the "Land League" had arranged to have 5000 copies of Fr O'Malley's speech...printed...I wrote at once to the printers but was too late...Fr Mulhall and Fr Clancy...agree with me in looking on the speech as very imprudent.' (24 July 1881, 12pp). Includes a letter concerning the conduct of Fr James Kennedy SJ at the graveside of Archbishop Steins which caused great upset to the Jesuit Fathers and members of the diocese. Remarks that he had to severely reprimand Fr Kennedy SJ ([September 1881], 6pp).

A file of letters from Fr Joseph Lentaigne SJ to Irish Provincial Fr Edmund J O'Reilly SJ concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter describing the voyage to Australia (18 September 1865,4pp). Includes a letter referring to the Archbishop's wish that the Jesuit Fathers 'take up the absolute care of this (St. Patrick's) college and he will give us two additional things viz.: the parish of Richmond and the ground for a University College...The Bishop will sign a document giving it over to us exclusively and declaring that it can never be taken from us unless we wish to give it up.' (25 September 1865, 4pp). Includes a letter expressing his delight that two more Fathers are to be sent out to St. Patrick's College. Describes the pupils that attend the college (24 March 1866, 8pp). Includes a letter concerning Fr Dalton's arrival in Melbourne. Refers to Miss Therry's threat of legal action concerning her brother's will (25 April 1866, 2pp). Includes a letter referring to his return to Ireland and his travel arrangements. Remarks 'I have often written in fulfillment of what I believed to be my duty as a Consultor and expressed a difference in opinion from Fr Dalton and some of his advisers in many points of importance.' Continues by referring to various matters he feels need attention.' Remarks '...I cannot but despond at the prospects of this mission.' (3 March 1868, 8pp).

A file of letters from Fr Joseph Mulhall SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial concerning the mission in Australia. Includes a letter concerning the upkeep of ecclesiastical students. Remarks that he does not agree with Fr Kelly that '...we have no right to accept...money for (their) maintenance...' Continues '...in the written contract with us the Bishop promises to pray us for their maintenance. They teach for 3 hours and during Mr. Lentaigne's time, they got lectures for 2 hours now these 2 things may be said to balance each other...' (DATE). Includes a letter referring to the establishment of a boarding school in Australia. Remarks that the Society accepted St. John's University and that the Board has promised not to interfere. Remarks '...they are most anxious that we should have it - for they are most apprehensive that the government will take it into their own hands...' (29 January 1870, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to the need to build a house for the community beside St Ignatius church, Richmond (6 November 1871, 6pp). Includes a letter concerning Fr James Cullen SJ and remarks that he would welcome him to Australia. Remarks '...he is a very zealous missioner, one that would save a great number of souls here living in this parish entrusted to our care - he is exactly the father we want in Richmond...' (29 January 1884, 4pp)

Letters from Fr Michael Browne SJ to William Stephenson SJ:

• from St Stanislaus College, Tullamore, County Offaly to Willie Stephenson SJ, Maison St Louis, Jersey apologising for not writing sooner and expressing his hope that the shamrock reached Jersey on time. Writes about news from home (17 March 1905, 4pp);
• from St Stanislaus College, Tullamore, County Offaly to Willie Stephenson SJ concerning William Stephenson's impending departure for Australia (15 August 1905, 3pp);
• from Sacred Heart College, Limerick to Willie Stephenson SJ, Australia. Apologises for not replying sooner. Encourages Willie Stephenson to 'leave yourself in His (God's) hands - where better can you be - and follow blindly the direction that brings you peace of soul.' Writes about news from home (2 January 1909, 4pp);
• from St Stanislaus College, Tullamore, County Offaly to William Stephenson SJ. Refers to Fr McDonnell's publications on Holy Communion, which he sent to Willie Stephenson. Refers to the small number of novices entering and remarks 'I hope you are sending us Novices from Australia this year, I fear our home supply will be small'. Writes about news from home (21 June 1909, 4pp);
• from St Stanislaus College, Tullamore, County Offaly to Willie Stephenson SJ. Refers to the novices from Australia and remarks how well they are doing. Continues 'I wish heartily you could send us more. The work you are engaged in promoting devotion to the Virgin Mother, will, I hope, produce as its special fruit subjects for the Society.' Encourages Willie Stephenson to continue his work. Remarks 'Your Australian experience will be invaluable to you in the harvest time.' (3 July 1910, 3pp);
• from St Stanislaus College, Tullamore, County Offaly to Willie Stephenson SJ, concerning a marble altar erected in the Lady Chapel of Riverview College Chapel. Remarks 'I am delighted that you are able to do so much for the honour of the Great Mother of God.' Writes of news from home, remarks that Tertianship for the Irish and English Provinces will be in Tullamore in 1912 and that preparations are being made (21 April 1911, 4pp);
• card from St Francis Xavier's, Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin to Fr Stephenson SJ thanking Fr Stephenson for his booklet for Altar Servers. Compliments him on the layout (4 February 1921,1 item);
• from Rathfarnham Castle, County Dublin to Fr Stephenson SJ thanking him for his letter and congratulations (2 May 1930, 3pp) and
• from Rathfarnham Castle, County Dublin to Fr Stephenson SJ congratulating him on his booklet of Fr Baxter's Meditations (10 November 1931, 1p).

A file of letters from Fr Michael Dooley SJ, St. Francis Xavier's College, Kew, Australia to Irish Fr Provincial James Tuite SJ. Includes a letter referring to the finances of St. Francis Xavier's College. Expresses his concern over the debts that have accumulated. Remarks that the Archbishop has opened a new High School and appears to have lost confidence in St. Francis Xavier's College. Refers to Fr Therry's estate and remarks that it has been sold off '...and what has become of the money, I can't say.' Concludes that a debt of £20,000 has accumulated. (3 July 1881, 4pp).

A file of letters from Fr Patrick Keating SJ, St Ignatius College, Riverview, Sydney to Fr Peter [Beckx] SJ. Expresses his frustration at the lack of good men being sent out to Australia. Remarks 'I wish you could be spared to us. This place would suit you in many ways admirably... But that of course is out of the question. It is only the invalids the good for littles and the troublesome who are transported.' (1 May 1885, 8pp). Includes a letter relating to the delay in granting permission for a new building at Riverview. Remarks 'If the people at home saw the grand college the Marist Brothers have built they might think it necessary to do something...I hope that now the Provincial is well again things may go on a little faster. It is an awful thing to be so far away from headquarters and to have to write for permission for everything' (12 May 1885, 2pp).