Norwich bulletin., 1909-03-17
ARCHBISHOP JOHN HUGHES.
 Fourth Prize.

On June A, 1797, in far away Coun- ty Tyrone, Ireland, a baby boy was born that was destined to be, with but one exception the greatest archbishop America ever had.
 As is too often the case, the family lost their money and the father was obliged to come to America, to be fol- lowed shortly after by his wife and children. They settled in Chambers burg. Pennsylvania, in 1916.
 John sought and secured position in Emmetsburg in hopes of making some arrangements to enable him to attend college, for he longed to be a priest and the loss of the money had been a severe blow to him.
 How delighted he was when he found that he could attend college if he consented to superintend the gar- den work on the college grounds. His college record is an honored one and after studying theology he was ordained In 1926 by Bishop Con- neil of Philadelphia, who was very proud of him and used to say that he would be bishop.
 Twice he was disappointed in not being made bishop, but God wanted him for a more arduous labor.
 In 1882 he became prominent in the famous hes-Breckenbridge debate which resulted in the Presbyterian di- vines discounted retreat from the field.
 In 1888 he was consecrated coadjutor bishop of New York but soon became bishop. During the rest of his life he was prominent as a defender of. the faith.
 In 1889 he went to Europe for the ih- terests of his flock and everywhere met with a warm and generous welcome. Large subscriptions were given him and when he returned he established St Johns college. Fordham, now In the care of the Jesuits. About the same time he established the Ladies of the Sacred Heart, who are famous for their well-conducted female academies
 Especial attention did he give to the public school question: The text books abounded in insults to Catholics and their religion, and teachers compelled the pupils to take part in Protestant worship. A severe contest resulted in the victory of bigotry. Then the ns'er- tired bishop appealed to the state leg islature In vain. Then in an address full of enthusiasm and earnestness he appealed to his people and the result was very gratifying.
 About this time there was great ne- struction of church property. in Phila- delphia, and matters threatened to be likewise in New York, but Bishop Hughes warned the mayor and coun- Gil that 1t WOulu not De WlSe IO permit this. His sincere earnestness and low ing manner won the heart of all who knew him. no matter of what creed. President Lincoln and other prominent men were his staunch friends and longed to see him a cardinal. During the civil war he was sent to France on an important public mission.
 In 1850 New York was made or arch diocese and he received the pallium from Plus TX.
 In 1851 he laid the cornerstone of St. PatriclSs cathedral and raised enor- nous sums for it's building.
 But the terrible strain of work and the thought of the immense debt of the archdiocese told on his health. During the draft riots he made @ speech in July, 1883, but was not able to stand while talking.
 On Jan. 8, 1864. thore entered Into rest one of Gods most faithful ser wants, one deserving of a place of honor and respect in every true Amer ican heart
 ELEANOR AT HORICsAN,