Various memoranda sent to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ. Includes lists of Irish Jesuit chaplains and their addresses; estimates for chaplain’s uniform; memoranda concerning the appeal for military chaplains serving at home and abroad and their origins and ‘Memorial to the Irish Hierarchy re Shortage of Catholic Chaplains.’ Includes:

• remembrance card for the 2nd Battalion of Irish Guards, attending mission in Cologne, January 1919;
• name card (O.H.M.S) for wounded man's kit, belonging to Lieut Sheil, No 2. Squadron, R.A.F. (Frac. skull);
• carte postale depicting Fr Frank Browne and Irish soldiers at Loudres, France, 30 October 1918;
• carte postale depicting Fr Jerome O'Mahony's altar, 23 September 1918;

Scrapbook belonging to Rev. Major Henry Gill SJ. Includes letters from the War Office and memorabilia relating to his tasks as chaplain to the 2nd Royal Irish Rifles.

Sample letter from Fr Nicholas J Tomkin SJ, Rector, Clongowes Wood College SJ to parents/guardians parents/guardians concerning the increase in school fees due to the war. He indicates a high application for the coming year, and encourages parents to reserve places for younger brothers, or to give good notice of intention to withdraw a student.

Miscellaneous letters and notes to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ. Includes rough notes of wages and expenditure of various Jesuit chaplains (n.d., 3pp), and replies from the Senior Chaplain, Australian Imperial Force on transport to Australia for acting chaplain. Includes a note from Fr William Feran SJ, that he has commissioned him (Fr Henry Gill SJ) to discover and exterminate the influenza microbe' (18 December 1918).

Medal of the Order of the Crown (Ordre de la Couronne), class Officier, conferred by the King of Belgium to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ. Includes official document concerning the decoration (6 May 1919) and letter from the Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs (22 May 1919). The medal in case, with name of Fernanrd Heremans, Schaerbeek, is a five-armed white enamel and silver-gilt Maltese cross with silver-gilt graduated rays between the arms, on green enamel oval laurel wreath suspension; the face with a gilt-edged circular central blue enamel medallion bearing the gilt crown of Belgium; the reverse with a gilt-edged circular central blue enamel medallion bearing the cipher of King Leopold II, founder of the Order. Material hand in by Margaret Doyle, Archivist, Clongowes Wood College, 9 January 2017. Medal given by King of Belgium in recognition for the work of Irish Jesuits in helping Belgian refugees in Ireland during the First World War.

Letters written to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr John MacSheahan SJ during his time as chaplain attached to the 6th Royal Irish Regiment, B.E.F., France.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Joseph Wrafter SJ written while serving as chaplain in France and Belgium with the 47th Irish (16th) Division, the 8th Royal Munster Fusiliers and the 7th Leinster Regiment.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Francis M Shaw SJ written while serving as chaplain in France, India and Mesopotamia (3rd General Hospital, B.E.F., France; No. 37 and No. 17 Casualty Clearing Station, B.E.F., France; 1st Battalion Hampshire Regiment, B.E.F., France; 11th Field Ambulance, B.E.F., France; No. 16 Casualty Clearing Station, Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ mainly from Archbishop's House, Westminster, London, England concerning the nomination of various Irish Jesuits as chaplains to the forces. Includes letters concerning Fr Joseph Wrafter’s nomination as chaplain to prisoners of war in Holland, a move contested by the Provincial who saw it in effect, as ‘putting him (Fr Wrafter) on the shelf’ (26 December 1917 - 15 January 1918, 3 items).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Patrick Tighe SJ written while serving as chaplain with the 15th Battalion, A.I.F., B.E.F. and on his way to Australia. Named places have been cut out of a letter (24 January 1917).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Henry Potter SJ written during his time as military chaplain in Chelmsford, Essex, Lowestoft, Suffolk and Norfolk Military Hospital, Norwich.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Henry Gill SJ during his time as a chaplain to the 2nd Royal Irish Rifles, 3rd Division, VII Brigade, B.E.F., France.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Sydes written just before and during his appointment as chaplain serving with the 2nd Australian Division, A.I.F, in France.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Daniel Roche SJ written while Fr Roche was serving as chaplain with the 96th (C.P.) Field Ambulance, B.E.F., France and 18 K.L.R., B.E.F., France.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Bernard Page SJ written during his time as a chaplain with the No. 2 Cavalry Field Ambulance, B.E.F., France. Includes letter of complaint to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ (12 April 1917, 6pp) re Fr Page and Fr Page’s replies (22 – 30 April 1917, 3 items).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ following Fr Willie Doyle's death in action on 17 August 1917, from Fr Kerr McClement, Archbishop’s House, Westminster, Fr William Feran SJ, English Province, Farm Street, London and Fr M. O'Connell, Senior Chaplain (R.C.), H.Q., 16th Division, B.E.F..

Letters and telegrams to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from the Senior Chaplain (R.C.), Australian Imperial Force, [Fr Thomas King] and Frs William Feran and John H Wright, Farm Street, London concerning Fr Sydes’ death in London on 15 November 1918 as a result of bronchitis and thrombosis.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Stanislaus McLoughlin SJ written while serving as a chaplain attached 12th (2nd Reserve) Battalion and the 58th T.R. Battalion, The Welsh Regiment, Rhyl and 53rd S.W.B., Rhyl.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr James McCann SJ written during his time as chaplain to the 4th Reserve Battery, R.G.A., Winchester and Sialkot C.F.A. 4th Cavalry Division, Supply Column, B.E.F., France. Also includes items relating to the ill health (The Prince of Wales', Hospital for Officers), renewal of Fr McCann’s contract as chaplain and his demobilisation. (See also CHP1/10/1 which is a letter from Fr McCann to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ 12 June [1917]).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial and printed pamphlets relating to the War. Includes: circular sent to the Irish Fr Provincial from the Irish Volunteers protesting against the proposal to introduce conscription in Ireland;
– letter from the Irish National Aid and Volunteer Dependants’ Fund seeking contributions towards their ‘Gift Sale’ in order to raise funds [for the administration of the campaign against the introduction of conscription];
– circular and printed matter from the Irish War Savings Committee seeking support for their ‘Thrift campaign’;
– letter from the Lord Lieutenant’s Private Secretary regarding a proposal to establish a fund ‘to be devoted to the purchase of literature suited to be despatched to Irish Regiments at the front’, also includes copy of Irish Fr Provincial’s reply;
– copy letter from Andrew Bonar Law (Treasury Chambers, Whitehall) to the Irish Fr Provincial seeking a subscription to ‘the new War Loan’.
Also includes printed matter on ‘Catholicism and War’; ‘Voluntary Women Patrols’ and an ‘Address From the French Catholic Association for Young People. To the young Catholics – Allies and Neutrals’.

Letters to Fr Henry Gill SJ from Mary Maura Ostyn, O.S.B., Prioress of Ypres, 11 Harwood Avenue, London, England asking Fr Gill to salvage the contents of the Benedictine abbey at Ypres. Contains details of all the convent’s treasures and where they have been hidden. Includes letter from Baron H. Kervyn de Letterrhov[e] concerning the destroyed treasures.

A file of letters from Fr Willie Doyle SJ, Rathfarnham Castle, Dublin to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ. Includes a letter remarking 'May the Lord reward you for getting us this place; it is like a paradise to come back to after the bustle and rush of the missions' (13 January [1914], 1p). Includes letters volunteering to serve as a war chaplain (4 - 26 November 1914, 3 items).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Willie Doyle SJ written during his time as a chaplain attached to the 8th Brigade Irish Fusiliers, 49th Brigade, and the 8th Royal Dublin Fusiliers, B.E.F., France. Missing original letter 31 December 1915, but have photocopy.

A file of letters from Fr William Gwynn SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the Australian Mission. Includes a letter wondering whether he should go to the front. Remarks that he is too old for the trenches. (28 December 1915, 5pp). Includes a letter concerning his problems with drink and his desire to put his problems behind him and continue with his religious life and work assigned to him (30 May 1918, 19pp). Includes a letter concerning his appointment as chaplain for continuous service with Australian troops going to the front. Remarks that he is very pleased with his appointment (15 July 1918, 3pp). Includes a letter referring to his arrival back in Australia and his new position doing parish work at St. Mary's, North Sydney. Remarks 'I have charge of the Men's sodality...meantime I am awaiting demobilisation...' (25 October 1919, 4pp). Includes a letter announcing his arrival in London and remarks how glad he is to be home. Remarks that he wishes to arrange receipt of his war bonus with the authorities before he leaves London for Dublin. (10 January 1920, 2pp).

A file of letters from Fr William G. Lockington SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning the Mission in Australia. Includes a letter written on board the "Resaro" between Naples and Palermo concerning his success at obtaining two Italian Fathers for the parish of Richmond during a visit to Italy. (nd, 4pp). Includes a letter seeking permission to secure extra ground adjoining St. James' Church in Richmond (23 December 1914, 2pp). Includes a letter summarising points raised at meetings discussing the management of Newman College and the appointment of a Rector. Remarks that Dr. Mannix would like to see Fr Albert Power SJ appointed to the position. Refers to Fr Michael Colman SJ and the problems he is causing for the mission. Remarks that he was the source of much concern while serving as a Military Chaplain. (29 May 1918, 6pp). Includes a letter referring to the purchase of a Catholic paper 'The Advocate' by Dr Mannix. Remarks that the Archbishop (of Melbourne) wishes a Jesuit to become the editor and manager (10 January 1919, 3pp). Includes a report on the Juniorate in Australia by Fr Lockington (23 September 1919, 10pp). Includes a letter referring to the Irish-Australasian Convention to be held in Australia. Remarks that approximately 200,000 people are expected (29 October [1919], 1p). Includes a letter referring to an offer of St. Leo's University to the Jesuits by Dr Duhig, Archbishop of Brisbane. (19 November 1919, 3pp). Includes letters concerning the possibility of Australia becoming an independent mission. Remarks 'There is a very strong feeling of love for Ireland among ours out here and regrets would be keen if a separation came about. Of course all realize that with growth such is the natural course of things but I for one would always be in favour of sending Ours to Ireland for theology. This is a Protestant country with a Protestant atmosphere and a breath of the Catholic atmosphere of Ireland is the best antidote to that I know.' ([1] February 1923, 2pp & 5 October 1924, 4pp).

A file of letters from Fr Stephen J Brown SJ, Clongowes Wood College SJ to Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ. Many are undated, but must date from 1917 when Fr Brown went to work in Clongowes. He was made a House Consultor and editor of 'The Clongownian' in 1918, so undated letters which refer to 'The Clongownian' or are sent as a biannual required House Consultor, though undated, must date from 1918. Some of these letters concern Fr Brown's writing as a House Consultor. A number refer to his editorship of 'The Clongownian', and in particular raising the question of how much or little prominence should be given to the "past" WWI dead, given the political sensitivities of the time. One letter refers specifically to the publication of a book entitled "Ireland in Fiction", which was subsequently published by Maunsell, Dublin, 1916.

A file of letters from Fr Patrick Tighe SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ concerning the voyage to Australia, his work in Australia and his work as a chaplain in the First World War. Includes a letter concerning his appointment to the new Novitiate and remarks that he is not pleased and that he feels himself unfit for the role (16 June 1914, 4pp). Includes a letter describing his work in Egypt. Remarks 'The war is truly terrible but it has opened the gates of Heaven to many of those killed in battle and it is drawing countless hearts to God - this is the universal experience of the chaplains.' Continues '...my health continues quite robust...I have got quite accustomed to the sleeping bag on the floor...' (2 March 1916, 2pp). Includes a letter referring to his departure from Egypt. Refers to the 1916 Rising in Ireland. Remarks '...what a terrible time you have had in Dublin recently...it seems inconceivable that there could have been such a widespread movement without the knowledge of the authorities.' Continues '...what a drain on the Province and Mission the war is proving and yet how necessary the chaplains are...' (25 May 1916, 2pp).

Letters from Fr Patrick O'Mara SJ, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ concerning the taking of a retreat provided he can have a rest beforehand and his commission to join an Irish regiment as a chaplain in World War One.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Patrick Barrett SJ written during his time as a military chaplain in Bettisfield Camp, Salop (Shropshire). Letter, July 31st '17 from Milltown Park, Dublin, perhaps should read July 31st 1916.

A file of letters from Fr Nicholas J Tomkin SJ, Rector, Clongowes Wood College SJ to Irish Fr Provincial concerning community matters at Clongowes Wood College SJ. These letters include Fr Tomkin informing or requesting assistance from Fr Nolan in the ordinary business and administration of the College and Community. They include health issues relating to members of the community, in particular Fr James Daly SJ, as well as an outbreak of scarlatina and how they are managing. He also raises some financial matters, including the sponsorship of Mr Edward Boyd-Barrett's "Clongowes Social Club", a request for assistance in collecting unpaid fees, and a desire to support some local people in difficulty. Included also are various issues which arose in relation to staff in the house, garden and on the farm. Included are some references to the past, in particular those who were engaged in or died in the First World War, about whom there was a great deal of compassion, and yet a desire to be sensitive to the political realities of the day in Ireland. There was also some discussion about the setting up of some kind of cadet corps in the school, and there were widely divergent views on this topic in the community.

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).

Letters from Fr John M. Bampton SJ, Mount Street, London to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ.

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr John Delaney SJ written during his time as chaplain to the Artillery of the 50th Division.

Letters from Fr Jerome O'Mahony SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ written during his time as a chaplain in the 5th Canadian General Hospital Salonika, Mediterranean Expeditionary Force, the 43rd General Hospital Salonika, H.M.H.S. “Egypt,” the 78th General Hospital Alexandra and P.L. of C., Haifa, Palestine, E.E.F.

A file of letters from Fr James Brennan SJ, (Superior), Rathfarnham Castle, Rathfarnham, County Dublin to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ concerning the move of the community to Rathfarnham, the running of the house, bills and finances and the care of the Juniors. Includes:

• a letter concerning the various work being carried out in preparation for the community occupying the Castle. Remarks 'This is the first letter written by a Jesuit from the above address.' (6 August 1913, 4pp);
• a letter referring to the ceiling paintings in the refectory. Remarks 'I think it would be wise not to put up the pictures in the refectory until we get the complete set.' (18 April 1914, 3pp);
• a letter referring to a consultation at which it was remarked that the Juniors are not as well fed as they should be. Remarks that the lunch needs to be improved. (20 September 1914, 4pp);
• a letter referring to workmen needed to clean out the pond and work on the farm. Refers to injuries sustained by Fr John Gwynn as a military chaplain. Asks Irish Fr Provincial to ask the newly appointed Fr General to bless the Irish Juniorate (14 February 1915, 4pp);
• a letter referring to the success of the Juniors in the University exams. (30 June 1915, 2pp);
• a letter referring to the scholarships won by the Juniors (amounting to £1,000). Remarks 'it would argue want of taste to suggest any limit to Provincial generosity in this matter, but we have fallen on evil days, when retrenchment is in the air and I venture to suggest that if your Reverence returned me the very smallest of the four cheques it would furnish means for an "outing" - fresh air and food - in harmony with the lean years through which we are passing.' (6 November 1915, 2pp);
• a letter concerning the possibility of Fr Brennan being assigned another task. Remarks '...not only should I feel not hurt but I would regard such a change as a very great relief.' (29 July 1916, 1p);
• a number of letters concerning a trip by the Juniors to Jersey and the concern he feels for them travelling during the war. (7 August 1916 - 26 August 1916, 3 items).

Letters from Fr Gerald Corr SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ concerning articles for the 'Clongowanian' and his own posting as a Chaplain. Fr Corr was editor of the "Clongownian"

• letter from Fr Corr to Fr Nolan informing him that Mr John J Horgan has agreed to write an article on Clongownians in Politics for the centenary edition of 'The Clongownian'. he cites The O'Gorman, Thomas F Meagher, John Redmond, Thomas Kettle (21 January 1914, 2pp);
• letter from Fr Corr to Fr Nolan indicating "Service List" - those who served in WWI (5 November 1915, 1p);
• letter from Fr Corr to Fr Nolan noting additions to the "Service List" (10 November 1915);
• letter from Fr Corr to Fr Nolan indicating that he had been appointed as Chaplain at BEF in France (23 February 1917, 2pp).

Letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Gerald Corr SJ written during his time as a chaplain to the troops in and around Dunkirk (his address was A.P.O. S.10, B.E.F., France).

Letters from Fr Francis Browne SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ, written from Germany (28 December 1918-9 February 1919, 4 items), Bishop's House, Queenstown (Cobh), Cork (27 February 1919) and from Warley Barracks, Essex (10 March 1919-6 September 1919, 8 items) including one describing his daily routine as Chaplain to the Irish Guards (6 May 1919, 6pp).

Letters from Fr Bernard Page SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ.

Letters concerning Fr Thomas Maher’s poor health and a ‘bad Police report.’ Fr Maher was chaplain at Halton Park, Tring, England.

Letters and postcards to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Patrick O'Mara SJ written while serving as a chaplain in Nos. 54, 58 and 33 Casualty Clearing Stations, France.

Letters and postcards to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr John Elliott SJ, written during his time serving as a military chaplain in Catterick Camp, Yorkshire and at the Officer's Hospital, Burley on the Hill, Oakham, Rutland, England.

Postcard of Burley on the Hill, Oakham, Rutlandshire - ‘This is a gorgeous place inside + outside. It is the finest house I have ever seen. Charles and I stayed here when it belonged to the Duke of Buckingham’, (28 October 1918) where Fr Elliott convalesced from a bout of double pneumonia (‘I am only 8st 7lbs with my clothes on’).

Letters and postcards to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr William Gwynn SJ written during his time serving as a chaplain attached to the 8th Australian Infantry Brigade, A.I.F.

Letters and postcards from Fr Patrick Morris SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ written while serving as chaplain to 2/8 Battalion, L.F., Sobraon Barracks, Colchester and also in France, before being sent back to England in November 1917 with ‘clinical dysentery.’

Letters and postcards from Fr James Magan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ written during his time as chaplain to the 6th York and Lancaster Regiment, B.E.F., France.

Letters and postcards from Fr Hugh Mulhall SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ written during his time as a chaplain to the 3/1st East Lancashire Division, Codford, Wiltshire and 5th East Lancashire Regiment, Witley Camp, Surrey and in Park Hall Camp, Oswestry.

Letters and postcards to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Francis M. Browne SJ, written during his time serving as a chaplain to the forces – 1st and 2nd Battalions, Irish Guards, British Expeditionary Force, France and 2nd Battalions, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 16th Division.

Letters and postcards from Fr Francis X O'Brien SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ written while a chaplain attached to the No. 5 Prisoners of War Company, B.E.F., France and the 30th General Hospital, B.E.F., France.

Letter to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ from T. Stratton, A.P.C., Staff Officer to Principal Chaplain (R.C.), requesting that Fr Browne remain with the Irish Guards as Commissioned Chaplain. Encloses copies of extracts from letters sent to Fr Browne’s uncle, Dr Browne, Bishop of Cloyne from Dr Keating, Catholic Army Bishop and from Colonel Vesey, Commanding Officer of the Irish Guards referring to Fr Browne’s value and admirable qualities as a Chaplain.

Letter from Fr Willie Doyle SJ, 8th Royal Irish Fusiliers, to a relative of a casualty. Donated to the Irish Province in 1968 by Miss Brigid Duffy, 237 Lisburn Road, Belfast.

Letter from Thomas Egan SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ.

Letter from the War Office to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ, enclosing the official certificate of death of Fr Doyle.

Letter from Rev. Robert Kane SJ, Milltown Park, Dublin to Sergeant Robert H. Kane (his nephew and godson) 19th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers D. Company, British Expedition Force, France concerning news from home and family members. Refers to the war and remarks ‘From what I hear from many different sources, I am convinced that the end will come before the end of the summer with a big smashing up of the Germans.’. Concludes ‘I know that you have all the Kane grit, but don’t run any foolish risks.’ The envelope is marked ‘Killed in Action’.

CWGC
Private Robert Kane
Service Number: 12873
Royal Irish Fusiliers
6th Bn.
Date of Death
Died 15 August 1915
Buried or commemorated at
HELLES MEMORIAL
Panel 179 to 182.
Turkey (including Gallipoli)

Letter from Mr Felix Conlon SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ.

Letter from Fr William Feran SJ to Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ.

A file of letters from Fr James O'Dwyer SJ to Fr Provincial. Many of the letters refer to Xavier College and the administration of the school e.g. teaching staff, subjects taught, equipment needed (laboratory/scientific materials), finances. Includes a letter referring to the Premiership in football '...which we won last Thursday from the Scotch - you would think it was a reversal of the Battle of the Boyne.' (26 August 1910, 2pp). Includes a letter enclosing the Rector's report of Xavier College, Kew (27 December 1911, 2 items). Includes a letter referring to the war. Remarks 'As I write from this side of the globe we hardly know whether the British Empire is still standing. We still hope the sea is clear - but we are really being kept in the dark. All we know is that Germany is pressing on and Namar has fallen. We know that the Holy Father and Father General are dead and Franz Joseph is dying.' (25 August 1914, 5pp). Includes a letter discussing the opening of Newman College. Remarks that the prestige of the Society is at stake and suitable men must be appointed to it, particularly the position of Rector. (17 see also June 1917, 7pp). Includes a letter referring to a crisis that has occurred over the opening of Newman College. Remarks that Fr Superior (Fr Ryan SJ) has raised queries over the amount of money to be paid to the Jesuits, a sum he (Fr Ryan) regards to be too little. Remarks 'The trouble is we cannot exactly see what Fr Ryan's position is. He has a vague fear that he is outwitted by Dr Mannix and a vague recollection of possible better terms from Dr Carr at a time when more money was expected to come in and when the cost of building was lower...You may remember that one of my reasons for pressing you to visit Australia was that I held that Fr Ryan was not the man to do business with Dr Mannix. There is a temperamental difference between them. Dr M. thinks Fr Ryan shifty and Fr Ryan thinks Dr. M. most exacting.' (15 October 1917, 6pp). Includes two letters referring to the appointment of Fr Power SJ to the position of Rector of Newman College and how this was achieved. Expresses his extreme disappointment and annoyance at being put in a very embarrassing situation. Points out that everybody assumed he (Fr O'Dwyer) would be appointed even though he accepts that no official confirmation of this was sent by Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V Nolan SJ). Remarks 'Newman College Council met...only laymen were present. It was before Fr Power's name was disclosed to the public and I was greeted as Rector by the members...When Dr. M entered the room business was begun by asking for information re Rector. Then to the consternation of all he repeated your cable to him without any word to his council, without a hint to me, over the heads of the Mission CCs. I was publicly repudiated and humiliated not only by my own superiors (which might be considered part of the game) but by Dr M. acting as superior of Ours.' Concludes 'I have been rejected and snubbed so often by superiors and have always found myself so much better off as the result, that I have great trust in Providence. I should never have got to Australia if Fr J. Murphy had not turned me out of CWC (Clongowes Wood College) as a dangerous character. And I should not have got to Melbourne...if Fr Ryan had not declared me unfit for Riverview...All that does not prevent me from writing strongly...nor prevent me from saying again that my poor efforts for the Society in Australia deserved more consideration.' (23 February 1918, 3pp & 3 July 1918, 6pp).

Letter and postcard to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Joseph Hearn SJ, written during his time serving as chaplain attached to the Australian Expeditionary Force, Dardanelles and the 7th Infantry Battalion, II Infantry Brigade, A.I.F., Mediterranean.

Letter from Fr Francis Browne SJ to the Irish Fr Provincial regarding Fr Browne’s claim for a military pension. Encloses a letter sent to him from the General Secretary of the Ex-Services Welfare Society.

Documents relating to Fr Joseph Flinn’s time as a chaplain attached to VI Corps Rest Station North, 10th Royal Dublin Fusiliers, the Munster Fusiliers, the 60th and 88th Brigade, R.G.A., B.E.F., France. Includes: certificate appointing Fr Flinn Chaplain to the Forces, 4th Class, Land Forces (Temporary) (22 March 1917, 1p.);
– letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr Flinn written from the Front (31 January 1917 – 10 October 1918, 21 items).

Documents relating to Fr John Gwynn's service as a chaplain attached to the 1st Battalion of the Irish Guards, B.E.F., France. Includes:

• letters written by Fr John Gwynn volunteering to be a chaplain (23 August – 8 November 1914, 2 items);
• documentation dealing with Fr Gwynn's appointment as a military chaplain (9 November 1914 - 16 March 1915, 9 items) including the certificate appointing him chaplain to the Forces, 4th Class, Land Forces, (Temporary) (16 March 1915, 1p.);
• certificate of safe conduct with attached photo of Fr Gwynn (4 July 1915, 1p.);
• letters and notes sent to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ (n.d., 3 items);
• official letters sent to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ following Fr Gwynn’s death in action on 12 October 1915 (11 October 1915 – 19 September 1921, 23 items);
• pamphlet 'A Great Irish Chaplain: Father John Gwynn SJ' by John Bithrey SJ (n.d., 20pp);
• material on centenary of Fr Gwynn's death - the Bishop of Arundel and Brighton celebrated Mass at the Sacred Heart Church, Caterham, Surrey, England where the Irish Guards have erected a tablet in Fr Gwynn’s memory (11 October 2015).

Documents relating to Fr John FitzGibbon SJ during his time serving as a chaplain attached to 23rd and 16th Field Ambulance, B.E.F., France. Includes letters to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ from Fr FitzGibbon (14 March 1916 – [April 1918], 19 items) and documents relating to Fr FitzGibbon’s death in action on 18 September 1918, including official letters from General Headquarters, British Armies in France, solicitors’ letters and official certificate of death (20 September 1918 – 25 May 1919, 16 items).

Documents relating to Fr Austin Hartigan's service as military chaplain. Includes:
– certificate appointing Fr Hartigan chaplain to the Forces, 4th Class, Land Forces (Temporary) (12 January 1916, 1p.);
– letters written to the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ by Fr Hartigan while serving in Mesopotamia with the Connaught Rangers (20 March 1916 – n.d., 5 items);
– documents relating to Fr Hartigan's death in Amara on 16 July 1916 (from jaundice) (27 July 1916 - 15 August 1918, 12 items).

Correspondence relating to Fr Aubrey Gwynn’s life-long friend Fr Thomas J. Fullerton. Includes:
– letters from Fr Fullerton to Fr Gwynn (17 September 1971 – 1975, 3 items);
– note to Fr Gwynn from Gearoid Cr[ookes], Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2, following Fr Fullerton’s death in 1976, enclosing four letters Fr Gwynn wrote to Fr Fullerton from 1916 and 1932. Includes references to Fr Gwynn’s brother Edward Lucius’ departure for Australia, his brother Denis (a soldier who had just been gazetted to the 5th Munsters at the Curragh) (18 November 1916, 4pp), political and social events at home and academic life in U.C.D. (16 April 1932, 2pp).

Correspondence between the Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ, the War Office and T. Stratton, Staff Officer to Principal Chaplain (R.C.), concerning the demobilisation of various Irish Jesuits and the need for chaplains for transport ships to Australia.

Letters, telegrams, memoranda and notes relating to Belgian refugees in Ireland. Irish Fr Provincial Thomas V. Nolan SJ was a member of the Distribution Committee ‘appointed by the Local Government Board to look after the welfare and distribution of the Belgian Refugees arriving in Dublin’. Most of the letters comprise offers to house refugees or concern schemes to aid them, both physically and spiritually. Includes:
– letter from Dr Bernard Coyne, Bishop of Elphin (1913-1926) to Lady Moloney seeking her assistance in the securement of a disused barracks in order to provide shelter for Belgian refugee families (21 Oct. 1914, 1p.);
– bills from drapers and household stores for items purchased for the refugees;
– letters relating to troubles between Protestants and the Catholic refugees in Portadown;
– letters to Fr Nolan from refugees and members of the Belgian Refugees Committee;
– lists of names and locations of refugees in Ireland and names and addresses of people who housed refugees.

On 17 October 1914, the Father Provincial of the Irish Province of the Society of Jesus, Thomas V. Nolan, received a letter from the Local Government Board to go down to the North Wall at 7.30am on the 18th and meet the 100 Belgian refugees ‘and one hundred each of the following days’. This was due to ‘a few of your Order, who speak Flemish’. Subsequently, the Irish Provincial became a member of the Distribution Committee which looked after the welfare and distribution of refugees arriving in Ireland. The Irish Jesuits received offers to house the refugees and organised schemes to aid them, both physically and spiritually.

Article entitled ‘A Chaplain's Story: Fr. Willie Doyle; A pastor across all divides’. Recounts Fr Doyle's time as an army chaplain in the First World War. Also includes a print-out of pages from a web-site dedicated to Fr Doyle. Accompanied by a note to Fr Fergus O'Donoghue SJ, Province Archivist, explaining their provenance.

Documents found among the papers of Fr Willie Doyle SJ (with whom Fr Browne briefly served as chaplain), collated by Fr Charles Doyle SJ, concerning Fr Frank Browne SJ. Includes telegrams to Robert Browne, Bishop of Cloyne (14 March & 25 August 1919) concerning Fr Browne & circular letter from the War Office to Fr Browne, St Francis Xavier’s, Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin, informing him of his appointment as an Honorary Chaplain to the Forces 3rd Class ‘as from 1st Sept. 1921 on which date your commission as a temporary Chaplain to the Forces ceased to have effect.’ (14 September 1921).