Jewels from Jane, Sept. 12

Hannibal
Sept. 12th 1863

Dear Mother St. John [Facemaz]

Yesterday we purchased the Seminary and the small house in front for the use of the Sisters. We will set about repairs immediately and endeavour to make it as comfortable as possible. It is likely that we may be able to rent the vacant ground near it for a number of years as it belongs to [?] that will not be of age for several years. Please write to me saying what time the Sisters may be able to come to open school.

I am, Mother St. John, yours truly in Christ

[Rev.] T. Ledwith [Pastor of St. Mary's Parish]

St. Mary's elementary school opened in 1865 and over the years was also known as St. Aloysius Academy, St. Joseph Academy, and Immaculate Conception School. In the 1870's and 1880's it included a school for the deaf. In 1964 it combined with Blessed Sacrament school having a faculty including Sisters of St. Joseph and School Sisters of Notre Dame. The Sisters withdrew in 1969.