USA > New York > Albany County > Albany > St. Agnes' cemetery; its past and present associations; > Part 3
Note: The text from this book was generated using artificial intelligence so there may be some errors. The full pages can be found on Archive.org (link on the Part 1 page).
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6
79
ILLIAM KENNY was born in the city of Albany in 1838, and died December 29, 1895. He was a well known and popular eiti- zen of this city, for his enterprise and thorough business adapta- bility. For many years he was engaged in the cattle business in West Albany. However, he afterwards engaged in the real estate business with Daniel Casey, the firm being known and widely respected as Kenny & Casey. Unfortunately some time later, owing to ill health, Mr. Kenny was obliged to dissolve the partnership, and he retired to private life in order to recu- perate and build up his physical strength. His energetie mind, after a time, together with renewed health, made it possible for him to once more engage in the real estate business, which he conducted until the time of his death. His death was a great shock to his family and friends, resulting as it did, from injuries received in an accident while driving on the Boulevard. Every attention was given in the hope that life might be prolonged, but in vain. Mr. Kenny was survived by wife, one daughter, Mrs. Wm. McArdle, and two sons, one of whom died recently. Mr. Kenny was universally admired and esteemed for his qualities as a representative Albanian, who took a keen interest in all that promoted the welfare of the city of his birth, as well as for his still more admirable traits as a private citizen. The high esteem in which he was held by all who had relations with him in business made him one of the best known men in his line. Therefore, his sudden death came as a special blow and cruel bereavement to his immediate family and friends.
..
William Kenny
1
HIGGINS
-
FATHER
HIGGINS' FAMILY MONUMENT.
EDWARD HIGGINS
IIIS ornate and beautiful shaft surmounted by a cross, marks the lot owned by the family of the late Edward Higgins. The headstone at the right indicates the grave of the Rev. John C. Higgins and the one to the left that of his younger brother Rev. Edward J. Higgins. The location of the lot is especially desirable, situated as it is, on a high elevation near the centre of the cemetery, and the monument is one of the most attractive in that section of the grounds. The accompanying illustration is a faithful reproduction of the monument itself and the surrounding headstones. Its harmony of lines and graceful simplicity displays the perfeet taste as well as watchful eare kept over it by the remaining members of the family. Edward Higgins was born in Ireland in the year 1823, and died in Albany October 29, 1886. He was a worthy gentleman in all respects, a good christian and a stanch citizen. His religious example and sterling qualities were rewarded by having two of his sons ealled to the saered ministry of God's holy altar, their ashes now rest with his, in their last dwelling place.
S5
EV. JOHN C. HIGGINS was born in Albany, May 2, 1858. Ile studied at Manhattan College, New York, and gave early promise of signal ability. He completed his ecclesiastical studies at the Troy Seminary, and at the age of twenty-five was ordained priest, his ordination occurring June 7, 1884, and his first charge was as assistant to Rev. Father Caraher, at St. Patrick's church, Utica. He next became assistant to Rev. Father McGee, at Syracuse. He finally became rector of St. Patrick's church, at Clayville, Oneida county, which position he held until his death, which occurred on May 14, 1894. Father Higgins was one of the most popular priests of the diocese, lovable in disposition, sym- pathetic, zealous, ever devoted to the work of God and possessing a personal magnetism which had a wonderful effect on those placed under his charge. He was a perfect specimen of manhood, of magnificent physique and in addition to his many other talents possessed a fine tenor voice. In the pulpit he was a graceful orator, and his sermons will long be remembered by his congregation. Zealous, tireless in promoting the spiritual interests of his flock, he was a welcome visitor to every house. In the pursuit of his duties in the parish, pneumonia seized him and carried him off after a brief illness. His remains are interred in St. Agnes' Cemetery.
86
Rev. John C. Higgins.
Rer. Edward'S. Higgins.
EV. EDWARD J. HIGGINS, brother of Rev. John C. Higgins, was born in Albany, January 30, 1868. He was ordained by Bishop MeNeirny, on December 17, 1892. Shortly after his ordination he was attacked by lung complaint. His ill health dated back from his college days ; he was a close student, and his determination to fit himself thoroughly for his saered calling, caused to over-tax a naturally deli- cate constitution. He went to New Mexico to endeavor to regain his health in the invigorating atmosphere of the table land. But he sank rapidly and died on June 9. 1893. a little more than six months after he had attained the dignity of the priest. At his bedside when he died was his brother, who was to follow him the next year to the land where good deeds and duty well performed will have an ample reward. There was no more amiable, more lovable character than this young priest, taken away by the will of God to a happier life. His future in the priesthood was full of promise, and all his friends predicted that he would be a most successful worker in the vineyard. His venerable mother and family were plunged in affliction, little dreaming that another severe blow awaited them the following year when Rev. John C. Higgins was taken away from them. Both young priests rest in St. Agnes' Cemetery.
91
OHN JUDGE was born in Boyle Parish, County Roscommon, Ireland, in 1831. He came to America with his parents while a youth and settled in this country. There were seven brothers, all of whom became successful business men in Albany. During the time of the great gold excitement Mr. Judge, with so many others, went to California in search of wealth. Shortly after his return, some three years later, he married Miss Mary Mattimore, of this city. They had six children, five girls and one son, all of whom are now graduates from Catholic schools and seminaries. Mr. Judge started in the grocery business which he successfully continued until his death. He was instrumental in building up and advancing the interests of the northern part of the city and accumulated by his industry and careful business tact a large property. To his fellow citizens Mr. Judge was the embodiment of all that was enterprising and energetie as regards the interests and welfare of the city ; he was always eager and willing to help by his advice and money all plans for the improvement of this city that he loved so well. As a business man, his integrity and honesty were unques- tioned, and he leaves behind him the record of a good citizen and an indus- trious man. In his religion, Mr. Judge was as warm hearted and zealons as in all else. For many years he was closely connected with St. Joseph's church and aided materially in building up and maintaining its many char- itable enterprises. At his death his wife erected a beautiful monument to his memory in St. Agnes' Cemetery, an illustration of which appears on an adjoining page.
92
-
John Judge
JOHN JUDGE.
JOHN JUDGE
MPOSING AND STRIKING, with one of the finest sites in the Cemetery, stands the John Judge monument. It is very near the entrance to the grounds, and is situated on a lofty elevation. A flight of stone steps composed of solid granite forms a magnificent approach to the monument itself. The location is particularly fine, resting on the hillside, facing the cast, and from it can be seen the noble lines of the beau- tiful Hudson and beyond that the stretches of hills in the distance. The style of the monument is known as a cottage sarcophagus, with a huge, massive base, in the front of which the name John Judge stands out in bold relief, and above this is the inscription of his death and age. The top of the monument is a graceful design, richly ornamented, and makes a fitting finish for this beautiful work. It was erected by Mrs. Judge to perpetuate the memory of her husband and mark the site of his last resting place. The simplicity of design, characteristic ornamentation of the upper part, and the solid grandeur of the entire monument makes it one of the most artistic in this part of the Cemetery.
97
W ILLIAM D. MORANGE was born in Albany in the year 1830. He received his educationat La Fargeville, Jefferson county, and in the Boys' Academy, at Albany, after which he attended St. John's College, at Fordham. His college education completed, he spent some time reading law in the office of Mareus T. Reynolds. For some years he was prom- inently connected with St. Mary's church, but soon became regularly attached to the congregation of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. He was president of the Young Men's Association of Albany, and was the original secretary of St. Agnes' Cemetery and served up to the time of his death. He was unmarried and for years lived in the family residence, No. 187 Madi- son avenue. As a writer he was widely known and has written numerous poems, among them the "Bicentennial Ode," but his characteristic modesty would not allow any collection of his poems to be published. Yet many of them were copied and printed extensively in this country and in Europe. His poem called "The Two Destroyers," suggested by the cholera epidemic, was published all over the world and translated into at least ten differ- ent languages. He was secretary of the Board of Trustees of St. Vincent's Orphan Asylum, and of the Board of Commissioners of Washington Park. He was a most genial, kindly and witty man, and a welcome visitor in the best social eireles. He died at Albany, N. Y., November 4, 1895.
98
Y illium I. . Harango
MEEGAN
MEEGAN
EDWARD J. MEEGAN.
EDWARD J. MEEGAN
HIS IS ONE of the most graceful architectural features of St. Agnes' Cemetery. A tall, exquisitely proportioned obelisk. mounted on a beautifully carved base and admirably diversified in all its features, ever preserving the utmost harmony. it attracts the admiration and attention of every passer-by. The location is particularly happy. Around the beautiful shaft towering toward heaven are grouped some very attractive monuments of varied design and presenting charming contrasts. They serve to set off to still greater advantage, the picturesque lines of the graceful shaft, on the lower base of which is carved the name, Meegan. The name is also carved on the stone steps leading up to the monument. Edward J. Meegan, who erected the monument, was born in Albany, September 28. 1846. His parents were natives of Ireland, coming to this country in 1824, and first settling in Boston. About 1826 they removed to Albany, where they died. Mr. Meegan early evinced a strong love of learning, being a close student at St. Joseph's parish school. From the first, he was determined to become a lawyer, and when only thirteen years of age, he registered as a student of law in the office of Edwards & Sturtevant. He remained with them nearly seven years, and also pursued his legal studies under Isaae Edwards, who was afterwards president of the Albany Law School. Upon attaining his majority, in 1867. he was admitted to the bar, and opened an office in Albany. In 1869 he was elected corpora- tion counsel, in which position he continued for five years. He has won a wide reputation as an able civil and criminal lawyer. His law library is one of the largest. if not the largest. in the State.
103
HARLES T. G. FLAHERTY. The admirable work done by Superintendent Judson in extending, improving and beautifying this "City of the Dead" has been carried out all the more expedi- tiously and faithfully by his good fortune in having an ideal assistant, whose interest in the cemetery is fully equal to that of Mr. Judson himself. Young. active and untiring, Mr. Flaherty is ever absorbed in his work and eager to carry out the plans and suggestions of the superintendent. He is but twenty-eight years old, his father being a war veteran. After he completed his studies at St. Joseph's Academy, he became one of the first carriers when the special delivery system was established in Albany, being then under 16 years of age. He resigned that position two years later to accept the post he now so efficiently fills. On September 1, 1887, he became assistant superin- tendent of St. Agnes' Cemetery. In speaking of him Superintendent Judson says: "His services to the trustees and lot-owners of the Cemetery have been of the greatest value, and his associations with myself have been most harmonious throughout his long term. He is a man of strict integrity, and his ability has fully equipped him for the duties of his varied work. Faith- ful in all things was claimed for him by Rt. Rev. Bishop Burke, who always appreciates those who prove true to the trusts he has been instrumental in placing in their care." He is quick and alert, intelligent and judicious, and an invaluable aid to Mr. Judson. Mr. Flaherty is a member of Albany Council, No. 173, Knights of Columbus, one of the trustees of St. Joseph's church, former prefect of St. Joseph's Young Men's Sodality, and a member of the Catholic Union of the city of Albany.
104
Charles J. J. Flaherty. hery.
THACHER
THACHER MONUMENT.
THACHER MONUMENT
HIS SPLENDID CREATION IN MARBLE which crowns the "Thacher lot is closely identified with the memory of a beloved child, the first tenant of the hallowed ground. The oft-expressed purpose of erecting a monument just as often failed of execution because of the difficulty of making the proper selection. In the early autumn of 1894 Gabrielle, an idolized grandchild died and was buried here, and then the suggestion was made that the proposed monument represent the Archangel Gabriel. The present figure is the dream of that great sculptor, Carl Conrad, of Hartford, Conn. Its proportions are grandly heroic. The entire height of base and figure is twelve feet-base 6 feet 3 inches, and figure, in sitting posture, 5 feet 9 inches. The originality of the conception and dignity of pose and expression are matchless. The figure from every pore breathes its purpose. It is perfect pantomime in stone. Speechless though it is. yet the artistic genins that created it made it articulate with the accents of its mis- sion. The sculptor has chosen the morning of the Resurrection as the back- ground of his Archangel and portrayed him as ready to do the work we associate with his name, that of summoning the dead to Judgment. As he is to receive the signal from above, the head is thrown with exquisite grace slightly back, that he may readily catch its first accents, and the expression of the face is majestic, beautiful and intensely expectant. With the right hand he firmly grasps the trumpet for ready use as may be gleaned from the relative position of hand and trumpet, and in the poise of the left hand we catch superb harmony with the facial expression. It, too, whispers the hush that awaits a dread command which demands immediate execution. The Archangel is sitting with robe drawn from the barcd feet that he may not be impeded in rising, and the right foot and knee are drawn slightly back to give him a fulerum when rising. The drapery is full without crowd- ing the figure, and every fold is from nature. In proportion, suggestion, majesty, this statue takes its place with the noblest and greatest ideals in stone. It is noble in every sense-reaching the highest, most inspiring effect without apparent effort.
109
OHN CONNICK was born in the town of Bolinaspect, parish of Ferns, in the county of Wexford, Ireland, in the year 1811. When only seventeen he came to this country and landed in Quebec in 1829, and soon after came to Albany. He found employment at the carpenter's trade, and having spent the required number of years in per- fecting himself in all its details he engaged in business for himself and built many fine residences in Albany, performing his work with serupulous exactness and fidelity. When he came to this city there was but one little Catholic church, St. Mary's, and Mr. Connick from the first became a con- stant and devout attendant. In the year 1833, he married Miss Jane Fryer, and although they had no children born to them, they lived happily in each other's society. Mr. Connick was a lumber inspector for many years in the lumber district, where he won hosts of friends among the leading merchants of those days, and among whom his word was as good as his bond. For eighteen years he was in the employ of the New York and Hudson River Railroad Company, where he was greatly respected by all doing business with him, but on account of the feebleness of advancing age he was obliged to resign in order to spend the remaining years of his life in quiet rest. For many years Mr. Connick was connected with the Cathedral of the Immac- ulate Conception, having been the first person appointed on the original cominittee in 1852 by Bishop McClosky, and from that time until his death he was a most faithful and earnest worker in the cause of religion and in everything connected with the Cathedral, in which he felt so commendable a pride. Mr. Connick never held any public position, yet he was always a good and earnest citizen, a lover of law and order, and above all a most unassuming and practical Catholic. He died April 28, 1888, at the advanced age of 77 years.
110
John Connich.
HOMAS D. COLEMAN was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, November 11, 1838. He came to this country with his parents in 1849, who settled in Albany where they remained until their death. In 1860, Mr. Coleman married Miss Catherine Doren, of Albany. They had two children, a son and daughter, the latter dying at the age of two years. Shortly after this, in 1867, Mrs. Coleman died. The son, Michael T. Coleman, is now carrying on a successful and enterprising business as brewer in New York city. Mr. Coleman's first business venture was in the grocery business, in which he established himself in 1860. After five years however, he sought a larger field for his enterprise and business qualities, and bought out the malting establishment of Hiram Perry. In 1870. he sold the Perry malt house and obtained control of the business of Michael All, and operated its combined industry of brewing and malting ale. In 1872 the firm of Coleman Bros. rebuilt the establishment, which, after completion, was one of the finest plants in the State. Mr. Coleman successfully followed this enterprise until 1895. His name has always been connected with the representative industries and business interests of the city. He has also been at all times closely allied to the political movements of Albany. He served one term as Assemblyman, and has also held the office of Fire Com- missioner for ten years, which position he resigned to accept the office of Park Commissioner. He still holds a place on the Board of Park Commis- sioners, and is one of our most energetic citizens in all that regards the advancement of the city. Mr. Coleman's connection with the beautiful Cemetery of St. Agnes is of long standing. He has been one of the trustees for over ten years, having been elected in 1886.
113
P ETER J. FLINN has been a life-long resident of this city. His father. Daniel Flinn, came to Albany in 1823. In 1837 he was married to Mary T. Dunn, by Rev. Charles Smith, in St. Mary's, the only Catholic church then in the city. The subject of our sketch was born in 1841 in the same ward in which he now resides. He succeeded his father in the flour and grain business, which has always been associated with their name. In 1864 he married Mary J. Smith, only child of Bernard Smith, one of the pioneer Catholics of Albany, ever noted for his liberality to all charitable institutions. Mr. Flinn's public spirit and keen interest in all that relates to the success and welfare of his native city, has been recognized; and his fellow citizens have tendered him again and again the nominations for political offices, but he invariably declined. He was, however, nominated and elected, the only candidate on an Independent ticket, for School Com- missioner, running far ahead of his ticket. The regular Democratic party next elected him for the same office for six successive terms ; and he had the distinction of being the first Democratic president of the Board of Publie Instruction. During his long term as Commissioner, Mr. Flinn was noted for his hearty interest and practical help in all educational matters, and whatever pertained to the success of our schools. He has always been a strong temperanee advocate and was foremost in organizing the Temperance Society of St. Joseph's church, being its first president, and afterwards re-elected six times. This was the largest Parochial temperance society in the United States. Mr. Flinn has always been considered one of the leading members of St. Joseph's church, and succeeded his father as a member of the church committee ; of this committee he has been secretary for thirty- two years. He was the first elected Prefect of St. Joseph's Young Men's Sodality. This Sodality has the honor of being the oldest in the city. Per- haps Mr. Flinn is best known in his connection with the Catholic Union for his splendid work as an organizer. He was its first president, and was re-elected five times. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of St. Agnes' Cemetery ; is its secretary, having succeeded the late William D. Morange in that office. Mr. Flinn is untiring, earnest and energetic, and is considered a valued member of the board.
Peter J. . Flinn.
KERIN
JAMES KERIN.
JAMES KERIN
FIE tall, graceful shaft shown in our illustration was erected to perpetuate the memory of James Kerin and those of his family who have gone to their last rest. The monument is very imposing and symmetrical in appearance, and stands in one of the most beautiful parts of St. Agnes' Cemetery. It cannot fail to attract the atten- tion of visitors to its individual beauty and gracefulness, although surrounded by so much that is beautiful. The name "Kerin" stands out in bold relief on the side facing the west, and above it are the inscriptions to Henry F. Kerin, who died July 18, 1892, at the age of 23 years ; and also, one to James 11. Kerin, who died January 9, 1893, aged 35 years. Upon the east side appears the inscription : "James Kerin, born June 10, 1830; died june 26, 1881," also " Mamie F. Kerin, died December 12, 1887, aged 14 years." Upon the south side is the inscription to Elizabeth Shenick, mother of Mrs. J. Kerin, and John, Freddy, Lizzie, Maggie and Joseph, children of James and Aun Kerin. The north side of the monument is thus inscribed : "Murtha Kerin and his wife, Margaret-their sons, John and William: may their souls rest in peace." The perpetual care sign upon the lot shows that this last resting place is always tended with careful hands and loving hearts.
119
AMES KERIN, was known for many years in Albany and Troy as a respected and valued citizen, whose useful and upright life was a lesson to all. He possessed business qualifications of the highest order, and established in Troy a commercial house which is still carried on under his name. The influence of his life still lives, although he has passed to the higher life. Mr. Kerin was born in Albany, June 10. 1830, and died June 26, 1881, the greater part of his life having been spent in Albany and Troy. Michael Kerin, one of his brothers, was a soldier in the late war, and died in Andersonville prison. Another brother, John, was connected for many years with the Albany papers, and was considered one of Albany's brightest men. James Kerin, with two of his brothers, John and William, were engaged in the printing business in Albany until the close of the war, when he removed to Troy to become foreman for his brother-in-law, Mr. Doyle, who was in the stove and iron moulding business. Mr. Kerin finally opened on his own account a wholesale and retail grocery store on Congress street, which business he continued successfully up to the time of his death. He was married January 21, 1854, to Miss Ann Shenick, by The Right Rev. Bishop Conroy, and they had nine children, only one of whom is living, William E., who continues the business started by his father. One son. James H., died at the age of 35 years, and is buried in St. Agnes' Cemetery. Another son, Henry F., was of the class of '93 in the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and had been a student there for two years, when he went to Aiken, South Carolina, contracted a disease, and died soon after returning home. Mary Francis, the pride of the household. died at the age of fourteen, just as she was blossoming into beautiful young womanhood. They are now all lying in St. Agnes' Cemetery, with their father and grand-parents.
120
James Kerin.
ROELLINGER
JOHN C. HOELLINGER.
JOHN C. HOELLINGER
UR ILLUSTRATION presents a view of the Hoellenger lot in St. Agnes' Cemetery, where is buried the wife of John C. Iloel- linger. Mrs. Hoellinger was a woman of rare intelligence and culture, and the monument that marks her grave was a loving tribute from her husband to the dear one who, for forty-five years, shared with him life's joys and sorrows. She was Miss Catharine Artz, of Albany, and was married to Mr. Hoellinger, November 11, 1845. The monument is a Celtic eross of peculiar beauty and exquisite workmanship. One especially noticeable feature is the number of inscriptions and their finely carved lettering. The inscription upon the east side reads: "John Crysostom Hoellinger, born at Deidesheim, Rhenish Bavaria, February 18, 1823," and "Catharine Artz, his wife, born at Tholey, Rhenish Prussia, August 15, 1828, died October 14. 1890." The west side is especially inscribed to the memory of Mrs. Hoellinger, thus: "In memory of Thy Dear Servant. Catharine, who through Thy merey, O Lord, is allowed to rest here in peace, permit us to say as a memorial of her virtue : . Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice, for they shall be filled ; blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain merey ; blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see God.' There- fore, O Lord, she having been faithful to her trust in all things, grant her a share of those eternal joys that neither eye hath seen, nor ear heard, nor hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive, that she may praise Thee, ( God, for ever, Amen." Upon the north side is carved the beautiful verses from the service of Good Friday, beginning : " O, faithful Cross, (). noblest Trec, in all our woods there's none like Thee." John C. Hoellinger came to this country in 1836, arriving in New York, August 25. He estah. lished himself in business in Troy, where he soon became well known as a man of sterling Christian character and strict integrity.
Need help finding more records? Try our genealogical records directory which has more than 1 million sources to help you more easily locate the available records.