Name/Title
Wheaton Franciscan MotherhouseEntry/Object ID
20.04.049Description
The rear of the Motherhouse, also known as Maura Hall, in Wheaton, Illinois. Constructed around 1930, this home was a wedding gift to Helen Hurley Ryan, daughter of Edward N. Hurley Sr.
In 1947, the Franciscan Sisters acquired a large tract of land in Wheaton which included this structure. From approximately 1947 - 1955, it was used by the Sisters as a motherhouse. Later, it was home to a novitiate, aspirancy, offices and more. Located northeast of the present-day OLA Motherhouse, the structure was demolished in 2013 after its condition had deteriorated.Context
Born in Germany in 1827, Mother Clara Pfaender founded the Franciscan Sisters, Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, in 1860. With a focus on education, nursing and care for orphaned children, the women reached out to those in need. In the following years, Sisters were sent to nations such as France, the Netherlands and the United States. There, they gained increased autonomy when America became a province in 1884, and by the early 20th Century, their health and education ministries included locations in Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Colorado. Looking to relocate, in 1947 land was purchased in Wheaton, Illinois and a new motherhouse was completed in 1955. As time passed, the Sisters continued to develop their healthcare ministry and addressed pressing issues such as Polio, Aids and affordable housing. During the early 21st Century, they celebrated the 150th anniversary of the congregation and found new sponsorships for their healthcare and housing ministries. Today, the Wheaton Franciscan Sisters continue to follow in the spirit of Mother Clara Pfaender by responding to the needs of the Church and our times.Lexicon
Search Terms
Religion, Religious Organizations, Photos, Photographs, Pictures, Historic Sites, Gardens and Yards, LandscapeReproductions
Notes
Please contact the WFS Archives (archives@wfsisters.org) for further information or materials requests.