Teresa Ignatius BONHAM [3398] ³³⁷⁵

  General Notes:

Handwritten notes of births passed down to myself on old diary (handwritten on back says pages from John's Diary) pages dated 1888/1889 state the following:-
Birth records
Teresa Ignatius Bonham was born at 35 Catherine St Richmond March 5 1870 at 5.30am.
Baptized at St Ignatius Church Richmond Sunday March 13 1870 Mr and Mrs Fitzgerald being God Father and God Mother


The Argus Melbourne Friday 26 June 1885 page 3
St Ignatius' schools, Richmond
The midwinter demonstration of large primary schools attached to St. Ignatius' Roman Catholic Church, Richmond, was witnessed last night by a crowded audience, composed of the friends and relatives to the children. Every part of the boys' schoolroom was occupied. The Very Rev. A Sturzo, superior-general of the Jesuits of Australasia, presided, and the Rev. J Mulhall, S.J. pastor in charge of the Richmond district was also present. A lengthy programme, illustrating the musical elocutionary, and dramatic ability of the children, was carried out under the direction of the Rev. J. Kennedy, S.J. Subjoined is the list of prizes, which were presented to the successful children at the midwinter examinations by the chairman:-
................................
Girls:
Drawing- First, Teresa Bonham;.......................

Teresa is mentioned in her parents Probate documents, but no further information can be found about her.

The Kruse sisters remember being told by their grandmother that one of the sisters died young of breast cancer, and they believe that this was Teresa. I have been unable to find birth or death for her, but she is mentioned in her mother's probate documents in December 1899, and also received a disbursement of £75 from her mother's Estate in December 1900.

Teresa Ignatius is mentioned as deceased in the death notice of her sister Mary Agnes in 1941, but a death for her has not been found to date.

This is a possible related article, but unproven.
The Inverell Times (NSW : 1899 - 1954) Monday 11 June 1934 Page 8
ST. ANDREW'S CHURCH
Sister Bonham Farewelled
Last Wednesday evening the senior Fellowship at St, Andrew's, celebrated their first anniversary at a birthday tea. The happy function took place in an appropriate setting, in the kindergarten room of the Memorial Hall, where the good things were spread, and sixteen members including Rev. Emlyn James sat down to do them justice. The birthday cake, on which was placed one candle was made by Miss Chisholm and cut by Sister Bonham.

Following this, the Sunday School teachers co-operated with the Fellow ship members to entertain the Women's Missionary Association at a social evening, probably one of the most successful held in the School hall. A short session of community singing commenced the proceedings after which a number of lively games and contests were heartily entered into by all. The coldness of the evening was not noticed through participation in the various novelties. Before supper was served, occasion was taken to save words of farewell to Sister Bonham, a teacher of the Sunday school for four years and a member of the Fellowship since its in inception. Mr A. C. Baillie, superintendent of St. Andrew's S.S., in handing a cheque as a parting gift from the members of both organisations, expressed the regret of all at the departure of one so capable, enthusiastic and devoted as Sister Bonham, She efficiently carried out her labours of love he said and was held in affectionate regard by pupils, teachers and Fellowship members. Their very best wishes were extended with the hope that the future held much good and happiness in store.

Rev. Emlyn James also added words of appreciation for loyal service rendered by their guest, and handed her a book as a further expression of their high esteem. Sister Bonham in responding, thanked all for sentiments expressed, as well as for their gifts. The singing of "Auld Lang Syne" brought a most enjoyable evening to a close.

The Inverell Times (NSW : 1899 - 1907, 1909 - 1954) View title info Fri 22 Feb 1935 Page 9
ST. ANDREW'S CHURCH
The Fellowship Association, in the course of its report, stated: During this year we have 'lengthened our cords and strengthened our stakes.'
Early in the year we applied success fully for affiliation with the Union of New South Wales. A Junior Girls' Circle has been formed, and, led by Miss Taylor, holds a meeting each Sunday morning at 10 o'clock. During the evening of our first birthday tea Sister Bonham was presented with a cheque as a farewell gift from the Sunday school and Fellowship Association. She had taken a keen interest in both of these organisations, and is missed very much. A badge dedication service made a memorable day of 7th November. Miss Taylor gave a splendid talk on 'The Badge,' and what it means. Mr. Les. Campbell chose and road a suitable passage from Scripture. Mr. Price, the Director of the Welfare of Youth, gave a very inspiring address. Twenty members from the junior and senior circles were presented with badges. Our weekly meetings are a source of true fellowship.

We have studied the subjects given in the 'Witness,' our fellowship paper. Mr. James gives us a few guiding thoughts about each subject, after which various members render prepared assignments, then general discussion is invited. We all come away with a feeling of uplift. Our thanks are due to our worthy leader for his great help.
The report of St. Andrew's Sunday school referred to improved attendances and evidence of deeper interest.
A record year in offerings was recorded.
Reference was made to the loss of Sister Bonham, a most loyal and enthusiastic teacher and leader of the junior
department, she having volunteered for the Australian Inland Mission.