Anthony Deydier facts for kids
Anthony Deydier was a French priest, missionary, and teacher. He is remembered for his important work in the early days of the Catholic Church in Indiana, especially in Evansville, Indiana.
Anthony Deydier's Story
Early Life and Journey to America
Anthony Deydier was born in France on April 30, 1788. When he was 22 years old, he left France on June 10, 1810. He traveled to America on the same ship as Simon Bruté and Benedict Flaget, who were also important religious figures.
When he first arrived in the United States, Deydier taught for four years at Mount St. Mary's in Emmitsburg, Maryland. He also taught music in New York City and worked as a private tutor in Albany, New York. Even though he had studied to become a priest in France, he waited many years before becoming one. His friend, Bishop Simon Bruté, encouraged him to join the missions in Indiana. This call inspired Deydier, and he decided to dedicate his life to missionary work. Bishop Bruté officially made him a priest on March 25, 1837, in Vincennes, Indiana.
Missionary Work in Indiana
After becoming a priest, Father Deydier was sent to Evansville, Indiana. When he arrived on May 3, 1837, there were not many Catholics in the area. The very next day, he held his first Mass in a tavern. He then returned to Vincennes but was sent back to Evansville in November 1838.
Father Deydier spent much of his time helping the workers building the Wabash and Erie Canal. His life in Evansville was very difficult. Saint Theodora Guerin, who founded the Sisters of Providence, wrote that Father Deydier was extremely poor. She said his living conditions were so bad that people might not believe her description.
Despite these challenges, he founded the Assumption Parish in Evansville. A history book about Vanderburgh County described how Catholic priests in the early days would set up missions wherever they found even a small group of people. They believed strongly in their faith and were willing to face any hardship to spread it.
Father Deydier lived in a very small room, only 10 by 15 feet, at the corner of Fifth and Chestnut streets. He used this room as both his home and a chapel for about three years. For larger Sunday services, he would sometimes use bigger rooms in the homes of other Catholic families.
He worked very hard for his community. He traveled around the areas near Evansville to do missionary work. In 1838, he made a successful trip to the eastern United States to raise money for a new church building. The Catholic Church in Evansville grew a lot because of his efforts.
Father Deydier continued his work until 1859. When he became older and less able to work, he retired to Vincennes. He passed away on February 11, 1864. He was buried in the orphanage cemetery, which is now part of the St. Vincent de Paul Parish.
