Joseph Dutton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Servant of GodJoseph Dutton O.F.S. |
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Joseph Dutton in 1922
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| Lay Missionary | |
| Born | Ira Barnes Dutton 27 April 1843 Stowe, Vermont, United States |
| Died | 26 March 1931 (aged 87) Honolulu, Hawaii, United States |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholic Church |
Joseph Dutton was an American hero who helped many people. He was born Ira Barnes Dutton on April 27, 1843, in Stowe, Vermont. He later became a soldier in the American Civil War. After the war, he chose to dedicate his life to helping others. He became a missionary and worked alongside Father Damien in Hawaii. Joseph Dutton passed away on March 26, 1931, in Honolulu, Hawaii.
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Joseph Dutton's Early Life
Joseph Dutton was born as Ira Barnes Dutton. His parents were Ezra Dutton and Abigail Barnes. He grew up in Stowe, Vermont.
Education and Military Service
Dutton went to school at Old Academy and Milton Academy in Wisconsin. In 1861, he joined the army. He served in the 13th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War. He was a quartermaster, which meant he was in charge of supplies for his army unit.
A New Beginning
After the war, Joseph Dutton faced some personal challenges. He decided to make a big change in his life. In 1876, he started fresh and later took the name Joseph. This marked a new chapter for him.
Life as a Missionary
In 1883, Joseph Dutton became a Catholic. He spent about 20 months at the Abbey of Our Lady of Gethsemani. This was a time of deep reflection for him.
Helping Father Damien in Molokai
In 1886, Dutton traveled to Molokai, an island in Hawaii. He went there to help Father Damien, who was very ill. Father Damien was caring for people with leprosy. Dutton told him, "My name is Joseph Dutton; I’ve come to help, and I’ve come to stay." He kept his promise and stayed on the island for the rest of his life.
Continuing the Work
After Father Damien passed away, Joseph Dutton continued his important work. He started the Baldwin Home for men and boys. This home provided care and support for those in need. Henry Perrine Baldwin helped him financially with this project.
Dutton was also a member of the Secular Franciscan Order. People often called him "Brother Joseph" because of his kind and helpful nature.
Joseph Dutton's Legacy
Joseph Dutton wrote an article called "Molokai" for the Catholic Encyclopedia. He also wrote many letters. These letters described what life was like on the island. They shared stories of the people he helped.
Presidential Recognition
One person who read his letters was U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. The President was very impressed by Dutton's dedication. He ordered the United States Navy's Great White Fleet to honor Dutton. As the ships sailed past Molokai, they dipped their flags. This was a special way to show respect for Joseph Dutton's service.
Final Resting Place
Joseph Dutton died in Honolulu on March 26, 1931. He was buried at St. Philomena Catholic Church Cemetery in Kalaupapa.
Steps Toward Sainthood
In 2015, the Diocese of Honolulu began to consider Joseph Dutton for sainthood. A group called the Joseph Dutton Guild was formed. They are gathering information to see if he can be formally recognized as a saint.
