Peter de Noronha facts for kids
Peter Bertram Cypriano Castellino de Noronha (born April 19, 1897 – died July 24, 1970) was an important businessman and government worker in Kanpur, India. He was given a special honor, like being made a 'knight,' by Pope Paul VI in 1965. This was because of his great work helping the Christian community in India.
Early Life and Education
Peter was born in 1897. His parents were Claudine Rachel de Noronha and William Constantine. His father was a well-known businessman from Goa who owned an auction company in Kanpur.
Peter went to school at St Mary's High School, Bombay. Later, he studied at St Joseph's College, Nainital. He was very good at his studies and also at sports.
He then joined the Thomason College of Civil Engineering. This college is now known as IIT Roorkee. In 1918, he earned a gold medal for being the best student in civil engineering. He was offered a scholarship for more studies, but he chose not to take it.
A Career in Engineering
After college, Peter joined the army during World War I. He served in the King George's Own Royal Sappers and Miners. He received a medal for his service.
After the war, he became a top engineer in the Central Public Works Department. He helped build the first bridge across the Ganges River at Haridwar. There is a special plaque there to honor his work.
In the 1920s, his team also created new ways to build with bricks and flat roofs in Bihar. In 1926, he left his government job. He started his own company, P. Stanwill & Co., with his brothers, William and Stanley.
Peter was also a talented athlete. He loved playing golf and became the captain of his local club. He was also good at football, cricket, and tennis. His favorite game to play was bridge.
Helping Others
During World War II, Peter helped with civil defense in Kanpur. Later, in the 1940s, he worked to bring the Hindu and Muslim communities together during difficult times.
In 1950, there were big floods in Kanpur. Peter helped save many people who were trapped. He also made sure injured people received medical help. For his brave actions, he received a special award from the District Magistrate of Kanpur.
He later gave an X-ray machine to the local Ursula Hospital. This helped poor and needy people get medical care.
Peter was married twice. His first wife, Linda, had two children with him before she passed away. He then married Florence, and they had four children together.
Peter de Noronha also wrote books. One of his books was called The Pageant of Life, published in 1964. It was a collection of his thoughts and ideas.
Religious Work and Honors
Peter was a very devoted Catholic. He made a big difference through the Legion of Mary. In the late 1930s, he became the first Indian to be a special representative for the Legion. Because of his efforts, the Legion grew across North India. This included areas like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan. In 1962, he left the Legion due to his health. He also ran the Catholic Information Centre by himself, helping to share the Gospel.
In 1965, Pope Paul VI honored him with the Order of St. Gregory the Great. This was for his excellent service to India and the Catholic Church. He also received the gold medal Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice.
Peter de Noronha passed away on July 24, 1970, after being unwell for some time. Many people from all over the world sent messages of sadness. These included the then President of India, V. V. Giri; former president Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan; and the governor of Uttar Pradesh. Important religious leaders like the Archbishop of Bombay, Cardinal Gracias, also sent their condolences. The Information Broadcasting Minister, Inder Kumar Gujral, who later became the Prime Minister of India, also sent a message.
Six hundred people attended his funeral, even though it was during working hours. He was buried in the Lal Kurti Cemetery in Kanpur Cantonment. His son, Allan de Noronha, continues his legacy as a social worker in Kanpur.
