The first 50 years

As the previous page explains, the Catholic Community in the Normmanton area has a long history, but was not recognised as a parish until comparatively late. After some years in the care of the Jesuits, however, the parish was established in its own right, and welcomed its first parish priest, in July 1885.

1885 - The parish is established and welcomes its first Parish Priest - Father Frederick Herfkens (a native of Friesland in Northern Holland).

1888 - A new school chapel is built at Newland Lane end, followed shortly afterwards by a presbytery and a club (for the men!).

1904 May - The foundation stone of the new church is laid.

1905 July - The church opens.

1911 - Fr Herfkens dies aged 67, and is succeeded by Father Joseph Imkamp - a compatriot and friend of Father Herfkens. He guided the parish through the many trials of the First World War, and the long and damaging strikes (in the mining and other industries) of 1921 and 1926.

1936 - Father Imkamp dies aged 62, and is succeeded by Father Terence O'Connell, a native of County Laois, south-west of Dublin. Apart from his devoted priestly ministry he is remembered especially for his active interest in local public life and for his success at clearing the parish's large debt.