Chapter 20 cont. Page 583 ST. MARY'S St. Mary's church and parish trace their origin back to the year of 1867.  The corner stone of the church edifice was laid July 21st of that year by Bishop Hennessy of Dubuque.  The building, since remodeled, stands on the original site at the corner of Sixth and Fillmore streets.  Father Pelamourgues was its first pastor.  He was succeeded by Rev. Maurice Flavin, May 10, 1868, who continued there until July, 1871.  Father Flavin died at Los Angeles, June 10, 1872, where he had gone for the benefit of his health.  Rev. Michael Flavin then took up the work at St. Mary's and remained there thirteen years.  He was followed by Rt. Rev. Mgr. Ryan who came from St. Marguerite's cathedral, of this city.  He is still the pastor.  In his manifold duties he is aided by an assistant.  In 1909, Father Ryan was invested with the title of Monsignior at a public ceremonial of great beauty and impressiveness. Debbie Clough G-erischer G-erischer Family Web Site http://gerischer.rootsweb.com/ Assistant CC, Iowa Gen Web, Scott County http://www.celticcousins.net/scott/ List Manager for: IASCOTT-L * G-erischer-L * D-encker-L Fitzpatirck-L * V-lerebome-L * Huntington-L * Otis-L * Algar-L EIGS-L * Pickens-L * McNab-L * Patris-L - Rankin-L