As a result of her many journeys across the plains of Texas to seek support for the children at St. Joseph’s Orphanage, Sister Mary of Jesus Noirry earned the title of “Heroine of the Prairies.”  She was indeed a person who gave totally of herself to help others, especially the children at St. Joseph’s Orphanage.

Learning that there was not sufficient food for the children, she procured a team of horses and a wagon to go through the country soliciting aid.  Texas, in many places, was a trackless prairie.  Her only companion on these journeys was an orphan boy or another sister. The venture was hazardous. Setting out on trips of five or six weeks, Sister arose at two a.m., donned her heavy soldier’s overcoat which reached to her ankles, a pair of heavy boots, and a straw hat.  While traveling, she kept a brace of pistols at her side. Her forays into the vast areas of Texas were successful.  With her constant traveling, she supplied the children with food for over nine years. The sisters who accompanied her from time to time, spoke of her with admiration and awe.

On the header: Sister Mary of Jesus Noirry known as the “Heroine of the Prairies”. Photo taken in 1872. San Antonio, Texas.