Consider the name James Martin Kirwin. This name echoes through Galveston’s history. The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin Plaque stands as a testament to his extraordinary life.
James Martin Kirwin was born in Ohio in 1872. He became a priest and civic leader. Kirwin’s journey led him to Galveston, Texas. He quickly became involved in civic affairs. This was quite uncommon for priests at that time.
The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin first gained public attention during the yellow fever epidemic of 1897. His dedication and tireless efforts to help the sick were remarkable. Then, during the Spanish-American War, he helped form the United States First Volunteer Infantry regiment. He served as its chaplain with the rank of captain.
However, it was after the Galveston hurricane of 1900 that The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin truly rose to prominence. This devastating event claimed approximately 8,000 lives. Kirwin helped organize a committee of public safety to restore order. He even drafted the edict putting the city under martial law. He supervised the disposal of the dead. He served on the Central Relief Committee that aided surviving flood victims. The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin also initiated plans to build a seawall for the city’s future protection. He delivered the opening prayer at the laying of its cornerstone in 1902. He officiated at its completion in 1905.
In 1901, The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin permanently injured his eyes. This happened while rescuing people in a great fire. Afterward, he conducted a study of fire protection needs for Galveston. His proposals ensured an adequate water supply and strengthened the local fire department.
The city of Galveston appealed to The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin to mediate the Southern Pacific dock strike in 1907. The strike had the potential for violence. Kirwin ended it peacefully by securing concessions on both sides. In 1909, he organized the Home Protective League. This organization successfully removed saloons from residential areas.
In 1911, Kirwin became vicar general for the Galveston diocese. He also became president of St. Mary’s Seminary. There, he taught moral theology, scripture, Latin, Spanish, and catechetics. His expert management made the seminary self-sufficient.
During World War I, Gen. John J. Pershing requested that Kirwin serve on his personal staff as chaplain. However, the illness and death of Bishop Gallagher forced him to return to Galveston. He took up the duties of administrator of the diocese. Though reappointed vicar general, rector, and seminary president, he supported the war effort. He was chairman of the Four-Minute Men and the local Red Cross chapter. Kirwin spoke out against extremists who violated the Constitution in the name of patriotism. He was critical of the Ku Klux Klan.
In 1922, Pope Pius XI gave him the title of monsignor. In 1923, he received an honorary LL.D degree from Notre Dame University. He died suddenly of heart failure on January 24, 1926.
The news of his death brought mourners from around the nation. The funeral services lasted four days. A papal delegate, Catholic bishops, Protestant and Jewish leaders, public dignitaries, military officers, and large crowds attended. The Texas National Guard flanked the casket in the final procession. The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin’s body was taken to Circleville, Ohio, for burial.
The Rt. Rev. Monsignor James Martin Kirwin Plaque serves as a reminder of a man who dedicated his life to serving others. He left an indelible mark on Galveston and the people of Texas.