The first schools in the US staffed by the Sisters of
Christian Charity were in the Bronx, NY, New Orleans, LA. And
Wilkes-Barre, PA. The first motherhouse was established in Wilkes-Barre
in 1877. In 1916 the motherhouse was moved to Wilmette, IL. because at
that time there were 54 foundations in 11 states.
Continued growth in the number of Sisters, however,
warranted a division into two provinces—Wilmette remaining the motherhouse
for the mid-west and another place to be chosen for the eastern province.
It was in 1927 that the 112 acres of the Cromwell estate in Mendham, NJ
were purchased for $50,000.00. The 1890 Cromwell home was then re-named
Mallinckrodt Convent. Again the housing was not adequate for the large
and ever-growing group of Sisters and plans were made for a bigger
building. By 1932, the Sisters moved into the new motherh0use —the present
building to the left of the Villa.
In 1937 renovations were begun to “make the house over”
for its third stage—a retreat and guest house for women. On May 28, 1937
the new mission was formally accomplished and four Sisters came to live
in the re-named VILLA PAULINE.
The story of Villa Pauline has been one of continuing
growth:
1940 the
chapel was
enlarged
1947 large bedrooms
were divided
1980 further improvements to modernize the Villa
1999 the chapel was again renovated
2000 the Lift-Avator was installed
The Villa Staff continues “home
improvements” and strives to make this mansion a comfortable and
attractive dwelling for our retreatants and guests.
