The College was delighted to recently welcome Kate Lawless, granddaughter of John Lawless, who first attended the College in 1893 as one of its earliest boarding students. Kate’s visit may represent the longest-standing family connection to the College, offering a wonderful reminder of how deeply woven our history is across generations.
During his time at the College, John Lawless distinguished himself academically, achieving the highest overall merit in the Commercial Class, with studies that included typing and shorthand, reflecting the changing educational landscape of the late nineteenth century. He was also actively involved in school life beyond the classroom, representing the College on the First XVIII football team.
After leaving St Patrick’s College, John married Elizabeth Kennedy and spent his working life as a farmer in Burramine South. He was widely regarded as a community‑minded man, known for bringing people together through social gatherings held in the family barn, including card nights, music evenings and dancing. Highly trusted within the local community, John later served as a Justice of the Peace and was remembered as a man of integrity.
Sadly, Kate lost her grandfather at the age of 10, but one cherished memory remains with her: John singing to her “I’ll take me home again Kathleen’, a small but enduring reminder of his warmth and character.
John Lawless passed away on September 27, 1960, aged 83.
The Lawless family’s ties to the College deepened through John’s cousin, James Lawless, who was a student from 1893 to 1897. James entered the priesthood and was later honoured with the papal title of Monsignor. In 1953, he returned to the College as an Old Boy to take part in the Jubilee celebrations at Melbourne Town Hall, joining over 200 former students and fellow priests to mark this important milestone.
Kate may also have uncovered evidence suggesting that Michael Lawless (SPC 1916) was a nephew of Monsignor James Lawless. Following the tragic death of their parents, Michael and his two siblings, Mary and Anne, were taken into the care of their uncle, Monsignor James, who became their guardian.
Together, these stories reflect the enduring bonds that tie past and present members of our community, and the lasting impact of a college education across generations.
– By College Archivist Halina Sztynda
