In 1908 the Sisters of St Joseph from Perthville were invited to commence a school in Canowindra. The first five sisters were Srs Fabian Baker, Assissium Dwyer (Replaced by Teresa Maria Carey), Rose Healey, Marcellus Henry, Francis Morrissey.
A school had already been built in 1907. The first five sisters lived in a house in Short St until the new two storey Convent was completed in 1911. This building was opened free of debt, a tribute to the generosity of the Canowindra people who continued to offer support to the Sisters for 114 years. Photos from 1930’s to 1970’s show that during these years there was always a community of 12 sisters occupying this Convent.
Over the years some nearby towns have at times formed part of St Edward’s Parish. The Sisters of St Joseph have also founded convents and schools in these places.
Of the 60 Foundations made from Perthville, Cargo was the 13th in 1880, Eugowra in 1882 and Canowindra the 47th in 1908.
The importance of catholic faith in the families of this area is partly evidenced in the number of religious sisters and priests who grew up in this parish. There are 21 Perthville Sisters of St Joseph for whom Canowindra was their home parish.
Sr Alice Sullivan