CLARKSVILLE, IN (September 4, 2024) – The vibrant community of St. Anthony Church in Clarksville is celebrating a momentous occasion – its 75th anniversary in Clarksville. The church’s journey, which began in Jeffersonville in 1851, is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its parishioners. The move to Clarksville in 1949, spearheaded by the visionary Father Mathias Schnieders, marked a significant turning point in the Parish’s history.
Father Mathias recognized the post-World War II population boom, the completion of flood walls and the removal of bridge tolls that the Clarksville population was growing. The Parish secured seven acres of land in Clarksville, laying the foundation for a new era. Construction of a new school, church, and convent began in April 1949, and on September 12, 1949, the school opened for the first day of class.
The move to Clarksville was a bold step and a testament to the community’s faith in the future.
The 1950s were a time of growth and celebration. In 1951, the Parish marked its centennial with a grand celebration, welcoming the archbishop and other dignitaries. The festivities included a Solemn High Mass, a banquet, and a jubilee program,
reflecting the joy and pride of the community. However, just three years later, tragedy struck. A fire broke out in the convent, causing extensive damage. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the incident served as a reminder of the challenges that lay ahead.
The 1960s brought further expansion, with the addition of an eight-classroom annex to the school and a much-needed modernization of the church. The Parish also built a new friary in 1969, providing a comfortable home for its priests. But the most significant test of the community’s resilience was yet to come.
In 1970, tragedy struck when a lightning bolt ignited a devastating fire that destroyed the church. The flames spared the attached school, thanks to the heroic efforts of firefighters, but the loss was profound. Yet, from the ashes, a new church arose, a testament to the unwavering spirit of the St. Anthony community as together, they embarked on the task of rebuilding. The new church, dedicated in 1972, was more than just a replacement for the old one. It was a symbol of hope, a testament to the enduring faith of the community. The design, influenced by the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, fostered a sense of community and active participation, bringing parishioners closer to the heart of their faith.
The following decades saw continued growth and improvements. The church and school received new roofs, the church’s lighting was upgraded, and a new credit union facility was built. The Parish offices also found a new home in the remodeled convent.
In 1998, the Parish launched the Faith and Community Capital Campaign. This ambitious initiative led to significant improvements, including energy-efficient windows for the school, school expansion and the construction of a multipurpose social center and gymnasium. These additions not only enhanced the parish’s facilities but also strengthened its ability to serve the community.
As St. Anthony Church celebrates its 75th anniversary in Clarksville, it looks back on a remarkable journey. From its humble beginnings in Jeffersonville to its vibrant presence in Clarksville, the Parish has weathered storms and emerged stronger. The 75th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past but also a commitment to the future. It’s a time to honor the legacy of those who came before, to celebrate the present community, and to look forward to a future where St. Anthony Church continues to be a place of welcome, worship, and service for all.
Come be a part of our vibrant community any Saturday at 5pm or Sunday at 8am or 11am. For more information, call 812-282-2290 ext16 or send Friar John an email at pastor@stanthony-clarksville.org.
The above article was a guest submission provided by Jim Kenney of Clarksville.