REV. JAMES J. CROWLEY, pastor of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, at Piqua, was born in England but was reared at Bardstown, Kentucky. After completing the long course of ecclesiastical training which is required for the priesthood, Father Crowley was ordained and was stationed in Kentucky, from whence he came to Ohio in 1883.

Father Crowley had charge of St. Mary's Catholic Church at Franklin, Ohio, for nineteen years, going from there to St. Mary's Church at Oxford, Ohio, and fifteen months later, in January, 1904, came to his present pastorate at Piqua.

St.  Mary's Roman Catholic Church at Piqua was established in December, 1843, and is the first Catholic Church built in this city. Father James Halloran was the first pastor, and Rev. James P. Cahill succeeded him, and was later followed by Rev. H. Henry. Rev. E. P. Hickey took charge in I887 and remained in charge for fourteen years. The present church edifice and school building were erected during that time. Father Crowley has greatly improved conditions since he took charge, both in a material and spiritual way. The parish now includes 220 families and the pupils in the church school number 230, five rooms being utilized. The prosperous condition of the affairs of the parish reflect credit upon the Christian zeal as well as the executive ability of Rev. Father Crowley.