About

Samuel Mazzuchelli, OP

Pioneer, Priest, Teacher and Preacher
Founder of the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters


At the age when most students are going to their senior prom, Samuel Mazzuchelli, age 17, entered the Order of Preachers in Italy in 1823. Surrounded by a world of culture and art, educated well and from a good Italian family, young Samuel responded to a deeper urging. His enthusiasm and sense of mission inspired him to respond to the needs of the frontier church in America, thousands of miles away from his home and family. Knowing no one and not able to speak the language, he set sail for the United States as a 22-year-old—the age most college students are graduating at.

After being ordained in Cincinnati, he became the pastor of a vast area, which now includes upper Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois. Traversing the area by canoe, snowshoe, horseback and on foot, he ministered to Native Americans, immigrant minders and farmers.

Recognizing the need for education on the frontier, he invited young women in his parishes to respond as teachers. These women became the foundation for the Sinsinawa Dominicans. Father Samuel believed in the value of a strong liberal arts education. Science and art, languages and music – all spoke of God’s action in our world. During the day, he would tend to his duties as pastor and at night he would educate the sisters. He believed that if the sisters were to be teachers, they would be excellent teachers—and so began the tradition of providing excellence in teaching at all Sinsinawa Dominican institutions.

Father Samuel loved a good party! For his birthday every year, he held a grand party to which all were invited. In the tradition of Father Samuel and his spirit of joy, Sinsinawa Dominicans have held a birthday party for him for more than 150 years. Join the celebration!