With the kind invitation of Calvary Church, I will give an illustrated talk about the life and times of one of the many illustrious members of the Calvary parish, Wiliam Niblo. The talk will be given after 11:00 am Mass, at a luncheon in the Parish House.
Niblo (c. 1790- 1878) was a warden and vestryman of Calvay for decades, and a major donor to the parish as well as of the stained glass window there given in memory of Niblo’s close friend, the Reverend Francis Lister Hawks.
Tavernkeep and theater impresario William Niblo occupied pew # 113 for many decades at Calvary and his Christian faith sustained him through 27 years as a widower. His charity towards Calvary as well as the YMCA and the American Bible Society and many secular causes is well-documented. A modest and pecunious man, Niblo’s example of a solid public life, operating the best and largest venue for genteel entertainment in New York City from 1828 until his retirement in 1861, coupled with a deep abiding faith, could provide a meaningful role model for others in his industry today.
