William Tyler

William Tyler (June 5, 1806 – June 18, 1849) was an American Catholic prelate who served as the first bishop of Hartford from 1844 until his death in 1849. He is remembered for his efforts to assist the increasing population of Irish Catholic immigrants to the diocese and for his humility and dedication to service.

Biography

Early life One of eight children, William Tyler was born on June 5, 1806, in Derby, Vermont. His father, Noah Tyler, was a farmer. His mother, Abigail Barber was the sister of Reverend Daniel Barber, and aunt of Reverend Virgil Barber, both Episcopalian ministers who converted to Catholicism. The family moved to Claremont, New Hampshire, when William Tyler was a child.

Tyler had three brother; Israel, Ignatius and George. His four sisters joined the Sister of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul. Tyler converted to Catholicism at either age 15 or 16. At this time, the diocese included all six New England states. After his ordination, Tyler spent one year serving as a curate at Holy Cross Cathedral in Boston. Fenwick then sent him to work in a parish in Sandwich, Massachusetts. Tyler then went to Aroostook County in Northern Maine to perform missionary work. Since 2,000 Catholics were living in Providence, Rhode Island, Tyler decided to move the episcopal see there. Tyler refused to use a carriage, insisted on walking everywhere. He distributed food to the needy every Monday at his residence. Tyler went out to visit the sick in their homes rather than delegating the job to his other priests.