John Thomas Mullock

John Thomas Mullock, Roman Catholic bishop (b at Limerick, Ire 27 Sept 1807; d at St John's 29 Mar 1869). Consecrated bishop in 1847, Mullock came to Newfoundland as coadjutor in 1848. Two years later he became bishop of Newfoundland and directed the affairs of the church energetically for 20 years. He completed the cathedral, founded a new palace episcopal library, established St Bonaventure's College and 2 convents for the Presentation and Mercy Sisters, increased the number of priests and in 1856 divided the island into 2 dioceses. Involved in early attempts to develop steam, sail and cable communications in Newfoundland, he originated the idea of a transatlantic telegraph cable link from North America to Europe. His political support of the Liberals under P.F. LITTLE and John KENT was controversial, and his intervention in the 1861 election ultimately led to the decline of his influence. A scholar of wit and eloquence, he wrote many lectures and pamphlets.