Holy Rosary
Catholic Church
Served by the Scalabrinian
missionaries since 1890
911 E. Missouri Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri
This history was published in the Silver Jubilee souvenir booklet in 1920. No author was given. Spelling and grammar are as the original. Thanks to Josephine Passantino of the parish for allowing us to transcribe her copy of the booklet.
The Holy Rosary School
In 1895 Father Santipolo had built a parochial residence, the lower floor, one large room was the first school connected with the church, the Sisters of Mercy having charge.
In September, 1909, the Sisters of St. Joseph Order opened the St. John School for Italian children. The opening enrollment was about one hundred and fifty pupils, taught in five grades. Later it was found necessary to add the sixth and seventh grades, owing to the increase of pupils.
To dearly beloved Mother Monica many owe their education; with personal offerings and perseverance she principally maintained the school till 1918.
The school progressed rapidly and in September 1910, with a legacy of $7,000.00, left by Mr. Benoit* to the "the Bishop for the Holy rosary School" testament, a new building, the Holy Rosary School was built on a lot south of the church. The cost of this building was $10,000.00. It is now free of incumbrance. 
The enrollment of the new school, the first year was seventy-five, and has continually increased every year.
In the year 1919 Father D'Alfonso reorganized the school. He increased the tuition and with the monthly collection provided for the sisters.
In September, 1920, there were enrolled one hundred and seventy-five pupils at the Holy Rosary School. The total enrollment at both schools is nearly five hundred.
This year Father Propero the pastor has succeeded in interesting the "Comitato Coloniale" which was organized by him for the benefit of the Italian colony, socially and morally.
This committee is composed of thirty-five of the most prominent Italian men. Their first act has been to collect funds from the Italian people to maintain a free Catholic school, the second in the city. They have also provided books for the children whose parents had means.
Music lessons are given twice a week. And night school for adults is held three nights a week. English and italian is taught, principally how to become an American citizen.
It is hoped in the near future to have a trade school in the Community House.
This history was published in the Silver Jubilee souvenir booklet in 1920. No author was given. Spelling and grammar are as the original. Thanks to Josephine Passantino of the parish for allowing us to transcribe her copy of the booklet.
*Noted as Mr. Benoist in the 1991 history.