Red Lake, White Earth and ‘Blackgowns’: The Indian Industrial Schools of St. John’s Abbey and St. Benedict’s Monastery, 1884-1896

Authors

Thomas Reichert, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Date

2005

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities | History | United States History

Advisor

Annette Atkins, History

Abstract

How and more importantly, why did the Benedictines become involved in off-reservation Industrial Schools? In this thesis, it is my goal to answer these questions. The opening of the schools was the result of three factors. First, the Benedictines subscribed to the popular beliefs and stereotypes about the Indians and what should be done with them. Second, the material situation of the mission, as well as the relationship between the Benedictines and the other involved parties on the reservation, created a situation where an off-reservation venture would seem desirable. Third, the financial situation of St. John's and St. Benedict's would have enticed the missionaries into opening schools because of the possibility of financial gain.

Recommended Citation

Reichert, Thomas, "Red Lake, White Earth and ‘Blackgowns’: The Indian Industrial Schools of St. John’s Abbey and St. Benedict’s Monastery, 1884-1896" (2005). Honors Theses, 1963-2015. 367.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/honors_theses/367