Howlett, W. J. (William J.)

Pioneer Catholic priest in Colorado. Moved to Colorado 1865. Taught two years in a parochial school established by Bishop Machebeuf. Studied for the priesthood in Kentucky and France; ordained 1876 in Paris. Returned to Colorado and served in Denver, Central City, Brighton, Sterling, Pueblo, Georgetown, Colorado City, and Loveland. After 36 years in the Denver diocese, became chaplain of the Sisters of Loretto motherhouse in Kentucky.

William J. Howlett was born in Pittsford, New York in 1848 of Irish parents. They were migrants and moved from Ireland to Canada before moving to New York. Howlett's study for the priesthood were made at Issy in France, under the Sulpician Fathers. Additional studies were made in Germany to prepare for missions in America. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 6, 1876, at St. Sulprice in Paris. Howlett worked in the missions of Colorado under Bishop Samuel B. Spalding.