For someone who was created a Privy Chamberlain by the Roman Catholic Church, it is surprising little information is available on Thomas James O’Loughlin. The Argus obituary reveals some details. It notes that he “took a leading part in the reception of Cardinal Cerretti who visited Australia as Papal Legate to the Eucharistic Congress in Sydney. In recognition of this role and his generous benefactions to the Roman Catholic Church, he was created a domestic Privy Chamberlain to Pope Pius XI”. On his wedding day in 1911 in Kilkenny, Ireland, he was created a Count of Rome by Pope Pius X; his benefactions to Catholic undertakings and charities was said to have succeeded £100,000. It is believed O’Loughlin donated a considerable amount towards the purchase of the Kew mansion Raheen in September 1917 along with other noted Catholic benefactors such as John Wren (Boroondara Cemetery). On his death on 21 June 1929, Monsignor Lonergan said “there was scarcely a Catholic Institution in Australia that was not in some way or other indebted to him”. O’Loughlin resided at Tara Hall - 38 Hawthorn Grove, Hawthorn; his funeral service was held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
The Age 24 & 26 June 1929.
The Argus 24 & 26 June 1929.
Griffin, J., “John Wren. A life reconsidered” (2004).
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