The churches played a large role in the growing mining town, and St. Mary's representative, Fr. Manogue and the nuns contributed greatly to the welfare of the town's population. They cared for the spiritual and medical needs of both the rich and poor. Their charitable works were rewarded by the grateful townspeople. After the fire in 1875, John Mackay and other wealthy miners contributed handsomely toward the reconstruction of the church building and donated precious gifts, including the huge silver bell that hangs in the belfry.