Bartholomew Cavanagh was born in 1821 in the Parish of Annaghdown, Co. Galway, one of a family of thirteen, five boys and eight girls.    He received his early education in the city of Galway, traveling there and back daily on horseback.    Later, he entered Tuam Diocesan Seminary, St Jarlath’s College where he was noted for his zeal and piety.    He showed a taste for study and every sign of a vocation for the priesthood. In 1839, he began his studies in St Patrick’s College, Maynooth and while there his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary blossomed.    He was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Tuam in 1846.