Augusta Schrader was born in Monticello, IL, March 18, 1865. Her father was originally from Luxemburg and her mother from France. In the late 1860s they moved to Maryville, where they lived at the time Augusta entered our convent in September, 1880 at the age of fifteen. She had been preceded by an elder sister, Sister M. John, who three years later was elected to succeed Mother M. Anselma as prioress; and was later joined by a younger sister, who became Sister M. Innocent. Augusta received the religious habit on March 19, 1881, and was professed as Sister M. Agatha on May 5, 1882. Her perpetual vows were made on July 28, 1887.
As a pioneer member, Sister was closely associated with Mother M. John in the work of administration for over thirty-seven years, laboring to build up a small struggling group of Sisters into a firmly established community. For twenty-seven years she had charge of the Industrial School at the orphanage at Conception, during which time hundreds of orphan girls received excellent care and training under her supervision. She also served as procuratrix for many years, and in that capacity was much concerned about the practice of poverty in the community - both from a matter of necessity and of principle.
Sister was tall and dignified - a person of great refinement, exact in the fulfillment of all her duties. In dealing with those under her charge she was inclined to be somewhat severe, though this was perhaps from a motive of dedication to duty than from natural inclination. She was loved and esteemed for her many excellent qualities.
Sister loved prayer and was very sacrificial. She was in poor health for many years, and lived in the infirmary at Clyde. Details of her last illness and death are not recorded. She died on September 12, 1953 (then the feast of the holy Name of Mary) at the age of eighty-eight, having enjoyed the privilege of Virginal Consecration and of celebrating her Golden and Diamond jubilees.