The statue was a gift from the Hon. Mrs. Edward Petre (Laura Stafford-Jerningham). It was gifted by Laura Jerningham who was married to Edward Petre. She came to New Hall for a three day stay after the death of her husband and asked the Community to select a design for the statue. The statue was sculpted in Rome by V.Gasassi F.R. in circa 1845 the pose having been suggested by Sister M.Mary Aloysia Weld and given to the Community as a 'thank you' present.  Laura subsequently became a Notre Dame nun, with the Order Sr.Mary of St.Francis.