Clare Imrie

Clare Imrie

Amy Elizabeth Imrie (4 Oct 1870 – 4 Apr 1944), Born Pollard, was a British heiress and one of the wealthiest women in Britain who, at the age of 37, became a Roman Catholic nun, Sister Mary Clare and, subsequently, Mother Superior of the Order of Poor Clares.

Born as Amy Elizabeth Rosalie Pollard in British Guiana to William Branch Pollard and his first wife, Elizabeth Anne (née Blackley). After the death of her mother, at aged 1, she went to live with her mother's sister Hannah and her husband William Imrie. She was later adopted Hannah and William. William Imrie was co-owner of White Star Line shipping, and Amy was the sole heir to his fortune upon his death in 1906, receiving income from his estate during her life.

The following year she became Sister Mary Clare of the Order of Poor Clares, eventually leading the convent as Mother Clare. In 1910 she funded the building and interior decorating of St Mary of the Angels Roman Catholic Church in Liverpool, which is known as "the Vatican outside of Rome", because of the splendid artistry displayed in its interior.