Mathew, Theobald (1790-1856), priest and Temperance reformer. Born in Co. Tipperary, he joined the Capuchin order after being expelled from Maynooth. His Temperance Movement (in fact a pledge of total abstinence) began in Cork in 1838 and spread rapidly through the southern half of Ireland: between 1838 and 1842 consumption of legally distilled spirits fell by over half.

1790–1856, Irish social worker and temperance leader, a Capuchin priest. Father Mathew spent many years working for the welfare and education of the poor. In 1838 he took a pledge of total abstinence and thereafter devoted himself to the cause of temperance, campaigning in Ireland, England, and North America.

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