Name/Title
Loretto Convent, Sault Ste. MarieEntry/Object ID
SM.0150Description
Cornerstone ceremony for the Loretto Convent in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. From 1899 - 1956, the convent was located in Loretto Academy at 377 Armory Place. Afterward, a new convent was constructed at 377 Maple Street (pictured) and remained with the IBVM until 1985. St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral (Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church) is in the background.
In 1896, IBVM Sisters traveled to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan to begin an education ministry at St. Mary's Parish. Three years later, Loretto Academy was constructed and opened as a convent, school and boarding house. In the following decades, the Sister's ministry grew to include additional schools and programs. Despite the closure of Loretto Catholic Central High School and St. Mary's Elementary School in 1971, the IBVM maintained an active role in local education into the 1980s.Context
Born in 1585 in North Yorkshire, England, Mary Ward founded the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1609. Focused on education, the Sisters developed their ministry despite significant political, spiritual and material challenges. In 1880, the Canadian Mission of the IBVM established a presence in Illinois, and the following year, the IBVM North American Branch was created. In 1892, their ministry expanded into Chicago, and by 1896, the Sisters had opened a school in Michigan. Over the following decades, further growth resulted in ministries in California and Arizona, both of which began in 1949. In the 21st Century, the IBVM and its companions are active in Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, California and Arizona.Lexicon
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Notes
Please contact the IBVM Archives (archives@ibvm.us) for further information or materials requests.