Name/Title
Former Site of St. Mary's AcademyEntry/Object ID
JO.0006Description
Looking northwest near the intersection of Cass Street and Ottawa Street in Joliet, Illinois. The parking lot in the foreground was previously the location of St. Mary's Academy. Completed in 1883, it was home to the IBVM and operated as a boarding school. The building was demolished in 1959 after its condition had deteriorated. St. John's Church is also visible in the distance.
In 1880, the Canadian Mission of the IBVM sent Sisters to establish a presence in Joliet, Illinois. They maintained an education ministry in the community until departing in 1919.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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Religion, Religious Organizations, Sisters of Loretto, Photos, Photographs, Pictures, Historic SitesReproductions
Notes
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