Parish founded in 1852 by German Catholics desiring ministry in their native tongue. Cornerstone laid 30 September 1864 at this site while Union soldiers fired a salute. Second oldest Catholic Church in Memphis. Designed by noted architect James B. Cook (1826-1909) F.A.I.A., dedicated 30 October 1870. Third Order of Franciscans O.F.M. headquarters established here 1870; monastery added 1871. Lourdes Shrine, built 1875 and blessed 1895 by Pope Leo XIII, only Catholic Grotto in Tennessee. Entered 7 August 1974 in National Register of Historic Places of National Park Service.
-West Tennessee Historical Society
Dedicated in loving memory to those who have served as well the spiritual needs of the Citizens of Memphis.
Friends of St. Mary's
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