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Old St. Vincent's Catholic Church: A Riverfront Landmark

Discover the timeless beauty and rich history of Old St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Cape Girardeau's historic riverfront district.

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Old St. Vincent's Catholic Church, a historic gem in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, stands as a testament to the city's rich religious heritage. Built in 1853 in the English Gothic Revival style, the church offers a glimpse into the past with its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

A brief summary to Old St Vincent's Catholic Church

Local tips

  • Attend Sunday Mass at 10:00 AM to experience worship in this historic setting.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the church's history and architectural details.
  • Check the church's calendar for special events, such as weddings, that may affect tour availability.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Old St. Vincent's is located in the historic downtown area of Cape Girardeau, near the Mississippi River. If you are in the downtown area, such as near the Riverfront Park or the Cape Girardeau County Courthouse, walking to the church is a convenient option. From the intersection of Main Street and Broadway, walk south on Main Street. The church is located at 131 S Main St, on the right side of the road. The walk is generally flat and takes only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Cape Girardeau County Transit Authority (CGCTA) provides public transportation in Cape Girardeau. The fixed route bus system operates Monday through Friday. Check the CGCTA website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. The bus fare is $0. From a bus stop, walk to 131 S Main St.

  • Driving

    If driving, Old St. Vincent's is located at 131 S Main St, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703. From I-55, take the Route K/William St exit and proceed east toward the Mississippi River. Turn right at the Fountain St. exit, right on Morgan Oak St, and left on Spanish St. Proceed two blocks to Spanish & William Sts. Limited street parking is available near the church. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Old St Vincent's Catholic Church

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Discover more about Old St Vincent's Catholic Church

Old St. Vincent's Catholic Church, located near the Mississippi riverfront in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, is a significant landmark with a rich history. The church's origins trace back to 1821 when Catholic Mass was held in the home of D.F. Steinback. In 1833, the land where Old St. Vincent's stands today was purchased. The parish was officially established in 1836, with Father John Mary Odin as the first resident pastor. The original church building was completed in 1839. However, a tornado destroyed it in 1850. The current church was constructed on the same site, using the original stone foundation, and was completed in 1853. Designed by Irish-born architect Thomas Waryng Walsh, the church showcases Renaissance architecture in the English Gothic Revival style, a relative rarity in the United States. Old St. Vincent's was nearly demolished in 1976 when a new parish church was built. However, a group of about 15 people saved the original parish church. It was declared a Religious Cultural Center on December 1, 1977. The church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in April 1982. Today, Old St. Vincent's serves the Cape Girardeau community as a Religious & Cultural Center. Visitors can admire the architecture, including the hand-painted walls and gold leaf trim, and experience the serene environment.

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