|
1859 St. Joseph's Church: Visitor Information
 |
|
1860 St. Joseph’s Church is a deconsecrated historic church building managed as a community and historic resource by GHF.
No. 17 on the Places to Visit Map.
|
The oldest German Catholic Church in Texas and the oldest wooden church building in Galveston, St. Joseph’s was built by German immigrants in 1859-60. Bishop John Odin, the first Catholic bishop of Texas, recommended that a church be built for the German-speaking Catholics of the growing city. The church was dedicated in April 1860, to St. Joseph, the patron saint of laborers.
The building is a simple wooden gothic revival structure, rectangular with a square bell tower with trefoil window. The softly painted interior features a coffered ceiling with painted quatrefoils and other gothic symbols, plaster of Paris Stations of the Cross with German inscriptions dating from the early years of the 20th century and the original, elaborate main and side altars with reredos as well as many of the original statues and altar furnishings.
 |
|
Rescued and restored, the painted statuary of St. Joseph’s Church represents the rich tradition that Texas’ German Catholic immigrants brought with them.
|
Although damaged in the 1900 Storm, the church was repaired, enlarged, and redecorated within the year, retaining its original architectural character. In 1968, the Catholic Diocese closed the church and sold the contents at public auction. Upon learning that the building was to be used as a warehouse, GHF stepped in and leased the property. Most of the original furnishings were recovered, re-installed, and the structure was stabilized. GHF continues to maintain the building and opens it for special occasions, prearranged group tours and private function.
Prearranged Adult group tours [20 or more people] $2.50 per person.
To make arrangements, please call 409-762-3933.
|
