Those of you who regularly read this blog know that I’m fascinated by the 18th and 19th century architecture located in and around San Antonio. My obsession continued when we recently travelled west from San Antonio to Castroville, Texas where we were able to see St. Louis Catholic Church (610 Madrid Street).
The first mass celebrated in this lovely limestone structure took place on August 25, 1870. To this day, August 25 holds special significance in Castroville, since it is also the Feast Day of St. Louis. (For more information about the annual St. Louis Day Festival, click here.)
St. Louis Catholic Church was actually the third Catholic church to be built in Castroville. The first St. Louis Church is still in existance, just down the street from the current building. The older church was built in 1849, and is quite small and simple in design compared to its successor. Can you imagine living in Castroville in the mid-1800′s and attending services at this tiny church? It’s almost hard to believe it’s real.
If you’d like to see more travel photos, check out Photo Friday at Delicious Baby.
This is part one in a series I’ll be writing on historic buildings in the town of Castroville, Texas. Please stay tuned for more. Coming up: the Henri Castro homestead and monument, the Landmark Inn, and the Old Highway Filling Station.
You did mention once that you studied Art History, and it shows.I love the themes you have. Can't imagine being in a small church with all that 19th century clothing on particulary in summer.
Cate–I noticed that the smaller church doesn't have many windows, so I'm sure it used to get pretty toasty in there during summer. Hadn't really thought about it until I saw your comment!
Beautiful photos. I, too, really love this old (to those of us in the US) architecture.
Isn't it funny how the definition of "old" changes depending on where you are?
I love exploring older buildings and learning the history behind them. Liked your old highway filling station post from this series as well.
Thanks, Dominique! It's mind-boggling to think how many people have visited those older buildings. They've been a part of people's daily lives for so long.
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