LOCAL

Happy 148th birthday, St. Mary Catholic School!

Suzanne B. Smith Your Voice Correspondent
As in years past, students at St. Mary Catholic School celebrated the hiistoric institution's 148 birthday on Oct. 11. [CONTRIBUTED]

WILMINGTON -- Saint Mary Catholic School celebrated its 148th Birthday on Oct. 11! Started in 1869 by the Charleston Sisters of Mercy, it is the oldest Catholic school in North Carolina.

Located in the heart of the historic district on the corner of Fourth and Ann streets, the school and campus are full of history.

The Boundary Oak, located in the middle of the school playground, was the edge of the town of Wilmington in colonial times and was a popular meeting place.

The beautifully restored Tileston School was built in 1871 and is the site of one of the first public schools in North Carolina. It is now home to the St. Mary Parish offices and St. Mary Middle School.

The Basilica Shrine of Saint Mary, designed and built by architect Rafael Guastavino, was built using no wood or nails, just brick and Guastavino’s patented tile system. The church and the adjacent bishop’s residence were dedicated in April 1912.

On Wednesday, Oct. 11, St. Mary School students donned party hats and enjoyed a special birthday lunch as part of their school day; continuing the school’s rich heritage and tradition!

Happy birthday, St. Mary School!

Suzanne B. Smith is a former St. Mary School teacher and parent of two former St. Mary students. Her grandchildren now attend the school.

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