Did you know Saint Marys Cathedral in Austin has witnessed Austin’s transformation from a small town to a vibrant capital? Its story began long before the towering skyline we see today. Saint Marys Cathedral stands as a testament to faith, community, and architectural beauty.
In the 1850s, Austin was a small town known as Waterloo. The Catholic community, largely of Irish descent, built St. Patrick’s Church. This small stone church stood at 9th and Brazos Streets. Saint Patrick’s was constructed from locally sourced limestone. As the parish grew, especially with the influx of German Catholics, a decision was made in 1866 to build a new, larger church.
The Irish wanted to keep the name Saint Patrick. The Germans preferred a patron saint reflecting their heritage. A compromise was reached. The new church would be named in honor of Mary. In 1872, Austin became the permanent capital. The cornerstone for Saint Marys Cathedral was laid one block north of the original St. Patrick’s. Saint Marys Cathedral was completed in 1874 and dedicated in 1884. Shortly after, St. Patrick’s was demolished.
Nicholas J. Clayton, an Irish-born architect, designed Saint Marys Cathedral. This was his first independent commission. He employed a Victorian design aesthetic. The neo-Gothic revival towers and spires were added in 1907. It is said that the original finials were removed in the 1950s after lightning strikes.
Stepping inside Saint Marys Cathedral is like entering a natural sanctuary. The columns resemble trees. Their capitals are carved with foliage. Murals depict vines and leaves. The pointed arches and spires evoke mountains. The blue dome with stars mirrors the sky.
One of the cathedral’s treasures is its bell. The Butler family donated it. It is one of the largest bells in Texas.
In 1948, when the Diocese of Austin was created, Saint Marys became its cathedral. Renovations followed. Many neo-Gothic decorations were removed. The altars and altar rail were replaced with marble. A baldachino featuring cacti and bluebonnets was added. It is evocative of central Texas.
Saint Marys Cathedral underwent extensive restoration in 2013 to address safety concerns. The exterior was cleaned and blocks and mortar were replaced. The large rose window in the front facade was also restored. The window’s design symbolizes the four evangelists. They carry the Word to the four corners of the world.
Saint Marys Cathedral was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 2, 1973.
Saint Marys Cathedral also includes the Cathedral School of Saint Mary. Established in 1866, it is Austin’s oldest continuously operating school.
There are other stories of Saint Marys Cathedral. Some speak of ghostly encounters. A former choir director spoke of a reading room above a former kitchen. Staff reported smelling brownies. It is said that Father Joseph, a monk with a sweet tooth, used to bake brownies there. His phantom aroma lingers even after his death. Others have heard singing like monks chanting that wasn’t there.
As you leave Saint Marys Cathedral, remember its rich history and architectural beauty. Saint Marys Cathedral is more than just a building. It’s a living testament to faith, community, and the enduring spirit of Austin.