St. Joseph's College and Mother Seton Shrine photo
ParkMaryland, US

St. Joseph's College and Mother Seton Shrine

The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton is a revered historic and religious site in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

About

The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton is a revered historic and religious site in Emmitsburg, Maryland. It commemorates the life and enduring legacy of Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first native-born citizen of the United States to be canonized by the Roman Catholic Church, making it a significant pilgrimage destination for many.

Visitors can explore a comprehensive museum featuring state-of-the-art exhibits, rare artifacts, and interactive displays that narrate Mother Seton's journey from a New York socialite to a pioneering educator and saint. The beautiful Basilica, her final resting place, showcases stunning stained-glass windows, mosaics, and Italian marble. The historic grounds also include the Stone House, built in the 1750s, and the White House, constructed in 1810, both of which were homes to Mother Seton and served as the initial settings for her groundbreaking educational and religious work.

The Shrine offers a unique blend of spiritual reflection, historical immersion, and educational enrichment, providing insights into the origins of Catholic education in America and the founding of the Sisters of Charity. With peaceful grounds, engaging living history programs, and a compelling narrative, it's a memorable destination for those seeking to connect with American history and faith. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.

The history of St. Joseph's College and the Mother Seton Shrine is deeply intertwined with the life of Elizabeth Ann Seton. In June 1809, Elizabeth Ann Seton arrived in Emmitsburg, Maryland, where she established Saint Joseph's Academy and Free School, the first free parochial school for girls in the United States. This pioneering effort laid the foundation for the American Catholic parochial school system and marked the beginning of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph, the first American congregation of women religious. The Academy evolved over the years, eventually becoming St. Joseph's College, a four-year liberal arts college for women. After operating for over 160 years, St. Joseph's College closed in 1973, with its campus later acquired by the U.S. Government for the National Emergency Training Center. Mother Seton was canonized in 1975, and her remains were moved from the historic cemetery to the Basilica at the Shrine, solidifying its status as a national pilgrimage site. The buildings and cemetery of the campus and the Mother Seton Shrine were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 as a historic district.

What to do here

Explore the museum, take a guided Historic Homes Tour, attend daily Mass or Confession in the Basilica, engage with living history interpreters on weekends, and wander the peaceful grounds.

Seasonal info

The grounds and historic cemetery are open from dawn to dusk year-round. Special events, such as the "Back from the Dead Cemetery Walks" in the fall, occur seasonally.

Accessibility

The Shrine is wheelchair accessible, with all sites, walkways, and tour grounds designed to accommodate physically challenged people. Handicap ramps and on-site wheelchairs are available, and there is plenty of free parking.

Don't miss

1

The Basilica, where Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton is entombed, known for its intricate design and spiritual atmosphere.

2

The new Seton Shrine Museum and Visitor Center, featuring interactive exhibits, artifacts like Mother Seton's bonnet and personal writings, and a 12-minute film.

3

The historic Stone House (circa 1750) and White House (built 1810), where Mother Seton lived and taught.

4

The historic cemetery, "God's Little Acre," where Mother Seton was originally buried.

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Good to know before you go

Begin your visit at the Seton Shrine Museum and Visitor Center to gain an overview of Mother Seton's life before exploring the historic sites.

Consider taking a guided tour of the historic homes for a deeper understanding of Mother Seton's daily life and impact.

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the extensive grounds and historic buildings involves walking.

Allow time for reflection in the Basilica and the historic cemetery for a more complete spiritual experience.

Check the Shrine's website for specific Mass times, Confession schedules, and any special events or seasonal programs during your visit.

Utilize the picnic areas on the property if you plan to bring your own lunch.

Frequently asked questions

Visitors can immerse themselves in the life and legacy of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint. The Shrine features a modern museum with artifacts and interactive exhibits, the beautiful Basilica where she is entombed, and guided tours of her historic homes (the Stone House and White House) and the tranquil historic cemetery.
Yes, the Seton Shrine offers guided tours, including the Historic Homes Tour, which takes visitors through the Stone House and White House, detailing Elizabeth Ann Seton's life and work. On weekends, a Living History program allows visitors to interact with interpreters portraying characters from Mother Seton's time.
Admission to the Seton Shrine's museum, Basilica, visitor center, and grounds is free, and parking is also free. However, there is a fee for the Historic Homes Tours or Specialty Tours.

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