Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception - Mobile, AL - American Guide Series on Waymarking.com

According to the American Guide Series book on Alabama, Alabama, A Guide to the Deep South, 1941, p. 214:

"The CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, Claiborne St., between Conti and Dauphin Sts., is an imposing structure showing Roman influence in its design. Across the front façade are eight fluted Doric columns. The exterior is of red brick with limestone and granite base, portico, and cornice. The side and rear façades have massively graceful pilasters in keeping with the imposing entrance and an iron balustrade ornaments the rear. The foundation stone was blessed by Bishop Michael Portier, the first bishop of the diocese of Mobile, on January 29, 1836, and the cathedral was dedicated 14 years later, on December 8, 1850, by the Right Reverend Ignatius Reynolds. The present portico was added after the War between the States, and in 1885 the twin towers were built. The grounds, studded with shade trees, are enclosed by the lace-work iron fence, the work of Bishop Quinlan's cousin, Daniel Geary, who installed it a few weeks before the outbreak of war in 1861.

"The Cathedral stands on a part of the burial ground used by the Spaniards during their occupation of Mobile. Fifise Langlois, who introduced the azalea to Mobile in 1754, is buried here."

An historical marker located directly in front of the church provides additional information about the history of the parish and church. It states, "Parish established in 1703 by John-Baptiste de la Croix, Bishop of Quebec, while Mobile served as capital of Louisiana. Oldest religious congregation of any denomination in Alabama and the Mississippi River Valley. Rev. Henry Rolleaux, first pastor. Present church, constructed 1835-1850, is third parish church, built by Michael Portier, first Bishop of Mobile (1826-1859). Portico added 1870. Bell towers 1890. Sainted glass windows 1910. Cathedral designated a Minor Basilica by Pope John XXIII in 1962. Crypt Chapel for deceased bishops 1964."

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Book: Alabama Page Number(s) of Excerpt: 214 Year Originally Published: 1941

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