The Convent and Academy of Saint Vincent dePaul was opened in June, 1845. Sisters of Mercy from Charleston, S.C. under the leadership of Mother Vincent Mahoney, began a boarding school, orphanage, day school and free school. St. Vincent's Convent became an independent Motherhouse within two years, and from here over 20 schools, hospitals, and orphanages were founded throughout Georgia. Early foundations continuing to give service include St. Joseph's Hospital and St. Mary's Home, Savannah (1855) and St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta (1880).
Records attest to bravery and heroic service rendered by the Sisters of Mercy during the yellow fever epademics of 1853, 1876, and 1878, and to their care for the wounded and suffering during the Civil War.
Students at St. Vincent's included Winnie and Jeff Davis, children of Confederate President Jefferson Davis.
Noted architect, Charles B. Cluskey, designed the Convent and Academy building. The style is Greek Revival.
Heritage Hall in the original building recalls for today's young women St. Vincent's tradition of educational excellence.
