Saint Joseph's Academy

Saint Joseph's Academy is a school building in Italianate style located at Marshall and Western Avenues, constructed from light-colored limestone and rising three and a half stories. The facade displays characteristic Italian architectural features including well-proportioned windows and a solid, carefully planned structure.

The Academy was founded in 1851 when the Sisters of Saint Joseph opened a school for girls in a log cabin structure. The limestone building standing today was constructed in 1863, marking a major shift to a permanent and substantial educational facility.

The Academy served as a vital educational space for generations of girls in Saint Paul and shaped the intellectual life of the community. You can sense this legacy when walking through the building, as the sturdy rooms and careful design reflect the institution's commitment to serious learning.

The building has been protected as a historic landmark since 1975 and remains in its original state, allowing visitors to see authentic period school architecture. Pay attention to the fine details and craftsmanship of the stonework visible throughout the structure.

The institution maintained a long-standing connection with graduates through a newsletter called Chapter Chats, which still reaches thousands of alumnae today. This ongoing dialogue between the school and its former students shows an unusual degree of continuity and community bonds.

Location: Saint Paul

Architectural style: Italianate architecture

GPS coordinates: 44.94917,-93.11500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:26