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(Treme; church constructed 1841, parish hall constructed 1869)
The St. Augustine church and parish hall (built 1841-1869), are located in the historic Treme district. As the second oldest African American parish, St. Augustine is a significant part of the city's African American heritage. Currently a community gathering site, the church supports a multitude of services and programs for the local community. Thanks to the Partners in Preservation grant, work has been completed on the shingle roof and rotten and termite-damaged wood on the gallery.
What is the historical significance of this site?
St. Augustine was the first Catholic church in New Orleans established as a multi-cultural place of worship. Adjacent to the sanctuary and parish hall sits the Tomb of the Unknown Slave. This shrine, composed of grave crosses, chains and shackles, honors all slaves buried throughout the United States and those slaves in particular who lie beneath the ground of Treme in unmarked, unknown graves.
What is the current use of grant money and/or state of restoration?
The site currently houses the St. Vincent De Paul outreach program, processing applications and disbursing funds from elderly, disabled, poor, and youth applicants. The parish hall had been hosting cultural events, community functions, outreach programs, youth activities and fundraising events, but the building's condition required that those activities cease until repairs could be made. Thanks to the Partners in Preservation grant, work has been completed on the shingle roof and rotten and termite-damaged wood on the gallery.
Why this site needs your continued support:
The parish center is an important family gathering site for community functions such as meetings, receptions, social events, outreach programs for those in need, and fundraising to support the church. As the second oldest African American parish, St. Augustine is a historically and culturally significant place for the city of New Orleans and the African American community. Repairs to the church and parish buildings have improved the outreach programs and fundraising capabilities of St. Augustine, allowing it to once again become a hub for community involvement.
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