Founded in 1841 by free people of color who pooled their money to buy pews alongside white parishioners — an integrated congregation in the middle of the slave era. St. Augustine Church on Governor Nicholls Street is the oldest African American Catholic parish in the United States. Free people of color purchased pew space for enslaved people as well, creating a space where Black worshippers sat in every section of the church. The Tomb of the Unknown Slave, a memorial in the churchyard added in 2004, honors the unnamed enslaved people buried in unmarked graves throughout the Tremé. The church has survived repeated closure threats and remains an active parish.
- ·Founded in 1841 by free people of color who pooled their money to buy pews alongside white parishioners.
- ·The oldest African American Catholic parish in the United States.
- ·Free people of color purchased pew space for enslaved people, creating integrated seating during the slave era.
- ·The Tomb of the Unknown Slave memorial was added to the churchyard in 2004.
- ·The church has survived repeated closure threats and remains an active parish.
- ·Located on Governor Nicholls Street in Tremé. Open for services; visitors welcome.
Memories
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