Built In 1871

James Woods, a local farmer, sold this property in 1847 to Bishop Miles of Nashville. He purchased the land with $400 in gold donated by the Franklin Female Academy for the purpose of building a church. Thus was begun the St. Philip Catholic Community.

An Italian priest, Father James L. Orengo, a Dominican, arrived in Franklin in 1871 at a time when the Catholic population had grown considerably due to an influx of Irishmen who had come to work on the railroad and settled in the area. Work on the church coincided with Father Orengo's arrival. All of the work was done by the parishioners themselves. In fact, bricks for the building were formed and fired in the churchyard. Intending to remain here, Father Orengo purchased property adjacent to the church, but his health began failing and he was called by to Italy. The land was sold to the Sheas, a Catholic family in Franklin.

After Father Orengo's departure, Father Marron oversaw the final stages of work and was assigned by Bishop Freehan of Nashville as the first pastor of St. Philip. The church was dedicated on November 6, 1871 with a High Mass celebrated by the Bishop.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  Franklin, TN  |  Williamson County  |  37064  |  Tennessee  |  United States of America

John H. Eaton
St. Philip Catholic Church
Masonic Temple
Union Headquarters
Old Factory Store
Ewen Cameron
Fifth Third Bank
U.S. Model 1841 6-Pounder Field Guns/Franklin Public Square During The Battle
Old Harpeth River Bridge
Franklin Cotton Factory and Foundry / Lillie Mills

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.