Originally built in 1835 and called St. Philip and James, the parish was relocated to this site and dedicated on May 12, 1880 and renamed The Church of The Holy Family. The Gothic-Byzantine structure was designed by Daniel Foley who was born in Dublin, Ireland. The Church was built on the property given by the Sisters of Mercy who relocated from Florida to start a school, which was called St. Joseph's Academy. The Parish Education building, St. Joseph's Hall, is located on site where their convent and school stood from 1870 to 1964. This is the only downtown church with a grave located on its grounds. Rev. Michael Cullina, pastor of St. Philip and James was buried here east of the main entrance.
