In September of 1883, they established a "select" school for Black children on the third floor of the Sisters of Mercy’s former convent. This school was referred to as "select" because it was the nicest classroom the Sisters had ever used. It came to be known as Saint Cecilia's School.

This law enforced racial segregation in schools by prohibiting White teachers from instructing Black students. It targeted schools like St. Cecelia's (St. Benedict the Moor).

Renovations are complete at the O'Reilly House, and the Sisters of St. Joseph begin teaching students there. Their classes would outgrow the house in only four months.

Because the house was in disrepair, the nuns taught Black children on the surrounding properties, under the orange groves that once lined Aviles Street. 

The original 8 eight Sisters of St. Joseph of Saint Augustine arrived in Florida. Their original mission was to teach the city's Black children. Their Order has been here for 150+ years, remaining dedicated to education and service.

Construction was completed on the  Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine. Don Miguel O'Reilly served as the first parish priest of the new church.