Father Miguel O'Reilly House Museum
Explore one of the oldest structures in town and the Catholic tradition it represents.
Closed for lunch on Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 12:30 to 1:00 p.m. Open by appointment on Mondays for large parties and school groups.
Built during the First Spanish Period, the Father Miguel O'Reilly House Museum is one of the oldest structures in St. Augustine and is situated in the oldest continuously settled neighborhood. Constructed in 1691, and made of tabby and coquina, the building was purchased by Father Miguel O'Reilly in 1785. Father Miguel, an Irish priest in the service of the Spanish crown, made this house a place of spirituality and education, preserving the old values. The property was eventually left to the Sisters of St. Joseph, who originally used the space to teach newly emancipated African Americans.
Located on historic Aviles Street, this museum opened to the public in 2003. The house focuses on three main areas: the history of the property, the Catholic tradition it represents, which has been kept alive since 1565, and the story of the Sisters of St. Joseph, who have maintained and preserved the historical house since 1866.
Since the museum is rich in history, guests are encouraged to explore the beautiful garden and six rooms in the house, all of which are open to the public. It displays all the beauty and wonder St. Augustine held to its first visitors, with artifacts presented from the city's long history. These items range from musical instruments the Sisters used to teach with old lesson plans, to papers documenting the history of its Catholic tradition.
Admission is free for the museum. Donations are gratefully accepted.
Closed for lunch on Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 12:30 to 1:00 p.m. Open by appointment on Mondays for large parties and school groups.
