Sacred Heart Academy — The American Miracle

National Register of Historic Places

In October 1866, a student named Mary Wilson was reportedly cured of tuberculosis after a novena to Saint John Berchmans. The Vatican recognized it — the only Vatican-recognized miracle in North American history. The Chapel of the Miracle still stands on campus and draws pilgrims. The school itself has been operating since 1821, founded by the Society of the Sacred Heart. It's the oldest continuously operating school for women west of the Mississippi — over two hundred years without interruption. Salma Hayek attended as a teenager. The chapel and grounds are accessible. Check with the school office for hours.

Quick facts

·In October 1866, student Mary Wilson was reportedly cured of tuberculosis after a novena to Saint John Berchmans — the only Vatican-recognized miracle in North American history.
·The Chapel of the Miracle still stands on campus and draws pilgrims.
·Founded in 1821 by the Society of the Sacred Heart — the oldest continuously operating school for women west of the Mississippi.
·Among its alumnae: Salma Hayek, who attended as a teenager.
·The campus in Grand Coteau has operated without interruption for over 200 years.
·Open to visitors. The chapel and grounds are accessible; check with the school office for hours.