RETURN TO VICKSBURG

In May 1864, some of the sisters returned to Vicksburg, but four remained at Shelby Springs for another year.  In Vicksburg they found the convent occupied by the Federal government, and once again accepted the hospitality of the Genella family until influential friends in Washington could secure permission for them to return to the convent.

School reopened in September, with an enrollment of 200 and an educational program geared strongly to the liberal arts.  Music, drama, and art were essential, and the focus was on the preservation of the cultural heritage so strong in southern life and spirit. 

The school continued to grow, and on August 2, 1868, the cornerstone was placed for the large brick building which now stands at the corner of Adams and Crawford Streets.

Soon the sisters here were asked to help establish other schools in the state, the first two being St. Paul's School in Pass Christian and St. Joseph High school in Jackson, both founded in 1870.  (To be continued)