Just off Highway 327, surrounded by fields and timeworn fences, sits St. Charles Catholic Church. Most locals know St. Charles as a peaceful country parish. But this little church helped anchor Catholicism in Kentucky.
The Early Years (1786-1806)
In 1786, before Kentucky was even a state, Mass was first offered in this region — most likely in the log cabin of early settler Henry Hagan. Father Stephen Theodore Badin traveled by horseback bringing sacraments to settlers. Father Charles Nerinckx arrived from Europe in 1805.
Founding of the Church (1806)
In 1806, Father Nerinckx oversaw construction of a proper church building at the Hardin’s Creek Settlement, dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo.
The Sisters of Loretto and the Birth of Catholic Education
In 1812, Father Nerinckx helped found the Sisters of Loretto, who took their first vows right here at St. Charles. By 1816, the Sisters had founded Calvary Academy.
St. Mary’s College and Father William Byrne
In 1821, Father William Byrne founded St. Mary’s College, just a short walk from the church.
The Buildings That Stood (and Still Stand)
The original log church of 1806 gave way in 1832 to a brick structure. The current sanctuary was completed in 1905.
Cemetery and Sacred Ground
Behind the church lies the St. Charles Church Cemetery. Names like Spalding, Abell, Wathen, and Mattingly mark the graves.
About the Author
Kenny Browning is a lifelong resident of Marion County, Kentucky, with over 72 years of deep roots in the community. A passionate storyteller and history enthusiast, Kenny offers personalized tours that highlight the beauty and history of rural Kentucky.