By: Gerard Heirsch
4950 Holy Cross
Holy Cross was founded in 1837. The name came from the city of Lemans, France, meaning Saint Croix. Holy Cross is the second oldest foundation nationwide throughout the Holy Cross Congregation. In 1849, five brothers of Holy Cross were sent to Fr. Moreau in New Orleans. They were sent to undertake the obligation of St. Mary’s Orphanage. At the beginning of their duty, New Orleans had suffered many waves of diseases. Brother Vincent explained the climate of New Orleans as, “unhealthy, especially for strangers.” Many brothers wanted to pull themselves from New Orleans, but Fr. Basil Moreau decided to stay because of his deep devotion and affection to the city. He said, “This place has experienced various kinds of hardships…but that is proof that it will also become a place of great blessing.” Fr. Moreau knew that the Holy Cross would exceed beyond expectations and become something like no other.
Reynes Farm was purchased by the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1859. St. Isidore’s College was opened soon after on the grounds. It became a boarding and day school to many youth boys. Holy Cross had officially begun at this time. The building of Holy Cross was paid for by about $15,000. The school's name was then changed from St. Isidore’s College to Holy Cross College. Two buildings were soon constructed on the sides of the main building in 1912. In 1945, the alma mater of Holy Cross came to life. The new life of the building also came with classrooms, labs, a library, and even a cafeteria. The body of students became much larger and kept growing, forcing the administration to add more accommodations and buildings. A student center, Brothers’ Residence for the priests and brothers, swimming pool, a middle school building for the younger students, and even an athletic building was introduced to the campus.
Later, a devastating tragedy swept the 4950 Holy Cross out. After the destruction from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Holy Cross was drowned in flood waters. Holy Cross’ brothers decided to move to Gentilly in 2007, keeping the rich tradition of staying in New Orleans. The old campus on 4950 Dauphine St. is still up and standing but is surrounded by gates. It cannot be torn down because of its rich tradition and history. It brings in many people to look at the campus from the outside, take pictures, and shows its history and devotion to the Holy Cross community, given to us by, Father Basil Moreau.