History

Not long after Ed Schieffelin discovered silver in what is now known as the Tombstone Hills, there was a silver rush by miners from all over the world to strike it rich. As early as mid 1879, there were priests from Tucson, and as far away as Santa Fe, who visited Tombstone and celebrated Mass for the Catholics of the mining camp. By December 31, 1880 there was a two-story adobe brick rectory built near the northwest corner of 6th and Safford Streets and land purchased on the corner to build a Catholic Church. While the Church was being built, Father Antonio Jouvenceau celebrated Mass in the rectory. The rectory was known as Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish; the first and oldest Roman Catholic Church with that name in Arizona. The Church was completed in 1881 due to the efforts of "The Angel of the Camp," Miss Nellie Cashman.

In 1901, Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish became a mission to several thriving parishes including Bisbee, Nogales and Benson, after being the mother church to all of them.

In 1945, the original church was moved to its present location, enabling the building of a new Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. Father Thomas A. Doyle, Pastor, with nine thousand dollars and the help of many parishioners, finished the new church in time for the Christmas Eve Mass (December 24, 1947). The original church building was then retired as a church after 66 years of service.

On March 14, 1966, Sacred Heart of Jesus regained parish status with Father Thomas A. Doyle as its pastor.

Currently, our parish serves at least 225 families in the community of Tombstone, Arizona. Although historic (Tombstone is one of the most recognizable places to tour and visit), Tombstone is impoverished; over 50% of our families fall below poverty guidelines. Of course most of our community of Catholics fit that profile.

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E-mail: sh@tombstone1880.com