Jewels from Jane -August 11
Monseigneur:
As we had consulted you about the repairs absolutely necessary on our house [the log cabin] and as you permitted us to have them made, we are going to commence. But as no one should begin before knowing if he can finish, please tell us the sum you can allow us and send us a part of it for us to buy the wood. They tell us that this repairing may amount to $500.
Accept, Monseigneur, the very humble respects of her who has the honor of being your very humble and submissive
Sister Marie Delphine [Fontbonne]
Carondelet, 11 August 1837
Letter to Bishop Rosati
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The sisters began building soon after their arrival. In 1838 the log cabin was covered with weatherboards, a second story was added, and two small rooms were added to the west end.
"The carpenter, having taken the matter in hand, unroofed the portion to which a story was to be raised, an improvement supposed to be sufficient for the time being. Before this work was completed the weather changed, and the rain poured in rendering their poor habitation more unaccommodating than before. This state of affairs continued during 5 or 6 weeks, the process of roofing being interrupted by the rainy season which, however, was the cause of much mirth as inconvenience to the Sisters, who were disposed to accept all things in the spirit of cheerfulness, when the rain became very heavy they held their umbrellas over them. This enlivened the recreation and some pleasant reminiscences are related of holding the umbrella and taking dinner with the other hand." Sister Adelaide O"Brien
The convent archives record a building contract between Celestine Pommerel and Julien and Auguste Gamache, who built this and the other early buildings. They were to be paid $300 upon completing the basement, $200 upon completing work, and $550 in five years, for all material and labor. Members of the Gamache family, who also ran a ferry and owned the land which became Jefferson Barracks, still live nearby. The architect was Mr. John Pitcher.
Madame Mullanphy, wife of Brian Mullanphy, a prominent St. Louisan, donated the funds for the first building. Brian Mullanphy also donated land to the Convent later on. At one time the sisters' property extended from the river to Michigan Avenue. The property east of the present boundary was sold in order to maintain the stone retaining wall.
