OLD ST. VINCENT'S IS PRESERVING PAST

An important piece of Cape Girardeau's history is being preserved with the formation of a museum at Old St. Vincent's Church in the downtown area. The historic church was founded in 1827, and the restored building is 142 years old.

The church has been accepting donations of items to be displayed at the church. The response has been good. Bricks from the church's old school, scrapbooks, a portable communion kit, an old Latin missal and photographs are among the donated items.

There is still a lot of sorting out to do. The church will get some help from Southeast Missouri State University officials as the items are organized and catalogued.

Eventually, the museum will be quite a draw for tourists and many local residents curious about the old church and its history. Many individuals who have been personally associated with the church or school will be particularly interested in seeing this history preserved.

The real worth of the museum, though, will come in a few years when those personal memories are no longer available. The church's important and significant past will rely largely on today's generosity of those who are willing to share items for the museum.

The church will gladly accept more donations for the museum. Anyone interested in making a donation may contact B.W. Harrison at 335-3669.