The Old Mission (built 1848-1853) was a combined effort of the missionaries and over 300 native Catholics. Fr. Ravalli, an Italian born Jesuit, designed the building to resemble the elegant cathedrals of his homeland, using local materials. Wood was milled on the site, and wattle and daub construction used to make the walls both durable and light. The decorations of the interior illustrate both the piety of the workers and their ingenuity. Chandeliers were constructed from old tin cans, the altar was faux-painted to resemble marble.
The Old Mission was the site of the council following the conflict with Col. Steptoe, and also served as headquarters for the Mullan Road crew.
In 1887, the mission itself was moved to DeSmet, Idaho, to the Coeur d'Alene reservation. The building still stands, as a monument to the cooperation of the Coeur d'Alene tribe and their missionaries.
The mission sits on a beautiful knoll, overlooking the Coeur d'Alene River. The mission and parish house are open for tours, there are picnic grounds and walking paths with unobtrusive interpretive speeches, a Visitor's center with a film show, and two historical cemeteries.
Today the mission is part of a very sacred tradition - the Coeur d'Alene Tribal Pilgrimage and Feast of the Assumption. The Trib's annual pilgrimage to the cemetery and church is followed by Mass and a dinner accompanied by Native American drumming, singing and dancing.
Date: August 15th, 2008.
Location: The Coeur d'Alene Old Mission is located on I-90 24 miles east of Coeur d'Alene, take Exit 39.
For more information: Please call 208-682-3814.
Send an e-card | Request Visitor's Guide Contact the Visitor's Bureau: Email | Toll-Free 877.782.9232 | Direct: 208.664.3194
