Seton Shrine Museum - Seton Shrine

Seton Shrine Museum

Experience the New Visitor Center & Museum

Introducing Mother Seton to a New Generation of Pilgrims

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton was a woman of her time; her story is for our time. Now you can immerse yourself in that inspiring story of one of America’s saints at the new Seton Shrine Museum and Visitor Center.

Our state-of-the-art exhibits feature artifacts, personal writings, digital interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages that capture the spirit of Mother Seton’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy, as she traversed the path from a seeker to servant to saint.

In the Seeker exhibit, step into Mother Seton’s early life, tracing her spiritual quest in the diverse, burgeoning society of 18th-century New York, culminating in her conversion to Catholicism.

The Servant section offers a moving glimpse of how Mother Seton embodied selfless service and enduring compassion. Discover her pivotal role in founding the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph’s, the nation’s first Catholic congregation of religious women, dedicated to educating the poor and underprivileged. Be inspired by the remarkable journey of a widow who, filled with faith and devotion, shaped her own path to the Truth.

Finally, step into the Saint exhibition, a tribute to her canonization and everlasting spiritual legacy. A collection of paintings, testimonies and interactive exhibits narrate the story of her sainthood, her miracles, and the impact she continues to exert on contemporary society.

Your experience culminates at the Basilica where Mother Seton is entombed. Free tours of the Basilica, as well as Mass, Confession, and Adoration are offered daily. But your experience doesn’t end there. With the purchase of a Historic Homes Tour or Living History Experience, you will be led by a guide through the two historic homes on the property. Visit the Gift Shop for books and religious items connected with this truly American saint.

The Seton Shrine Museum brings to life the history and legacy of a remarkable woman. As you walk through its halls, you will not only experience her amazing personal story, but also encounter the profound resonance of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s life for today’s world.

An American Saint

Early American artifacts & exhibits that interweave Mother Seton’s story with the birth of our nation

The new Seton Shrine Museum will be home to dozens of rare and extraordinary artifacts that not only chronicle her own life, but contextualizes the world in which she lived. You too are part of this story. Come experience the new Seton Shrine Museum this fall.

New Special Exhibit

The new Visitor Center not only has three brand new permanent galleries, but will also be home to revolving special exhibits as well. We are so excited to share that in conjunction with the Daughters of Charity Archives, a brand new exhibit is coming to the Seton Shrine to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Mother Seton‘s canonization. The new exhibit, ONE OF US: The Making of an American Saint, will open January 3rd and tell the story of how Elizabeth Ann Seton became a saint. You will be transported to 1975, a time of turbulence and transition in the country and will walk away with an understanding of the magnitude of Mother Seton’s influence back then and her continued relevance today. More info to come!

Previous Exhibits

Needlework was an essential skill for young women in the early 1800s. Some students at St. Joseph’s School developed their skills, creating beautiful samplers and fancy works of art. Come see some of the most complex and skillfully executed embroideries and samplers from the largest surviving group of needlework associated with a Maryland school.

The Daughters of Charity Provincial Archives is launching a new exhibit this fall, titled, “Getting in the Habit: Iconic Clothing of the Daughters of Charity.”  From bonnet to wings and beyond, see dozens of historic artifacts that explore the ranging apparel of the Daughters throughout the years!”

Behind the Artifact Series

Support the fancywork exhibit

Donate to the Mother Seton Fund today

Help the Shrine preserve and exhibit this new collection of precious relics and artifacts from Mother Seton’s Academy.

Give Today

Press

A Note of Appreciation

The Seton Shrine expresses profound gratitude to the Sisters of Charity of New York and to others who gifted or loaned items for exhibit: Daughters of Charity, Province of St. Louise, Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, and Mount St. Mary’s University. Our gratitude also extends to all who helped with the artifact transfer, preservation, display development, graphic design and construction. This exhibit is made possible by the generous support of Visit Frederick and the Shrine’s many benefactors.

Thank you.

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