The history of Catholic churches in Walla Walla traces back to 1859, when Father Toussaint Mesplie established St. Patrick’s Church in the early settlement of Steptoeville. The first Mass was held in a modest shelter constructed from poles and stakes, and the same space served as the location for Walla Walla County’s first election. Over time, the church relocated and expanded, culminating in the construction of a Gothic Revival brick structure designed by architect Donald MacKay, which was dedicated on Christmas Day in 1881. This building, with its distinct bell tower and vaulted interior, remains a prominent feature in Walla Walla’s religious and architectural landscape.

The Walla Walla Catholic Churches Records, housed at the Whitman College and Northwest Archives, span from 1839 to 1998. Most of the materials originate from the late 19th to mid-20th century and occupy 1.4 linear feet across four manuscript boxes. These records offer valuable insight into how the Catholic Church shaped education, health care, and community life in Walla Walla. St. Patrick’s played a foundational role in launching institutions such as St. Vincent’s Academy in 1864 and St. Mary’s Hospital in 1879. Later parishes like Assumption and St. Francis emerged to serve newer immigrant communities including Italian and Hispanic populations, reflecting the evolving demographics of the valley.

In 2019, restoration efforts began to return St. Patrick’s sanctuary to its original historic character. The renovations included removing modern features added after Vatican II and reinstating elements like altar rails, Stations of the Cross, and the traditional layout. These efforts reflect a commitment to preserving the historical and spiritual significance of one of the oldest Catholic parishes in the Pacific Northwest.

The records reflect the enduring legacy of the Catholic Church in Walla Walla through its pastoral work, community leadership, and built heritage. They also offer researchers a rich glimpse into the spiritual and civic fabric of the region.