The story of the Basilica of St. Paul in Daytona Beach traces its roots back to the arrival of the first Catholic family in the area on June 1, 1881. These immigrants from Germany, the Achstetter family, marked the beginning of the Catholic community in Daytona Beach. The first Mass in the region took place in a log cabin home situated in what is now the 600 block of South Ridgewood Avenue on March 16, 1862. The occasion was a nuptial Mass for the Achstetter family, with Father (later Bishop) William J. Kenny as the celebrant.

From 1862 until 1886, Mass was infrequently offered, with only two celebrations each year. Father Bernard O’Reilly and Father Maurice F. Foley from Deland were responsible for leading these Masses. The Catholic congregation gathered in various locations, including private homes, the old Palmetto House, William Jackson Hall, the depot on the corner of Beach Street and Orange Avenue, and the City Opera House.

Photo credit: Joseph Usher