SWAMPOODLE LILY - Murray Robert Francis

The Jesuit Saint Aloysius Church was built in 1859 on North Capitol Street in Washington, D.C.  The lily represents the structure itself that rose up in a swampy area of the Federal City near the Capitol. This book has been referred to as a boutique book containing scholarly text recalling selections of history, reflections, commentary, personal verse and archival materials, all graced with original photographs, fine illustrations and sketches.  It also recalls interesting details about the location and times of the building of Saint Aloysius Church just prior to the Civil War.

As a key player in the planning and working committees of renovation of the Church, the author feels it necessary to continue the care and preservation of St. Aloysius in the future because of the cultural value it brings to the City, the Nation and the World. The book underlines the importance of the structure’s architect, Benedict Sestini, S.J., and Costantino Brumidi, the “Michelangelo” of the U.S. Captiol, who donated his fine oils on canvas to grace the interior. Their combined creativity and artistry made Saint Aloysius Church a landmark of great value in Washington. The Swampoodle Lily is planted and thrives on the campus of Gonzaga College High School.