[2] The complex is significant both because of its historical association with the early Irish Catholics in the area, and because of the architecturally important Gothic revival church.

[2] In 1829, Kilkenny, Ireland native Father Patrick O'Kelly was dispatched to the area to minister to the growing community.

[2] Construction on the current church building was begun in 1875 and completed in 1878; the parish was renamed "St. Patrick's" at that time.

[2] The church is a red brick Gothic revival structure on a rough-hewn stone foundation.

The façade of the church is symmetric, with a square central tower surmounted by an octagonal spire.