1906-2025

Sacred Heart Church: Over A Century of Faith in Red Bluff

Sacred Heart Catholic Church stands as a majestic brick landmark at the corner of Main and Elm streets in Red Bluff, serving as a testament to the long history of Catholicism in Tehama County. Completed in 1906, the church was formally dedicated on October 7 of that year in an elaborate ceremony that reflected the significance of this achievement for the Catholic community.

The Dedication Ceremony

The Right Reverend Bishop Grace led the solemn dedication, assisted by prominent priests from across the state. The ceremony began with High Mass at 11 o'clock, with Bishop Grace supported by an impressive assembly of clergy: Rev. P.F. Carr of Dunsmuir, Rev. J.J. Haynes of Smartsville, Rev. Thomas Nugent of Redding, Rev. Gualco of Chico, Rev. H.H. Wyman of San Francisco, and Rev. P.D. Bray serving as Episcopal Deacon of Honor.

Following the religious service, the celebration continued in the church basement, where tables were arranged for 125 guests. The Altar Society members had worked tirelessly to create a festive atmosphere, decorating the hall with greens, flowers, pepper boughs, smilax, and ivy, before serving an elaborate luncheon to commemorate this historic occasion.

Historical Recognition and Preservation

Sacred Heart Church's architectural and historical significance was formally recognized when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on February 4, 1982 (building #82002278). This federal designation acknowledges properties that hold significance to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture.

The church celebrated its centennial in 2006, marking 100 years of continuous service to the community. During restoration work in 2004, Father Michael Hebda, then pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, personally participated in cleaning and preserving the church's artistic treasures, including the colorful angels depicted in Luigi Brusatori's Sacred Heart artwork.

Documenting the Legacy

The definitive historical record of this remarkable institution was compiled by Maurice L. Ness and Anne K. Palmer-Martin in their 2006 publication, History of Sacred Heart Community: 1853 to 2006. This 150-page book represents extensive research and careful documentation of the parish's rich heritage, with both authors drawing from their families' long connections to Sacred Heart Parish. The authors took great care to substantiate and corroborate all information, creating what remains the authoritative resource for understanding the church's place in local history.

Sources: History of Sacred Heart Community, 1853 to 2006, Maurice L. Ness and Anne K. Palmer-Martin (2006); National Register of Historic Places database, National Park Service