The Loretto Heritage Center includes both an Archive and a Museum where the 200-year history of the Sisters of Loretto and the 40-year history of the Loretto Community are documented in paper, artifacts and richly interpretive exhibits.

In the museum, visitors experience the setting of dramatic demonstrations by Loretto peace and justice activists and explore maps showing the rapid spread of Loretto education across the American continent and over the Pacific to China. An audio-visual theater and a room full of photographs offer a variety of vivid stories of Loretto places and people.

The archival collection, carefully and professionally maintained since the 1890s, offers academic researchers, families interested in genealogy and individuals related to Loretto the opportunity to examine original manuscripts and artifacts. A comfortable research room and knowledgeable staff assist users on an appointment basis. Less extensive research requests often can be handled by telephone and email.

For archival assistance, please contact the archivist or executive director using the form at the bottom of the page. The Heritage Center does not charge fees for information requested by Loretto members, relatives or students. We are happy to accept donations in furtherance of our mission to preserve and pass on the Loretto legacy.

Artifacts and Archives Collections

LOREtto Blog

Did you know the Heritage Center staff regularly writes an awesome blog about cool Loretto history? Find the most recent LOREtto (pronounced “LORE-etto”) posts at the bottom of the page, or read them here!

Visiting the Museum

Museum Hours
Tuesday – Friday: 11 a.m. – noon, 1 – 4 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.*
*weekend visitors need to go to the Infirmary Reception Desk to request access to the museum

Out of respect for the vulnerable population on the Motherhouse campus, we are asking that all visitors wear masks inside the museum. Visitors may drop in to the museum during our open hours and walk through the cemetery, but please refrain from visiting other parts of campus.

Please contact the Heritage Center for assistance with research requests or to arrange a research appointment.

Address and Directions

The Loretto Heritage Center is located on the grounds of the Loretto Motherhouse at 515 Nerinx Road, Nerinx, KY 40049.
Driving directions

Heritage Center staff

Susanna Pyatt – Director
Reba Weatherford – Archivist
Amanda Beard – Archival Assistant
Eleanor Craig SL – Community Historian

Contact the archivists