St. Joseph Convent 1890, Philipsburg

The St. Joseph Convent, built in 1890, is one of Philipsburg’s most important historic landmarks and a cornerstone of education on St. Maarten. Its story began in 1888 when Roman Catholic priest Father Stephanus J.J. Niewenhuis, who had served on the island for 35 years, left two houses, a plot of land, and ten thousand guilders to the Dominican Sisters of the Netherlands in his will. His goal was to encourage the sisters to come to St. Maarten to open a school, addressing the island’s growing need for education.

On May 31, 1890, six Dominican Sisters arrived from the Netherlands and settled into the new convent, which had been prepared for them. The convent and school were dedicated to St. Joseph, with Reverend Sister Egelie serving as the first principal and prioress. Just days later, on June 2, 1890, the school opened its doors to 132 students—Catholic and non-Catholic alike. Over the years, St. Joseph School educated many of the island’s future community leaders and became a symbol of faith and learning.

After 1990, the building passed into private ownership but continued to be part of Philipsburg’s daily life. Hurricane Irma in 2017 destroyed the entire second floor, yet the owners, the Gioia family, restored the structure with care, rebuilding the roof in its original style to preserve the building’s historic appearance.

Today, the St. Joseph Convent 1890 retains its iconic façade on Front Street. The ground floor houses several retail shops, while the upper level serves as office space, including the main St. Maarten Tourism Bureau.