About Carmel of Port Tobacco · La Plata, Maryland
The Carmel of Port Tobacco is a Discalced Carmelite monastery located on Mount Carmel in La Plata, Maryland, serving as the site of the first Carmelite convent established in the original thirteen American colonies. Founded in 1790 by four pioneering nuns, including Mother Bernardina Matthews, the community has endured relocation, restoration, and re-foundation, becoming a national historic site and Catholic pilgrimage destination. Today, the Carmelites live a contemplative life dedicated to prayer and spiritual renewal, welcoming visitors and pilgrims to experience their heritage and devotion.
- Established
- 1790
- Patron
- The Blessed Virgin Mary
- Diocese
- Diocese of Washington
Why belong here
Join a community rooted in contemplative prayer and spiritual renewal, where pilgrims can experience the historic site of the first Carmelite convent in the U.S. and participate in ministries like the Carmelite school, retreats, and Eucharistic adoration. The Carmel offers a place of quiet devotion and deep connection to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, welcoming all who seek God’s mercy and joy.
Our History
Founded in 1790 by four pioneering nuns — Mother Bernardina Matthews, her nieces Sister Mary Aloysia and Sister Mary Eleanora, and Sister Clare Joseph — the monastery was the first convent of religious women in the original thirteen colonies. After moving to Baltimore in 1831, the community returned to Port Tobacco in 1976, with six nuns re-establishing the Carmel. A major restoration campaign began in 1935, culminating in the 1954 dedication of a new chapel. The site is recognized as a National Historic Site, a Catholic shrine, and a civil shrine of Freedom of Religion.
Our Community
We are the Discalced Carmelite Nuns of the Blessed Virgin Mary, living a contemplative life for the love of the Lord and the benefit of souls. Our community is rooted in prayer, hospitality, and spiritual renewal, welcoming pilgrims and visitors to experience our heritage and devotion.
Place of Pilgrimage
The Carmel of Port Tobacco is a Catholic shrine and civil shrine of Freedom of Religion. The Holy See grants a plenary indulgence to all who make a public pilgrimage, and five years indulgence for a private pilgrimage. Pilgrimages are held throughout the year.