Maurice E. Murphy, a man of vision, who sensed the need for a new church on a new site. The present location at Third and Walnut Streets was selected. The first recorded confirmation is Edward Michael Barrett in 1871. He was confirmed by Bishop Thomas Grace. In November, the Father Matthew Total Abstinence Society is formed in Stillwater, with the goal of encouraging total abstinence from intoxicating drinks.
Construction is begun on the new South Hill church.
The cornerstone of the new church was laid, with a large procession and much celebration. Catherine Harrigan, the mother of Bing Crosby, is baptized at St. Michael's. Her family moved to St. Paul in 1881. Whether Crosby ever visited Stillwater is disputed. The church is 140 by 180 feet, built of native stone with Kasota stone trimmings.