The History of Fleur de Lis
Our nonprofit organization was established by Monsignor James A. Hartnett. On March 18, 1958, he first presented his ideas for Fleur de Lis to twelve women he selected from St. Louis, Missouri.
He discussed forming dancing classes to provide an opportunity for Catholic students to meet one another. He hoped that strong Catholic friendships and marriages would follow.
The Fleur de Lis Ball
Monsignor Hartnett introduced the idea of a ball where the program’s young women would be presented to His Excellency Joseph F. Ritter, the Archbishop of St. Louis.
This beautiful tradition originated in Europe and involved Catholic debutantes being presented to the city’s leading Prelate.
The First Event
The first Fleur de Lis Ball was held on January 1960. After the success of the event, it has become an annual affair.
The Story Behind Our Name
Fleur de Lis (the royal arms of France) was chosen as the name and symbol of the organization in honor of King Louis of France. He is the patron saint of St. Louis.
Making a Difference
While we are not a fundraising group, we annually donate part of the proceeds of the Fleur de Lis Ball and dance classes to SSM Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital. We have donated more than three million dollars since 1960.
