LBI Catholic retreat Maris Stella sold, will become oceanfront houses

Maris Stella Retreat and Conference Center that's been here in Harvey Cedars since 1959 has been sold to the Walters Group, a home builder for $14.75 million.

The Walters Group plans to build six luxury homes here.

The property has a long history, it dates back to the 1920s when Frederick Small, president of American Express bought it and used it as a retreat for his family.

Maris Stella is a retreat for the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth.

They'll continue to own the property across the street on the bay side.

You can learn more about the project and the property's history on APP.com.

I'm Michael Diamond for the Asbury Park Press.