Construction on the Basilica began in 1921 after Father Baker unveiled plans at a parish council meeting to build a shrine in homage to the Blessed Mother. Designed by Emile Ulrich, the basilica was constructed at a cost of $3.2 million, but the project was completed without the parish incurring any debt. By late 1925, construction on the sanctuary of Our Lady of Victory was complete, and the first mass was held there on Christmas of that year.The majority of the exterior of the shrine is constructed almost entirely of pure white marble. Throughout the Basilica's interior and parts of the exterior, a combination of more than 40 different types, colors, and designs of Italian marble can also be found.
