Nestled in the heart of Council Bluffs, Iowa, St. Peter's Catholic Church stands as a testament to the enduring faith and rich history of its community. This architectural gem, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, invites visitors to explore its storied past and admire its striking Gothic Revival design. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, St. Peter's promises a memorable experience.
The origins of St. Peter's Catholic Church date back to 1884 when a group of determined German women in Council Bluffs took it upon themselves to establish a place of worship for their community. At the time, they were part of the predominantly Irish St. Francis Xavier Parish. To raise funds for their own church, these women collected 25 cents monthly from each member. Their efforts were soon supported by the German Catholic men who organized in 1886, solidifying their commitment to creating a new parish.
With the approval of Bishop Henry Cosgrove of the Diocese of Davenport and the Rev. B.P. McMenony from St. Francis Xavier, St. Peter's Parish was officially formed on April 25, 1887. Due to a shortage of German-speaking priests in the Davenport diocese, the parish was initially served by Benedictine monks from St. Benedict's Abbey in Atchison, Kansas. This marked the beginning of a vibrant and enduring community.
The design of St. Peter's Catholic Church is a masterpiece of late 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture. Renowned architect Mathias Schnell from Rock Island, Illinois, crafted the plans, and the construction was entrusted to the Wickham Brothers of Council Bluffs. Completed in 1887 at a cost of $11,126, the church's symmetrical facade and towering 100-foot central bell tower immediately command attention.
The side elevations of the church are divided into six bays, each adorned with alternating buttresses and pilasters. Lancet windows grace the center of each bay, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. The apsidal end of the church features three high-placed lancet windows, adding to the building's ethereal beauty. Brick corbeling at the cornice level adds a touch of intricate detail to the exterior.
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St. Peter's Parish continued to grow and evolve over the years. In 1888, the men of the parish constructed a frame schoolhouse for the parochial school, followed by a frame convent for the Benedictine Sisters who taught there. These structures were replaced in 1924 with a brick combination school building and convent, reflecting the parish's commitment to education and community service.
The brick rectory, completed in 1895, stands as a 2½-story residential building with a full-size porch, segmental arched windows, a lunette window, and a corbelled brick frieze. This elegant structure, also built by the Wickham Brothers, served as the residence for the Benedictine priests who ministered to the parish.
In 1911, St. Peter's Parish became part of the newly formed Diocese of Des Moines. Alongside St. Mary's in Des Moines, St. Peter's was one of the only two ethnic, non-territorial parishes in the diocese, both serving German congregations. This unique status continued until 1974 when Bishop Maurice Dingman merged St. Peter's with St. Francis Xavier Parish. While the St. Francis church building was taken down, the St. Peter's building was preserved for the merged parish.
In 1975, clergy from the Des Moines diocese took over from the Benedictines, marking a new era in the parish's history. The church and rectory were officially recognized for their historical significance and were placed on the National Register of Historic Places on July 24, 1992.
St. Peter's Catholic Church has continued to adapt to the needs of its parishioners while preserving its historical integrity. In 1999, a new parish hall was completed, providing a versatile space for community gatherings and events. The church's interior underwent a renovation in 2001, with statues and frescoes being embellished to enhance the spiritual ambiance. An office addition was completed in 2006, further supporting the administrative functions of the parish.
Between the church and the rectory, visitors will find the Our Lady of Grace shrine, constructed by the Rev. J.J. Hannan, S.J., around 1958. This serene space offers a moment of reflection and prayer, inviting all who visit to experience a sense of peace and connection.
St. Peter's Catholic Church in Council Bluffs is more than just a building; it is a living testament to the faith, resilience, and dedication of its community. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, its rich history, or its spiritual significance, a visit to St. Peter's is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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