Exterior view of the St. Paul's German Catholic Church 1885 addition and rectory. The darkened portion of the roof indicates the original dedicated church of 1871.
Black and white albumen print of St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Belle Plaine. The image shows the front exterior of the building with the church's congregation gathered there. Written on the backside side of the image is "The first St. Peter and Paul Church Built 1871. Belle Plaine, MN."
Black and white albumen print showing the interior of St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Belle Plaine. Seen are the apse, side alters, and a few pews. The main alter was carved by Hirshers of Shakopee and installed in the church in 1885. The building was torn down around 1905.
Black and white print showing the interior of St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Belle Plaine. Seen are the main and side alters, a small balcony, several pews, banners, Stations of the Cross, and other decorations. Written on the backside of the image is "Decorated 1882/Inside of old Catholic Church Sts Peter and Paul/Belle Plaine, Mn."
Black and white albumen print showing the main alter at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Belle Plaine. The alter is highly decorative, it is carved wood with arches, columns, finials, and other detail work. Seen within the alter are statues of Jesus with his exposed heart, Jesus on the cross flanked by Mary and Joseph praying, Mary and Joseph as Queen and King, kneeling figures, and a scene of the last supper. Written on the backside of the image is "Main alter St. Peter + Paul Church/Belle Plaine, Mn."
Schools in north-central Minnesota (1871-1909). The first log school, though built by the parishioners, was supported by government funds and was, therefore, also the district school for Pierz. By 1889, the public versus parochial school controversy demanded a clarification of schools. The parishioners then claimed the school they had built as their St. Edward's Parochial School. Later, the second floor of the school was opened as a high school. The school was then renamed St. Joseph's School (Saint Benedict's Monastery Archives).