The book History of Catholicity published in 1889 states the following about the people of St. Joseph Hill Catholic Church, “It is true that he (Fr. Dickmann) found the people well disposed … when he became their pastor,  but it is equally and creditably true that during his pastorate they have lost none of their goodness, but, on the contrary, have increased it.  The congregation is united, contented, and prosperous, respecting and loving their pastor and receiving his loving and tenderest care and love in return.  If merited praise were to be meted out to either, or both, it could take no higher form than this.”

The 1882 book History of the Ohio Falls and Their Counties, in describing St. Joe Hill says "from its surroundings one can see that it has little chance of ever becoming of much importance, except in a religious way." 

Little did they know ...

… our people… our faith!

Land, generally sold in parcels of 80 acres, sold for $1.25 per acre.  So a farm could be bought for $100.

Rev. Kilian Schott of Bavaria became pastor from 1892– 1896.  He immediately set out to fulfill Fr. Joseph Dickmann’s goal to build a new school.

Rev. Kilian Schott

The school building was constructed in 1892–93.  It had two classrooms on the first floor. The second floor and a wing on the back of the school served as a convent for the sisters who taught there.

The school’s twin turrets made it a distinctive landmark.

From 1896 to 1913, Rev. John Joseph M. Gabriel of Switzerland was pastor.  During his tenure, new altars were installed and a new slate roof was put on the church, it is believed.

 

Statues of St. Patrick and St. Boniface flanked the statue of St. Joseph, representing the Irish and German heritage of the people of St. Joseph Hill.

By 1896 all debts on the church and school had been paid.

Communion certificate issued to John Renn in 1889, signed by Fr. Dickmann.