Location: Catharine

The Catholic settlers of Katharinestadt, now known as Catharine, had humble beginnings as they gathered at a large cross praying a litany and singing songs before a church was constructed. The town’s original church was built in 1877, but construction on the church we see today started in 1890. The parishioners provided much of the construction labor, including hauling the limestone from the quarry 15 miles away.

Today, you are greeted by two heralding angels as you walk up to this stunning structure. The interior is filled with stunning stained-glass windows, a gorgeous pipe organ, and a beautiful altar. There’s so much to see and admire here, but one of my favorite details are the photos they have displayed from the church’s past. Seeing these reminds you that you are walking through the very history at the heart of this community.

Location: Victoria

To me, there’s nothing quite like admiring the artistry and craftsmanship of rural Kansas churches. As I gaze upon these structures, I can see the passion and detail that modern construction just can’t hold a candle to. The settlers that built these churches invested their time, money, and energy into these labors of love, and with some churches requiring members to quarry and haul stone to the church site, ‘labor of love’ should be taken very literally.

If you enjoy architecture and art, visiting the historic limestone churches of Ellis County should make it to your bucket list. In fact, there are more historic limestone German Catholic churches in Ellis County than any other county in Kansas, so this road trip is must-see experience. I was able to tour some of these spectacular churches with the Kansas Museums Association, so I wanted to give you the inside scoop on the Historic Limestone Churches of Ellis County.

As you explore, please keep in mind that many of these churches still have active parishes while some are no longer active churches, so availability of each location may vary. We recommend that you always double check availability information before you go.

Location: Pfeifer

To me, there’s nothing quite like admiring the artistry and craftsmanship of rural Kansas churches. As I gaze upon these structures, I can see the passion and detail that modern construction just can’t hold a candle to. The settlers that built these churches invested their time, money, and energy into these labors of love, and with some churches requiring members to quarry and haul stone to the church site, ‘labor of love’ should be taken very literally.

If you enjoy architecture and art, visiting the historic limestone churches of Ellis County should make it to your bucket list. In fact, there are more historic limestone German Catholic churches in Ellis County than any other county in Kansas, so this road trip is must-see experience. I was able to tour some of these spectacular churches with the Kansas Museums Association, so I wanted to give you the inside scoop on the Historic Limestone Churches of Ellis County.

As you explore, please keep in mind that many of these churches still have active parishes while some are no longer active churches, so availability of each location may vary. We recommend that you always double check availability information before you go.