Immaculate Conception Catholic Church — Wexford, Iowa
Sometimes the best road trip stops aren’t in crowded towns — they’re historic places tucked into scenic country landscapes. Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in rural Allamakee County — just off Great River Road and next to the Wexford Valley Campground — is one of those places that rewards the curious traveler. With roots stretching back more than 170 years and a story deeply tied to Irish heritage, this quiet country church is a meaningful and beautiful stop on your Iowa journey.
📍 Address
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
1416 Great River Road
Lansing, IA 52151, USA
A Parish Founded on Faith and Heritage
Immaculate Conception Parish in Wexford was established in 1851 by Rev. Thomas Hore, an Irish priest who brought a group of Catholic families to northeast Iowa. The rolling hills and river valleys reminded them of County Wexford in Ireland, inspiring not just the name of their new home but the heart of their community.
Father Hore’s vision was more than a place to worship — it was a faith‑centered settlement rooted in Christian values and care for the land. Over the more than 160 years since its founding, that Irish heritage has remained an important part of parish life.
From Log Church to Sturdy Stone Sanctuary
Shortly after arriving in the fertile valley near what would be Wexford, the early parishioners — with Father Hore’s guidance — built a log church to hold worship services. The first baptisms and marriages were recorded soon afterward, marking the beginning of a thriving community.
As the number of settlers grew, a larger and more permanent structure became necessary. With limestone quarried from the hills around Wexford, parishioners worked together to build the rock church that stands today during the pastorate of Father Hannon (1863–1868). This church was dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, and its construction reflects the hard work, faith, and unity of the early Irish community.
A Community That Grew Together
Over the years, the parish continued to develop both its facilities and its spiritual life:
- 1905 – A new rectory was built while Fr. Laffan served as pastor.
- 1919 – A belfry and vestibule were added to the church.
- 1952 – The parish hall was constructed, offering space for gatherings and celebrations.
- 1965 – A shrine dedicated to the Blessed Mother, called Our Lady of the Wayside Shrine, was blessed and dedicated by Archbishop Byrnes to watch over the surrounding hills and valley.
These milestones reflect how the parish has grown to meet the needs of its people while preserving its historic character.
Wexford’s Rural Charm and Heritage
Unlike many parish centers in larger towns, Wexford never grew into a busy settlement — and that’s part of its charm. The church sits amid rolling hills of farmland, woods, and quiet valleys, where family farms and uninterrupted countryside create a peaceful backdrop for reflection and exploration.
The names and stories of local families reflect generations of people connected to this land and this church, with Irish heritage still woven into the community’s identity.
Planning Your Visit
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church is open for visitors who want to experience its historic setting, sit in quiet prayer, or take in the beautiful rural landscape around it.
The church is usually open during daylight hours (check parish bulletins or call ahead for seasonal changes).
Why It’s Worth the Stop
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Wexford isn’t just another historic building — it’s a living piece of Irish‑American heritage nestled in rural Iowa. From its founding in the midst of the Great Famine to its stone sanctuary built by spirited early settlers, this church invites travelers to slow down, reflect, and connect with the perseverance of a community that built its faith into the landscape.
Whether you’re a history lover, architecture fan, or road tripper seeking hidden gems, this quiet rural parish deserves a place on your Iowa itinerary.
