Holy Trinity, Coldwater

Parish Founded: 1867 Church Built: 1899

Architect: ? Architectural Style: Gothic

History: The founding of Holy Trinity Parish dates back to 1867 when three Catholic families, Kallmeyer, Boese, and Pohl of the Coldwater area sought permission for the construction of a wood frame church; hence the name "Holy Trinity." Completed in the fall of 1868, the original 30 x 60 foot structure stood at the site of our present church. Father Rengele, who was serving as pastor of St. Marys church, Philothea, accepted the additional duties of becoming the first pastor of Holy Trinity

As a result of the growing timber industry and the arrival of the railroads, the parish quickly grew to more than 80 families by 1886. To handle the increased size of the parish an addition was added to the north side of the church. Ten years later, when the parish numbered more than 100 families, it was decided to build a new church. The original structure was moved 100 feet to the east and construction began on the present church building. The cornerstone was laid in the spring of 1898, and the church was dedicated on October 9, 1899. The 54 x 145 foot gothic design structure incorporating large interior drop columns included two spires, one standing 85 feet and the other 145 feet tall.

Father Louis Yauss, pastor from 1915 to 1957, was instrumental in many areas of growth for Holy Trinity. He aided in bringing the parish through many changes and hard times.

The Parish has grown in size as well as faith. During the first 100 years of its existence, it had grown to 100 families. At this point in time the parish includes 1700 families and continues to grow.