Monastery Immaculate Conception

The Monastery Immaculate Conception is a historic monastery that is still in operation. A group of Benedictine nuns live and work at the monastery, serving the community as they have for over one hundred years. The monastery serves an interest for people wanting to learn about the religious aspect, but the building itself also presents itself as an attraction for those that are fascinated by history or architecture. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Monastery Immaculate Conception Historical District.

The Monastery Immaculate Conception was built in 1867 by nun from Kentucky.  It was created to serve the religious needs of Ferdinand's growing community of Catholic German immigrants.  The nuns started a German speaking parish school at the monastery, and, three year later, opened a boarding school for young girls.  The monastery was expanded upon in 1915, and a Romanesque Revival style chapel was added to the building.  One part of the additions was the iconic dome, which towers eighty-seven feet above the church.

Today, the monastery no longer runs as a school, but it has been expanded upon from the original convent.  Along with the nun's quarters and chapel, there is also a gift shop, bakery, and retreat for tourists to stay at.  There is also a Monastery Event Hall that can be rented for wedding receptions or other special events.  Mass is still performed Monday through Friday.  Visitors to the monastery can join one of the tours or call to schedule a group tour.    

"Called to Make a Difference." The Dome. Accessed May 25, 2016. http://www.thedome.org/about/history/ "Visit Us." The Dome. Accessed May 25, 2016. www.thedome.org/visitus/