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St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church facts for kids

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St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church
. Second Catholic Church to be build in Montana.jpg
St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church is located in Montana
St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church
St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church
Location in Montana
St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church is located in the United States
St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church
St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church
Location in the United States
Location 3497 Montana Highway 284
Townsend, Montana
Built by Thomas Howell
NRHP reference No. 98001339
Added to NRHP November 5, 1998

St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church is a special historical building in Townsend, Montana. It is also known by some locals as Old Pep. This site was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 5, 1998. While it was once a Catholic church, it is now a museum called the Canton Church Historic Site.

History of St. Joseph's Church

Building the Old Pep

The church, often called the Old Pep, was built a long time ago. Construction happened between 1875 and 1876. This makes it a very old and important building in Montana.

Unique Architectural Style

The St. Joseph's Catholic Mission Church is special because of its design. It is the oldest example of a Roman Catholic church building in Montana. It also shows a rare style called Colonial architecture. In 1902, a bell tower and steeple were added. These changes updated its look but kept its original design features.

Moving the Church to a New Home

In 1954, the church building was moved to its current spot. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation moved it to save it. This move prevented the building from being torn down. Now, it stands as a museum for everyone to visit and learn from.

External Links

  • Canton Church Restoration Foundation
  • More Information
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