The Barn: A Testament to Time and Tradition
by Kari Litscher
“Little did anyone know that this new structure would go on
to live many lives, serving purposes far beyond its original intent.”
—BVM Archivist Jennifer Head
1893–1904: Seeds of Growth on the Prairie
In 1893, the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary moved from their home at St. Joseph on the Prairie to their new Motherhouse on the bluffs of the Mississippi River in Dubuque, Iowa. A part of the community, workmen, and most of the livestock remained at St. Joseph on the Prairie.
1932: The Birth of the Barn
In 1932, a barn was built, its presence a testament to the aspirations of the BVM Community, providing shelter for the dairy cows that contributed milk and cream to the dinner tables in the Motherhouse. Little did anyone know that this new structure would go on to live many lives, serving purposes far beyond its original intent.
1950s: A Haven of Activity and Innovation
As the decades passed and the number of novices declined, the needs of the community changed. The barn became a haven of activity and innovation. Novices enjoyed its upper floor-turned-gymnasium, where the sounds of badminton, bowling, dancing, and singing echoed against the rafters. BVM Rita Finnigan’s thrift shop breathed new life into the nearby chicken coop, offering treasures and tales to all who crossed its threshold.
1893–1904: Seeds of Growth on the Prairie
In 1893, the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary moved from their home at St. Joseph on the Prairie to their new Motherhouse on the bluffs of the Mississippi River in Dubuque, Iowa. A part of the community, workmen, and most of the livestock remained at St. Joseph on the Prairie.
1932: The Birth of the Barn
In 1932, a barn was built, its presence a testament to the aspirations of the BVM Community, providing shelter for the dairy cows that contributed milk and cream to the dinner tables in the Motherhouse. Little did anyone know that this new structure would go on to live many lives, serving purposes far beyond its original intent.
1950s: A Haven of Activity and Innovation
As the decades passed and the number of novices declined, the needs of the community changed. The barn became a haven of activity and innovation. Novices enjoyed its upper floor-turned-gymnasium, where the sounds of badminton, bowling, dancing, and singing echoed against the rafters. BVM Rita Finnigan’s thrift shop breathed new life into the nearby chicken coop, offering treasures and tales to all who crossed its threshold.
2023: A Bittersweet Farewell
The barn stood empty for several years until its recent deconstruction to make way for Mount Carmel Bluffs. On Dec. 13, 2023, the time had come to bid farewell to the beloved barn. Filled with nostalgia and gratitude, the community witnessed the barns dismantling, its memory forever etched in the annals of BVM history.
This story was featured in:
SPRING 2024: BVMs on the Run Toward Justice
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