It took a while, but Grotto's now a historic place
By DANIEL F. DeLONG
Globe editor
Posted May 30, 2002

WEST BEND - The beautiful Grotto of the Redemption, which for many years has been a leading spiritual and tourist stop in Iowa, was only recently given a listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Grotto was one of 40 properties in 28 counties that was recognized earlier this month during a ceremony at the State Historical Building in Des Moines.

"Most people automatically figured we were on the list," explained Deacon Jerry Streit, director of the Grotto.

Streit said the Grotto wanted to get a state grant to help in a refurbishment project a few years ago. It was then when the state realized the last inquiry by the Grotto about becoming a historic site was in 1972.

"The state acted immediately, and we were placed on the list," said Streit.

The Grotto, like the other sites that were honored, followed national guidelines that took into account national and local significance of a site, the reputation of a nationally recognized person of the past, or the historic representation of a particular time or period.

The Registry of Historic Places was started as an effort to increase historical awareness throughout the nation by promoting sites in each state.

Started in 1912 by Father Paul Dabberstein, the Grotto has been a work in progress throughout its glorious history.

The Grotto offers daily tours through Oct. 15, or any time by appointment.

Streit said the new 36-unit Park View Inn & Suites, located about a block from the Grotto, is a blessing for West Bend and for those who visit the Grotto.

The new motel has a conference room and enough space for bus tours, he said.

The old motel could not accommodate the large buses, and often left immediately after a tour finished.

"The Grotto is lit every evening until 11, so many of the visitors will now be able to spend a relaxing evening and not rush off," Streit said.

Tourists can also stay in the campground, which has showers.