Holy Trinity Church History
Holy Trinity Church is the only church in Rock County to be designated an Historical Site in the National Register of Places. It is also fondly known as a “Bishop Whipple Church,” a tribute to the man who was the first Bishop of the Diocese of Minnesota during the building of the church.
The first Episcopal service in Luverne was held in the Presbyterian church in March, 1883, by Rev. D. Griffith Dunn of Worthington. The parish was organized on June 25, 1891, with Rev. C.S. Ware chosen as first rector. On August 19, 1891, Bishop Gilbert and Rev. Ware laid the cornerstone.
Holy Trinity Church was built by the Hinkly family of Luverne. R. B. Hinkly was a stone quarryman and owned the quarry in what is known today as Blue Mound State Park. The church, like Mr. Hinkly’s statuesque home a block west, was built in a durable pink quartzite, generally known as Sioux quartzite. All of the woodwork is oak and the windows in the church are original and were made and shipped here from England.
Founded in 1891 and offered to the Glory of God, Holy Trinity Church continues to serve the community of Luverne. Although many Episcopal families have moved away, Holy Trinity continues to serve God and people of all faiths through worship, service and friendship.
