February 27, 2025 – Barton, WI – There is a treasured historic site on a quiet road just off Main Street up the hill on Fond du Lac Street in Barton. The St. Agnes site is a cherished landmark of old stone buildings dating to 1858.
The location is pristine tucked behind tall pine trees; the three buildings include an original convent (1858), rectory (1860), and barn (1877). The property, founded by pioneering missionary Rev. Casper Rehrl, rests under the shadow of the big blue West Bend water tower.
The site is owned by the Washington County Historical Society (WCHS) which is working on a plan to ensure its preservation by making it an active part of the community once again.
The location is marked by a large wooden sign on Fond du Lac Street; an artistic font reads St. Agnes Historic Site Founded 1858. Grounds open dawn to dusk. The sign is surrounded by a simple circle of rocks. Past the pine trees is a crooked path of flat stones that lead to the Rehrl rectory and off to the right a red barn with a stone base.
There’s educational material, including articles and photos, displayed under glass. Three information stations detail the history of convent, the ties to Mt. Calvary in neighboring Fond du Lac County, the impact of Rev. Rehrl and his influence in education, and the potential of the land originally owned by Barton Salisbury.
Joe Zaremba is president of the Washington County Historical Society Board. He, along with the new executive director, team and board are exploring new uses for the property, including transforming it into an event venue, a cultural space, or even a small retreat center. Zaremba said the Society’s commitment is to honor the site’s rich past while adapting it for future generations.
“St. Agnes is one of the many historic assets we oversee, and we see a great deal of opportunity here,” said Zaremba. “The beauty of the stone masonry and the deep history behind Father Rehrl’s mission make this site a true gem. We’re working on ways to incorporate it into our long-term plans so more people can appreciate its significance.”
While discussions and planning are still in progress, Zaremba made one thing crystal clear: the St. Agnes site is not going anywhere, and the historic buildings will stay for as long as this board is in place.
Zaremba has a passion for history. In March 2022, he and his wife purchased the former Exclusive Company in West Bend, Wi, so the landmark business could remain in the community.
He said that dedication to history is the same focus he, and his board have with the Historical Society as it is committed to preserving the legacy of the St. Agnes site while finding meaningful ways to integrate it into the fabric of the community.
Click HERE to learn more about St. Agnes Convent and School
This is a working story, and more information will be posted when details are available.
