Inspiration On a trip to Santa Clara, California in 1985, Father Harold Cooper saw a giant stainless-steel sculpture of Mary. Being a Sioux City resident, Father Cooper wanted his city to have the same opportunity
Inspiration
On a trip to Santa Clara, California in 1985, Father Harold Cooper saw a giant stainless-steel sculpture of Mary. Being a Sioux City resident, Father Cooper wanted his city to have the same opportunity to be moved, as he was.
Seeking land to build on, Father Cooper found that the Savings and Loan had ownership of the land in which he was interested. However, in his favor, the 1987 Savings and Loan crisis erupted, and he was able to purchase land, that would eventually become Trinity Heights, for a fraction of the original price.
Immense Statues
Soon after, the 30-foot statue of Mary went up in 1992. After that, the 33-foot statue of Jesus was erected in 1998. Both weighing five tons!
I Come Here to Reminisce
Trinity Heights holds precious memories for me, since this is where I got engaged. At night it was, the statues all lit up in majestic glory, but one lonely deer peeking around a distant tree. Quiet and peaceful, calming yet invigorating. Excitement in the air.
My fiancé took me here for the first time in our first month of dating. Seven years later, we made another visit on a beautiful Spring day.
Gardens and Grounds
The grounds are picturesque and charming, stunning and scenic, and dotted with trees and bushes. You’ll come across bridges, a small lake, a plethora of bird houses and multiple statues, including Moses.
“Quiet Please” and “People Are Praying” are the signs you’ll see reminding you that these are sacred grounds. Be respectful.
The Last Supper
Within the visitor center is an adaptation of the Last Super. Completely life-size and carved by hand, it took Jerry Traufler, from nearby Le Mars, seven years to finish. On display since 1996, it is one of only four life-size wood Last Suppers in the world.
Plan Your Visit
When you make your way here, take your time to navigate your way through these wondrous and delightful grounds. Don’t forget there’s a gift shop!
2509 33rd St
Sioux City, IA
Hours:
Grounds: Daily 10 a.m. – dusk
Gift Shop:
Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.
Visit their website (http://www.trinityheights.com) for more information, and for a larger map of the Grounds.
Roadside America also did a detailed article on Trinity Heights: https://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/12132