Festina, Iowa: Tiny Church

Interior is 12 feet by 16 feet, with room for eight worshipers.

Very old, tiny church with a rich history. Cemetery has been well maintained. There is a tree that has grown up around a wooden grave marker. Original home of the builders was restored and moved to the church location. It houses the large cabinet that was the town's post office.

The church and grounds are still in good shape. The grounds also include a cabin that was built in 1848, deconstructed in 1993, and reconstructed in 1996. The original cabin was part of the Indian Agency and used by an agent of the organization. The cabin was used for Mass and therefore connects to the church. Inside the cabin there is also a large cabinet that was used as the first post office in the area.

There is no sign that explicitly says turn here to find the World's Smallest Church. You have to watch the road names to know when.

Cute little church, which doesn't look as small on the outside as it does when you peek inside. Someone looks after it religiously (pun intended), as there are fresh flowers on the altar and the narthex is well-stocked with brochures and postcards. There is not a speck of dust to be seen, although the pews could benefit from a coat of paint. It was rather dark in the tiny sanctuary, but still had the feel of a real church.

The world's smallest church is no longer in active service, but is maintained by a local family and open year-round. It's about two miles West of Festina, a small burg south of Decorah. The church seats about 8 people (more if friendly).

Well kept grounds; interesting gravestones.