Sacred Heart Cathedral

Sacred Heart Cathedral is a Spanish Colonial Revival structure built from cream-colored stucco with red clay tiles and a tall bell tower crowned by a silver dome. The interior contains an entry vestibule, main sanctuary space, and an upper gallery that provides additional seating.

The cathedral was completed in 1916, replacing a wooden church from 1882 and marking the growth of Catholic presence in western Kansas. This transition from simple to more substantial construction reflects the community's development over time.

The building displays Spanish Colonial design that speaks to how European architectural traditions reached the American prairie. It continues to serve as a gathering place for the community today, showing how the structure remains integral to local religious life.

The building sits on a hill along Central Avenue with an entry vestibule and a spacious main chamber that includes upper galleries for additional viewing. Visitors should be aware that stairs lead to the upper level and the interior lighting is relatively dim.

The interior features murals painted by George Melville Stone above the sanctuary doors, showing how local artists decorated the building. The colored glass windows added in the 1940s also contribute artistic decoration to the space.

Location: Dodge City

Inception: 1916

Architects: Ralph Adams Cram

Architectural style: Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, Mediterranean Revival architecture

Floors above the ground: 2

Made from material: stucco

Address: 903 Central Avenue

GPS coordinates: 37.75639,-100.01667

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:43