The first St. Ignatius was formed in 1882. It was located in what is now the French Lake
Cemetery, about four miles southwest of Annandale. The old road used by pioneers can
still be seen in front of the cemetery. In 1900, the first chapel was built at Annandale. Work
on the present church began in 1955. It was dedicated April 21, 1959. Built of Mankato stone,
the project was guided by Fr. Patrick Keany who served as pastor for 32 years. In 2007, a new
addition was dedicated, including a new entrance into the church, a small chapel for prayer, a
gathering space with kitchen, parish offices, additional classrooms, a library and an elevator.
