Chanhassen church may be saved as historical society mobilizes to preserve 1880s building

Old St. Hubert Church, built in 1887, faces demolition unless funds are raised; a petition has gathered about 1,200 signatures and leaders estimate renovation would cost $2.5–$3.9 million.

The Old St. Hubert Church in Chanhassen has stood since 1887 and once hosted regular services and many life events for local families. The building has shown increasing wear for about 25 years, with pieces falling from the roof, according to Paula Atkins, president of the Chanhassen Historical Society. Talks about demolishing the church began last fall and prompted a preservation push by the historical society and community members. Atkins said a petition to save the church collected about 1,200 signatures in a few weeks. Key details: - The church dates to 1887, underwent renovations in the 1950s, and hosted services until 1976. - Community members report visible deterioration over the past two-and-a-half decades, including loose roof tiles. - A petition to preserve the building gathered about 1,200 signatures in a short period. - St. Hubert Church leaders estimate renovation costs at roughly $2.5 million to $3.9 million and said demolition would cost a much smaller sum. - Parish leaders announced they intend to proceed with demolition while remaining open to renovation if community members raise sufficient funds and any proposed use aligns with Catholic teachings. Summary: Parish leaders have decided to move forward with demolition to prioritize resources for their current church, though they say renovation remains possible if adequate funds are raised and proposed uses are consistent with Catholic teachings. It is undetermined whether a formal preservation plan or fundraising timeline will be established, while local interest and the petition reflect community support for saving the landmark.