Picture credit to Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park
The Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park is asking for the community’s help to keep a piece of the historic Trinity Church alive. Earlier this year, it was discovered that the bulbs in the cross on top of the 92-foot steeple were out. Kristina Grossman, director of the Hausbarn-Heritage Park, says while crews were changing the light bulbs, more issues were discovered, causing the repair cost to double.
The total projected costs to replace the electrical and waterproof bulbs would be around $2,000, which does not cover the cost of renting a lift to reach that high on the steeple. Grossman says that while that is not a lot of money, the park has to be careful with spending during this part of the year.
Those interested in donating can send their cash or checks to Manning Community Foundation c/o Trinity Church at 130 Heritage Dr. Manning, IA 51455. Those wishing to pay with a credit or debit card must donate in person at the Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park. Grossman says that the lighted cross is not the only concern for the church building.
Originally built in 1913, the Trinity Church was located approximately 11 miles south of Manning. Once the church closed in 2006, the structure was moved to Hausbarn-Heritage Park to prevent it from being sold or dismantled. Grossman says that with that kind of history, the community wishes to see this building last for future generations.
The cross is currently at the city’s shop, getting waterproofed and electrical wiring replaced. Grossman is unsure how long it will be before it is placed back on the steeple to light up the night again.
