The well preserved log home was originally built by the Joseph Carabin family in the early 1830’s. These pioneers of St. Alphonsus welcomed the young parish to their home for Mass in the days before a church was built. It was located about ¼ mile south of the present site.

In 1841 Fr. John Nepomucene Neumann is said to have visited this family in their log home while he was at St. Alphonsus on a retreat. He had just joined the Redemptorist order. He was the first priest welcomed into the new order in America.

Fr. Neumann loved to work with children in their homes as he traveled, usually by foot, through the frontier.

In the prayer center we find relics and much information of this frontier priest who was canonized in 1977. It also features many historical artifacts, displays, and inspirational books to enjoy.
A special carving by a local artisan, Jim Herner, depicts the young missionary priest teaching children in this home. It is believed that he in fact did teach children of the family and the parish in this warm and loving home.