National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion - Atlas Obscura
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National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion

New Franken, Wisconsin

In 1859, the Virgin Mary supposedly appeared in this small town. 

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The small shrine prays homage to a miracle. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
The small shrine prays homage to a miracle. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
This was the first Marian apparition to be recognized in the United States. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
The Virgin Mary supposedly appeared here. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
This holy site can be found in rural Wisconsin. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
Stroll down the aisle. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
This certificate recognizes the validity of the apparition. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
This is one of the few approved Pietas. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
A small cemetery can be found outside. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
The shrine itself dates back to the 1940s. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
Oh come, all ye faithful. drchrisstout (Atlas Obscura User)
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The depths of rural Wisconsin might seem like an unlikely place for a Catholic holy site, but some claim that this shrine is on par with Lourdes in terms of its legacy of miraculous healing. In 1859, a Belgian-born woman by the name of Adele Brise claimed to see an apparition of the Virgin Mary on this site. In 2010, Bishop David L. Ricken officially recognized the vision, making this the first Marian apparition to be approved on American soil. 

After allegedly being called to “gather the children in this wild country and teach them what they should know for salvation,” the 28-year-old Brise dedicated the rest of her life to spreading the Word. Adding to the site’s miraculous credibility, the shrine was was spared from the infamous Peshtigo Fire of 1871. It also features one of the few Diocese-sanctioned Pieta replicas.

Know Before You Go

The shrine is a little bit difficult to get to, but not hard to find once you're in the area.

healing miracles catholic saints
Nearby
Wequiock Falls
5.42 miles
Crypt of Dr. William Edward Minahan
13.98 miles
Hamburger Charlie
27.82 miles
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