The history of American Martyrs dates back to March 12, 1926, when the late Most Rev. Bishop Paul J. Nausbaum appointed Father Erasmus Dooley to attend the spiritual needs of the rapidly developing Catholic population of Kingsford, where the Ford Plant was drawing in workers. At the time there was no church building, so Mass was offered at Garden Village School gymnasium.

In August 1939, Father John G. Hughes was named the first resident pastor and the parish continued to grow. Hughes saw the need for a permanent church and planning began.

Work on the new church building began in July 1940 on the northeast corner of Sagola Avenue and Newton Street. On Nov. 28, 1940, the dedication took place. It was noted that 300 parish men donated their time and skills during construction, which saved the parish more than $6,000 in labor costs.

In 1956, a removal of the interior and exterior of the church took place. The entire outside of the church was covered with Permastone. The old bell tower was then removed and a new electric bell system, along with a new bell tower installed.

(Marguerite Lanthier/Daily News photo)

In 1960, the new convent for the sisters at 145 Roseland St. was built. Prior to the construction, the sisters lived upstairs of the American Martyrs School, which was built in 1948. In 1971, the convent was sold and became the Kingsford Community Medical Center until 2002. It currently serves the community as the Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center.

The new parish as it stands today was built in 1961.

The school was later converted to the Catholic Faith Formation Center.

The Rev. Joseph Gouin was assigned pastor of American Martyrs in Kingsford in October 1990, where he continues to serve. In September 2022, Father Joe was named monsignor, a title bestowed on a priest who has distinguished himself by exceptional service to the church.

The first photo is circa 1948. The second is American Martyrs Catholic Church at 908 W. Sagola Ave. in Kingsford today.

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The Daily News is bringing back photos of “yesteryears.” Each week, an historical photograph will be posted on The Daily News’ Facebook page. Readers will be asked to identify the location, as well as share a memorable experience of the location. “Back to the present” will then be published in the Wednesday edition, including a current photo. Readers can comment on The Daily News’ Facebook page, or email tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com with subject “Back to the present.”