What is it about deserted places that is so fascinating? Is it because they hold secrets and stories that no one else knows? Maybe it is the architecture itself (as homes and businesses are not created the same now as they once were)? Is it the thought that it holds treasures inside? No matter the reason, deserted places are some of our favorites, and South Dakota is chock full of these historic dwellings. One of these mysterious, yet well-preserved buildings is the old St. Mary’s in Zell, South Dakota:

Located along US-212 in Faulk County is the unincorporated community of Zell, which once housed a stop on the old Chicago and North Western Railway and is now home to only a handful of residents and...
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
...The historic St. Mary's Catholic Church, School, and Convent.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Spanning seven acres and consisting of four buildings and a cemetery, the St. Mary's Catholic Church, School, and Convent were all built between 1883 to 1910 and were later listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1982. 
Google/Christian Begeman

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The oldest building of the four is the convent school, which was built in 1883 and served as the mother site of the South Dakota Benedictine Sisters, who taught at the school until 1963.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Sadly, the school had to close due to costly fire code compliances and never re-opened. 
While both the church and convent are closed and virtually deserted, the grounds are still well-maintained, making for a beautiful photo op for beginner and professional photographers alike. 
Google/Rick Lussi
Please note: St. Mary's Catholic Church, School, and Convent is located on privately-owned land, so please do not trespass or try to enter any of the buildings without permission. 
Google Street View

Have you had a chance to see this historic building for yourself? We would love to see your photos in the comments! For even more deserted places around SoDak, check out The Abandoned Town In South Dakota That Most People Stay Far, Far Away From.

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