The history of Sacred Heart Church began in 1865, when the Calumet mine was discovered. Fr. Edward Jacker visited Calumet at various times between 1865 - 1868, celebrating mass in the home of Capt. John Ryan, since no church was available. Fr. Jacker took up permanent residence in Calumet in 1868. The first Sacred Heart Church was built shortly afterwards. Sacred Heart Parish was the first Catholic church in Calumet. During the 1890s, various ethnic-based congregations were formed from the influx of immigrants who came to Calumet.

     Sacred Heart Parish was served by a diocesan priest until 1890, when it's care was accepted by the Franciscan Fathers of St. John the Baptist Province of Cincinnati. Rev. Peter Welling, O.F.M. was the first Franciscan pastor.

     The parish grew and soon outgrew its original home, resulting in a new church being built in 1897. The parish continued to grow. In 1907, it contained 340 families. Most of the families were of Irish and German heritage. Sacred Heart has had a history of many active organizations, such as Men's and Women's Catholic Foresters, the Ladies Altar Society, Men's Club, and many others.

     Music has always been an important part of our parish. One couple, Mr. and Mrs. Weldon Dix, served as choir director and organist from 1931-1959. During this time, many choirs and musical events were held in the parish.

     Fr. Ethelbert Harrington, O.F.M. was Sacred Heart's longest serving pastor. He served from 1932-1951. Fr. Harrington, who was a Calumet native, also served several years as Assistant Pastor.

     Catholic Education was a strong tradition in the history of the parish. Sacred Heart School began in 1891, and served the parish and the community until it closed in June 1982.

     On August 13, 1983, Sacred Heart Church was destroyed by fire of undetermined origin. Fortunately, no one was hurt. If the fire had started an hour earlier, the loss of life might have been considerable. Masses were held in the CLK Religious Education Center for the next few years. After receiving permission from Bishop Mark Schmitt, the planning for a new church began. Three years of hard work followed under the leadership of Fr. Casper Gensler, O.F.M. The new church was dedicated on May 4, 1986.