St. Francis Parish, located in Cranberry Prairie, is not large now, nor has it ever been. Over the years the number of parishioners has been pretty static. At present it counts about 85 households. On May 9, 1858, the Bishop of Cincinnati established this catholic parish for the immigrants who were starting to farm in the area. The new parish immediately began building a church. It was dedicated on September 12, 1860. Records show the church was dedicated to St. Francis Seraph, but from early on the patron saint of the parish has been St. Francis of Assisi.
  As the number of parishioners grew the decision was made to build a new church. The present St. Francis Church was begun in 1903 and dedicated on September 30, 1906 After 90 years it is still a beautiful building and beautiful place to worship.