The church was founded in the town of Lyons, which now the north side of Clinton, Iowa, United States.

Jean was originally from Baynes, France and came to the United States upon the invitation of Bishop Loras.

It cost $4,000 to build and it was staffed by the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary from Dubuque.

Other parishes were formed to the south in Clinton: St. Mary's (1867), St. Patrick's (1889), and Sacred Heart (1891).

North Second Street on the back side of the church became a major thoroughfare through town.

Simulated stone was applied to the walls to match the exterior of the church, Gothic-style light fixtures were hung, new Stations of the Cross were installed along the side walls and the ceiling was decorated with simulated beams.

In the 1960s and 70s, a parish hall, kitchen, meeting rooms and restrooms were built in the basement of the church.

[2] Sacred Heart Church is a part of the Prince of Peace School complex and is used for their liturgical needs.

A non-profit organization is being formed to preserve St. Boniface Church building as a religious heritage museum.

[2][8] It was recently bought by the Gabbard family for $1 and they are currently restoring it to its former glory, in order that it might provide the Traditional Latin Mass for the community