The beginnings of the parish can be found in its connection to the Yoakum area. In the northern section of Dewitt County, Czech Catholics began to settle in 1886. People came from other parts of the state when the Aransas Pass Railroad was proposed to be built there. Land at that time was sold for $6-$8 dollars an acre.

At the time Yoakum was not a city yet, but St. Joseph Church had been established in 1869 near the area of Brushy Creek. To the northeast of Yoakum was a tiny settlement called Hochheim, which dates back to 1836. It derives its name from the first settler, Valentine Hoch, who came to America from Alsace-Lorraine.

Through the generosity of Jacob Poth with his donation of 5 acres, the St. Ann church and cemetery were located on a scenic hilltop. It was built in 1906 at a cost of $3000 through the efforts of Fr. William Heffernann, the pastor of St. Joseph. The small fledgling group of 25 parishioners had a joint meeting and decided to name the parish, “St. Ann.” The dedication of the parish took place on October 24, 1906 with the bishop, the Most Rev. J.W. Shaw, of the Diocese of San Antonio. As a way of honoring the generosity of the donor of the land, the bell of the parish was blessed and dedicated to St. James. A great feast was held honoring the many members of the clergy and laity who had gathered for this solemn celebration.

Near the time of the dedication Mass, an observer wrote describing the day: “As this celebration was announced last Sunday in Yoakum, there would come a very large number of Czech, German and Spanish people—some out of pure curiosity and deep devotion. Though the time of the Mass was at a very late hour—many had fasted long hours, just to be able to receive Holy Communion on this, their most special occasion in their lives. There was not even a confessional yet, so Father heard confessions at the High Altar….it was all very touching.”

St. Ann Parish has for most of its existence been a mission of St. Joseph in Yoakum. It did have one resident pastor, Fr. Charles J. Benes, from 1922-1932. Throughout its history it has been damaged by several storms (1920, 1929) and always repaired and restored by its members. It was enlarged to its present size after the 1929 storm and made into the shape of a cruciform. Other improvements included the application of stucco to the exterior, and continued upkeep over the years.

As the population has shifted, the activity around the little parish has diminished. But the spirit of the parish family is strong and dedicated. In recent years the roof has been replaced, the interior refurbished, windows replaced, air conditioning installed and the pews refinished. In the spring of 2008 a Parish Pavilion was built that included a restroom facility. The Pavilion was built to serve as a gathering place for parishioners after Sunday Masses and for the Annual Feast Day celebration held each year. The Parish Cemetery has been designated as a Texas State Historical site with a marker acknowledging the over 100 years of service to the community. Mass is celebrated each Sunday of the month at 7 A.M., and on special feasts. The picturesque little church at Hochheim Prairie remains a center of faith and devotion for those who hold St. Ann’s so dear in their heart.