West Bend is home to a number of historical attractions.  The best-known landmark is the Grotto of Redemption, which is the world’s largest grotto.  It draws visitors from all over the world.  The Grotto is dubbed “the Eighth Wonder of the World,” and is the largest collection of rock and semi-precious stones in existence.  It has an estimated geological value of more than $2.5 million.  It was begun by Father Paul Dobberstein in 1912.  He continued his work for 42 years by collecting ornamental rocks and gems and setting them in concrete to represent scenes in the life of Christ.  The Grotto is open to visitors year round.  Other historical attractions include the Sod House, the Country Schoolhouse, and an historical museum.  West Bend was first in Palo Alto County on the west bend of the Des Moines River in 1855.  When the Rock Island Railroad came through the area, the people moved four miles to the east and kept the name West Bend.