Across the street from St. Fidelis Church is a life-sized statue depicting German immigrants from Russia. This piece was sculpted by Hays artist Pete Felten in 1976 and is titled “Volga German Family.” It is made of Silverdale Limestone that was shipped from Arkansas City, Kansas. The commemoration of the statue was held in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the Volga Germans arriving in Ellis County.

Pete Felten reviewed numerous old photographs to create a piece of art that represented the strength and solidarity of these immigrants. The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia National Headquarters in Lincoln, Nebraska were so impressed with the statue, they commissioned Felten to create an exact replica which now stands outside their front entrance to welcome visitors to their facility.