A way of the cross was erected in the woods on the Feast of the Seven Dolors, April 12, 1889, with the approval of Archbishop Peter Richard Kenrick.

As more and more pilgrims came to Starkenburg, Father Hoehn decided that more elaborate stations should be purchased with assistance from the Pilgrims. In 1900, Father Jacob Denner, a former student of Father Hoehn's, came to spend his Christmas vacation here. While walking through the woods to the Grotto, Father Hoehn mentioned to Father Denner that he would like to get donations for this purpose.