In 1900, the presence of Czech immigrants in the Duncan area necessitated the erection of a parish. This building lasted until 1938, when it was replaced by a church that had a very short life.

One of the most notorious events of its history happened in 1951, when a tornado completely destroyed the church and most of the other buildings in town. The most amazing part of the destruction was that the sanctuary light did not blow out! The same sanctuary light still hangs in the church and reminds all who enter of the faithfulness of God. In spite of the disaster, Archbishop Leo Binz came to Duncan two days later to celebrate Confirmation Mass on the east steps with the rubble and destruction behind him. Through strong faith, determination and much hard labor, the Duncan community reconstructed the buildings by 1952.

A major renovation project took place in 1999, involving a new ceiling, complete renovation of the sanctuary, construction of a reconciliation chapel, new altar, ambo, baptismal font, and ambry.

St. Wenceslaus has undergone several changes in the recent past. First, it was linked with St. Boniface, Garner in 1991. Next, in 2001, discussions began to consolidate religious education between Garner and Duncan. Eventually, a consolidated board of education was elected. Then, in 2002, St. Boniface and St. Wenceslaus became linked with St. Patrick, Britt; St. James, Forest City; St. Patrick, Lake Mills; and St. Patrick, Buffalo Center. St. Wenceslaus has been served by 19 priests in its long and proud history.

St. Wenceslaus has a long history of offering their sons and daughters to special service of the church. Rev. Jerry Kopacek was ordained to the priesthood on July 8, 1988; Rose Brcka (1935 - Sister Mary Miriam Brcka, ND); Albina Brcka (1936 - Sister Mary Rosalie Brcka, ND); Lillian Wellik (1941 - Sister Mary Louis Wellik, OSB); Sister Carol Tlach, ND (1967); and Sister Janet Hrubes, OSF (1972).

As of December 2010, approx. 116 families are registered in the parish. St. Wenceslaus continues to minister to reach out to all visitors, especially those who come to dance the polka at the Duncan Community Hall, a center of social life for the town and the parish.