Bell Street Chapel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Bell Street Chapel
|
|
Bell Street Chapel
|
|
 Location in Rhode Island
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Providence, Rhode Island |
|---|---|
| Built | 1875 |
| Architect | Walker, William Russell |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000065 |
| Added to NRHP | March 14, 1973 |
Bell Street Chapel is a historic church in Providence, Rhode Island. It is located at 5 Bell Street, near Broadway in an area called "Federal Hill." This chapel is part of the Unitarian Universalist faith. It belongs to the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA).
Contents
A Look at Bell Street Chapel's History
Building the Chapel
The Bell Street Chapel was built in 1875. A rich engraver and art dealer named James Eddy paid for it. He had some unique ideas about religion for his time. Mr. Eddy wanted a special place for people who shared his beliefs. So, he had the chapel built right next to his own property.
A New Purpose for the Chapel
The chapel was not used much until James Eddy passed away in 1888. In his will, he left money to make sure the chapel would be used for many years. This money, called an endowment, still helps the chapel today.
After Mr. Eddy's death, a kind person from Providence named Anna Garlin Spencer was asked to help. She was a philanthropist, meaning she helped others. She was also a philosopher, someone who thinks deeply about life. Anna Garlin Spencer helped create a new church group to use the chapel.
Rhode Island's First Female Minister
Anna Garlin Spencer stayed at the chapel for ten years. During that time, the church group made her their minister. This was a very important moment. She became the first female minister of any religion in the entire State of Rhode Island.
Bell Street Chapel Today
Today, Rev. Frieda Gillespie serves as the minister. Kristi Martel is the music director. Church services happen every Sunday morning at 10:00.
In 1973, Bell Street Chapel was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is a special building recognized for its history.
See also
