Knowles Memorial Chapel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Knowles Memorial Chapel
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Knowles Chapel tower
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 Location in Florida
Location in the United States
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| Location | Rollins College Winter Park, Florida |
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| Nearest city | Winter Park |
| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1932 |
| Architect | Ralph Adams Cram and builder, G. W. Hessler of Jacksonville |
| Architectural style | Mediterranean Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 97001448 |
| Added to NRHP | December 8, 1997 |
Knowles Memorial Chapel is a beautiful and historic building. It is located on the campus of Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. This special chapel was built between 1931 and 1932. It has a unique design style called Mediterranean Revival.
Because of its importance, the chapel was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 8, 1997. In 2012, the AIA's Florida Chapter also named it one of Florida's top architectural places.
Contents
The Chapel's Interesting History
Knowles Memorial Chapel was a gift to Rollins College. It was given by Frances Knowles Warren. She wanted to remember her father, Francis Bangs Knowles. He was a very important person! Francis Bangs Knowles helped start both Rollins College and the city of Winter Park.
A famous architect named Ralph Adams Cram designed the chapel. He was known for designing many churches and colleges. Cram actually said this chapel was his favorite among all the buildings he designed. In 2007, the chapel's stone walls were repaired. This work was paid for by a special fund set up by Frances Knowles Warren.
The Chapel's Amazing Organ
The chapel has a large and impressive organ. It was built in 1932 by a well-known organ maker, Ernest M. Skinner. In the mid-1950s, Skinner's company, Aeolian-Skinner, updated the organ.
Later, between 1999 and 2002, the organ was completely rebuilt and improved. A company called Randall Dyer & Associates did this big job. At the same time, they also added a brand new organ. This new part is in the back of the balcony, around the beautiful Rose Window.
Beautiful Stained Glass Windows
The chapel features stunning stained glass. The large, round window at the back is called a rose window. It shows pictures of the seven liberal arts. These are subjects like grammar, logic, and music. This beautiful window was a team effort. Architect Ralph Adams Cram worked with stained-glass artist William Herbert Burnham to create it.
How the Chapel is Used Today
Knowles Memorial Chapel is still an active part of Rollins College. It serves as the college's main chapel. The college's pastor is also the dean of the chapel.
Besides religious services, the chapel is a popular place for music events. Many concerts are held there. It is especially busy during the annual Bach Festival of Winter Park.
See also
In Spanish: Capilla Conmemorativa Knowles para niños
Gallery
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Knowles Chapel detail over entrance
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Knowles Chapel side view
