Oakland Memorial Chapel facts for kids
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Oakland Memorial Chapel
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Main façade of the chapel, 1972
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 Location in Mississippi
Location in the United States
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| Location | Alcorn State University campus, Claiborne County, Mississippi |
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| Built | 1838 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 74001057 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | December 27, 1974 |
| Designated NHL | May 11, 1976 |
The Oakland Memorial Chapel is a very old and important building located on the campus of Alcorn State University in Mississippi. It was built in 1838 and first served as part of a school called Oakland College. After the American Civil War, Alcorn State University took over the campus.
This chapel is one of the oldest buildings still standing at Alcorn State. Alcorn State University was the first land grant university created specifically to educate African Americans. Because of its history, the chapel was named a National Historic Landmark in 1976. It also became a Mississippi Landmark in 1985.
Contents
About the Chapel Building
The Oakland Memorial Chapel stands out on the campus of Alcorn State University. It's a three-story building made of brick with a pointed roof. The bottom floor acts like a raised basement.
Chapel's Unique Design
The front of the chapel has a special design called a Greek temple portico. This means it has six large columns made of brick that hold up a triangular roof section. Above the main roof, there's a two-part square tower made of wood. This tower has fancy columns and details, and it's topped with a low railing.
History of Oakland Chapel
The story of the Oakland Memorial Chapel begins with Oakland College. This college was founded in 1828 by Reverend Jeremiah Chamberlain. He started it as a Presbyterian mission to educate white children in the area.
From Oakland College to Alcorn State
In 1851, Reverend Chamberlain, who was against slavery, was sadly killed. The school then closed during the American Civil War. After the war, it tried to reopen but closed again soon after.
In 1871, the state of Mississippi bought the college's land and buildings. That same year, the state created Alcorn State University. This was a huge step because Alcorn State was the first land-grant university in the United States made specifically for African Americans. It's also believed to be the first state-supported school in the country to have a black woman graduate.
When the state took over the campus, only three buildings from the original Oakland College were still standing. The Oakland Memorial Chapel is the best preserved of these buildings. It also has the most detailed and beautiful architecture.
See also
