Old Chapel (Amherst, Massachusetts) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Old Chapel
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Old Chapel in 2013
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 Location in Massachusetts
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| Location | Amherst, Massachusetts |
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| Built | 1884–1887 |
| Architect | Stephen C. Earle, Worcester |
| Architectural style | Richardsonian Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 15000211 |
| Added to NRHP | May 11, 2015 |
Old Chapel, once called the Old Chapel Library, is a historic building. It stands on the campus of the University of Massachusetts Amherst. This special building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as an important part of American history.
Contents
A Look Back: Old Chapel's Story
Building a Landmark
Old Chapel was built a long time ago, between 1884 and 1887. It cost about $25,000 back then. That would be a lot more money today! The building was designed by an architect named Stephen C. Earle. He was from Worcester, Massachusetts.
He created the chapel in a style called Richardsonian Romanesque. This style often uses strong, heavy stone. It also features rounded arches. The chapel was meant to be a library, a museum, and a big meeting hall.
What the Chapel Looks Like
Old Chapel is a roughly square stone building. It has a tall tower at one corner. The building is mostly made of granite. It also has sandstone trim and a slate roof.
The tower has an open bell area at the top. This area has rounded arches. Above these arches are gabled peaks with clock faces. A four-sided steeple sits diagonally at the very top.
Famous Visitors and Bells
People say that John F. Kennedy spoke at the Chapel. This might have happened during his 1952 campaign for the U.S. Senate. However, this story has never been fully confirmed.
The chapel's first bell was named "Old Aggie." It was added in 1892. Later, 44 new carillon bells replaced it. A carillon is a musical instrument with many bells.
Challenges and Comebacks
The tower had a big renovation in 1999. But Old Chapel itself became empty in 1996. The University of Massachusetts Minuteman Marching Band used to practice there. They moved out because the building was not safe.
After that, many former students wanted to fix the building. They started a movement to renovate the inside. They hoped the chapel could be used again.
A New Beginning
Restoration of Old Chapel began in 2015. This happened after a campaign in 2013. Chancellor Kumble R. Subbaswamy led the effort. He wanted to restore and reuse the building's interior.
As part of this effort, a group called Preserve UMass nominated the chapel. They wanted it placed on the National Register of Historic Places. This important step happened on May 11, 2015.
See also
