University of Virginia

Kate A, Oscar, Owen

*One of multiple entrances at the present day UVA chapel*

History of the UVA chapel

The idea for a chapel at the University of Virginia began in the 1840s when people realized one didn’t exist. The wives of UVA faculty members raised money and drew plans while architect Charles E. Cassel carried them out with a few changes. Construction began in 1885. The chapel bell was rung by Henry Martin, an African-American employee who was born into slavery at Monticello, from its creation until his death in 1915. The chapel is described as a gothic style as opposed to the rest of UVA’s Jeffersonian (a local variation of Neoclassical) style, which helps it to stand out. See the photos below.

*Jeffersonian style rotunda at the University of Virginia*

Why was the UVA chapel built?

The UVA chapel was built for multiple reasons. One of the most significant was the Second Great Awakening, a religious revival in the early 19th century. Not having a place to celebrate religion caused people to be upset. It was originally supposed to be built in the middle of the lawn at the University of Virginia, but ended up being placed next to the rotunda. The chapel is now used for events such as weddings, memorials, funerals, etc.