Ira Allen Chapel

The Ira Allen Chapel, a beacon of architectural elegance and historical significance, stands proudly on the campus of the University of Vermont (UVM) in Burlington. Nestled at the northeast corner of the University Green, this iconic structure is not just a chapel but a testament to the university's rich heritage and the vision of its founder, Ira Allen. With its striking red brick facade, towering white columns, and a majestic clock tower, the chapel is a quintessential example of early 20th-century American collegiate architecture.

The Genesis of Ira Allen Chapel

The story of Ira Allen Chapel begins in the early 1920s when James Benjamin Wilbur, a wealthy businessman and fervent admirer of Vermont's history, decided to honor the university's founder. Wilbur, who had amassed a significant fortune in ranching and banking, was deeply inspired by Ira Allen's legacy. In 1924, he generously endowed $200,000 for the construction of the chapel, stipulating that it be named after Allen and designed by the prestigious architectural firm McKim, Mead, and White of New York.

The cornerstone of the chapel was laid on June 22, 1925, during the university's commencement activities, marking exactly one hundred years since the cornerstone of the Old Mill was laid by General Lafayette. The ceremony was a grand affair, featuring a prayer by Reverend John Lowe Fort and the hymn Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken. An inscription carved into the granite cornerstone reads, Dedicated to the service of God erected in memory of the founder of this university Ira Allen - 1925.

Architectural Marvel

Designed by William Mitchell Kendall, the chapel is a masterpiece of neoclassical design. The building's red brick exterior is complemented by white columns and intricate detailing, creating a harmonious blend of strength and grace. The chapel's tower, which houses a 2,063-pound bell manufactured by the McShane Bell Foundry Company of Baltimore, Maryland, is a defining feature of the structure. Despite rumors of instability during its construction, engineers confirmed that the tower's reinforced concrete and wooden columns provided more than sufficient support.

The chapel's interior is equally impressive, featuring a spacious nave and a grand organ. The original organ, a three-manual, electro-pneumatic Welte-Mignon Philharmonic Pipe Organ, was a marvel of its time. It was played during the chapel's dedication ceremony on January 14, 1927, by Dr. T. Tertius Noble, the organist of St. Thomas' Church in New York. Although the original organ was removed in 1985 due to renovations, a new Rogers Trillium 3 digital electronic organ was installed in 2004, ensuring that the chapel's musical legacy continues.

James B. Wilbur: The Benefactor

James Benjamin Wilbur's contributions to the University of Vermont extended far beyond the construction of the chapel. A passionate historian, Wilbur dedicated much of his later life to researching and writing about Ira Allen. His two-volume biography, Ira Allen: Founder of Vermont, 1751–1814, published in 1928, remains a significant work despite some criticisms regarding its reliance on English-language sources.

In addition to the chapel, Wilbur donated a bronze statue of Ira Allen, sculpted by Sherry Edmundson Fry, which stands on the University Green. He also established a $3 million endowment scholarship for the university, donated his extensive collection of Vermontiana, and contributed to the construction of the Robert Hull Fleming Museum. Wilbur's devotion to Ira Allen and his generosity have left an indelible mark on the university.

The Chapel's Role on Campus

Before the construction of the Ira Allen Chapel, chapel services at UVM were held in the Main College building, now known as the John Dewey Lounge. However, as the student population grew, the need for a larger, more modern chapel became apparent. The inadequate heating system and limited capacity of the old chapel made it difficult to accommodate the entire student body, leading to a decline in attendance.

With the completion of the Ira Allen Chapel, the university finally had a space that could bring together students, faculty, and the community for various events and services. Over the years, the chapel has hosted countless ceremonies, concerts, and lectures, becoming a central gathering place on campus. Its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere make it a beloved landmark for students and visitors alike.

A Symbol of Heritage and Hope

The Ira Allen Chapel is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the University of Vermont's heritage and the enduring legacy of its founder. As you walk through its grand entrance and gaze up at the towering clock tower, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the history it represents. Whether you are attending a service, enjoying a concert, or simply exploring the campus, the chapel is a place where the past and present come together in a celebration of knowledge, faith, and community.

In conclusion, the Ira Allen Chapel stands as a testament to the vision and generosity of James Benjamin Wilbur and the enduring legacy of Ira Allen. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and role as a gathering place make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the University of Vermont and the charming city of Burlington. As you step inside this magnificent chapel, you are not just entering a building; you are stepping into a piece of Vermont's history, a place where the spirit of Ira Allen lives on.