Program

NYS Historic

Subject

Arts & Culture, Building, Education

Location

198 College Hill Rd, Clinton, NY 13323, USA

Lat/Long

43.051949574061, -75.404923745779

Grant Recipient

Hamilton College

Sitting amidst the Hamilton College Campus is a unique, three-story chapel that serves as a focal point of the grounds. Towering and distinguished, the Chapel has become a prominent site to take photographs, encapsulating the rich history of the storied campus. In fact, the architectural significance of the structure led to its placement on the National Register of Historic Places; however, this inclusion was not only due to its importance as a built space, but also the impact it had on both religious and educational developments in the region.

The Chapel goes back to the early period of Hamilton College, and it was constructed ca. 1827 to provide a gathering place for students and staff alike. Clearly meant to serve as an eye-catching centerpiece for the campus, storied Albany architect Philip Hooker was commissioned to design the façade of the building. Though forgotten for some time, interest in Hooker’s career has seen an uptick lately, including an exhibit in the New York State Museum spotlighting his many projects, such as the first State Capitol and Hyde Hall. According to the National Register nomination for the Chapel, the building is, “an excellent example of Phillip Hooker’s conservative Federal style.” The rest of the Chapel, including the three-story main body, is credited to John H. Lothrop, who was a College Trustee.

Since then, the chapel has held services, events, lectures and classes, remaining an important nexus for Hamilton College to this day. In 2021, the steeple underwent rehabilitation, which included repair work and repainting to reflect the original historic colors.

Links

• Chapel Refurbishment Project