Barnwell Chapel

Completed and dedicated November 11, 1911, this chapel was named for the first architect at Berry, Capt. John Barnwell.  It was originally used as both a classroom building and a chapel.  The classrooms have also been used for a study hall, music studio, library and store.  Pews built in the school shop replaced school desks in 1920.  The altar, also made in the school shop, was a gift of the College Class ’51.

Ivy on the chapel has grown from a sprig brought by Miss Brewster, first faculty member, from the ruins of Melrose Abbey in Scotland .

In February, 1942, Miss Berry ’s body lay in state here from Friday afternoon until her funeral on Sunday afternoon. A guard of honor composed of staff and students maintained a vigil throughout this time.

In 1974 the Berry College Student Government Association adopted Barnwell Chapel as its first Mountain Day project. The partial renovation enabled the chapel to be used for Sunday services each summer since 1975.

A major gift, made in memory of E. M. and Florence Doty by their niece Joyce VanderPyl Scott, enabled work to begin in January 1984 on the complete restoration and renovation of Barnwell.  Completed in the spring of 1985, a dedication service on May 19, 1985, made the chapel available on a year round basis.

In addition to Sunday evening mass, Barnwell Chapel is the site of weddings,concerts, special speakers, events, and programs.

Barnwell Chapel Wedding Guidelines