University Chapel, Auburn Travel Guide

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Discover a landmark of Auburn's history: Auburn University Chapel, the town's oldest public building, hosting ceremonies and reflecting a vibrant past.

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University Chapel

The Auburn University Chapel, built in 1851, is the oldest building on its original site at Auburn University and in the town of Auburn [2, 4]. Originally a Presbyterian church, it has served many roles, including a Civil War hospital and a theater, and is now a non-denominational space for various ceremonies [2, 3, 4].

A brief summary to University Chapel

University Chapel, Auburn, Auburn University, Alabama, 36830, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring University Chapel.

Consider attending a service or event to experience the chapel's atmosphere.
Take a walk around the surrounding campus to appreciate the historic architecture.
Check the chapel's reservation schedule if you're interested in hosting an event.

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Explore University Chapel on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near University Chapel, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Auburn University Chapel is centrally located on the Auburn University campus, at the corner of College Street and Thach Avenue [2, 6, 16]. From most campus locations, it is easily accessible by foot. Navigate towards the heart of the campus, looking for signs directing you to the historic landmarks. Enjoy a pleasant walk through the university grounds as you approach the chapel [21].
Public Transport

If arriving by public transportation via Greyhound or Megabus, you'll arrive at the Auburn bus station [21]. From there, you can take a local taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach the University Chapel. The ride should be around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic [21]. Lee-Russell Public Transit also serves the area; check their schedules for options [19, 21].
Driving

The Auburn University Chapel is located at University Chapel, Auburn, AL 36830 [21]. Several parking options are available on and near the Auburn University campus. Metered parking may be available near the chapel for around $1 per hour [13]. Auburn UMC, located near the chapel, offers parking for $8 per day [5]. Game day parking at Auburn UMC can cost $50 [14]. Designated visitor parking is available in the Stadium Parking Deck, the Library Deck, the South Quad Deck, the South College Lot, the Lowder Lot, the Vet School, and the North Park Deck [22]. All vehicles parking on campus must register with the Parking Services office [22]. Be aware of parking restrictions, especially during events [22].

Discover more about University Chapel

The Auburn University Chapel, located at 139 South College Street, stands as a testament to Auburn's rich history [2, 6]. Constructed in 1851, it is the oldest building on its original site on the Auburn University campus and the oldest public structure in the town [2, 4, 7]. Edwin Reese, a plantation owner and architect, designed the chapel in the Greek Revival style for the local Presbyterian congregation, with bricks made by enslaved people on his plantation [3, 7, 8].Over the years, the chapel has served various purposes [2, 4]. During the Civil War, it was used as a Confederate hospital [3, 4, 8]. In 1887, after a fire destroyed the main building of the Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now Auburn University), the chapel was temporarily used as classrooms [2, 3, 4]. Around 1900, the chapel was renovated in the Gothic style [3, 4]. In 1921, the college acquired the property, and it served as a YMCA/YWCA center for a few years [2, 4]. From 1927 to 1973, it housed the Auburn Players Theater [3, 4]. A major renovation in 1976 transformed it into the Auburn University Chapel, an interdenominational, multipurpose building [2, 3, 4].Today, the chapel is a popular venue for weddings, ceremonies, and memorial services [2, 3, 6, 16]. With a capacity of 90, it offers a cozy and personal setting [2]. A Reuter-two manual pipe organ is available for reservation [2, 6]. The chapel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adding to its significance [2, 3, 4]. Some people believe the chapel is haunted by the ghost of a Civil War veteran named Sydney Grimlett [4, 6, 10].