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Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station: A Gothic Revival Treasure

Discover architectural beauty and local history at Gadsden's Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station, a Gothic Revival landmark.

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Located in Gadsden's historic Forrest Cemetery, the Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station are significant landmarks built in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). These structures exemplify Gothic Revival architecture and showcase the craftsmanship of local workers during the Great Depression.

A brief summary to Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station

  • 1430 Walnut St, Gadsden, Alabama, 35901, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the annual 'A Walk Through Time' event in October to see costumed interpreters portraying historical figures buried in the cemetery.
  • Take a stroll through the cemetery to appreciate the variety of memorials and learn about Gadsden's history.
  • Note the architectural details of the chapel, including the sandstone construction and Gothic Revival design elements.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Gadsden, head east on Broad Street, then turn left onto 12th Street. Continue on 12th Street until you reach Walnut Street, then turn right. The Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station will be on your left within the Forrest Cemetery grounds. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Gadsden trolley may offer a convenient way to reach Forrest Cemetery, check the trolley schedule and route for the most up-to-date information. From the trolley stop nearest to the cemetery, follow Walnut Street west for a short distance to the cemetery entrance. A single ride on the trolley typically costs around $1.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Gadsden, a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft will typically cost between $8 and $12 for a short trip to Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station. The ride is approximately 2 miles and takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station

The Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station, situated within Gadsden's Forrest Cemetery, stand as a testament to architectural beauty and community resilience. Constructed in 1935 by the WPA, these structures, along with the cemetery gates, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They embody the Late Gothic Revival style and highlight the skills of local artisans. Forrest Cemetery was established in 1872 by Captain A.L. Woodliff, who envisioned a peaceful burial ground for the community. He chose a 10-acre site, believing the city would never expand that far. Over time, Gadsden grew, making Forrest Cemetery a central part of the city. The cemetery now encompasses approximately 40 acres. In 1935, the WPA enhanced the cemetery, providing jobs during the Depression. Architect Paul W. Hofferbert, who also designed the nearby Legion Park Bowl, designed the Ruth Cross Memorial Chapel, the Comfort Station, and the cemetery gates. The chapel's design was inspired by 12th-century English churches, resulting in a stunning Gothic Revival building. The Ruth Cross Memorial Chapel features a steeply pitched gable, three lancet-arched windows, and a square tower with a lancet arch at the entrance. The exterior is made of rough-cut sandstone blocks from Lookout Mountain. The sandstone roof shingles decrease in size as they ascend the roof. Inside, the chapel has sandstone walls and floors, and a wooden cathedral ceiling. Iron chandeliers and hinges, crafted by local blacksmith Allison Christopher, add to the chapel's historic charm. The Comfort Station, also built from Lookout Mountain sandstone, originally housed restrooms and now serves as a storeroom. Over the years, Forrest Cemetery has become the final resting place for many notable figures in Gadsden and Etowah County history. The Ruth Cross Memorial Chapel is used for funerals and weddings. Visitors can explore the grounds and admire the architecture.

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