Arkansas is home to some of the most stunning glass chapels in the world. These architectural wonders, designed by renowned architects E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings, are nestled in lush forest settings that enhance their ethereal beauty and peaceful ambiance. Perfect for weddings, events, or just a serene visit, these chapels exemplify mid-century modern design infused with a naturalistic touch. Let’s explore these breathtaking glass chapels in Arkansas.
Thorncrown chapel : a symphony of light and structure
Thorncrown Chapel, the most famous of the three glass chapels in Arkansas, stands as a beacon of architectural brilliance. Completed in 1980, it was the visionary project of Jim Reed, a retired school teacher. Reed wanted to create a sanctuary where visitors could rest, find inspiration, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of his property near Eureka Springs.
The inspiration for Thorncrown Chapel came from Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, a gothic chapel known for its stunning stained-glass windows. However, E. Fay Jones coined Thorncrown’s unique style as “Ozark Gothic.” Measuring 24 by 60 feet and rising 48 feet into the sky, Thorncrown Chapel features 425 windows, creating an ever-changing play of light and shadow. This dynamic environment ensures the chapel looks different every time you visit.
Thorncrown Chapel has garnered numerous accolades, including being named the fourth-best design of the 20th Century by the American Institute of Architects. Located a mile and a half west of Eureka Springs on Hwy 62 West, the chapel is open from April through November from 9 :00 AM to 5 :00 PM, with slightly reduced hours in March and December. Be sure to check their website or call ahead to confirm their schedule, as the chapel occasionally closes for special events.
Mildred b. cooper chapel : an intimate tribute to nature and memory
The Mildred B. Cooper Chapel, often considered the most beautiful of Arkansas’s glass chapels, is a heartfelt tribute from the Cooper family to Mrs. Mildred B. Cooper. Located on a wooded hill overlooking Lake Norwood in Bella Vista, this chapel was designed to celebrate Mrs. Cooper’s life, spirituality, and love of nature.
Designed by E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings, the Cooper Chapel also embodies the “Ozark Gothic” style but with distinctive features. It boasts 15 arches, each soaring 50 feet high, and a unique round window at the entrance, giving it a different aura compared to Thorncrown Chapel. The chapel’s dimensions are approximately 24 feet wide by 65 feet long, with walls comprised of glass, timber, and steel, blending seamlessly with the surrounding forest.
The Cooper Chapel is open seven days a week from 9 :00 AM to 5 :00 PM. However, like the other chapels, it closes for special events, so it’s advisable to call ahead. Its tranquil setting and intimate atmosphere make it a perfect escape for those seeking peace and inspiration.
Anthony chapel : a grand celebration of nature and architecture
Anthony Chapel, located in Hot Springs at Garvan Woodland Gardens, is the largest of the three glass chapels in Arkansas. Designed predominantly by Maurice Jennings, who had been collaborating with E. Fay Jones for 25 years by that point, Anthony Chapel stands as a testament to their combined expertise and vision.
This magnificent chapel features native stone, massive panes of glass, and wood, creating an awe-inspiring structure. Its 57-foot-high ceiling is supported by an intricate cross-beam system and massive yellow pine columns, giving it a grandeur that sets it apart from the more intimate Thorncrown and Cooper chapels.
Anthony Chapel is adjacent to Garvan Woodland Gardens and typically follows the same opening hours. However, it’s essential to verify before visiting, as it may close for weddings and private events. During special events like the Christmas Light extravaganza, the chapel often extends its hours, providing an enchanting experience for visitors.
The legacy of e. fay jones and maurice jennings
E. Fay Jones, an Arkansas native and apprentice of the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of Arkansas. Jones’s early life included service as a naval aviator during WWII before he returned to Arkansas to complete his education in architecture at the University of Arkansas.
Jones’s design philosophy, heavily influenced by Wright, emphasized harmony with nature, clean lines, and the use of natural materials like wood, glass, and stone. However, Jones developed his own aesthetic, known as “Ozark Gothic.” This style is evident in all three of Arkansas’s glass chapels, which appear to grow organically from their surroundings.
Maurice Jennings, Jones’s architectural partner, also contributed significantly to these masterpieces. Together, they created structures that seamlessly blend with their natural environment while providing spaces of peace, beauty, and inspiration. Their combined efforts have resulted in chapels that are not only architectural marvels but also spiritual sanctuaries.
Chapel | Location | Architectural Highlights | Visiting Hours |
---|---|---|---|
Thorncrown Chapel | Eureka Springs, AR | 425 windows; 4th best design of the 20th Century | April-Nov : 9 :00 AM – 5 :00 PM March, Dec : 9 :00 AM – 4 :00 PM |
Mildred B. Cooper Chapel | Bella Vista, AR | 15 arches; round window entrance | Daily : 9 :00 AM – 5 :00 PM |
Anthony Chapel | Hot Springs, AR | 57-foot-high ceiling; intricate cross-beam system | Same as Garvan Woodland Gardens |
Arkansas’s glass chapels, with their unique blend of architectural prowess and natural beauty, offer visitors unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat, an inspiring event venue, or simply a chance to marvel at architectural brilliance, these chapels are worth visiting.