Boone County Historical Society

For the generations to come, the generation that is here, to the generation that has gone—THIS PLACE MATTERS! The Powell Chapel, located in Oak Hill Centery, is a landmark that is familiar to the citizens of Boone County, Indiana.

William L. Powell, a philanthropist of Lebanon, Indiana donated the funds to build the chapel. Dedicated Spetember 28, 1930, it was built as a memorial to the Knights of Pythias and the International Order of Red Men. The exterior is constructed of pink granite and Indiana limestone. The architecture is strongly influenced by the Rural Gothic Church of England.
Throughout the years, the chapel has been used for many community functions such as art shows, church services, memorials, meetings and other local events.

Mr. Powell was generous in the building of the chapel. Unfortunately a trust was not established for the upkeep of the landmark which is beginning to fall into disrepair.  Oak Hill Cemetery Association has maintained the building as much as possible but with major repairs and restoration needed it is proving too costly to maintain.
The roof of the chapel needs to be replaced as well as the furnace. Tuck pointing around the chapel is necessary due to the mortar falling out. There is a bell in the tower of the chapel that needs to be repaired and placed in the tower as it was originally in 1930.

Last year, the Oak Hill Cemetery Association, The Boone County Historical Society and the Lebanon Public Library (cemetery group) formed a partnership in an effort to raise funds for preservation of the Powell Chapel. The first cemetery tour was held in June 2010. Visitors had an option of a walking or riding tour. The tour guides pointed out art and architecture,  notable citizens, gravestone symbolism and points of interest throughout the cemetery.

The tour was a success in terms of visitors to the cemetery and the chapel. However, the monies donated have been less than originally anticipated. The second annual cemetery tour will be offered once again in June 2011 with the hope of a greater number of visitors and donors.

Many old and historic buildings are being torn down and replaced with newer and modern ones. The three organizations (Cemetery Group) feel it would be a shame to have this beautiful chapel destroyed. We believe it is worth saving and the community seems to agree as they are helping out as much as possible. More help is needed. This Place Matters!

The information provided on Community Challenge pages is provided "as is," and the National Trust for Historic Preservation does not make any representations, endorsements, or warranties (either expressed or implied) on any comments, reviews, or suggestions posted. Neither does the National Trust assume responsibility or liability for the same.