Espenschied Chapel is not a church nor affiliated with any churches. But the simple elegance of its design inspires a spiritual energy, making it an ideal place for people to gather together.

 

Mascoutah Cemetery Chapel, Inc. is the official name of the 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit group that was formed to save the chapel from demolition in 1999.

 

Since its restoration, it serves as a cultural center in the community. We have a concert series and are working toward hosting more programs and cultural events and workshops! We feature artists who play original and traditional music.

 

The chapel was built at the bequest of a generous local family in 1928. Though it was very well built, after a short time it fell out of use, as funeral homes and local churches were preferred for services.

So the chapel sat unused and neglected for decades, until a decision was made that it was not needed anymore and that it would be too costly to invest in repairs to save the building.

 

Some concerned citizens rallied community support just in time to spare it from the wrecking ball. A not-for-profit group was formed and raised all the necessary funds –thanks to the generosity of the community– and with sheer determination, pitched in and did the work to restore the chapel to its original glory. A kitchen was added downstairs, new furnace and central air conditioning, new restroom facilities and some other improvements as well.

 

The intimacy of the small venue (100-115) will spoil you!

If you are interested in sponsoring or underwriting a concert, please contact us.
With that same can-do attitude that saved the chapel, we aspire to become a looked-to cultural center and concert venue.

 

Monthly meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m., at the chapel, unless otherwise noted. During this time of global pandemic, all meetings are being held remotely until further notice.