Chapel in the Hills
Sep 16, 2014
This traditional stave church nestled on the western edge of Rapid City is an exact reproduction of the 12th century Borgund stavkirke (stave church) of Laerdal, Norway. It was built in 1969 to house a Lutheran radio show, Lutheran Vespers. When the show moved to Minneapolis in 1975, a non-profit took over operation of the chapel. Local pastors preside over its nightly Vespers and vacationers are invited to visit the chapel and walk the grounds. Photos by Ryan Clayton. See more of his work at https://www.facebook.com/imagesbyryan
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The Norwegian Department of Antiquities provided a set of blueprints from the Borgund church, built around the year 1150, to be used in construction. Financing for the chapel came from a local Norwegian benefactor, Arndt E. Dahl. -
The only metal used in construction was on the ornate door furnishings and locks. Dowel pins were used instead of nails. -
Wooden dowels allow the building to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, instead of being rigidly held in place. -
The woodcarvings inside and out were a combined effort between Norwegian woodcarver Erik Fridstrøm and Rapid City resident Helge Christiansen. -
A prayer walk winds up the hill behind the chapel. -
A prayer walk winds up the hill behind the chapel. -
A prayer walk winds up the hill behind the chapel. -
A prayer walk winds up the hill behind the chapel.
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