Hotchkiss Chapel was named as a tribute to the designer and first superintendent of Bellefontaine Cemetery, Almerin Hotchkiss, who served for 46 years, as well as his son, Frank Hotchkiss, who served for 20 years.

A complete renovation of the historic chapel was completed in 2009 and celebrated with a ceremony marking a century since the original structure was built. The renovation preserved much of the chapel’s original woodwork, including the front and side doors, pews and decorative wall sconces. The rear of the chapel features a new columbarium, with 665 wooden and glass niches designed to hold cremated remains.

The chapel is available for memorial services as well as other events. With superb acoustics and seating for 75, it’s an ideal site for musical performances. Recent events have included the St. Louis Beacon Festival’s Bellefontaine Baroque and meetings of the Professional Tour Guide Association, Garden Club of America, and American Culture Association.