The History of Mekeel's Corners
Chapel
The Mekeel's Corners Chapel was built in 1867 on
land donated by Thomas and Susan Mekeel and James
Smith. It was operated as a Methodist chapel until
the middle of the 20th century when the congregation
disbanded. In 1949 the chapel, had fallen into
disrepair and had been vandalized was rescued and
restored by Helen Fahnestock Hubbard whose property
adjoined the Chapel. The Chapel has since been
maintained by a chapel board of trustees, one of
which is the grandson on Mrs. Hubbard, Clarence
Fahnestock Michallis. The history of the Chapel
since the 1961 has been truly ecumenical and community-based
with Rev. John Mills as chairman of the board.
In the 1990's a new board was formed and has since
been working to keep the wonderful place going.
Although the chapel is no longer used as a denominational
house of worshipit has been used for community
hymn-sings, patriotic observances, weddings, funerals
and other community events. The Chapel was severely
damaged a few years ago and the back corner was
knocked out by a truck and windows broken by a
deranged person. These repairs have been made with
the help of the community and several outstanding
groups.
The Chapel is maintained by donations from the community
it is a 501(C)(3) tax exempt association. Donation
may be sent to Mekeel's Chapel Association, 321
Rt. 301 Cold Spring, New York.
