Nathaniel Dett Memorial Chapel
Nathaniel Dett Nathaniel Dett Chapel
(1882-1943)
The Methodist Mission had its beginnings following the war of 1812-1814 when blacks met to celebrate victory. Early on, the members met in various homes; then were able to build their chapel in 1836. The Chapel was located in the area of Niagara Falls known as the North Pole.
Oliver Pernell, a freedom seeker from Maryland, became a member of the church. In 1890 Oliver and his wife Mathilda donated the property at the corner of Peer Street and Grey Avenue to the congregation and the building was rolled on logs to the site where it has remained to present day.
Through the years the church has been a spiritual as well as a religious centre for the community. Many of the early families received their new beginnings out of this Chapel.
In 1983 the congregation agreed to have the Chapel named in honour of R. Nathaniel Dett. Nathaniel's parents and brothers were members of the church. In fact Nathaniel played the pump organ that remains in the church today. Dr. Dett and his family moved to the USA where he received his formal education in music earning his Masters and Doctoral degrees. For many years he taught in the music department of Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. He was also the choral director and his choir sang in a number of great halls in Europe during the 1920s and 1930s.
For Service times and map to the chapel, please click on Chapel Services.
