Saint Paul’s First Cathedral Was a Log Chapel: Fascinating Facts You Need to Know
The city of Saint Paul, Minnesota, owes its name and much of its early identity to a modest log chapel built along the Mississippi River bluffs in 1841. This humble structure wasn’t just a building; it became the heart of a community, serving as a place of worship, education, and civic significance. Let’s explore seven compelling facts about this historic landmark, which played a pivotal role in shaping the city we know today.
The Log Chapel Marked Saint Paul’s Beginning
Before the city was Saint Paul, it was known as “Pig’s Eye,” named after Pierre “Pig’s Eye” Parrant, a local tavern owner. The transformation began when Father Lucien Galtier built the Chapel of Saint Paul in October 1841. He chose the name “Saint Paul” in reverence to the Apostle Paul, envisioning the chapel as a beacon of faith and community. This name soon spread to the surrounding settlement, officially replacing its less dignified moniker.
Learn more about the chapel’s historic origins here.
An Economical Yet Symbolic Build
Constructed with local red and white oak logs, the chapel measured 20 by 18 feet and cost around $65—a modest $2,457 in today’s currency. Wooden pins secured its structure, and bark-covered slabs served as the roof. Despite its simplicity, the chapel symbolized a new beginning for the settlers, providing a spiritual foundation for what would become Minnesota’s capital city.
Commemorated in Sculpture and Plaques
Although the chapel no longer stands, its legacy lives on at Kellogg Mall Park. Sculptures and plaques mark its former location, including a bell tower and an axe-head, symbolizing the craftsmen who built it. These memorials celebrate the chapel’s pivotal role in Saint Paul’s history.
Visit this site to see how the chapel is memorialized.
A Modern Replica Honors the Past
Today, visitors can see a replica of the log chapel inside the current Cathedral of Saint Paul, completed in 1915. This grand structure stands as a testament to the city’s spiritual and cultural evolution, yet it maintains a connection to its humble beginnings through this faithful reproduction.
Learn about the modern Cathedral of Saint Paul here.
Conclusion
Saint Paul’s first cathedral may have been small, but its impact was monumental. This resilient little chapel not only gave the city its name but also laid the groundwork for its religious and cultural identity. From its humble beginnings as a log structure to its enduring memory in plaques and replicas, the chapel continues to inspire pride and connection among residents and visitors alike.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s history or admiring its modern landmarks, Saint Paul’s story always begins with a log chapel on a river bluff—a testament to faith, community, and the power of humble origins.
