The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Neu Chapel

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Neu Chapel (front facade), University of Evansville

Neu Chapel (detail of steeple), University of Evansville

Neu Chapel (interior), University of Evansville

Institution Name: University of Evansville
Original/Historic Place Name: Neu Chapel
Location on Campus: faces Rotherwood
Date(s) of Construction:

1964-1965

original construction McGuire, Shook, Compton, Richey & Associates

Designer: Mcguire, Shook, Compton, Richey & Associates
Type of Place: Individual building
Style: Gothic revival, Modern/post-WWII, Other (Glossary)
Significance: architecture
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Materials:

Foundation: Indiana limestone

Walls: Indiana limestone

Roof: Vermont slate

Function:

ca. 1965-present (2006)	chapel
ca. 2004-present (2006)	academic department building (philosophy and religion)

Narrative:
Religious services were held in the Administration Hall until an increase in enrollments in the late 40's required more space. It was not until 1964 that the Adam Neu family donated the money to build Neu Chapel, completed in 1965. The high-arching, wooden ceiling eclipses the neo-Gothic outer design. With room for 500 people, the interior also has a choir loft, a large organ and area for religious services. The basement has a large classroom and the Grabill Lounge.

References:

Klinger, George. We Face the Future Unafraid: A Narrative History of the University of Evansville. Evansville, IN: University of Evansville Press, 2003.

Olmsted, Ralph. From Institute to University. Evansville, IN: University of Evansville, 1983.