Visiting Vesper Hill Chapel

Text and photos by Kelly Michaud, Editor

The gardens at the Children’s Chapel are now in full bloom. Asian lilies are among the variety of flowers you’ll find.

     Set atop a rock ledge overlooking lush gardens below and the ocean ahead, rests Vesper Hill Children’s Chapel.

     Visitors can find the chapel past the bustle of Rockport’s Harbor and before the pastures of Aldermere Farm and once they do, they’ll realize what a treasure they’ve discovered.

     The non-denominational/all-denominational outdoor chapel is open to the public during daylight hours and is one spot the area is lucky to have preserved.

     The pine chapel was the project of Helene Bok, who purchased the land in 1960. The spot was once a summer estate and later a hotel called Tamarack Lodge, which was destroyed by fire in 1954.

     Today, the chapel, which was built in the manner of a Swiss chalet, and its grounds are enjoyed by the public and used for special occasions like weddings, baptisms and memorials. The chapel can seat 50 and the first wedding was held there Sept. 24, 1961.

     When it isn’t used for memory-making occasions, the chapel and grounds are the perfect place to relax, reflect and enjoy nature.

The grounds of the chapel are a popular spot for weddings. To reserve the chapel, call 236-2239.

     Part of the original stone foundation from the old hotel has been incorporated into the gardens. In the formal garden, you’ll find annuals and perennials in full bloom -- you may even find an artist, working to capture their beauty with her brush. There is also an herb garden on the grounds and trees like pines, birches, willows and more help round out the landscaping. Plus, a carpet of green grass covers much of the grounds -- a perfect spot for a picnic.

     Maintenance of the chapel and grounds is done by the Vesper Hill Foundation and volunteer efforts and donations toward their efforts are accepted at Vesper Hill Foundation, P.O. Box 263, Rockport, Maine, 04856.

     For information or to reserve the chapel, contact Merryspring Nature Park in Camden at 236-2239. It is open mid-April to the end of October.

     To reach the chapel, turn onto Calderwood Lane from Russell Avenue in Rockport. Drive past Megunticook Golf Course. On your right you’ll find a driveway marked by a low boulder with the words “Vesper Hill” inscribed on it.

     If you’re looking for another scenic spot nearby, from the chapel continue on Calderwood Lane, which forms a loop and turns into Beauchamp Point. Here you’ll find the Beauchamp Road Scenic Byway, which is overseen by the Rockport Conservation Commission. Drive slowly and watch out for pedestrians, dogs and bicyclists. Just driving by the area is a treat as you peer through the trees and look at the ocean. There are a few pulloffs where you can park and walk down toward the rocks to sunbathe, relax, brave the chilly waters or have a picnic lunch.

     Beauchamp Point turns into Mechanic Street, which will take you to Russell Avenue.

     And from Russell Avenue, you can head back toward the harbor or up the road to visit the herd of Belted Galloway cows resting in the pastures at Aldermere Farm.