Henry M. Cannon Memorial Chapel

Standing on a slight rise overlooking the east end of Westhampton Lake, Cannon Memorial Chapel serves as a central place of reflection, worship, and peace.

The chapel is in use for many facets of University of Richmond life: religious services for students and members of the community; cultural events such as concerts and recitals; academic assemblies; and various honors convocations. The chapel is a favorite place for weddings, particularly of students who met at the University.

 

Details about the Chapel

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  • Dedication and History

    On Oct. 23, 1929 The Henry M. Cannon Memorial Chapel was dedicated. Judge William A. Moncure presented the building on behalf of Mrs. Cannon, who was ill at the time. Dr. Clarence Barbour, president of Brown University, gave the dedicatory address.

    Henry Mansfield Cannon was a local tobacconist who died in 1907. In 1927, his widow Lottie Southerland Cannon wrote to University President Frederic W. Boatwright, "He left me this fortune, which had been made in Richmond, and I wished to use some of it to honor his memory. I finally decided for myself that the University of Richmond would be here as long as the city itself, and that I should place my memorial in the University campus, if you would accept it and care for it." Her gift was indeed accepted and cared for, and her wishes were fulfilled.

  • Landmark Status
    On January 3, 2013, the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Board of Historic Resources placed Cannon Memorial Chapel in the Virginia Landmarks Register. The State Review Board also recommended this property for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. The Virginia Landmarks Register includes historic landmarks, buildings, structures, districts, objects, and sites which are recognized as having historical, architectural, or archaeological significance at a local, state, or national level.

  • Renovation

    With passing years the chapel needed renovating. In March 1976, the Board of Trustees approved the employment of Russell Bailey, an architect, to prepare preliminary sketches and renovation soon began. The felt covering the masonry upper walls was removed and the interior of the building became "acoustically alive." Tiled aisles were carpeted. The chancel was reshaped. The choir loft was restructured to a capacity of 80, and rich wood paneling was extended around the organ case containing the pipes. The chapel was full for the rededication service on Sunday, Nov. 7, 1976, during Homecoming Weekend. Dr. David D. Burhans, University chaplain, presided, and Dr. Elmer S. West Jr., delivered the address.

    In 2013 the Chapel was again renovated to correct moisture damage and the building also received a new roof, new heating and air conditioning systems, and the entire interior was painted. The aisles received new tile and the floors under the pews were covered with hardwood. The bride and groom’s rooms each also received new paint, carpet, and upholstered furniture.

    In 2026 the Chapel recieved some general upkeep and adjustments to increase accessibility.

  • Windows

    The stained glass windows of Cannon Memorial Chapel were designed by Brenda Belfield of Alexandria, Va. The themes for the windows is "Let All the Universe Praise Thee, O God." A variety of academic and religious symbols has created a unique expression of praise through the beauty of the stained glass and the light coming through them.

    Read more about the meaning of each window.

  • Friends of Chaplaincy

    In 1982, Martha Tiller established the Chapel Guild. A group of 40 Westhampton alumnae and friends of the University who support the programming of the Chaplaincy. Over its 44 year tenure, this group was responsible for the annual house tours and helping to make the chapel festive for winter. 

    In 2025 and 2026, a process began to transition Chapel Guild to a larger and more inclusive Friends of the Chaplaincy. This group will have its first official gathering in early 2027. For more information about getting involved with Friends of the Chaplaincy please contact Bryn Taylor.

  • Directions

    Cannon Memorial Chapel is located in the center of the University of Richmond campus, adjacent to the University Forum and near Tyler Haynes Commons. The Chapel is situated between the Wilton Center and the Gottwald Science Center. View the building on the campus map. If you prefer to use a mapping website or GPS, use the following address for best directions: 134 UR Drive, Richmond, VA 23173.