There’s No Chapel In the World Like This One In New Hampshire

In New Hampshire you could say that we’re so obsessed with nature that it’s nearly a religion. New Hampshire residents turn to nature to get us through the good times and the bad.

But some places in the New Hampshire wilderness are especially sacred, including the Cathedral of the Pines in Rindge.

The Cathedral welcomes everyone, celebrating "All faiths, one family, one earth." The public can visit the grounds from May through October and take in sweeping views of Mount Monadnock and the southern New Hampshire wilderness.

But the Cathedral is much more than just a beautiful place. In 1945 it was established a memorial to Americans who have lost their lives in war. The stones that make up the Altar of the Nation come from all fifty states and from important locations around the world, including the Parthenon in Athens, Greece and the Colosseum in Rome.

The Cathedral was founded by Sibyl and Douglass Sloane. When their son Sandy died flying a B-17 bomber over Germany during WWII, the Sloanes became dedicated to preserving the memory of Americans who lost their lives in war.

In August 1945 they planned a memorial service for Sandy on their property, and the idea for the Cathedral of the Pines was born.

Over time, the memorial has grown.

One of the most prominent features now is the Women’s Memorial Bell Tower, which recognizes the sacrifices of American Women, both military and civilian.

The Bell Tower recognizes women in service, especially nurses.

Today, the whole Cathedral of the Pines memorial is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature, and give thanks for the sacrifices that make beautiful places like this possible.

Have you visited the Cathedral of the Pines?