Bethany Memorial Chapel

Bethany Memorial Chapel is a wooden church built in the Carpenter Gothic style, standing along Kendrick-Deary Highway with wooden details that copy traditional stone Gothic design. The structure features ornamental trim and proportions typical of this regional building method.

Norwegian settlers built the chapel between 1905 and 1908, after establishing a Lutheran congregation in 1902. This construction period reflects the religious organization of this immigrant community.

The wooden pews, altar rail, and pulpit inside were handcrafted by a congregation member named Eric Leien. These personal touches show how individual people shaped the space and their community's spiritual life.

The building is maintained by community members and is visible from outside, though regular services are not held there anymore. A cemetery next to the chapel is accessible and adds to its historical character.

The first event held in the partially completed church was a wedding on December 26, 1905, between Halvor Lien and Hilda Slind. This early ceremony marked an important moment for the young community.

Location: Idaho

Architectural style: Carpenter Gothic

GPS coordinates: 46.66440,-116.62200

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:02