Ammendale Normal Institute, historical Catholic novitiate and school, operated by the Christian Brothers in Beltsville, Maryland, United States
The Ammendale Normal Institute is a brick building complex in Prince George's County that blends Italianate and Queen Anne architecture, with structures arranged around courtyards. It served as a school and religious training center operated by the Christian Brothers starting in 1880, with tall windows and decorative details typical of the Victorian era.
The complex was established in 1880 with the main building designed by architect Thomas Kennedy and completed in 1884. A serious fire in 1998 destroyed the main structure, which was demolished in 2006, though St. Joseph's Chapel and the cemetery have survived to the present day.
This was an important place for religious teaching and community life, where people gathered to learn and worship together. The chapel and cemetery show how meaningful this site was to the brothers and students who made it their home.
Visitors can explore St. Joseph's Chapel, the cemetery, and the remaining foundations spread across the large grounds at a leisurely pace. The quiet rural location makes it easy to walk between the surviving structures and get a sense of the site's layout and history.
St. Joseph's Chapel features colored glass windows and decorative pressed tin patterns on its ceiling showing flowers and leaves, details many visitors miss. These fine ornamental touches reflect the careful craftsmanship of Victorian builders and give the interior a warm, handmade quality.
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