Historic Pocatello landmark to hold open house on Veterans Day
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POCATELLO — This Veterans Day, eastern Idahoans will have the opportunity to visit a longtime historical icon in Pocatello.
The Pocatello Historic Preservation Commission will be holding an open house at the Brady Chapel at 1520 South 5th Avenue from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the event, the commission will be answering questions and explaining the history of the almost 100-year-old building.
“The open house will provide an opportunity for the community to visit and learn more about the Brady Chapel and the current efforts to restore and preserve this local icon,” commission spokesman Jim Anglesey said.
Anglesey explained the event will involve a presentation honoring the Civil War and the Spanish-American War veterans interred at Mountain View Cemetery who received new military markers along with the volunteers who paid for and placed the markers.
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Brady Chapel was dedicated on Memorial Day in 1922, according to a press release from the city of Pocatello. It was built by the family members of former Idaho Governor and Senator James Brady after his passing. Those who pass by the chapel can notice the French Gothic Revival style it was built in.
“The building is significant to Pocatello and southeast Idaho,” Anglesey said. “(Brady) was instrumental in the development of the Snake River Valley and bringing electricity to (the area).”
The construction of the Brady Chapel took three years. The exterior consists of hand-carved Indiana limestone with turned pinnacles, while the interior woodwork and handmade doors are oak. It has bronze trim and woodwork consistent with the Gothic style and includes a stained glass window.
The commission members are currently raising money to help restore the chapel to prepare for its rededication in 2022, celebrating its 100th year anniversary. Donations will be accepted at the open house. The city is currently in the process of getting a donation button on their website, but those who wish to donate over the phone can call the city at (208) 234-6163.
When the Chapel is completely restored, it will be available for funerals, weddings, receptions, and other events.
The chapel is currently not accessible to all persons. However, program access accommodations may be provided with three days advance notice. To give notice, contact Skyler Beebe at sbeebe@pocatello.us, (208) 234-6248, or at 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID.
The public will be required to wear face masks while inside the chapel.
For more information on the Brady Chapel, click here.
For more information of the efforts of the Historic Preservation Commission, click here.