For part one, go here --->https://www.tumbleweedstripod.com/post/poland-springs-resort
For part two, go here---->maine-state-exhibit-building-at-poland-springs
In 1885, Julius Gassuer, headwaiter at Poland Springs House dining hall, was likely sitting back on the sprawling property, taking in the landscape while sipping on some water when a thought occurred to him. This massive Ricker Empire had an Inn with all the modern
amenities, a flowing natural spring that apparently spewed miracle water, a historical building from the World’s Fair boasting art from all over the world, one of the largest golf courses in the state. What else was missing? Oh yes, church services.
Julius, who was also a priest in training, began religious services on the lawn for Poland Spring employees and the need for indoor church services soon became apparent. The group moved into the dining hall where attendance grew considerably with guests participating as well. Employees soon started a fund which guests and well wishers oftentimes donated to.
Nearly 25 years later, thru fundraising, group efforts and scrimping and saving, Julius finally had $15,000 saved up in the chapel fund. (Now that’s dedication.) The Rickers decided to match the efforts for a total of $30k and the construction of All Souls Chapel finally began. I can’t imagine having to wait that long for enough money to build a church, especially when you know the Rickers are sitting on a gold mine. But….I digress. Sadie Ricker, who ran a Sunday school at the time, actually helped with fundraising, so I’ll calm down.
In 1909 construction was under way. Vice President McKinely’s grandson, who was three years old at the time-and quite adorable, might I add, took his little shovel and broke ground for this most necessary project. They even moved part of the golf course to build the chapel!
Finally in 1912, the impressive chapel was built on top of Poland Spring hill, looking over the expansive estate. You don’t even need to be religious in any shape of the word to appreciate this building. It was constructed from granite found throughout Maine, the flooring is of inlaid mosaic tiles and get this-brass sills. Is now the time for me to say “Holey!” Or should I wait until after I tell you about the dozens of stained glass windows that could easily turn this chapel into an art museum.
While the chapel hosted three different church groups each Sunday, in 1977 the chapel was added to the National Register of Historical Places and services ended around that same time. Weddings galore continue to take place there, and what’s better is it is directly across the road from the Maine State Building from the Chicago World’s Fair. You could throw a rock and hit the building….but don’t because, you know, it’s a church- stained glass, manners, eternal damnation…..
I was lucky enough to have this place all to myself when I visited. There was quite literally not a soul around. (see what I did there?) At least, I don’t think so. I kept hearing footsteps coming from the back hall but when I said “hellloooooo” no one answered. So I just proceeded to wander throughout.
I may have taken too many pictures and hung out just a little too long but I’m not sorry. The whole chapel is truly a work of art that is often times overlooked by the building next door.
So that concludes the “three stories in a row” jaunt thru Poland Spring resort, and there is so much more to tell. I’ll be going back soon so don’t be surprised if there’s even more articles on it. Go visit….seriously, you wont be sorry.
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