Morning Star Chapel

Situated just east of the Museum, the tiny Morning Star Chapel is a unique experience for young and old, Danish or non-Dane.

The Chapel was built in 1951 by then 83-year-old Charles Johann Walensky, a Danish immigrant to Waterloo, Iowa.  A carpenter by trade, he helped build many churches in Waterloo, and created this one on his own property as a place for people to meditate, pray, and relax.

Walensky died in 1959, and his wife continued to operate the building for another 12 years.  After that, it was moved to the home of LaVerne and Ann Walensky, a nephew and his wife.  They maintained the small building in their back yard for 26 years before donating it to the Museum in 1995.

The 6’ by 8’ chapel contains a pulpit, an altar, and four small pews.  A copper cross adorns its miniature steeple.  On the ceiling and behind the pulpit are hand painted nature and religious scenes. 

Morning Star Chapel has been host to several weddings and baptisms since its arrival at the Museum, and continues to be available for rental for special events.  Contact the Museum for more information.

The Chapel is open to the public during the same hours as the Museum.