Massachusetts Street Historic District | Lawrence

St. Timothy's Memorial Chapel is a historic religious structure located in Anaconda, Montana, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The chapel is constructed primarily from rough-cut, grey granite blocks. It features a steeply pitched, dark grey slate roof and a single, tall, arched stained-glass window on its western facade. The building is rectangular in plan, measuring approximately 40 feet in length and 20 feet in width, with a single bell tower rising to a height of 35 feet. The architectural style is vernacular Gothic Revival.

Location & Access Logistics

The chapel is situated at 100 Cemetery Road, approximately 2 miles west of Anaconda's city center. Access is via Cemetery Road, which is paved. Parking is available on a gravel lot adjacent to the chapel, with space for approximately 15 vehicles. No public transport routes directly serve the chapel; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

St. Timothy's Memorial Chapel was constructed in 1912. It was commissioned by the Anaconda Copper Mining Company as a memorial to miners who died in industrial accidents. The architect was local builder Thomas O'Malley. The site was chosen for its elevated position overlooking the town and the surrounding valley.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior granite construction and the stained-glass window. The interior is accessible during daylight hours for quiet contemplation. The grounds surrounding the chapel offer views of the Anaconda valley.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available on-site. There is no dedicated shade structure. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located at the chapel; the nearest amenities are in Anaconda.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the granite facade. The months of June through September offer the most stable weather conditions. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend states that on clear nights, the bell in the tower can be heard tolling faintly, even though it has not been rung in decades. This is attributed to the spirits of the miners the chapel commemorates.

Nearby Landmarks

• Old Montana State Hospital (1.5km East)
• Anaconda-Deer Lodge National Forest (3km Southwest)
• The Washoe Theater (2.5km East)
• Berkeley Pit Overlook (4km West)