Celebrate 120 years of Chippewa City Church on Sunday, July 19 from 1-4 p.m. at the historic church one mile east of downtown Grand Marais on Highway 61.
The fundraising event will include a talk and slide show with Chippewa City historian Staci Drouillard, a performance by the popular seven-piece band SplinterTones, a silent auction, treats and goodies, and prize drawing. The celebration is free and open to the public. Donations for the church’s restoration are encouraged.
The Chippewa City Church was built in 1895 by Ojibwe carpenter Frank Wishcop. One hundred twenty years later this beautiful piece of history needs attention.
Thanks to donations from the Grand Portage Band of Chippewa, St. John’s Catholic Church in Grand Marais, and historical society members, a new roof is keeping the structure safe and dry. However, there are additional serious structural issues that must be addressed.
While the historical society will be seeking grants for a complete assessment of the property and for restoration of the hand-hewn log structure, the potential costs are unknown. Severe rotting, foundation problems, and other concerns will escalate the costs of repair. Donations will be used to offset these costs and demonstrate to grantors a local commitment to the project.
The church has a rich history and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It stands as a reminder of the once-vibrant community that surrounded it.
For more information contact the historical society at (218) 387-2883.
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