A Poem by Lucy M. (Slagg) Townsend (1890-1973)
Chapel Hall, also known as North Hall, was the first of the three buildings of Albion Academy. It was built in 1854. The third floor contained a large room with a stage at one end and was used for both chapel and social affairs. It was here that the Albion Seventh Day Baptist congregation met until their church was built in 1861. In 1942-1943, this building was deteriorating badly and was razed by the township.
In the heart of Albion Village
On a campus truly grand
Stood a time-worn and old school building
Known and loved throughout the land.
It was a building large and sturdy
For the education of all.
It was placed here on this campus.
It was known as Chapel Hall.
It was built in the early fifties. (1854)
Built of brick, made from the soil,
Of a nearby farm, they tell me,
And the sweat of honest toil.
Of friends and neighbors who together
Labored hard to build the same
And their children and grandchildren
To this lovely schoolroom came.
Many a generation gathered
In the sacred “Hall of Fame”
Many a student, here inspired
Won himself an honored name.
Governors, lawyers, doctors, preachers,
Senators, artists, teachers too.
Scientists, farmers, housewives and others
And their names are not a few.
Call this place their Alma Mater
Love it as a part of life.
Memories keep its lights still burning
Through the years of care and strife.
And within these walls so cherished
“Budding Romance” played a part
Cupid with his bow and arrow,
Pierced with love, full many a heart.
Youth and maiden there together
Learned also of Love’s Young Dreams,
And a more important reason ne’er
Was learned, so it would seem
Though their homes are widely scattered
From coast to coast and across the sea
They do often sit and ponder
Of the “days that used to be.”
When with one accord they gathered
In this place so dear to all, Learning,
Loving, planning, praying
In their good old Chapel Hall.
And upon this ancient landmark
was a belfry, I must tell
And with its walls secluded
Hung the well-loved old school bell.
How the sweet tones well remembered
Oft were heard both far and near
Calling boys and girls to classes
During the school throughout the year.
Every morn its sweet tones ringing
On the clear and tranquil air
Called the students all to “Chapel”
There more sacred thoughts to share.
Tho its gone ‘tis not forgotten
By those who knew and loved it so
Memories sweet will always linger
Of those days of long ago.
May its sons and daughters ever
Keep the torch of wisdom burning
Which was once so well inspired
In this stately hall of learning.