St. Peter's Chapel Renovation

Revitalizing the Past: Restoration Work Begins at St. Peter’s Chapel

St. Peter’s Chapel, the beloved and historic landmark on Mare Island, was dedicated on October 13, 1901. As the first naval chapel in the Pacific, and now the oldest naval chapel in the United States, it holds a special place in Vallejo’s history. The chapel is also home to one of the largest collections of Tiffany stained glass windows under a single roof.

Over a century of exposure has left the chapel’s exterior siding in need of significant refurbishment, a project scheduled to begin later this year. The neighboring Admiral’s Mansion will undergo an exterior restoration at the same time, returning both of these historic structures to their former glory.

Before work on the exterior could begin, the Tiffany windows needed improved protection. The City of Vallejo provided funding for this critical first phase. The windows’ protective polycarbonate plastic coverings, now yellowed and faded after three decades, are being replaced with durable protective tempered glass laminate that will not discolor over time. This upgraded shield is essential to safeguard the windows from potential damage caused by scaffolding and construction crews during the upcoming siding rehabilitation.

The new protective glass has already enhanced the interior illumination of the windows, giving them a richer, more vivid glow.

Visit St. Peter’s Chapel and explore the deep history of Mare Island and its remarkable architecture. For more information on the buildings or to schedule a tour, contact the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation via their website at mihpf.org.

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