Laughlin Memorial Chapel
Welcome to Laughlin Memorial Chapel!
Laughlin Memorial Chapel has been a part of East Wheeling's history for more than 150 years. Originally operating as an outreach of First Presbyterian Church, Wheeling, it is now an active community center with programs designed for young people. The Chapel offers out-of-school time programs for children in Wheeling's urban neighborhoods. Programs include meals and transportation (within regular routes). There are no fees.
The Chapel is a nonprofit organization. We can offer free programs thanks to the generosity of our community. Partner organizations, such as Scouting, Grow Ohio Valley, Wheeling Park Commission, Ohio County Schools, Oglebay Institute, and more provide enrichment and recreational opportunities to children in our programs. The Chapel is a regular host for community activities.
Our History
The original Chapel building was built by First German Church in 1836. First Presbyterian Church purchased the building in 1872. It was used as a chapel church for the East Wheeling immigrant community. The George Laughlin family, early members of First Presbyterian Church, supported the Chapel and actively engaged in its programs. Upon Mr. Laughlin’s death in 1936, the Chapel became Laughlin Memorial Chapel.
In 2005, with the support of the community, the Chapel facility was expanded. The new addition includes a modern commercial kitchen, large dining hall, classrooms, and office space.
Since 1946, the work of the Chapel has been focused on serving young people. The Chapel is best known for its afterschool program, offered for free to the community, thanks to the generosity of churches, community organizations, foundations, trusts, corporations, and individual donors.
Mr. Laughlin
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Laughlin Memorial Chapel is a non-profit organization under
IRS code 501(c)(3), founded to support the programs of
Laughlin Memorial Chapel. It is an equal opportunity provider.