About Us
Thorncrown Chapel began as the dream of Jim Reed, a native of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. In 1971, Jim purchased the land that would later become the chapel site, intending to build a retirement home. But as visitors frequently stopped to admire the sweeping views of the Ozark hills, Jim chose not to fence them out — he invited them in. One day, while walking up the hill to his home, an idea came to him: he and his wife could build a glass chapel in the woods, offering wayfarers a place for rest and inspiration…
Soon after, Jim met architect E. Fay Jones, who quickly agreed to design the chapel. On March 23, 1979, construction began, and Jim’s dream seemed within reach. But halfway through the project, funds ran out, and construction came to a halt. Discouraged, Jim feared he had made the greatest mistake of his life. Despite his efforts, he was unable to raise the money needed to finish.
One evening, Jim walked down to the unfinished chapel, believing it would be his last visit. There, he knelt and prayed for the first time in his life. Reflecting later, Jim said, “All the trials and tribulations gave me the humility to get on my knees.” In that moment of surrender, Jim reached the end of himself — and soon discovered God’s kindness was just beginning. Days later, a generous woman from Illinois offered a loan, allowing construction to resume. On July 10, 1980, Thorncrown Chapel opened.
Since then, millions from around the world have visited this small glass chapel in the woods.
Today, Thorncrown’s story is not about what a great man did for God, but what a great God did for a man He loved — a story that echoes in all of our lives. When you visit, we hope you encounter not only a beautiful building, but the quiet beauty of God’s presence.
Thorncrown Chapel is located on Highway 62 West just outside Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Admission is free, though donations are welcomed. Tour groups receive a presentation about the chapel’s history, and ample parking is available for buses and RVs.
While in the Ozarks, we invite you to stop by what many have called one of the most beautiful and inspiring chapels in the world — a visit you will not soon forget.
Where it all began
1978
Jim Reed meets Fay Jones. Design process takes place. Contractor Jerry La Bounty breaks ground and construction begins.
1980
On June 15th, Thorncrown Chapel opens to the public.
2000
The chapel becomes one of the youngest buildings ever chosen for the National Register of Historic Places.
1981
Thorncrown wins The American Institute of Architects National Honor Award.
2001
Thorncrown makes the AIA list of the top ten designs of the twentieth century.
2006
Thorncrown wins the AIA 25-year award, the highest architectural honor a building can receive.
And today the little chapel in the woods has received over nine million visitors.
