Summerall Chapel was erected during 1936-1937. Cruciform in design, the Chapel is a shrine of religion, of patriotism, and of remembrance. From the air the red clay tile roof forms a cross. It was designed in the spirit of 14th century Gothic. The furniture throughout is plain-sawed Appalachian Mountain white oak stained cathedral brown. The ceiling and timbering are pine. The lighting fixtures are handcrafted wrought iron throughout. Hanging from the walls are flags from the 50 states and the territories. Since it is entirely nonsectarian, Summerall Chapel can belong to no particular denomination. After the completion of the Chapel, each of the classes (up through the Class of 1944) had the opportunity to purchase a window as a lasting memorial to its members. The class windows show the life of Christ in superb stained glass with each window depicting some important event in His life. The great chancel window, located directly behind the altar, was dedicated in 1942 as a memorial to all Citadel graduates who have gave their lives in their country's cause. It portrays exemplars and symbols of courage, sacrifice, religion, truth, duty, loyalty, patriotism, faith, charity, prayer, adoration, praise, and immortality. The facade and transept windows are made up of a number of units or "medallions," provided by families or friends of the men whom they commemorate. Only those who have been Citadel cadets and a few designated faculty and staff are so honored. The design of each of these medallions represents symbolically the person whom it commemorates. In keeping with the democratic spirit of the institution, all medallions are identical in size and in fineness of design. The inscription across the front of Summerall Chapel reading, "Remember Now Thy Creator in the Days of Thy Youth," summarizes the spiritual atmosphere at The Citadel. The office of the Chaplain to the Corps is located in the rear of the chapel.
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