Cloister of the Colonies Restoration

The Cloister of the Colonies surrounds the statue “Sacrifice and Devotion.” Each of the Cloister’s thirteen bays is dedicated to one of the original Thirteen Colonies. Beginning in 1905, the citizens of each of the thirteen represented states contributed the funds for the construction of each state’s bay. Fr. Burk, the Chapel’s Founding Rector, described the Cloister as “the most beautiful memorial at Valley Forge.” 

Unfortunately, the Cloister of the Colonies is showing its age. The copper roof has reached the end of its life, and can no longer protect from the elements the delicate woodwork and stonework. Stormwater has eroded and cracked the steps and stone pavements. This unique memorial given by and for the American People is now once again in need of your support.

We have developed a plan for the full restoration of the Cloister, estimated to cost around $1.7 million. The first phase of the work will comprise the replacement of the roof, replacement of the flashing and downspouts, the repair of the roof structure, and the repointing of damaged mortar joints behind the roofing at a cost of about $332,000. We hope to have this project underway in 2024, but we can only achieve this goal with your help.