The History of the Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion Museum
The Boal Estate has been in the Boal family home for eight generations and tells the story of America as seen through one family. The original buildings, and furnishings of the family are still here. For over 200 years, the Boal family has helped shape its community, including these present-day landmarks: the historic village of Boalsburg (1808) -the birthplace of Memorial Day (1864), Penn State University (1855), the 28th Division Shrine and Pennsylvania Military Museum (1919), and the Boal Barn Playhouse (1959) just to name a few!
Besides the original array of furnishings and art you will find original documents and signatures signed by five US Presidents, and even a lock of Napoleon's hair. All examples of the unique story of how the Boal family has intertwined with world history.
The fourth generation, Colonel Theodore Davis Boal, called Terry, went to Europe in the 1890's and married Mathilde de Lagarde, who inherited the Columbus Chapel and brought it to Boalsburg in 1909. It is the home of the most significant collection of Christopher Columbus artifacts in North America.
Also on display today are many tangible relics from the family's incredible international ancestry as well as a large collection of weapons and tools from medieval times throughout World War I.
A visit to the Boal Mansion and Columbus Chapel will truly amaze you!
Besides the original array of furnishings and art you will find original documents and signatures signed by five US Presidents, and even a lock of Napoleon's hair. All examples of the unique story of how the Boal family has intertwined with world history.
The fourth generation, Colonel Theodore Davis Boal, called Terry, went to Europe in the 1890's and married Mathilde de Lagarde, who inherited the Columbus Chapel and brought it to Boalsburg in 1909. It is the home of the most significant collection of Christopher Columbus artifacts in North America.
Also on display today are many tangible relics from the family's incredible international ancestry as well as a large collection of weapons and tools from medieval times throughout World War I.
A visit to the Boal Mansion and Columbus Chapel will truly amaze you!
