Tucked away on Mare Island in Vallejo, California, St. Peter’s Chapel is one of the most endearing historic landmarks in the North Bay Area. Often overlooked by visitors, this small wooden chapel holds a remarkable distinction – it is widely recognized as the oldest naval chapel in the United States.
Originally built in 1901, during the height of activity at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, St. Peter’s Chapel served generations of sailors, officers, and their families. Today, it stands as a preserved reminder of the island’s rich naval history and remains one of the most charming places to visit in Vallejo.
Quick Facts About St. Peter’s Chapel
Location: Mare Island, Vallejo, California
Built: 1901
Known for: Oldest naval chapel in the United States
Famous feature: Tiffany stained glass windows
Historic designation: National Register of Historic Places
Current use: Active chapel and historic site
St. Peter’s Chapel sits quietly on Mare Island, surrounded by historic naval grounds
History of St. Peter’s Chapel
Adam Armstrong McAlister was born on March 2, 1841, in New York. He rose to the rank of deacon through the Episcopal Church in 1862 and became a priest in 1863. From 1863 through 1865, he served in Sacramento. During that time, he was assigned to St. John’s Church in Marysville, CA, where he remained for six years and even married his wife Susan Williams.
On November 10, 1873, he was appointed chaplain in the US Navy and assigned duty at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard. For the next few years, he spent time on the U.S.S. Pensacola and toured the Pacific Coast throughout the western hemisphere. Eventually, he ended up at the Naval Academy in Annapolis. Here, he discovered the beauty and serenity of the old chapel, which burned down around the turn of the century.
M
cAlister would spend most of the 1880’s at the United Naval Academy and aboard ships. When on leave, he would head back to his home in California. From 1892 until 1901, McAlister worked hard to get a chapel built at Mare Island. But, his efforts were constantly interrupted by leaves as he was sent aboard the Brooklyn and the U.S.S. Philadelphia. McAlister also saw firsthand the Spanish-American war.
With his proud service record, honorable reputation, and the assistance of California’s U.S. Senator George C. Perkins, McAlister’s near-decade long battle to get a chapel erected had come to fruition. The St. Peter’s Chapel was erected in 1901.
Two years later, McAlister would retire from the Navy but remained a constant presence on Mare Island and within St. Peter’s Chapel. He was a beloved figure of the community, and the Navy, until his death on July 8,1916. McAlister is buried in the historic Mare Island Naval Cemetery.
Rare Tiffany stained glass windows inside St. Peter’s Chapel on Mare Island
The Tiffany Glass of St. Peter’s Chapel
During his efforts to erect the chapel, and throughout his remaining years, McAlister successfully pleaded to get Louis Comfort Tiffany stained-glass windows placed within the chapel. From 1905-1930, twenty-five of the twenty-nine stained glass windows installed were authentic Tiffany masterpieces.
These Tiffany windows represent the largest collection west of the Mississippi. In fact, other than a museum on the east coast, St. Peter’s chapel has the largest authentic Tiffany glass collection in the country. This is a large reason why many people visit the chapel.
The other four stained-windows are from San Francisco: one of the side windows from Cummings Studios and the large three-paned window from Ingerson and Glaser.
These Tiffany panels depict Christian figures like: Jesus Christ, Peter and Paul. You can’t see them from the outside. Additionally, they are all protected with a military grade exterior surface and a security alarm system.
Inside St. Peter’s Chapel, featuring simple architecture and historic charm
Visiting St. Peter’s Chapel Today
St. Peter’s Chapel is still standing on Mare Island and is occasionally open to the public, though access may be limited depending on events or preservation efforts.
Location: 11181 Walnut Ave., Vallejo, CA.
From I-80 in Vallejo – Take the Tennessee St. exit and head west for two miles. This merges into the Mare Island Causeway and takes you across the Napa River. Go through the blinking red light which is Railroad Ave. You are now on G street. Take this down another block and make a left onto Walnut Ave. Head down about 2 to 3 miles and you will see on your left – Chapel Park with St. Peter’s Chapel.
What to Expect: Visitors can admire the historic exterior, peaceful surroundings, and nearby naval buildings.
Touring St. Peter’s Chapel:
- Weekdays from 10am to 2pm
- 1st and 3rd weekends of the month from 10am to 4pm
- Tours cost $5 per person and are led by a docent of the Mare Island Museum
The chapel, which seats 174 people, is also available for weddings, memorials, funerals and baptisms.
Tips for Visiting:
- Check ahead for access
- Explore Mare Island
- Bring a camera
Things to Do Near St. Peter’s Chapel
- Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve – Scenic trails and waterfront views
- Mare Island Naval Cemetery – One of the oldest naval cemeteries in the U.S.
- Mare Island Naval Hospital – Photograph the historic naval hospital
- Historic Military Ships – Tour historic WWII ships when available
- Vallejo Waterfront – Restaurants, ferry access, and views of the bay
Why St. Peter’s Chapel Is Worth Visiting
St. Peter’s Chapel served as a beacon of hope during two World Wars, it brought comfort to those who lost loved ones, it brought peace to a Naval Base, it was a place of happiness for weddings and baptisms, it brought joy during the Holidays, and it continues to serve as a proud historical landmark for Mare Island and the United States Navy.
Today, you can still feel the joy, peace and comfort that this historic chapel provides visitors of all ages and backgrounds. It’s a wonderful addition to any Mare Island adventure.
St. Peter’s Chapel FAQ
Is St. Peter’s Chapel open to the public?
Access can vary, so check ahead.
Why is it famous?
It is the oldest naval chapel in the U.S. and features Tiffany stained glass.
Where is it located?
Mare Island, Vallejo, California.
When was it built?
1901.
St. Peter’s Chapel on Mare Island in Vallejo, the oldest naval chapel in the United States
Sources
National Register of Historic Places (Mare Island Historic District)
https://npgallery.nps.gov/AssetDetail/NRIS/76000536
City of Vallejo – Mare Island Overview
https://www.cityofvallejo.net/cms/one.aspx?pageId=169027
Mare Island Historic Park Foundation
https://mareislandhpf.org/mare-island-history/
