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Eyler Valley Chapel

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Eyler Valley Chapel

Posted: 19 Dec 2013 8:15AM GMT
Classification: Query
Surnames: Eyler, Musselman, Kreiger, Mackley
Eyler Valley Chapel in Thurmont on Foxville Deerfield rd and Eyler Valley Rd. was built in 1857 by many neighbors in the valley. Frederique Eyler came to Frederick Co Md, by way of Pa in the 1600 from Switzerland along with his brother. They settled in Eylers Valley. My Grandfather Charles F Eyler was born in the valley on a farm. The farmhouse is still standing just up the road on left from this chapel. His parents were also born in the valley. During the civil war this chapel was built by my GG Grandfather and many valley farmers. The trip to Thurmont to worship in winter was treacherous and during Civil War would prove dangerous as well. Land was donated and the chapel was built.My grandparents Charles Frederick Eyler and my Grandmother Helen M Mackley Eyler lived in the homestead for several years after getting married. She was the descendant of Joseph Kreiger and Susanna Musselman Kreiger of Fairfield, who met and married during Civil war when he was in the war. My father Charles E Eyler along with his sisters Kathleen, Mary brother Roger Eyler were also born in the farmstead. The other children of 9 were born in Union Bridge Md, William, Carl, Thomas, Betty and Delores Eyler.
This chapel still has services on Sun eve at 7, all denominations welcomed. In the late70's my Grandmother was talking to Rev Hemmerick as she wanted to be baptized at this chapel in the little stream that runs through the property. She thought "wouldn't it be nice to have a service here on Sundays?" Rev Hemmerick decided it would be, and gave his time on Sun evenings. Thus starting the Christmas services which grew very quickly popular. It became so popular that he had to add services several times a week during the December holidays.Christmas Eve services are most popular and if you decide to go, get there early as seating is limited. Rev Hemmerick since has passed away and is buried on the property. Many other preachers give offer their time to continue the tradition. If you want to feel the true Spirit of Christmas celebrating Our Lord and Saviours birth, you will never regret attending this service! Promise! The song..."O come come come come, come to the church in the wildwood, O come to the church in the vale, there is no other place in my childhood like the little brown church in the dale".... This chapel has no electric, is lit by candles and kerosene lanterns, The roof had to be upgraded and new windows. They have since added a kerosene stove of course to keep visitors warm. The original benches, alter, tredle organ is still there and kept in great shape. Christmas in the valley is so special with the red candles, pine decorations and kerosene lanterns on the pathway. An experience that makes you feel you have "come home"
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