Save Historic Burstrom

This fundraiser has been established to help Augsburg Ev. Lutheran Church save this historic landmark.

Burstrom Chapel is owned and maintained by Augsburg Ev. Lutheran Church in Porter, Indiana.

Unbeknown to many, Burstrom Chapel is steeped in history. So much so that it's recorded in the National Registry and Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

The original structure was a small barn/tool shed donated by the Burstroms of Porter and moved across the road to school the early immigrant children. Later a bell tower was added to house the bell acquired from the Valparaiso Court House, which was destroyed by fire in 1934.

Church services for the local Swedes were held once a week until 1953. In cold weather, the heat was provided by a wood-burning potbelly stove.

Burstrom Chapel has been a part of our community for over 140 years. It has been a delight to those who have visited it, be it for the annual Memorial Day service, its beautiful setting or its historical value. Unfortunately, after many years, it needs repair.

The estimate for repair and restoration of Burstrom Chapel totals $20,000. A significant portion of this cost, about $16,500, is for replacing the cedar shingle roof on the building and tower. This amount includes the cost of the shingles and installation, gutters and downspouts, facia and bell tower crown, trim, etc. A 10% contingency for unknown structural damage from water and age has been included. Other repairs or replacements include flooring, interior plaster, paint, etc. The cost of materials for these items is estimated to be $3500. It is believed that most of this work can be done by volunteers to save the cost of labor.

We need your help to save this historic landmark.