Controversy Arises Over Hotel Bar in Former Chapel

The Wye Oak Tavern, located in the former chapel of the Visitation Academy in Frederick, Maryland, has sparked significant controversy since its opening on December 19, 2024, due to its decision to place a bar at the former high altar. A petition led by Elyssa Koren, a 2000 alumna, has garnered over 3,000 signatures, calling for the bar's relocation to restore the chapel's dignity and respect its sacred heritage. Critics argue that the bar's location, surrounded by original chapel features such as stained glass and angel statues, is disrespectful to the space's 150-year history of worship. Although the site was deconsecrated after the school's closure in 2016, many alumni and community members still view it as a holy space. Jim O'Hare, co-developer of the hotel, defended the renovations, stating they took steps to honor the chapel's history by removing sacred items, yet critics remain unconvinced. The emotional significance of the chapel to former students and the local community has led to calls for change, emphasizing the balance between commercial use and historical preservation.