Built in 1851, the chapel is named after one of the most famous people to entertain in the 1800s: Swedish soprano singer Jenny Lind. Her voice is said to have been beautiful, along with her personality and demeanour, earning her the nickname ‘The Swedish Nightingale’.
Jenny Lind (1820-1887) was born in Sweden and after touring Europe and North America decided to make England her home. She spent her final years at Wynd's Point on the Malvern Hills and is buried in Great Malvern Cemetery.
Lind travelled most of Europe performing in operas and in concert halls. Her fame reached new heights when she spent time touring America under P.T Barnum's promotions.
Much of the money made from her concerts was given to charity. Lind had various charities in Sweden, and some throughout the rest of Europe, that she regularly donated to. In 1849, a concert was held at College Hall (King's School) in Worcester and she donated the entire proceeds, £300 of which went to Worcester Infirmary to complete their fundraising to build a chapel, hence it was named in her honour.
Eduard Magnus, 1862
The Chapel is currently used as a classroom by the University of Worcester Business School. When possible, it is also incorporated into tours held by the museum and if you come see us on a Saturday you can often have a sneak peek then.
External image of Jenny Lind Chapel
Jenny Lind Chapel set up for Business School