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Situated on a hilltop with panoramic views of historic Mount Monadnock, Cathedral of the Pines is a 236-acre natural sanctuary in Rindge, New Hampshire.

Operated by a secular non-religious nonprofit organization, Cathedral of the Pines also serves as a national memorial dedicated to the memory and honor of all Americans who serve the nation in search of peace.

According to Patricia Vargas, executive director, Cathedral of the Pines has always included the appreciation of natural beauty as part of its allure and core mission.

This year Cathedral of the Pines observes its 75th anniversary.

The location was originally selected by Lt. Sanderson Sloane and his wife, Margaret, as a place to build their home when he returned from World War II.

Cathedral of the Pines was created by Sloane’s parents, Dr. Douglas and Sibyl Sloane, after learning Sloane died when the B-17 bomber he piloted was shot down over Germany in 1944.

The natural sanctuary created by the Sloanes has the necessary appointments for any faith to conduct services.

Cathedral of the Pines
Cathedral of the Pines, Rindge, N.H. Credit: Cathedral of the Pines

Groups can visit the site’s Women’s Memorial Bell Tower and Altar of the Nation, recognized by the U.S. Congress as a National Memorial to all American War Dead.

“Walk through our beautiful gardens: the Garden of Remembrance at the Mother’s Chapel and the Zen Garden and hike our 1.5 K or 3.5 K trails,” Vargas said.

The Peter J. Booras Museum is located on the site as well as a gift shop that carries local products.

“I believe what groups enjoy most about visiting is learning about our founders and how they made something beautiful for the region out of one of their greatest losses,” Vargas said.

A one-hour guided tour is available.

Vargas said groups are welcome to use the site’s picnic area. “If you visit during the summer, we recommend a stop at Kimball’s Farm for ice cream,” she said.

For more information on Cathedral of the Pines call 603-899-3300 or go to cathedralofthepines.org.