The Precious Moments Chapel — Attraction in Carthage

As I remember, Mr. Butcher lost his daughter at a young age as depicted in all of his figurines and the Memorial Chapel came to fruition. It resonated with me since I lost my daughter at a very tender age. It was absolutely gorgeous and I visited many times. The first time I visited I was in tears. I'd bought his figurines for years prior but to see the Chapel on a self guided tour after the tour guides describe a little about Mr. Butcher and his Ministry, plus what inspired him then you're allowed to take your time. The grounds are magnificent as well. You can always hear a pin drop inside. Even children are in awe and quiet. It seems his daughters peaceful spirit transcends and it's extremely calming.

I highly recommend it. Sumner can be extremely humid in this area so beware. There wasn't anything in the way of concessions since it's non profit. Please give since it's truly beautiful. There's no pomp and circumstance in order to keep it peaceful. The grounds need to be mowed so that takes time and every penny helps. The people who volunteer their time are excellent and do it out of love. Once in a while someone would have a vending truck and sell homemade hand churned ice cream from their local dairy down the road and donate the ice cream in order to help keep the Chapel Open, those proceeds went 100% to the Chapel.

We would go annually, often I traveled...Made the Pilgrimage alone at the same time every year in my daughter's memory and I'd spend time reflecting on the struggles of her young life taken too soon by Cystic Fibrosis, a terrible disease that wasn't caught until the end. I can still see her twirling in her beautiful little dress. I had a locket with a clipping of her hair until it was lost years ago. My memories seem more prevalent today as 3 of my adult children are up there in Heaven taking turns twirling her. She was 13 months old when she went home to rest with Jesus. I finally realized that she was too precious for this old world so He allowed her to go in order to keep her safe until I go to Heaven and twirl her myself. God is good and faithful. She made the way and an opening for my other 8 boys to grace my life and now I have a lot of grandbabies. My biological son use to cry himself to sleep missing her. Now he seems to have forgotten her. They were so very young. 10 children in all...

I think you need to go to this place with the right expectations. It's not an amusement park or a theme park really. Here is my honest assessment, it was an interesting, unique place. I found the grounds beautiful and very clean. The rolling hills, lush green trees, and wide clean lawns were lovely. I could see coming back just to enjoy the yards and have a quiet picnic. I wouldn't call myself a Precious Moments fan or someone who even collects. However, I did have an appreciation of the time, energy, and thought the artist, Sam Butcher, has put into this memorial. How he has found a way to show his love for those he has lost and his love for God. He is using this place as a way to honor them and remember what is important to him. That's what I found most interesting, to veiw someone else's efforts for what they love. When you're driving out to the location, you're probably going to feel like you're lost. That's fine. This nugget is literally tucked away into the hills of Carthage. When you pull into the parking lot, it might feel deserted. That's part of the charm. Don't worry there's people inside and around. The main building you pull up to includes the restaurant, Taste of Italy (which was closed during our visit), the large gift shop, and a neat little village replica you walk through. There are restrooms on the property too. You can sign up for a guarded tour of the Chapel. Bring your walking shoes. The path is paved and leads down hill through the gardens. There is where you'll learn and hear about Mr. Butcher and his work. I would recommend bringing some cash if you'd like to donate to this non-profit. Any purchases made from the gift shop help keep their doors open. Overall, it wasn't an overly exciting place but my little ones did seem to enjoy themselves. And there is some kind of quiet magic to it all. Anyone could go at least once, just to see...

A Hidden Gem That Deserves to Be Seen!

Our visit to the Precious Moments Chapel, gift shop, gardens, and museum was nothing short of unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the beauty and care poured into every corner of the property. The buildings and grounds are immaculately maintained, each space telling a story through its artistry, architecture, and peaceful atmosphere.

Walking through the chapel and museum stirred emotions for all of us. We took our time reading about the history of the place, the vision behind it, and the touching personal stories shared along the way. It’s rare to find somewhere that so seamlessly combines artistry, faith, and heartfelt storytelling, and this place does it beautifully.

The gardens were vibrant and full of life, the statues and murals lovingly detailed, and the gift shop offered both charming keepsakes and meaningful mementos. The staff went above and beyond to welcome us and answer questions, making us feel truly cared for.

It was bittersweet to realize that this treasure wasn’t busy at all during our visit—especially compared to the lively crowds I remember from childhood trips here. More people should know about and experience the joy, beauty, and peace this place offers. If you’ve never been, or it’s been years since your last visit, I can’t recommend it enough. Come, take it in slowly, and let yourself be reminded of the beauty in...