In 1744, the Rev. Jonathan Lee rode into this “wilderness” on horseback to become our first pastor. In New England tradition, our first Meetinghouse served as the center of political, social, and religious assembly. Our present Meeting House, built in 1800, remains as a living example of Puritan simplicity.

The Congregational Church of Salisbury is part of the United Church of Christ (UCC), a denomination formed in 1957 with the merger of two church bodies: the Evangelical and Reformed Church, and the Congregational Christian Church.

The timeline below highlights major dates in the congregation’s history. A written history of the church’s first 250 years may be read by clicking here.

Building: the Parish Hall

1959

Parish Hall, designed by Norton Miner, is built.

Renovations

1965

Meetinghouse renovated: cove ceiling and pillars from balcony to ceiling are restored, antique weather vane replaced by the whale. New Schantz pipe organ is installed.

13th pastor: The Rev. Charles W. Ranson

1969

Noble Horizons

1972

Tom and Francis Wagner, members of this congregation, are instrumental in establishing Noble Horizons.

14th pastor: The Rev. John Hay

1975

The Rev. John Hay installed as Pastor.

15th pastor: The Rev. Richard Taber

1981

The Rev. Richard Taber begins 27 years of service as 15th Pastor.

Pastor Emeritus Lawrence Stone