Building History
When the town incorporated in 1765, the Massachusetts Bay Colony required a Settled Minister. This act resulted in a Meetinghouse that was built with tax dollars and served as a church (the First Congregational Church), the seat of town governance, and center of community activities. The current meetinghouse was built in 1869 after the first two meetinghouses were lost to fire. The land was donated by Williams College, providing that convocations, commencements, and weekly mandatory church services could be held in the building.
In 1913, as desired by both town and church, the original Romanesque structure was renovated to a colonial style copied from the meetinghouse in Old Lyme, Connecticut. That style reflects a distinguished architectural tradition, starting with Cristopher Wren and James Gibbs’ English churches, that became the pre-eminent model for Protestant churches all over the world and especially in the United States. The preservation fund is committed to protecting the history, iconic architecture, and community service that the building provides.
Williamstown Meetinghouse from Yesterday to Today
With Patricia Leach
Click the video below to learn more about the history of the Williamstown Meetinghouse.
100 Years in White: Architecture of the FCC
Click the video below to learn more about the history of the Williamstown Meetinghouse.
