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First Church 1741-2007 History
Immerse yourself in the rich and storied past of the First Congregational Church in "First Church History 1741 to 2004." Compiled with care and dedication by Ada Thomen, Sylvia Wadhams, and Earl Skokan, this book offers a captivating journey through the history of a remarkable institution now located in West Torrington.
This compelling narrative is as much about the extraordinary ministers who served as it is about the church itself. Some ministers stood as heroes, bravely shaping history, while others bore witness to the unfolding events of their time. Among them was a Minuteman who became the first Black ordained minister in the nation, an abolitionist suspected of sheltering runaway slaves, and many others who left indelible marks on the church and the community.
From the minister who baptized John Brown to the seven authors, two historians, and one publisher, the diversity of talents and backgrounds is truly astonishing. These well-educated individuals, including twenty-one Yale graduates, two from Williams, and one each from Amherst and Harvard, have each contributed to the church’s vibrant legacy.
Yet, this is not a whitewashed history. The story of the First Congregational Church includes moments of profound challenge and near failure. Through it all, the church persisted, resilient in the face of adversity.
"First Church History 1741 to 2004" is a testament to the enduring spirit of the First Congregational Church and its community. It’s a story of bravery, tragedy, and triumph—a must-read for anyone interested in the dynamic history of this cherished institution.