The First Congregational Church: 175 Years of Faith

On October 31, 1847, twelve believers gathered in a home to organize the First Congregational Church of Hartford. Today, that congregation continues to serve the community. Their story is one of persistence, faith, and adaptation. From the early days when Reverend Norman Miller traveled from Lisbon to preach, to the construction of the first church in 1853, to the brick encasement in 1874, to the move to a new building on Wacker Drive in 2016 – the church has remained a constant presence.

One fascinating story involves Brother Williams, who was suspended for “dancing, drinking, and playing cards” in 1849, only to be readmitted four years later after a humble confession. The church also has a beautiful set of paintings above each window, given by the wife of a former pastor.

Today, the congregation meets at 1400 Wacker Drive, having sold its historic downtown building to Hen‑Picked Antiques. The old church still stands at 108 Branch Street, a testament to the city’s architectural heritage.