Our Steeple's History
First Church of Christ in Old Wethersfield, CT, is not just a place of worship, it’s a living landmark of American history. Founded in 1635, the congregation spans nearly 390 years, making it one of America’s earliest Puritan settlements. The current Georgian brick meetinghouse, with its iconic white steeple modeled after Boston’s Old North Church, has stood since 1761.
This steeple has witnessed the footsteps of American giants. George Washington worshipped here with French General Comte de Rochambeau on May 20, 1781, during the planning of the Siege of Yorktown. John Adams climbed it in 1774 and wrote that it offered “the most grand and beautiful prospect in the world.”
Although Victorian-era modifications in the 19th century changed aspects of the design, a careful restoration in the 1970s returned the building and its steeple to its original 1761 appearance. Now, as we face the challenge of structural wear and age, our beloved steeple needs urgent restoration to preserve its integrity and beauty.
"We went up the steeple of the Wethersfield Meetinghouse from whence is the most grand and beautiful prospect in the world, at least, that I ever saw."
John Adams
Why It Matters:
Heritage
As a site where founding-era leaders worshipped and historic events were witnessed, this steeple is more than architecture.
It's American heritage.
Beacon
For nearly four centuries, our steeple has stood as a visible symbol guiding our community and welcoming all.
Future
This is a rare chance to ensure this national treasure remains stable and inspiring for generations to come.
By giving today, you become part of a story that stretches back to the founding of our nation.
Restoration Process
The steeple, built in 1761, stands at an impressive height of nearly 170 feet, with brick work representative of 16th and 17th century construction methods displaying diamond patterning in the “Old English Bond” style. Above the brick tower is a delightful wooden balustrade level painted bright white and topped with a spire and a weathervane. One of the few remaining churches of its era, First Church is quite unique.
Though the steeple looks in relatively good condition for its age, there are some underlying problems which need to be remedied. The most obvious being the wooden areas needing painting and areas of rot that need to be replaced. There are internal elements that require attention as well. As an example, the main bell is no longer in use due to the poor condition of the supporting beams. Insect damage has resulted in the deterioration of several if the support posts and beams of the tower. Both the tower and steeple are in immediate and desperate need of repair.
The tower is made of brick that was produced and fired here in Wethersfield. Perhaps our forefathers felt that bricks were more durable, and the extra cost involved was justified (a rather unusual construction material for the time.) The bricks, however, are soft in comparison to today’s and, therefore, need special attention. Bricks must have harvested from the interior to be used on the exterior. Due to the expansion and contraction of the brick, a special mortar is required to match this movement.
Your contribution to our GoFundMe campaign will help cover restoration costs, from stabilizing the spire to reinforcing supports and preserving this iconic symbol of American history.
