The History and Unique Joinery of the Christian Hill Church

Second Baptist Church, August 2017

In 1797, when members of the Second Baptist Society on Christian Hill built their church, they used the scribing joinery prevalent in Europe for hundreds of years. But they also employed a unique truss design soon to be adopted in the young country. This church building is the oldest in Colrain, and one of the oldest structures in town.

Lyonsville carpenter Jeremy Topitzer will describe its unique joinery at a meeting there of the Colrain Historical Society Thursday, Sept. 14, at 7 p.m. In a reversal of custom, the program will precede the 7:30 business meeting. As the kerosene-lit church is not illuminated outside, attendees are advised to bring flashlights for the walk back to cars after the program.

 The public is welcome to this free program. To reach the Christian Hill church, drive north from Colrain Center on Route 112 (four miles) to Thompson Road on the left just before the iron bridge. At the end of Thompson Road (three miles) turn left. The church is on the right on Christian Hill Road. Get directions from your location with Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/mn9HKpz3AXL2

 For information, call Belden Merims, 624-3453.

This undated photo of the Second Baptist Church shows the long shed in back, where parishioners could hitch their horses and buggies. The shed has been gone for many years. The building to the right of the church, formerly the church parsonage, is now a private residence.

Front of the church, August 2017.
(Click or touch the photos for an enlarged view.)