Organized Congregations
1295 Enfield Street/organized: 1680
The story of the Enfield churches is largely an account of the growth of the town as one group after another came to Enfield. Surely thereafter a church of the denomination they had known and attended in their native land was established.
The congregation church was the first. It was the church of a group of Puritans most of whom came from Salem, one of the early Massachusetts towns whose people had been denied the privilege of freedom of worship in England.
the Enfield congregation church was off arise in 1680 by the Springfield committee in charge of the Freshwater settlement. One of the requirements for those accepting a home lot was to form and build a church at the earliest opportunity. The first building was not erected until 1683. It stood near the present Enfield Street Cemetery and the area behind it was used as a burying ground. The oldest gravestone to be seen reads: "1690-Isaac Morgan, son of Isaac Morgan". Little is known of this early church and community. For about 17 years there was no minister and services in this 20 feet by 20 feet log church were conducted by its members. As was a custom of those early days, it was mandatory to attend church or suffer a fine.
When it became apparent that distal building could no longer served with town's needs it was replaced by a larger one located across the street from Post Office Road. A large engraved older now marks a location. It is stop that the stone foundation is still underground. It is interesting to note that the people were called church by a drummer. He beat his drum in the "Town Street" and when all were ready, beat it again for the minister. The drummer also beat his drum for funerals, on lecturer days, and for town meetings. In 1742 drummer was paid 25 shillings for the year. The Town operated in this way until 1784 when a Bell was donated and mounted in the third building, now the old town hall.
A long service was customary in the morning and another in the afternoon, within intermission at noon for lunch. The sermons were at least two hours long. Since early churches were on heated, in winter people brought heated stones to rest their feet on for a little warmth and during the noon lunch hour the stones would be reheated at the fireplace of some nearby house. Later footstoves were used.
during the time of the second church it was the practice to assign as used to the members on the basis of each man's importance according to age, wealth and rank. This was called "seating the meeting house" and was done by a committee. Needless to say this often lead to trouble. However, the custom lasted until 1835 at which time money for church expenses, including the pastors salary, was raised by an annual sale of pews. This change gave members the opportunity to have any pew they wished by renting it for the year ended away with the chore of seating the meeting house. There is a trust fund in the Enfield congregation church today which establishes a particular pew rent fee. The custom of renting as used was dropped longer do was some churches and Town still have a box in the vestibule for pew donations.
About 1749 a group of members broke away from the original church and organized a second church. They were dissatisfied with a direction of the religious teachings were taking and wish to have a more strict interpretation. They were called Separatists or Strict Congregationalists. The church building was directed about 1764 but there were no legal existence until 1770 when the General Assembly granted their petition for establishment has an independent church, the Second Ecclesiastical Society of Enfield. The existence of this church was comparatively brief and many members eventually returned to the First Churches as was to be the case in a later division.
This same situation occurred again about 100 years later, in 1855. In other group, who believed in strict Calvinistic doctrines, left the First Church in established the North Congregational Church, but they two had a short existence. There church building stood on the west side of Enfield Street in the middle of what is now the driveway to the Enfield High School.
The single most important than that took place in the second meeting house was a sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God", delivered by Jonathan Edwards of Northampton on July 8, 1741. The people were terrified by his vivid description of what would happen to sinners in the hereafter.
About 1772 the church members felt this church have to be replaced with a larger one of the growing town. This was a difficult time in our country of plans were drawn up, the building erected, and finished in January, 1775. It was a plain rectangular building with a steeple and was built by Isaac Kibbe.
On Thursday, April 20,1775, an event took place that awakened Enfield to the Revolutionary war. as was the custom in those days, there was a lecture every Thursday afternoon at the meeting house. Sometime during this lecture a writer on horseback raced into town, stop that the tavern across a street and announced that War had started in a little town near Boston. Upon hearing this news the town drummer, Thomas Abbey, got his drum and walked around meeting house beating it loudly. this broke up the lecture and everyone came out to find out what had happened. The next day, he, with about 75 other Enfield men, marched off to war. At the end of the war he came home with a rank of Captain. It is his statute that stands on the won in front of the Congregational Church today.
By 1844 the third meeting house was showing signs of wear. It was voted to put up a new building instead of repairing it, any committee was appointed to solicit subscriptions.
It was at this time that the third church building was sold to the town for a townhouse. It was moved across the road, the steeple pulled down and portico added. We know it now as The Old Town Hall. Several sites were suggested to the church. Members could not agree on this point and was moved at a committee of disinterested persons from adjacent towns be asked to decide on the best location. So in January, 1848, Judge Morris of Springfield, Herleheigh Haskell of Windsor, and Oliver Chapin of Somers duly visited Enfield and gave it as their opinion that the best site in the church was the Miner Place, so-called. However, at the next meeting of the police he asked Kohl society it was unanimously voted, 39 0, to build the new church on the Jane Pease property immediately east of the site were the third building was situated.
The present church builder was dedicated on that worry 14,1849. The plan for it was drawn by F.M. Stone of New Haven, the builder was Newton Moses, also of New Haven, in the interior decoration, in fresco, was done by Molini and Allegri of New York City in an "elegant and tasteful matter". This was changed in 1912 to the present style.
Over the years there has been other changes. In 1874 Chapel was built in the rear, the gift of Dr. Harry Allen Grant. It was replaced in 1962 by the present parish house which provides Sunday school rooms, kitchen facilities, and an auditorium.
330 Hazard Avenue/organized: 1835
The two Methodist churches, Hazardville United Methodist and Enfield United Methodist, do not owe their origin to any ethnic group. They were inspired by a camp meeting held on Job's Hill in Somers in 1829, following this, groups met in private homes in different parts of the town or religious services, in Scitico, Jabbok, Wallop, and a section later known as Thompsonville. Every two weeks there was a preaching service at the Scitico school house which was located approximately at the east corner of Hazard Avenue and Holiday Lane.
When the congregation out grew the school house in a church building was needed, the site was chosen farther west on the road between Scitico and Enfield. This road was probably the only cart path and their work only three or four houses within half a mile of the site, but there in the woods the church was built in 1835. It was about equally distant from Scitico, Wallop, and West Enfield, as the Thompsonville section was called, and convenient for the farm people who would attend. There were 76 members of this early church.
At first church was supplied by circuit creatures with the first established minister coming in 1838. The building itself was 32 feet by 40 feet and cost $1200. It was very plain with uncushioned seats and plain glass windows. Their worst owes in the corners under the gallery. This building is still in existence that now a for family apartment house across from the Old Cemetery in Hazardville which was there before the church.
Like the Congregational Church there were services both morning and afternoon on Sunday, and moreover Sunday School came in between. About the same time that the church was built the manufacture of gone powder was started in what we know as Powder Hollow. As this enterprise grew and attracted more people to the area the church grew and flourished also.
The present brick church was built in 1872. Many editions and improvements sense end have made the building more suitable for current meets. In 1923 a new organ and pictorial windows were given to the church. The latest addition-1961-provided classrooms, new kitchen facilities, he church office, pastor's study and an auditorium.
All this nearly went up in smoke in 1970 when lightning struck the steeple. Before any great damage was done the fire department arrived in by Quicken careful work the fire never reach beyond the steeple were it had started.
A bell which had been bought for the first church in 1844 now hangs the steeple of the present church. That bell was once responsible for catching a robber. Across the street there was a tin shop. In the middle of the night a wagon was stealth fully driven up to it, but before the would be robber could load up with tin ware there was a loud peal of the Bell. All the neighborhood was awakened and the thief was caught. The Bell had evidently than left in an unstable position which it changed of its own accord at the time of the attempted theft.
Organized: 1839
The First Presbyterian Church in Enfield, was formed by Scottish immigrants brought here by the company agents to work in the carpet mills. Orrin Thompson had built a factory for weaving carpets near the mouth of Freshwater Broker in 1828. He knew that in Scotland there were qualified levers and through his efforts many came here to live and work.
When the first Scottish levers arrive. The fall of 1828 there were no houses ready for them and they were boarded and some of the taverns used by the riverboat men. houses worsening put up and a river industry was called Scotch Row. later more houses were billed at Cottage Green which was a pride in joy of the early Scottish settlers with its green lawns and flowers.
At first many of these newcomers attended the Congregational Church but it's teachings were not close enough to Scottish beliefs and it was too far to walk in bad weather. They wanted their own church so in 1838 they approached the Presbytery in New York to establish a church and Thompsonville and the next year, 1839, the First Presbyterian Church was formed. This church had a unique honor of being the first Presbyterian organization in Connecticut.
Orrin Thompson, although never a member, was instrumental in the growth of this church. Seeing that they did not have a place of were shipped, he built a church for them on the corner of Church and North Main Streets and gave it to the members rent free. His gets included a church Bell, communion table, silver service, and generous amounts of money. That was in 1840. Times change and difficulties beset the Thompsonville Carpet Manufacturing Company which failed and caused great unemployment. The church property and build in had never been needed to the church as the members had thought was Mr. Thompson's intention, and in 1854, along with a carpet business, it was taken over by the Hartford Carpet Company.
In spite of hard times the members want to save their church. With a great amount sacrificed in some outside help they were able to separate themselves forever from any carpet company control.
The original building sought first expansion 1845, and take care of their ever-increasing numbers, it expanded again in 1859 and in 1875. Except for minor improvements it remains same until 1971.
By that time the years had taken their toll of Thompsonville. Buildings were falling into disk repair, and large businesses which once flourished because of carpet company, moved elsewhere when the carpet mill closed. The church building needed major repairs and modernization, however, space was not immediately available. This was the original Presbyterian church in Connecticut, it was well finance, and had more than 350 members. In the end the "Old First" decided to move.
Property was acquired below Enfield Street between King Street and Old King Street in a large modern building was erected. The church was designed by Galliher and Schoenhardt of Simsbury. There was no attempt by the building committee or architects to maintain the colonial appearance of Enfield Street. The desire was for a good modern building to make the best use of the property where it was situated. Although some consider the structure to radical for Enfield it serves the needs of the congregation well.
41 Brainard Road/Organized: 1841
Like the Hazardville United Methodist Church, the Enfield United Methodist Church was an outgrowth of the camp meeting of 1829 held on Job's Hill. Thompsonville, or West Enfield as it was called then, had its groups of people who held meetings in private homes.
There were very few people living in this section when the Thompsonville Manufacturing Company was started in 1828. This enterprise attract workers including many immigrants.
To the efforts of Rev. John Howson, an Englishman would come over to work in the carpet mill, the Thompsonville Methodist Church was organized in 1841. There were 70 members. Their first meeting place was the Bell School on what is now Elm Street, still in existence as a dwelling house. Later a church was built on High Street east of Pearl Street.
In 1884 a large brick church was erected, again on High Street, but this time west of Pearl Street. This was used until 1964. By this time Thompsonville was no longer a small village. Many homes in the center had given way to business establishments and there were parking problems for church hours. The downtown area had also become quite rundown. A new modern church was built on Brainard Road in a residential area, and the High Street building was sold to the Amvet's.
About this time the name was also changed to the Enfield United Methodist Church.
Organized: 1845
Until 1845 to First Presbyterian Church was the only church of that denomination in Enfield. In 1841 church wire wanted to use an organ in the services but the ruling body said "NO". Four years later three elders favorable to the idea consented. The opposite side vehemently objected in stated that instrumental additions to a church service was nothing short of a sin. "No fiddle in the Kirk" soon became a , and phrase among the dissenters. So a division took place in 1845 in a new church was formed in brotherhood with the Associate Performed Church of North America which he vaulted into the United Presbyterian Church of North America.
This new group immediately started to build the church in within a year succeeded in putting a non-pretentious building on the southeast corner of Pleasant and School Streets. The property was purchased for one dollar from Orrin Thompson's carpet company with the stipulation in the deed that the building and property the return to the company when asked for it. It was 55 years before they called for the return of this property. Although the church had recently been enlarged by the addition of a chapel, the members gave it a gladly when they learn the proper company was planning a huge expansion which was to include the property.
A new church building was erected on High Street in 1901 at cost of only $7000 more than the price paid for the old one by the carpet company. It was larger, lighter, and more modern than the old one, in a better section of Town closer to its members. There was a new organ. The original reason for the separation had disappeared some years before.
In 1943 this building was nearly destroyed by a fire that raised through the church from cellar to attic. It took 11 months to repair the damage.
It was felt as far back as the 1950s that there was a small need for two Presbyterian Churches. Also Thompsonville had changed and High Street was not as suitable a place for a church as it had been in 1900. After careful consideration the decision to merge with the First Presbyterian Church was made in 1972 and in time was carried through successfully. The United Presbyterian Church left its old home on High Street in became part of the Calgary Presbyterian Church on King Street in 1973.
28 Prospect Street/Organized: 1854
St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Thompsonville and St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Hazardville both started in 1851 as missions of St. John's church in Warehouse Point.
The Thompsonville congregation first met at Mechanic's All and later at Odd Fellow's Hall. The membership was expanding and a church building was greatly needed. Plans were made on St. Andrews day in 1854 to make it parish out of the mission. By 1858 enough money had been collected to lay the cornerstone of the present church. It was ideally situated as it was near the carpet mill and the homes of the people who worked there. As the carpet business flourished or faced hard times, so did the church, since many of the members were employed in the mill. In 1867 the Tariffville plant of the carpet Co. burned in the workers were transferred to Thompsonville. This gave the church in extra boost.
In 1902 A. Parish house was built for church and community functions. An organ fund was started which resulted in a pipe organ being installed in 1935 with pipes which were originally in Carnegie Hall. An electric organ is now in used although the front types of the old unit have been retained. Other more recent changes are the Hargrave Hall in the lower section, the undercroft has been refitted as a nursery, the belfry replaced, and memorial windows installed.
64 High Street/Organized: about 1827
But nearly all of early churches the record of the first Roman Catholic Church to be established in Enfield is somewhat day. The first Mass known to have conducted in Enfield occurred in October, 1827. There were at that time many laborers of Irish dissent working on the Thompsonville-Windsor Locks Canal. There was no Catholic Church anywhere in the area for them to attend, and very few priests in Connecticut at that time. In 1829 another priest traveled here, stayed several days, and accomplish great things among the workers. Companion was given and children were baptized. However in 1831 only 10 Roman Catholics could be counted. Mass was not said again for three years. Three more years passed before there was a priest in the area again.
There were few Roman Catholics anywhere in New England area, so few in fact that one priest was assigned to Hartford, Middlesex in Litchfield counties in Connecticut, plus Hampden and Berkshire counties in Massachusetts.
In 1840 a priest was assigned to Hartford and monthly services were held in Thompsonville for six or seven years. As the Catholic population gradually increased a priest in Windsor Locks ministered to the needs of Enfield. in 1860 gland was purchased on the west side of Pearl Street for the first Roman Catholic Church building. This was not far from where the present church stands.
The church was finished rapidly, Sir dwell, and was expanded in 1863 to accommodate many carpet workers from Tariffville with a plant had burned down. Other buildings followed. A rectory was completed in 1873 but was given over to the Sisters of Mercy who used it for a convent. A school was also build about 1873. Such rapid expansion makes for large debts but before long the need for a larger church became apparent.
Fortunately a large build them a was available on Pearl and High Streets. The building was finished in 1890 and immediately occupied. The interior was truly beautiful from the stately columns to lofty dome, marble alter, gold trimming, and colored windows. Arranged throughout the sanctuary were numerous religious paintings. In every way the attempt was made to reflect the true Roman effect. With a great deal of effort and sacrifice of large debt incurred at this time was completely cleared in 1921.
In early 1900s masses in Italian were added for the benefit of the many immigrants from Italy who did not understand English. From then on their has always been one Italian speaking priest at St. Patrick's.
On Jan. 5, 1949, a disastrous and devastating fire occurred. At 1 p.m. car was discovered in the rear of the church. The as his spread it became obvious that the building could not be saved it was a complete in total loss saved for the walls. Every color was gone as was every window, the altar, the floor, the paintings. Those watching, Roman Catholic and Protestant, priest and minister alike, shed tears. it was a terrible loss. Only St. Anthony's statue was spared in that is now in a prominent place in the new church.
Masses were held in the old Enfield High School after the fire. Plans were formulated to rebuild within the burned in blackened walls. The first service was held in the basement on November 1,1949. On November 19 of the next year the present building was finished and dedicated with the interior more beautiful than before.
426 Hazard Avenue/Organized: about 1863
As the gunpowder works in the east part of Enfield developed in the population grew and it became obvious that a church was needed for both the Irish and French Canadian workers employed in the mills in on the farms. This led to the division of the first Roman Catholic Church, St. Patrick's, and St. Bernard's parish was organized. A four room brick school had been built in Hazardville in 1862 in the old wooden school building was acquired by the Roman Catholics in 1863 and wars, as far is known, the first meeting place. This building is now a two family home on Hazard Avenue.
By 1870 a search was begun for suitable land for a new church build. A Mr. Sylvester Charter came forward and donate some land which is part of the present church property. The church was immediately started and was finished in 1880. The construction costs were offset by pledges of about $8000. Of this amount Colonel Augustus Hazard contributed fire under dollars plus "other considerations". Much of the early excavation was done by volunteer help stories persist that the foundation hold was dogged by powder and farm workers returning home to the end of the day. They would stop by the church property and dig in scrape with their teens and tell a foundation could be weighed. They would then return and back fill until the property was graded. the foundation stones were quarried in East Longmeadow and drawn to site by horses. As the village of Hazardville grew so did the church and its influence. With the closing of the power mills times were not so prosperous. But the original build instilled until 1955-approximately 75 years.
During the 18 '50s the entire town was expanding more than twofold. St. Bernard's was one of the first churches that recognized the need to expand and modernize, to look ahead consents the needs and wants of the future. In 1955 it seemed in the best interest to tear down the old church and build a new. under the strong leadership of its priest adjoining property was purchased, the old sanctuary was home town in the present attractive building erected. Directory, however, is the original rectory though much changed.
At present 1600 active families call St. Bernard's their church.
383 Hazard Avenue/Organized: 1863
Just as Orrin Thompson had sent to Scotland were expert weavers to work in his carpet mill, Colonel Hazard sent England for experienced powder makers to work in his gun powder mills.
As his business began to prosper more and more English powder makers arrived and it soon became obvious that these Englishmen did not have a home church. The only church in Hazardville, the Methodist, was not quite suited to their needs, nor was the Congregation Church in Enfield which was several miles away.
St. Mary's started in a small way in 1851 as a mission of St. John's church and Warehouse Point. In 1863, due to the interest and help of Colonel Hazard they were able to lay the cornerstone of the present church. There was (and still is) a large home on the Main Street which was occupied by the power Company superintendent. This imposing home had a huge front lawn landscaped with beautiful trees and shrubs. Colonel Hazard donated property to the east of this home for a church, plus $5000 trust for its maintenance, to the Episcopal people of Hazardville.
After the Civil War became a time when the village was not so prosperous and hard times came to St. Mary's. There was great concern that the church would once again become a mission. After the great powder mill explosion of January, 1913, the company closed for good in this had a great impact on the church. No full-time priest was hired, but St. Andrews in Thompsonville provided a priest part-time. Through World War I, the Depression, and World War II the church continued to struggle to exist as best it could.
Would-be growth of population in the 1950s and 1960s church membership increased and finances improved. Directory was bought at the rear of the church property in 1958. In annex and parish house were built later. However of the sanctuary is little changed since 1863.
ST ADALBERT'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
90 Alden Avenue/Organized: 1915
In the early 1900s a large number of Polish immigrants came to Thompsonville to work in the carpet mills. They began to move into the north end of Thompsonville, into homes provided and built by the carpet company. Because they understood and spoke very little English attendants at St. Patrick's church was not very satisfactory to them. Consequently, sometime before 1915, small groups began meeting in a builder owned by the company in an area called "French Town" which was West of Pleasant Street. Polish priests traveled their and preached in their native town, which brought great satisfaction to all. As these gatherings grew they felt it was time to form and support their own church.
Sand Albert was actually organized in 1915 in a search for land was immediately begun. It was felt that the church should be located in a northern section of town and close to the mill houses with a majority of the Polish people live. The large piece of suitable land was found on Alden Avenue in this has been the home of St. and Adalberts ever since.
Immediately after Mrs. Alden's land was acquired, a church foundation was put in; but the necessary funds were lacking to build a sanctuary. The sanctuary was not build until 1930 a previous to this services were held in the basement. The Depression of the 1930s took its toll in St. Adalbert's as in other churches, in a great deal of effort was needed to keep the church open and maintain ongoing programs. The church was overburdened with bills and mortgages in a priest (who was the original priest) was in failing health.
In 1938, however, new life was breathed into the parish when Father Paul Bartolewski was assigned here. His name is a particular significance to many people throughout the town. He was young, dynamic, and had strong convictions about the direction and importance of the church. "Father Paul" was well known to most of the town, Roman Catholic and Protestant alike. He was respected for his strong will the determination to furnish his church and acquire those things he felt important. In short, he was a very colorful man. Soon after his assignment here, he made the usual rounds of his parishioners to introduce himself; but he also asked for donations of money so that he could provide the necessary paintings for the interior of the church. This was done.
He planned a systematic expansion in the programs to support. Much in the material was donated or sold contractors at reduced prices. Father Paul sought to it that the church had the facilities necessary for a successful church life. In 1956 he completed a content, and in 1958 a school. The school was available for socials functions and for town use, and is one of the largest public assembly halls available.
As the church building showing the effects of time, he undertook a massive redecoration program, including new pews, in 1972, in a new organ in the same year. Also, parking was becoming a severe problem has a church was attracting more than just the North end residents; and so the field directly across the street (that once served as a ball field for the Bigelow employees) was acquired.
Father Paul retired in 1972 and is now dead - get his memories live on as probably the strongest Roman Catholic priest ever to serve in Enfield, and he will long as he remembered for his accomplishments here in an era when progress was hard to come by.
23 Church Street/Organized: 1916
the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox church occupies a unique place in Enfield. It is not only be sold Greek church in town, but its parish also includes East Windsor, telling 10, Rockville, Summers, Stafford Springs, Suffield, Bernard, Windsor locks, and Windsor.
Although there were Greeks in Enfield prior to 1900, it was this time that many of them were brought into town by the "Company agents" of the Hartford Carpet Co. to work in the carpet mills. As any local or newly congregate people would naturally like to do, there are anxious to keep their old ways and traditions intact. no local church met their needs in the language barrier was forbidding. At the first Greek Orthodox faithful attended church in Springfield. In the case of a wedding or baptism the pastor of the Springfield church came to town and the sacrament was performed in home. one Pioneer remembers that a group went to Springfield by trolley to attend the Anastasis (Resurrection Service) and then it took them to and half hours to walk back because there was no public transportation after midnight.
As more Greek people arrived in town, it became apparent that a church must be provided. A concerted effort was launched in the sites were viewed on Pleasant Street and church Street, but to no avail. It was then mind that the old Orpheum Theater on the present church site was to be sold. A purchase price of $4300 was agreed-upon, including all furnishings, and the necessary renovations started. In December, 1917, only nine months after the certificate organization was off arise, the "church" opened for worship. Descended about 17 years of frustration and searching. For much of the 17 years the services were held in the Emmet Hall at the corner of Pearl and High Streets. The name St. Nicholas was chosen because many members came from Koniska, Greece, and a patron saint of Koniska was St. Nicholas.
Emmett Hall again served as a temporary sanctuary wall par it plans were assembled to rebuild. Plans were submitted at no cost by a Springfield architect who also agreed to supervise the building free of charge. Almost two years went by before the present building was completed an opened on Oct. 25, 1926. It would no longer be necessary to conduct committee meetings in a bakery, coffee house, candy store, grocery store, or barber shop. The new building with a church proper on a main floor in all the basement met their needs for a place of worship and a place for meetings and socials.
The Depression in this little group and from 1932 to 1942 there was no priest and little money to keep the organization:. It felt to the parish of saints Constantine & Helen in Chicopee Falls to keep the church together, but only one service a month was provided. During these years, and later when the church really did not function, an "ispraktor" would take a collection box to the members. As the Depression started to wane, the church began to show new interest and life, and spite of not having a full-time priest the mortgage was paid off in 1940. Three years earlier APs of land in Suffield had been given to the church and used often for recreational purposes into a sale, several years later, $4100. In 1940 the present cues were added to the church from the Springfield church. The church bill was added in 1944 has a gift from one of the members. In 1945 a usable pump organ was added to the church physical plant and replaced in 1950 with a new read electric or which itself was replaced two years ago by the current electronic organ, a gift from the St. Nicholas Philoptochos Society members.
As in the case almost churches, the conduct of the church schools and other religious training continues to be done by late people. This system works well and keep Stanley and church interest height. Through these efforts many improvements have been added and a little church continues to add to its attractiveness. In 1968 to present priests residents was purchased. In early 1970 the beautiful aroma wall-to-wall carpeting was added as a gift, also from the ladies' society. in 1974 the two family house at 25-27 Church Street was purchased as an investment for the possible future expansion.
St. Nicholas is church is proud of its past and is ready to contribute in the future to welfare of its members and community.
POLISH NATIONAL CATHOLIC CHURCH
723 Enfield Street/Organized: 1934
The Polish National Catholic Church belongs to a group of independent Churches whose name is to carry on the traditions customs in the language of their native land were the church was a center of the community. The sect originated in Pennsylvania in 1897 and sense its beginning 162 parishes have been organized. It is a member of the National Council of Churches.
The Holy Cross Church of Enfield was started by a concern group of Polish speaking people were interested in furthering the beliefs of this movement. They held their first meeting at the Polish National Home on Alden Avenue in it was the feeling that a church could be formed to become successful. The first Mass was celebrated in the Greek Orthodox church. It was clear from the start to the group must have their own meeting house if they were to survive. Their search ended when the present property on Enfield Street was purchased 1935.
You must look closely today to realize that there church building is a converted barn. A huge effort was made immediately when as many as 40 volunteers under Tour to change its structure to one suitable for a church. Their efforts were well spent. Much of the funds was raised as a result of a lawn festival that lasted seven days and nights, something never done for such an extended period in Enfield. The bell in the belfry was originally in the old White Mill of the Thompsonville Carpet Company in 1828, and was wrong for years as the curfew Bell until 1906. This is probably the oldest Bell in Enfield as it predates the recast bell in the Congregational Church by two years. It was donated to the Polish National Church in 1936.
There is now a congregation of 280 members and masses are given in both Polish and English. The people are now actively engaged in complete remodeling of the church. If results compare with the original effort in 1935, the church will be an attraction to those were oriented towards the Polish National faith and to those who enjoy different church interiors.
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF OUR REDEEMER
20 North Street/Organized: 1958
In 1956 to Missouri Synod sent a thicker to northern Connecticut to conduct a survey to determine if there were enough interested people in the area to support a Lutheran Church. A minister was assigned here in 1958 and a membership drive resulted in 27 charter members. Their first meeting place was in the Hazardville Memorial School. A site committee was appointed and a drive for funds begun. This resulted in the purchase of a large plot of ground on North Street in Hazardville and hear the church was build a cost of $94,000. The cornerstone was late 1963. although operating originally as a mission, they have been self supporting since 1975.
253 Brainard Road/Organized: 1960
The First Baptist Church owes its original to a fellowship group from the grace Baptist Church in Springfield. They attempted first of found a church in Longmeadow but calm little local interest in the project. Some Enfield residents expressed in interest in this may survey was made which encouraged the group to transfer to Enfield as there was no Baptist organization here at the time.
A tract of land was offered in excepted on a corner of Brainard and George Washington Roads. A building was immediately erected and worship began in 1962. Was not long before this building was crowded and an educational Wayne was added. To serve well for 7 years I became apparent that more permanent religious center must be built to support their growing membership. The third building was a added to the previous to so that the complex as it appears today comprises three buildings. The main church seats about 185 and is most attractive. The members of this church are strong and dedicated believers in Calvinist approach to God.
ST. MARTHA'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
214 Brainard Road/Organized: 1961
As the Town began to expand a small-scale in late 1940s into an explosive scale on the 1950s it soon became apparent that the three Roman Catholic Church is could not accommodate all those wanting to attend. St. Bernard's was the church most affected because of absorbed new families from Green Manorville and Southwood Acres but St. Patrick's and St. Adalberts were also involved.
The new parish of St. Martha's dates from September 21, 1961. It was decided that the best location for the new church was closed to two housing developments in the northern in eastern sections of town, Whitacres and Green Manorville. It was felt that the southern section would eventually need its own church, which proved to be true in about four years.
Early masses were conducted in the Knights of Columbus Hall, at his ends, weddings, and funerals in either St. Bernard's or St. Patrick's. The first building completed was directory, and in a small Chapel in the rectory daily masses were held by the newly assigned priest. Groundbreaking for the new building was on December 15, 1962. The official opening of the church was on Sept. 22, 1963. It was designed with the finest appointments. From the two ton marble alter table from Italy to the fine Wurlitzer organ and Schulmerich carillon bells, the church is a fine example of dedication and concern to have a building were the of the name church.
Later a school was built. The total cost of the church in school was about $650,000.
As is evident from reading any of the local newspapers to church is one of the most active in town. Many functions have very large followings and St. Martha's Players rank is a superb acting group well-known throughout the area has a truly professional team.
127 Post Office Road/Organized: 1964
The Baptist faith in Enfield is quite difficult to trace, and from what little is known it appears to date from 1750. Thus Baptists were probably the second religious group to settle in town (the Congregational being the first). Although very little is known about the early Baptist minister answer parishioners were here to mid 1700s and probably lived in the eastern part of town near Somers. Records about their beginnings are very sketchy and we must refer to the official Baptist publications to obtain any insight to their early life in Enfield. In these books we see that there was probably a succession of different Baptist organizations until 1851 in the last entry concerning the Enfield Baptist was made to the Hartford Baptist Association. That entry indicated that the Enfield organization had ceased to exist in 1851. Perhaps when a detailed history of the Baptist and Enfield is written long forgotten records will come to light and show that there was a tie between all the old associations.
Also, of the three active Baptist churches now and Enfield, the American Baptist probably might be the closest to those ancient organizations, but there is no direct tie. No record can now be located of any Baptist Church between 1851 and about 1960. It is possible that either the first Baptist Church of Enfield or the Faith Baptist Church may be even more closely related than the American Baptist to the early church. However, time and research are necessary to prove or disprove any connection. Suffice it to say that the current Baptist Churches in Enfield are not the only Baptists to have settled here, and Baptist roots go deep into our town's history.
As you can see from history of the other Baptist Churches occur in Baptist movement was initiated in 1960. There is every reason to hope that all these churches are operating from a stronger base than the effort originated in 1750.
The third Baptist Church to form here in recent times was the American Baptist which can trace its origin to 1964. The fellowship which formed met and homes and later that same year moved to the Harriet Beecher Stowe School on Post Office Road for Sunday morning services. There early furnishings were, as expected, temporary, being set up in the auditorium on Saturday and stored again after the Sunday services.
In order to maintain enacted church light, committee and Bible study meetings were held in private homes.
At this time the first minister was living at 43 Raffia Road. The in 1964 he was moved to the newly acquired parsonage at 27 Post Office Road directly across the proposed church site. It was another four years before he would look out on a completed meeting house. In 1972, during a general church rear devastation, that parsonage was sold in the new one build on church grounds.
The present meeting house is located near the Harriet Beach for stove school on LAN obtained from George W. Smith, Jr. some of the LAN required fill and this was obtained from the I-91 construction project. Lee and Crabtree Associates, architects who designed the building, styled to be centered around a combination worship and general purpose room, seating about 170. In order to accomplish this, the furnishings are movable. The exterior appearance of the structure gives the illusion of a building considerably larger, due to the height pitched roof. The first worship service was held in the new building on Aug. 18, 1968, and us we have the third Baptist Church established and perhaps the 6 Baptist effort to settle permanently in Enfield.
The church Bell in this church is unique in that it is the only Bell in the Enfield churches with a direct tied to World War II. It was obtained from the aircraft carrier USS Tarawa. the Bell was formally presented to the church in November, 1973 by the Hartford Council, U.S. Navy League wet was placed in the separate brick foundation along with a church sign. The Bell was actually brought to the church in 1969 in an attempt made to install in Topeka the roof, but the 750 pound weight proved too great a vote for the structure to bear. The doll was made available to the church because a member of the church building committee knew a member of the Navy League. It is interesting to know that the Bell still sounds as a calling device, this time to God instead of war.
The American Baptist Church, because of its strong belief religious beat them and its willingness to cooperate with various faiths, is the only denomination in Enfield to allow these groups to use its facilities. Three other congregations are currently holding religious services in the church: the Kingdom of God, the Associated Churches of God, and the Seventh Day Adventists. Although all organizations using this church benefit from such an arrangement, it takes a large Christian heart to allow it to happen. The American Baptists are such Christians.
HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
38 Simon Road/Organized: 1965
There was no Roman Catholic Church in southern section of the town until Sept. 16, 1965, when the Holy Family Church was formed for the parishes of St. Patrick's and St. Bernard's. the name derives from many young families that were within its boundaries. Property was selected on Simon Road because of its central location. Groundbreaking was July 9, 1967. The type of church architecture was chosen that reflects the modern life in times of its people. It is content for a and style and trapezoidal in shape. As most people will agree, the churches really in imposing building. Until the church was completed, regular services were held in the Enfield High School.
Many functions normally held within the confines of church were by necessity, held elsewhere. He Saturday's school of instruction was held at the Harriet Beecher Stowe School, committee meetings were held at Raffia's Shopping Center. Bazaars, food sales, fashion shows, and general intent payments were held which provided the much-needed money to make a new organization work.
Dedication ceremonies were held on Nov. 9, 1968. Directory is now on church property instead of across the road. The children attend Saturday school at the church. Instead of one priest, as at first, there are now to priests into full-time nuns. Although dedicated to the principles of Roman Catholicism, many of the churches social auctions are attended and enjoyed by non-Catholics of the neighborhood.
KINGDOM OF GOD
127 Post Office Road/Organized: 1970
Most of the churches Enfield are members or associates of larger parent organizations. The Kingdom of God, however, is a new faith which grew out of the Church of God and can claim Enfield as its original home. Although when we formed instill in its embryonic stage, this new faith has five churches, four which are located in Mexico City.
The Kingdom of God, like most other states, can trace its birth from other religions and was formed because the teachings or hierarchy did not suit there in the immediate needs. Some years back on a man named Julius Shacknow was a very active speaker and had several religious groups scattered throughout New York, Connecticut, in New Jersey. He religious organization, strong in the South, known as the Church of God, invited Julius Schacknow to speak to the Church of Gods Tennessee church. He indicated that there were several groups of people in Connecticut which should be formed into churches and protect we singled out Windsor locks as containing an active group. In investigating team was sent to Windsor locks in a church of God was established in July, 1970, with about 40 people comprising married couples and singles. For about two years they met in private homes of realizing that in order to survive they must have a central religious center, they move to the Memorial Hall on Main Street. This building was not completely satisfying. It was also about this time to the group began to experience a change in theological direction.
In October, 1972, they moved to Enfield and changed their name to the Kingdom of God. Their first meeting house was the old United Presbyterian Church on High Street. When a town bought the building the members were forced to move again to private homes. In January, 1976, they moved the American Baptist Church were they now have 20 active members. Part of their activity is centered around terrified white motorcycles which travel throughout the area and search of young people's gatherings to pass out what your informing them of their beliefs.
In short, the Kingdom of God brings the Town a new approach to God, in a sense Pentecostal. the members treat Easter, Christmas, and other religious holidays as any other day, equal before God.
APOSTOLIC CHURCH
One Shaker Hill Road/Organized: 1971
One of the new were churches in Enfield is the Apostolic Church located on Shaker Hill Road. Do not larger numbers, too hard work they have achieved the most attractive building. It is a round church with a height peaked roof. Entering the main body of church one is struck by its unique beauty. The auditorium has a sloping theater like floor, focusing on a lecture and an immersion that baptismal font. The walls are paneled in there are handsome pews. The skylight in the height peaked ceiling captures the late afternoon sun and adds meaning to their services. The building was designed with expansion possibilities in the 200 person capacity auditorium can be enlarged to 300 simply by removing the window conceding the overflow in a portion of the hallway which surrounds the main room.
The services are not formal, says they accept the will of those present so that a more meaningful message candy received. If it is there will to sing hymns, or talk, or exchange ideas and concerns among themselves, it is excepted.
Becoming of this denomination to Enfield was a result of a gradual drifting away from United Pentecostal Church in Springfield. A few of the present Apostolic Church members first rented a store on Pearl Street and for three years offered a complete program for the young and old. their children's religious education is varied and in depth. Their adult believes are, Tucson, Stern and on yielding, to others, fair and in a true words of the Bible. They believe in the second coming of Christ and condemn a drinking, smoking, dancing, and the movies.
CALVARY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
1518 King Street/Organized: 1972
In the history of Enfield churches many denominations have expanded the only merger has occurred, with the Presbyterians. This merger brought together the first Presbyterian Church in United press deterrent church in close the rift that it lasted more than 120 years. This has resulted in a stronger, more unified church in either could probably achieved on its own.
The late 1960s and early 1970s there were some private discussions in United Presbyterian Church that it would be in their best interests to join with the First Presbyterian Church. But how to do it? United church services were little more unorthodox, they had property to dissolve, invested funds, etc.. The overture to merge, however, was made by the United church. It was well received, but many members on both sides were hesitant and wary. The merger to be successful must be smooth at all levels. The minister at the First Presbyterian was an interim minister who would leave when a new minister, acceptable to both sides, was found. The minister of the United Presbyterian unhesitant agreed to leave also. Joint services were held the old churches so that each could get to know the other again, and social functions were attended by both. Committees were equally split in decisions then would be unified. No bias could be charged. The selection of a minister was also a joint decision in a merger went. The union officially took place 1972 and name Calvary Presbyterian was chosen.
UNIVERSALIST-UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP
Organized: 1974
The Universalist-Unitarian Fellowship had its beginning in September, 1974, when one of the future members gathered in names of other women who were interested in forming a fellowship. Because there was a gas shortage and prices were by the preferred to remain in the Enfield area and interest more local people. DOS this might be called an "energy crisis church".
The fellowship was begun with five women who met at a house on Abbe Road and wrote the bylaws during September, 1974. They were able to interest in additional 7 and, together, they signed the charter the following November.
Because it was difficult conduct meetings in a private home, during November, 1974, they moved to the Grange Hall in Scitico. A drive was commenced to interest others in the organization. As each new member joined the sign the bylaws and by February, 1975, another seven had joined, bringing the total to 19. these members cannot represent family units but individuals.
In October, 1975, the fellowship move to the Scantic YWCA 96 Pearl Street. There is no minister has yet, consequently most of the meetings are discussions presented by the members and chosen from topics in pamphlets sent from the Boston Universalist-Unitarian headquarters. Occasionally guest speakers are available. Although the group is small it is completely self-sufficient has a small treasury. There is no pledging the regular collections are taking.
JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES
322 North Maple Street/Organized: date unknown
The Jehovah's Witness congregation is relatively new Winfield and it was not possible to obtain any information about this group.
