Our Unique History and Our Future

The United Church of Northfield (UCN) was constructed in 1836.  It is the central feature of the Depot Square Historic District of Northfield, Vermont. Over the decades fires destroyed all but two of the 19th century structures in the District: The old Central Vermont Train Depot (c.1858) and The United Church of Northfield. The church is on the Vermont State Register of Historic Places and eligible for registry at the national level.

Charles Paine, a Northfield entrepreneur and Governor of Vermont from 1841-1843, constructed the United Church of Northfield. He built what was known then as Paine’s Meeting House, to give his millworkers a space to meet and worship. The beautiful white clapboard, Greek Revival building with its prominent clock tower and steeple stands overlooking the square.

The horse sheds have been removed but with few exceptions it appears much like it did in 1836 at the dedication. The First Congregationalist Society purchased the building in the early 1850’s, and soon after the building became too small for its growing congregation.  The building was cut in half widthwise and lengthened to accommodate 16 additional pews. At about the same time the building was raised, the earth beneath excavated and a hall built under the first floor to rent out for community events. Howe’s Hall continues to function as a space for congregational and community events.

In 1929 the First Congregational Society and the First Universalist Society joined together to form the United Church of Northfield. That federation continues to the present. The United Church of Northfield represented religious freedom and community spirit then, and continues that tradition today. We hope to grow that tradition into the future through standing for not only religious freedom, but for diversity, justice and equality for all God’s people. In February 2019 we proudly adopted our Open and Affirming Covenant of Faith.