As I mentioned in the earlier post today, titled “Will Spring Appear Soon?“, the trip to Bear’s Den wasn’t optimal. It was definitely enjoyable and a lot of fun of doing some photography in cold, snowy, icy conditions. I actually mean that, as I do relish somewhat more challenging conditions. After getting back to the car and packing up, I decided to explore the center of New Salem.
New Salem still has all the character of an 18th century New England settlement…
The building is the 1794 Meetinghouse, situated on South Main Street in New Salem. The meeting house is a town’s location where both religious and civic activities took place. After the original settlement of New Salem in 1737, the town had outgrown its first meeting house. The Congregational Society deemed the time was right for a larger structure and this one was started in 1794. Completion of the building was in 1795.
Over time renovations were made and its original purpose was no longer needed in 1953. New Salem had several other churches and services were no longer held for a long time. The 1794 Meetinghouse serves as an event space these days.
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