First Unitarian Church

In the heart of Somerville, Massachusetts, stands a remarkable architectural gem, the First Unitarian Church. This historic building, located at 130 Highland Avenue, is a quintessential example of Richardsonian Romanesque design, a style that exudes both grandeur and a sense of timelessness. Built in 1894, this stone church has witnessed the ebb and flow of community life for over a century, evolving from its origins as a Unitarian congregation to its current role as the Mission Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Building History

The story of the First Unitarian Church begins in 1844 when a Unitarian congregation was established in Somerville. The congregation's first church was constructed in Central Hill Park in 1845, designed by architect Richard Bond and built by Louis C. Edgerly. This building, however, was short-lived, as it was destroyed by fire in 1852. Undeterred, the congregation rebuilt in 1853-54 under the direction of architect Thomas W. Silloway, only to face another devastating fire in 1867.

The resilient congregation completed their third church in Central Hill Park in 1869. By 1893, the City of Somerville had purchased this building to make way for the new Somerville High School. This prompted the construction of a fourth church, designed by the architectural firm Hartwell & Richardson, a name synonymous with the Richardsonian Romanesque style. Completed in 1895, this new church at Highland Avenue has stood the test of time, serving various congregations and purposes over the years.

In 1930, the Second Unitarian Church of Somerville merged with the First Unitarian Church, further solidifying its place in the community. However, by 1975, the congregation had dissolved, and the building found a new purpose when it was purchased by the Mission Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in 1976. This Apostolic Pentecostal church continues to occupy the building to this day, maintaining its spiritual and communal significance.

Architectural Marvel

The First Unitarian Church is a striking example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, a style characterized by its robust and rugged appearance, rounded arches, and intricate stonework. The church's location on the south side of Highland Avenue, at the western corner with Trull Lane, places it in close proximity to Somerville's civic heart on Central Hill.

The building's exterior is a testament to the craftsmanship of its designers, Hartwell & Richardson. The tall, steeply pitched gable roof and the imposing square tower at the right front corner dominate the skyline. The north-facing front facade features entrances at either end of the gable, flanking a bank of five rectangular stained-glass windows. Above these windows, three tall round-arch stained-glass windows add to the building's grandeur.

The tower itself is a marvel, rising through two levels to a belfry with tripled round-arch louvered openings on each side. The fourth stage of the tower houses a multi-faced clock, with stone piers at the corners rising to pyramidal caps. The tower is crowned by a slate pyramidal roof, adding to the building's distinctive silhouette.

Stained Glass Splendor

One of the most captivating features of the First Unitarian Church is its extensive stained glass. These windows not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the building but also serve as memorials to notable figures associated with the church. The largest stained-glass window, located in the center of the Highland Avenue facade, depicts Christ healing the sick. This window is dedicated to Columbus Tyler (1805-1881) and Mary Elizabeth (Sawyer) Tyler (1806-1889), long-time supporters of the church.

Flanking this central window are two others, representing the Angel of Charity and the Angel of Faith. These windows are dedicated to Rufus B. Stickney and Nathan and Sally Tufts, respectively. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of these stained-glass windows are a testament to the skill of the artisans who created them and the deep sense of reverence they inspire.

A Living Landmark

Today, the First Unitarian Church stands as a living landmark, a building that has adapted to the changing needs of its community while retaining its historical and architectural integrity. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, the church continues to be a place of worship, reflection, and community gathering.

Visitors to Somerville will find the First Unitarian Church to be a place where history and architecture converge, offering a glimpse into the past while remaining a vibrant part of the present. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a moment of quiet contemplation, the First Unitarian Church is a must-visit destination. Its storied past, architectural splendor, and enduring presence make it a true gem in the heart of Somerville.