By Jerry Carden

150 Years Ago, June 18, 1871: The original Universalist Church was dedicated.

The Universalists began meeting in a variety of Urbana locations in 1859. That was just prior to the Civil War, so it took awhile to save for and build their first structure while the country (and they) were focused on abolishing slavery.

They purchased the lot for $450 at Green and Birch in 1870, drew up plans and built the structure pictured here. It was considered the largest and most beautiful church in the community. The cost of $15,000 was completely paid for by money raised at the dedication, attended by 500 people- 200 inside and 300 on the lawn.

The second picture was taken in 1913, just prior to tearing that building down to the brick foundation. That foundation was used to support our current stone structure, with additions that filled in the front corners, added the bell tower entry on Birch Street, and a large addition at the back which is now used as the rear seating area of the sanctuary. You might note that the original entrance was at the front, facing Green Street.

But why was a building unsuitable after just 42 years? Could it have something to do with the Unitarian’s new church building at Oregon and Mathews, built in 1908? The Unitarians had built a more modern style for the time and there was some friendly competition between the two congregations, according to church history.