149 William St.
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-992-6843
Open all year for services
Constructed in 1829, the congregation dates back to the early Baptist and Quaker settlers of Old Dartmouth. The congregation was established in New Bedford in 1813.
The classical Greek and Federal style features a ship-lad front facade and imposing steeple, which mariners used as a navigational aid when returning to the harbor. The steeple is featured as part of the City of New Bedford seal.
The origins of Robert's Rules of Order are based on a text written by Captain Henry Martin Robert, a trustee of the congregation (1862-1865). Capt. Robert was inspired to write his text (1876) after having difficulty maintaining order at a church meeting focused on the defense needs of the harbor.
The church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
