History

Before the construction of Pownal United Methodist Church in the 1840s, traveling ministers and circuit riders filled the village’s spiritual needs, and camp meeting revivals were hosted at the homes of the faithful. When the church was served by circuit riders, services took place in district school houses or in the homes of members. The advent of the circuit rider was a social occasion of great moment—days of cooking, baking, cleaning, and general excitement preceded his arrival. All preparations were complete by evening time on Saturday and the Sabbath was observed. 

The original Pownal United Methodist church was designed by architect Noel Barber and built by the men of the church starting in 1840. Timber was donated by Mr. and Mrs. John Hall from their farm on the west side of the Hoosic River. Other materials were donated by the church members. The men of the church raised the frame, under the watchful eye of Barber, and the women provided them meals. 

The Pownal United Methodist Church is the oldest church in Pownal, dedicated in 1844 with a membership of 115. Oliver Spicer became the first pastor. By 1886, membership had dwindled to 61. The Reverend Philip Goettel came to the village and during his four years as pastor, church membership nearly doubled. [One sentence about him that is confusing and we should ask about]. During his ministry, an annex and shed were added to the church, and stained glass memorial windows were installed in the sanctuary. The parsonage was built in 1887 for $1,100, again by the hands of the congregation who provided the funding and materials. 

The church was a spiritual and social center of the community until a fire, that may have been started by a painter’s blowtorch, destroyed it on August 8th, 1980. It had been standing for 136 years prior. The community immediately set about raising funds to rebuild the church. Just one year later, on August 8th, 1981, the new church was dedicated.