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Nebraska
Historical Marker - Congregational Church of Blair
Religious institutions have
played an important role in the history of Nebraska. During the
frontier period, churches fulfilled both the spiritual and social needs of
the early inhabitants. The Congregational Church was one of Nebraska's
pioneer denominations. The Reverend Reuben Gaylord brought
Congregationalism to Washington County in 1856 and the Church operated an
early institution of higher learning, the "Nebraska University" at
Fontenelle, 1858-1872.
The Congregational Church of
Blair was organized with eight communicants on February 10, 1870, less than
a year after John I. Blair auctioned the original town lots a few blocks
north of this site. For a time, the Reverend Marshall Tingley, who had
come from Sioux City, conducted services in the courthouse or in private
homes.
On November 22, 1874, a 28 by
40 foot sanctuary characteristic of the Carpenter-gothic style of
architecture, was dedicated on this site. Additions and improvements
have occurred throughout the years but the original structure, along with
many interior furnishings, has remained in use for more than a century as a
center for worship and fellowship. The style and simplicity of this
pioneer Congregational Church provides a fitting memorial to Washington
County's religious heritage.
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