The Stratford Methodist Church, Herkimer NY

 

 

 

The Stratford United Methodist Church’s history began on April 5, 1813 when it was established under the name of Presbyterian and Methodist Union Society of the Town of Stratford.  Articles of incorporation were recorded in the Herkimer County Clerk’s office on March 31^st 1816.

 The first Trustees were Joseph Clements, William E. Jennings, Henry Devereaux and Simon Kennedy.     The board of trustees obtained donations of money, lumber and other necessary building materials for the construction.   The community donated money and labor to assist in building the church.  The church is a New England Style building with Pediment and an un ornamented belfry.  

The Church was deeded in December 1840 but was not recorded until July 9, 1845.  The deed which included the church and the land was purchased from Henry Devereaux and filed July 9, 1845 in the Herkimer County Clerk’s office.  The cost of the transaction was $100.00.

In 1850 the Church had the largest membership in the Rome District of 324 members and 89 parishioners.    This was recorded by Harry Perkins. 

 In 1866 it shared a joint parish with the Salisbury Center Methodist Church and shared the same pastor. 

In 1904 new stained glass windows were ordered. 

In 1924 the Church went under a series of repairs and included donations from parishioners.   New pews were installed at the cost of $500 from the estate of A.C. Bartlett, Memorial windows were furnished by Hon. H.L. Remmel at a cost of over $600, a floor was laid and the inside completely painted.  Cupboards were put in the hall and the doors were replaced.  Mrs. Lucy Belcher and family gave a new Bible and two hymnals.  The W. J. McLean family of Waterville have requested to put in an alter rail and chairs.

In 1928 – 1929 Electricity was included as it had just been extended to the area.

In the 1960’s improvements were made by adding an education building with facilities for Sunday School classes and church meetings.

In May of 1964 the Church celebrated its 150^th anniversary of its founding with a re dedication program.

 In December of 2001 A Nativity set consisting of Mary, Joseph, Manger and baby Jesus, Shepherd, 2 sheep and 3 kings was donated by Carolyn Walker.  The stable for the Nativity was provided by Orin Aird.

In 2002 a new roof was added to the church by Douglas Gardiner.