History of the Mendon Congregational Church

The town of Mendon was founded in 1832 by Col. John B. Chittenden.

February 20, 1833, The First Congregational of Mendon was organized. This was the First Congregational Fellowship organized in Illinois. Most of the charter members were from Guilford, Connecticut. The first meeting was help in the cabin home of Col. John B Chittenden. This site is on the farm now owned by Gilbert Miner. A stone maker was placed there in 1933.

In 1835 the First Union Meeting House erected made of logs with rough branches. Union Church was used by all denominations, also served as a school house.

In 1852 the First Parsonage was built on location now owned by Wayne Garrett on Collins Street. Rev. A. B. Campbell was first Pastor to reside in the Parsonage.

In 1853 the second frame church was erected. It was Gothic style with commanding spires. Later, having been moved south of the present post office, and used as the Opera House, later destroyed by fire.

In 1905, the present church was erected. It was built of brick and cost close to $18,000. It was not used or dedicated until July 8, 1906 when it was free of indebtedness. At the dedication of the new church 725 seats had been provided of which 700 were filled. The architect was George P. Behrensmeyer.

In October 1908, the clock was installed after extensive remodeling of the tower.

On August 14, 1920, the pipe organ was dedicated. In 1967, it was changed to electric.

in 1955, The Retreat House, north of Ursa was another project acquired by our church along with 12 other original churches to use as a meeting place and church camp.

The current parsonage, located next to the church was purchased in 1958. In 1961, the church library was established.

In 1971, we purchased the Fair Stand Building that we still sell food at every summer at the Adams County Fair.

We became a part of the United Church of Christ May of 1961, that we then disbanded from in October 2018.

For more details and history, contact the church office.