Our HistorySince 1831...
Brief Excerpts from the
The Universalist Church was organized in Buffalo in December of 1831. Because of its doctrine of The "First Unitarian Society of Buffalo" was also organized in December of 1831. One of the early founders recalled, "During the early part of 1831, and for some years preceding, there was at times much religious excitement in Buffalo... While discussions on revivals were going on, the few Unitarians here became acquainted with each other and began to express their great desire to hear preaching more consistent with their feelings, and more consistent with their views of Christianity."
The church building of the First Unitarian Society of Buffalo still exists (pictured above), although in much modified form, at the intersection of Franklin and Eagle streets in downtown Buffalo. Three presidents have worshipped in this building. Millard Fillmore was a charter member of the Church. Both churches continued through the years in several locations and under several names. In 1953, the Unitarian and the Universalist churches combined to form the Unitarian Universalist Church of Buffalo, which used as its place of worship the Unitarian Church building at Elmwood and Ferry streets, built in 1904 on land donated by John Albright. A new suburban church was planned and organized in Williamsville. In 1957, the suburban church became autonomous as the Unitarian Universalist Church of Amherst. |
universal salvation, the Church was not welcomed by other religious people in the community. Samuel Welch, writing of his childhood in his recollections, said, "Therefore, we children were wont to look upon the Universalist Church with fear and horror, as the entrance to the gates and mouth of hell."
John Quincy Adams' diary for October 29, 1843 noted that he attended church with Fillmore, hearing a sermon by Rev. Hosmer on Matthew VI:31. One of the children of Rev. Hosmer recalled, "In 1861, a noteworthy scene was held in the church at Buffalo. Mr. Fillmore stood in his usual place... By his side stood a man, gaunt, sallow, who, with melancholy face, bent reverently at the sound of prayer. The minister spoke with solemn words; then coming from his pulpit, looked for a moment into the serious eyes of the visitor, while he pressed his hand. It was Abraham Lincoln passing on to the fulfillment of his stormy destiny."