A History of the First Church in Pembroke: 1708-1908

Study Guide

 

Short Answer Questions

1.   Describe the early geographical and social context of Pembroke, highlighting what led to the establishment of the First Church.

2.   Detail the circumstances surrounding the construction of the second meeting house in Pembroke. Who was the minister at the time, and what characterized his sermons?

3.   Explain how seating was allocated in the second meeting house. What can this tell us about the social structure of early Pembroke?

4.   What factors led to the separation of the West Parish from the First Church in Pembroke?

5.   Highlight the role of Gad Hitchcock in Pembroke during the revolutionary period. What anecdote is shared about him in the text?

6.   Compare and contrast the ministerial styles of Reverends Daniel Lewis and Thomas Smith.

7.   Describe an instance where Thomas Smith demonstrated his particular approach to interacting with his parishioners.

8.   What prompted the "Old Choir" incident during the ministry of Rev. Thomas Smith? What does this event reveal about his character?

9.   Explain the circumstances that led to the relocation of the Town Meeting headquarters from the Meeting House.

10.                Briefly summarize the key events and figures associated with the "Organ Quarrel" of 1868.

Answer Key

1.   Pembroke began as a bleak and arid moorland with a small population. As Mattakessett (later Duxbury) grew, residents found the weekly journey for worship too arduous. In 1708, a small separate building was constructed in Pembroke, marking the beginning of the First Church.

2.   The second meeting house was built in 1726 after the town voted to erect a larger building. This occurred under the ministry of Rev. Daniel Lewis, who was known for his strict adherence to Calvinist doctrine and delivered fiery sermons condemning sinners to eternal damnation.

3.   Seating was allocated by public auction, with prices ranging from 10 to 25 per pew. The list of those purchasing pews provides insight into the prominent families and individuals of the time, reflecting the social hierarchy within the community.

4.   The West Parish separated due to distance and increasing population. Residents found it difficult to travel to the centrally located First Church. In 1745, agitation for separation began, with the final boundary being drawn in 1746, establishing the West Parish.

5.   Gad Hitchcock, a strong advocate for revolution, served as a representative in the State Constitutional Convention. An anecdote describes him encountering Dr. Isaac Rand, humorously highlighting his simple demeanor and pride in Pembroke’s unique place names.

6.   Rev. Lewis was a stern and fiery preacher, known for his strict Calvinist sermons condemning sinners. In contrast, Rev. Smith was more liberal and approachable, known for his kindness and gentle humor.

7.   An anecdote recounts how a parishioner tried to elicit a compliment from Rev. Smith by criticizing her apple pie. Smith, understanding her intent, kindly reassured her, demonstrating his sensitivity and understanding of human nature.

8.   The "Old Choir" incident occurred when a new choir was installed in the church. The old choir refused to relinquish their position, leading to a standoff. Rev. Smith, with calm authority, asserted his control, demonstrating his leadership and ability to quell potential conflict.

9.   The Town Meeting headquarters moved from the Meeting House in 1819 due to concerns about fire safety and the need for a space specifically dedicated to town business. This marked a further separation of civic and religious functions in Pembroke.

10.                The "Organ Quarrel" involved strong disagreements within the parish about installing an organ in the church. The issue deeply divided the community and highlighted contrasting viewpoints on tradition and progress within the congregation.

Essay Questions

1.   Analyze the role of the First Church in shaping the social and political landscape of Pembroke from 1708 to 1908.

2.   How did the evolving religious beliefs and practices within the First Church reflect broader trends in American religious history during the 18th and 19th centuries?

3.   Explore the theme of community identity as presented in the history of the First Church. How did events like the separation of the West Parish and the "Organ Quarrel" shape the communal experience in Pembroke?

4.   Examine the ways in which the physical structures of the meeting houses in Pembroke reflected the changing needs and priorities of the congregation over time.

5.   Discuss the various ministers who served the First Church. How did their personalities, theological perspectives, and leadership styles influence the development of the church and the community it served?

Glossary of Key Terms

  • Annals: Historical records or chronicles of events.
  • Barren: Unproductive, unable to sustain life.
  • Heathendom: Uncivilized or pagan societies.
  • Moorland: Open, uncultivated land characterized by low-growing vegetation.
  • Parish: A geographical area served by a particular church.
  • Parsonage: The official residence of a minister.
  • Pew: An enclosed seating area in a church, typically rented or owned by families.
  • Sabbath: A day of religious observance and rest, typically Sunday for Christians.
  • Savin: A type of juniper tree.
  • Seditious: Inciting rebellion or civil disorder.
  • Tithing: A system of taxation for the support of the church, typically one-tenth of income.
  • Vestries: A room or building attached to a church, often used for meetings and administrative purposes.