Announcements

For more information on Upcoming Events at First Church, you can visit our events page HERE

10:00AM Sunday Services Return!

Beginning Sunday, September 6, 2026, services return to 10AM

30th Annual Venture Smith Day

Join us at First Church of Christ, Congregational in East Haddam on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 PM for the 30th Annual Venture Smith Day, held at the First Church Cemetery, 499 Town Street (Route 151), where Venture Smith (1729–1805) is buried.

For three decades, this annual gathering has honored the remarkable life and legacy of Venture Smith, who was born in West Africa, kidnapped and enslaved as a child, and eventually purchased his own freedom and that of members of his family. He went on to become a successful landowner and businessman, and his published life narrative has become an invaluable firsthand account of slavery, freedom, perseverance, and African American life in early New England. This year’s celebration is especially significant as it marks both the 30th anniversary of Venture Smith Day and the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The afternoon will feature distinguished historians and scholars, including Dr. Matthew Warshauer, Professor of History at Central Connecticut State University; Dr. David J. Naumec, American military historian, battlefield archaeologist, and museum manager at Historic Stonington; Dr. John Wood Sweet, Professor of History at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and award-winning author; Gary “Red Oak” O’Neil, Wangunk elder, historian, teacher, potter, and descendant of Venture Smith through marriage; and Dr. Karl P. Stofko, East Haddam Municipal Historian and Venture Smith family genealogist. Presentations will explore the American Revolution, Connecticut’s Indigenous troops, Venture Smith and the Revolution, the Smith and Wormsley families, and the story of Cuff Smith.

The celebration will also welcome the return of “The Sisters in Stitches Joined by the Cloth,” a group of master quilters who will display their magnificent African American quilts. Guests can also explore family archives and Venture Smith genealogy, browse books and souvenirs, enjoy refreshments, and take part in a special gathering and photo of Venture Smith’s descendants.

All are welcome to join us for this special afternoon of history, remembrance, community, and celebration as we honor Venture Smith and the generations of people who have worked to preserve and share his extraordinary story.

Remembering the Past — Inspiring the Future.

September 13th-Homecoming Sunday

To mark the beginning of First Church’s 2026-27 program year, we will have a special Homecoming Sunday service beginning at 10am! Grilled foods to follow picnic style. If you are able, and your last name begins with A-M, please bring a side to share. If your last name begins with N-Z, feel free to. bring a dessert! We will have bottled water available, but if you would like to bring a church-appropriate juice or beverage (no alcohol), feel free! If the weather is nice, feel free to bring a camping chair to eat outdoors if you wish!

30th Annual Quilt and Needle Arts Show!!

The tradition lives on this Columbus Day weekend!

Our historic 1794 Meetinghouse is sure to impress when it showcases unique textile works of art, one-of-a-kind masterpieces! Shop for the latest offerings of our wonderful local vendors and the First Church boutique! Bring your appetite to enjoy homemade soups and pies in our café! 

Be sure to buy your raffle tickets for a chance to win one of four prizes, with our 30th addition queen size quilt “Garden Block Party” as the 1st prize, $500 Shagbark Lumber & Farm Supplies Gift Card 2nd prize, $150 Shell Gift Card 3rd prize and $75 Stitch Chicks Gift Card.

Click HERE for Raffle Ticket Sale Dates and Locations

Raffle drawing is at 3:45 pm on October 12th.

‍ ‍Show Hours: ‍ ‍

Saturday 10/11/2025 ~ 10am to 5pm

Sunday 10/12/2025 ~ 12pm 4pm

Free Parking

Handicap accessible