Our 200-Year Story: History & Heritage
Celebrating 200 Years | 1826–2026
For 200 years, the story of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Nashua has been intertwined with the story of our city. Founded as a Unitarian congregation in 1826, our church grew alongside Nashua through periods of industrial expansion, social change, challenges, and renewal. Our Universalist heritage, later united with the Unitarian congregation, enriched a shared commitment to religious freedom, justice, and service to others. As we celebrate our bicentennial, we invite you to explore the people, milestones, buildings, and stories that connect our past to the welcoming and active congregation we are today.
1. Our Church Through 200 Years
Discover how a small Unitarian congregation founded in 1826 grew into today’s Unitarian Universalist Church of Nashua. Explore the story of our two religious traditions, our historic buildings, and the changing community we have served for generations.
2. Two Centuries of Milestones
Follow the events that shaped our congregation, from its founding and the dedication of our sanctuary to the union of our Unitarian and Universalist traditions, changing social movements, and our bicentennial celebration. These milestones are interactive. You can hover over them or click to get in depth details.
3. The Ministers Who Shaped Our Faith
Meet the ministers who have guided our congregation through two centuries. Their leadership, ideas, and commitment to religious freedom helped shape the values and spiritual life of UU Nashua. Click on each to learn their stories.
Explore Our Ministers’ History
4. Generations of Congregational Leadership
Throughout our history, dedicated lay leaders have worked alongside our ministers to build and sustain our congregation. Explore the record of church presidents whose service helped guide UU Nashua across generations.
Explore Our Presidents’ History
5. Honoring the Campbell Family Legacy
Discover the remarkable contributions of Rev. Jeffrey Campbell, Marguerite Campbell Davis, and their family, whose commitment to Unitarian Universalism endured despite discrimination and injustice. Their story reminds us that understanding our history means recognizing both our achievements and our shortcomings.
Explore the Campbell Family Legacy
6. Nashua Historic Cemetery
Established in 1835, the historic cemetery adjoining our church is the resting place of many individuals and families who helped shape early Nashua. Discover its history, notable residents, and continuing role as a place of remembrance.
Explore the Historic Nashua Cemetery