[p. 28] make the community of old historic
Medford religious, peaceful, and law abiding, and as such it has ever proved.
In 1832 a church was built on Forest street. A few possibly of our old inhabitants may recall the old church building with its flight of steps on the outside leading to the auditorium in the second story.
(No record of the dedication can be found.)
In 1850 the church was remodelled and enlarged.
The long steps in front were removed, and an entrance made in the first story; fifteen feet eastward was added to its length, and other improvements made for the convenience of the society, which had increased in numbers and usefulness.
In 1886 other alterations and improvements were made.
The church building was raised and the vestry brought up with the grade of the land, making it light and cheerful; a pastor's room was arranged with a convenient entrance to the pulpit platform; the organ was moved from the gallery to the east end of the church; new pews and windows replaced the old ones, making the appearance of the auditorium much more pleasant and attractive as well as convenient for its work as a church.
Pastors.
In April, 1831,
the Rev. Winslow Wright was installed as the first pastor, and after four years of faithful labor he resigned in April, 1835.
Soon after his resignation
the Rev. Joseph Banfield was made his successor, and remained as pastor for three years.
The Rev. Dr. Hosea Ballou was made pastor of the society in 1838.
There may be members of this society who remember the kind, pleasant manners of this truly Christian man, who always had a pleasant greeting and a kind word for every one.
Dr. Ballou remained as pastor until August, 1853, when he was called to the presidency of Tufts College.
In February, 1854,
the Rev. G. V. Maxham accepted
