Second Meetinghouse

By 1647 the inhabitants of the early settlement around the area of Parker River were moved and relocated up along the Merrimack River and new lands apportioned to the inhabitants.

The removal of the inhabitants from Parker River to the “new” town on the Merrimack River led to a prolonged discussion in regard to the removal of the meeting house. It was ordered to be taken down and a new one set up on or before the 20th of October, 1647 upon a knoll of upland by Abraham Toppan’s barn.

This spot now forms a part of the First Parish Church Burying Ground. No pews but seats or benches were provided. In 1651 the selectmen ordered “that every householder both men and women shall sit in those seats appointed for them during their lives.” There was no bell. The inhabitants were called to service by the beating of drums. In 1654 it was ordered that the selectmen inquire about the money that had been gathered for the purchase of a bell.