2021: Our 250th Anniversary
Celebrating 250 Years on the Green
St. Peter’s was organized in 1760, with early services held in various village homes. The first stage of construction of the current building was completed in 1771, making 2021 the 250th anniversary of its establishment.
The building originally stood on the Village Green, but in 1826 was moved to its present location. Over the years, the additions of a vestibule, balcony, and steeple completed the layout of the church as it exists today. More recent renovations of the bell tower have included exterior repainting from the wood out, and a new copper-clad roof.
On August 1, 2021, a special service was held at the Church, where the current and some former ministers, as well as congregants, offered remarks about the history of the building and the role of the congregation in community life. The Ghent Band provided a brief concert on the Green, and the attendees moved to the Town Hall for a luncheon. The Town Historian and the Chair of the Austerlitz Historical Society also provided reflections for the program.
Later that year, the Friends collaborated with the Church congregation to host held two special events to celebrate the Church’s 250th year of existence:
The ongoing maintenance of this historic structure requires financial support.
While many major projects have been accomplished, the impacts of time and use will require future efforts. The Friends’ funds have been reduced by the most recent painting project, so additional fundraising is required before any new efforts are undertaken.
Won’t you help?