First Universalist Church (Woonsocket, Rhode Island)

The First Universalist Church of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, is a historic Universalist church located at 78 Earle Street in the city. Founded in 1838, the congregation was a significant force in promoting Universalist ideals in the Blackstone Valley region.

The current church building, a brick Gothic Revival structure, was constructed in 1875, replacing an earlier wooden church on the same site. It features a prominent steeple, stained glass windows, and well-preserved interior details reflective of late 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture. The church's design is attributed to local architect Clifton A. Hall.

Throughout its history, the First Universalist Church has been involved in various social justice and community outreach programs. The congregation played an active role in the abolitionist movement and later championed causes related to women's suffrage, temperance, and civil rights.

The church is a member of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), formed in 1961 through the merger of the Universalist Church of America and the American Unitarian Association. The congregation continues to hold services and engage in community activities, adhering to the liberal religious principles of Unitarian Universalism, emphasizing reason, tolerance, and social responsibility.

The First Universalist Church of Woonsocket is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural significance and its contribution to the religious and social history of Woonsocket. The building and its grounds serve as a landmark in the city and a testament to the enduring legacy of Universalism in Rhode Island.