Center Church on the Green, New Haven

Nestled in the heart of New Haven, Center Church on the Green, officially known as The First Church of Christ, stands as a historic and architectural landmark. It is the center of the three iconic churches bordering the New Haven Green and traces its origins back to 1639 when it was founded by Puritan settlers who had arrived the year before to establish a theocratic colony they envisioned as a “New Jerusalem.”

The current church building, constructed between 1812 and 1814 during the War of 1812, is the fourth meeting house of the congregation. Designed by renowned New Haven architect Ithiel Town, the structure reflects the Post-Georgian or Federal style and was inspired by Saint Martin-in-the-Fields in London’s Trafalgar Square.

Beneath Center Church lies The Crypt, a rare intact colonial burial ground with over 1,000 remains and 137 gravestones dating from 1687 to 1812—the oldest belonging to Sarah Rutherford Trowbridge. The raised church floor hints at this hidden piece of early American history.

Inside, visitors find Waterford crystal chandeliers, Tiffany stained glass windows, and a Fisk Pipe Organ. A highlight is the central window by Joseph Lauber, depicting Reverend John Davenport’s first sermon on April 25, 1638, under an oak tree near today’s College and George Streets.

Center Church was central to early Connecticut life, with Congregationalism as the state religion until 1818. The 18th-century Great Awakening led to a split, forming the United Church to the north, while the Trinity Church was built to the south in 1814—placing the Center Church in the middle. It also shares historic ties with Yale: students worshipped here until 1757, commencements were held on-site until 1895, and seniors still circle the church on graduation day as its bells ring.

Today, Center Church continues to honor its rich past while embracing its role in the present, welcoming all who seek history, reflection, and community in the heart of New Haven.

*** Amistad Freedom Trail ***
Back in the mid-19th century, this church congregation was actively involved in supporting the Mende African captives during the Amistad incident and was particularly instrumental in gaining support for the Africans held in the New Haven Jail.