Freewill Baptist Church, church building in Wisconsin, United States of America
The Freewill Baptist Church is a wooden building in Greek Revival style located in New Berlin, Wisconsin, constructed in 1859. It features a symmetrical design with tall windows, a triangular pediment decorated with a starburst pattern, and a small bell tower on the roof.
Founded by New England settlers in 1840 and built in 1859, the church was the first of its denomination in Wisconsin. The congregation declined by 1925 and disbanded, but the building survived until a 1985 arson fire caused severe damage that was later carefully restored before its listing on the National Register in 1998.
The church served as the spiritual and social center for early settlers, hosting worship services and community gatherings alike. Inside, the open space and simple design emphasized connection among members rather than formality or hierarchy.
The building is open to visitors and occasionally hosts community events and lunches. Located in a quiet, tree-lined area of New Berlin, it is easily accessible on foot and best visited when planning to spend quiet time exploring local heritage.
An arson fire in 1985 destroyed nearly all wood and interior details, yet the community came together to carefully restore the building to its original condition. This reconstruction effort reveals both the locals' commitment to preserving their history and allows visitors to see authentic 1800s construction and craftsmanship today.
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