Henry Channing
1787-1806

    Uncle of William Ellery Channing, Unitarian leader.  At this time there is the erection of the Channing Meeting House (the fourth), the first on the present site, by means of subscriptions made mostly "in kind."  Contained square pews.  Method of renting pews adopted with the construction of the new meeting house.  In use from 1787-1849.  In 1794 a new bell (the fourth) is provided.

Interesting note!

It was during Channing's ministry that the Yellow Fever and Drought of 1798 came upon New London.  There were 111 deaths in a population of about 2800.

    In 1793 the Methodist Church is organized.  In 1795 the church votes against a proposed quasi-Presbyterian consociation of New London County churches, confirming its consistently held position in the Saybrook Platform.  Between 1797 and 1825 the Society makes repeated provision by way of a singing school for the encouragement and improvement of Psalm singing.

    In 1804 the First Baptist Church is organized.  Channing's emergent Unitarianism revealed in the profession and covenant used at the reception of new members, which he substituted for the more evangelical one in use; one of the earliest formal statements of modern Unitarianism.  Mr. Channing is influential in the formulation of his nephew's views.  Increasing indifference to and dissatisfaction with his ministry finally leads to his resignation.