'Some had services in their own homes, hut most worshipped with the armorers in their Chapel on the United States grounds. Rev. Mr. Marshall, an Episcopal clergyman, who was supplying at the United States Chapel, opened with prayer at the first regular meeting of this society, March 4, 1819". And again.
"On the 3rd of June 1819, the frame of the house was raised, prayers being previously offered by the Rev. Mr. Chase".
"Then too, the corner stone of the old Church of the Unity was laid (May 20, 1819) in the name of the Trinity, by Dr. Titus Strong. The Hampden Patriot of that year reads: "On this interesting occasion a very appropriate and excellent prayer was made by the Rev. Mr. Chase, preacher at the United States Chapel in this town." This church stood at the corner of State and Willow Streets, until destroyed by fire, Oct. 12, 1873.
"But those whose influence was greatest, and many of the older seceders, in spite of weekly instructions by the rector were unable to accept the requirements of our form of worship, and gradually drifted away, and Mr. Rutledge, lacking financial support, was forced to resign January, 1822. His parishioners express "the utmost regret and heartfelt sorrow 'that they find themselves unable, at this time, to give him that support his merits deserve." They tender sincere thanks for "his very able and Christian-like performance of the duties of his office," during his short stay in Springfield, and assure him, that they will welcome his return, if they can see their way clear to compensate him. "This truly pious and exemplary man died in South Carolina, his native state, on the 12th of March, 1832, at the early age of thirty-three years."
"Besides the withdrawal of the Unitarians, there were other reasons why the Church failed at this crisis. The Parish was unable to agree upon a location for a church, there seemed to be no way of raising funds, and Colonel Lee, the directing genius of the little band, was ordered abroad.
"There were occasional services held during the next two years, and then came an event, that seemed a final blow to the loyal little band of Churchmen. A fire broke out and destroyed
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