The North Church Steeple in Market Square has been part of the lives of thousands of people over the generations. Many have sent brief vignettes about why and how the Steeple has been important to them. We've posted some of them below.
We hope you'll tell us your story. Scroll to the bottom and write to us and let the world learn about your Steeple Story.
Cindy Andrews , Portsmouth, NH:
The North church holds many memories for me and my family but I don't see it as a memory, it is a permanant fixture in all of our lives. It is something that should never be taken for granted or taken away. It is a symbol that Portsmouth still holds some value to all those who grew up here, and their parents and grandparents before them. Lets make sure we keep this beauty around for a long time from now.
Harry and Deborah Sano, Great Barrington, MA:
We met in 1958 when Deb was a student at UNH and Harry was stationed at Pease Air Force Base. We attended services at the "Old North Church" and we were married by Reverend Feaster in April of 1961. The bride's mother was not happy with the forthcoming wedding. It was unknown whether or not the bride's parents would even attend the ceremony. Rev. Feaster asked "how am I to know if the bride's parents are here?" "If the family pew is filled, they are here." To make a long story short, Rev. Feaster saw the family pew was filled and when he came to the point in the ceremony, "Does anyone here know why these two should not be wed," he simply passed over that phrase.
After 45+ years we still laugh and bless the Reverend. We try to return to "our roots" every 10-15 years to see the progress and the changes in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas.
Barbara Massar, Portsmouth, NH:
As the Executive Director of a local non-profit, Pro Portsmouth, I have a special connection with the North Church and, in particular, the Steeple. The Steeple is at the heart of the Pro Portsmouth logo and the North Church is frequently at the heart of our events - in particular First Night Portsmouth. It was our sincere pleasure to make a donation to the Steeple Fund in order to assure it's continued presence as a symbol of the heart of the Port City. It is our hope that all who are Pro Portsmouth will do the same!
Dorothy Caswell Avery, Kittery Point, Maine:
Back in the early 1900's my father, Sherman O. Caswell and my mother, Grace A. McHatton Caswell were planning to get married. At the time work and money were very scarce. So for $250 my father said he would paint and repair the North Church steeple so he would have the money to get married. The marriage took place on April 17, 1904 and they had eight children -- all of us girls! I'm 90 years old now and that steeple will always play a significant role in my family's history.
Eric Gregg, New York City, NY:
My wife and I were fortunate enough to be married at the North Church with Dawn presiding over the ceremony. Having spent many Summers nearby and in and around Portsmouth, we couldn't think of a better place to be wed. We have very fond memories of the experience.
I'm an enthusiastic supporter of the renovation. The North Church is a cornerstone of the Portsmouth community.
[ If your story is very long, it's best if you write it in your own word processor, save your own copy, and then copy&paste it into this form. Thanks. ]