“Seven dollars each” What a bargain. That’s what lots in Gulph United Church of Christ Cemetery sold for in 1845. This cemetery is more than just a final resting place. It’s a historic landmark with stories etched in every stone.
Gulph United Church of Christ Cemetery is part of Gulph United Church of Christ. The cemetery dates back to the 19th century. It was started around 1834 by members of the church. Gulph United Church of Christ Cemetery has been a welcoming place for the community.
The cemetery is well-maintained. It hosts an Easter Sunrise Service each year. A Community Memorial Day Observance also takes place here. The Gulph United Church of Christ Cemetery has a rich history. It is linked to the church’s own story.
The Gulph United Church of Christ, formerly Gulph Christian Church, formed on July 21, 1833. Reverend Frederick Plummer gathered the congregation. They met under an oak tree on the property. The old Gulph School House served as a meeting place. This was until they could build a proper church.
The land for the church was purchased. The first building was built in 1835. This original building is behind the current sanctuary. It now holds the church office, parlor, and nursery. The Sunday School began on June 10, 1843. It met in the old schoolhouse for almost a century. In 1932, church trustees bought the schoolhouse. They used it for educational purposes.
The Gulph United Church of Christ needed more space as membership grew. A building committee formed on July 29, 1893. They planned a new church. The initial budget of $5000 grew to $6000. The new church was modeled after St. Martin’s Church of Canterbury, England. The cornerstone was laid in 1894. The building was dedicated in March 1895 free of debt.
The Christian Church and Congregational Churches merged in 1929. They formed the Congregational Christian Churches. This was the first such union in the United States. In 1957, the Congregational Christian Churches merged with the Evangelical and Reformed Church. This created the United Church of Christ. The Gulph Church joined this new group.
An Allen Digital Computer Organ was installed in 1998. This happened after ten years of fundraising. The Gulph United Church of Christ recognizes two sacraments. These are Baptism and Holy Communion. Infant baptism is common. Holy Communion is celebrated monthly and on church festivals. All baptized Christians are welcome. Grape juice is used.
Gulph United Church of Christ is currently led by Reverend Judith A. Meier. She is active in many organizations. She assists people seeking church and cemetery records.
Today, Gulph United Church of Christ Cemetery stands as a testament to faith. It also shows community and history. It is a place of remembrance. It is a place of reflection. Take a moment to appreciate the stories beneath your feet.