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Learn More  The Congregational story is the American story. Let us share why Congregational history matters.

 

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WHAT'S NEW

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EVERYONE IS WELCOME AT 14 BEACON

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HEAR FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Let members of our community share why they support the Congregational Library & Archives.

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    "As a historian studying the religious lives of people of color in early America, the Congregational Library's holdings have been vital to my research. It has honestly been one of the most pleasant places to work, in terms of the beauty of the updated spaces, the organization and utility of the archival materials, and especially the helpfulness of the staff. I have truly enjoyed working with, and benefiting from the expertise of, some of the most impressive library staff I've ever encountered in two decades of historical research." 

    Dr. Edward E. Andrews 
    Providence College, 2022-2023 NERFC Research Fellow

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    "From stumbling onto the first Polish woman pastor in history in their reading room, to providing me a research fellowship and guidance with their collection, the CLA has broadened my research and the scope of my book. I cannot imagine it without them and their help. They are as amazing as their collection."

    Rev. Dr. Kazimierz Bem  
    Pastor, First Church in Marlborough, MA and CLA Researcher

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    "These church records are the single greatest untapped primary resource in American history. My deep engagement with the records of so many towns over so many centuries enables me to challenge some well-established ideas about religion and society,” and have “revolutionized my scholarly understanding of the puritans."

    Dr. Lori Rogers-Stokes  
    Public Historian and New England's Hidden Histories Transcriber

Learn About Upcoming Events Online and at 14 Beacon

Join us throughout the year for virtual discussions with scholars, authors, and experts in Congregationalism, history, and library/archival practice.

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BEACON STREET BLOG

Keep up with recent updates from 14 Beacon and learn more about our collections.

  • Preserving Five Generations of Women's Stories

    March 11, 2024

    The Capron Family Papers collection is unique, not only because of the extraordinary life led by its central figures, Sarah and William Capron, but because of the five generations of letter writers found within the collection.

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  • Collections Highlight: "The Crisis"

    February 29, 2024

    The Crisis, the official magazine of the NAACP, was first published in 1910 by W. E. B. Du Bois as the first editor-in-chief.

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  • Exploring Black & Indigenous Hidden Histories

    February 26, 2024

    In archives, libraries, and museums, the remediation of historical oversights can take many forms.

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  • Narratives of Slavery and Freedom at the CLA

    February 15, 2024

    Among the many books and pamphlets Congregationalists were reading during the 19th century were the narratives of formerly enslaved persons.

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  • Rev. George Dunn and the School at Franklinton

    February 12, 2024

    Less than 18 months ago, the UCC Historical Council voted to recognize the Afro-Christian Convention as the “fifth stream” of the UCC.

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  • Tips for Planning Your Church's Anniversary

    January 4, 2024

    A church anniversary celebration is an opportunity to make meaningful and creative connections with the congregation's history.

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  • In Memory: Dr. Jeremy Dupertuis Bangs (1946-2023)

    September 10, 2023

    The recent passing of Jeremy Bangs is a loss to all who knew him.

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  • CLA Welcomes Four New Board Members

    July 10, 2023

    The Congregational Library & Archives is pleased to welcome four new members to the Board of Directors this month.

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  • Demystifying Archivist Speak

    June 21, 2023

    The CLA's archivists, Zachary Bodnar and Billy McCarthy, recently hosted a virtual program on "Demystifying Archivist Speak."

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