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The Homesteader's Newsletter >
HSOT December Events
HSOT December Events
Dec 10, 2022
The Benjamin Long Family & the First United Methodist Church: An Unbreakable Bond
Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at 7 PM
First United Methodist Church
65 Main Street North Tonawanda, NY
Join us as we revisit this historic church and explore its many ties to Benjamin and Mary Long and their descendants. Carole Barnard will relate the story of the Long family, their faith and this congregation.
While we do not know the exact denomination of the Longs before they came to Tonawanda, we do know religion was a strong influence in their lives. Family lore tells us Mr. Long moved his wife and daughters from Uriah Driggs hotel on Webster Street to avoid a planned New Year’s Eve dance, a function he deemed unsuitable for his five girls. Shortly after the Homestead was constructed, a Sunday school was established there and circuit riding preachers were invited to conduct services. This Sunday school became that of the First United Methodist Church and Christiana Long Smith was actively involved until her death in 1910.
From Christiana Long Smith’s role as a charter member of the Sunday school, to John Simson, husband of Frances Long, donating $2,000 toward the cost of a building, to Frances and John’s daughter, Mrs. John DeGraff, playing the organ for services, the stories of the Long family, this church and its congregants are woven into a beautiful tapestry.
We hope to see you Wednesday, December 14, at 7PM in the community room at the rear of the church.
Benjamin Long Homestead Tours
The Benjamin Long Homestead, 24 East Niagara St., Tonawanda, is decorated for Christmas by the Garden Club of the Tonawandas & open for tours Sundays through December 18. Hours are 1 to 3:30. Admission is $4. Also open Saturday, December 3 from 11 to 3 for Winter Walk. For more information, email blonghstd24@gmail.com.
Due to construction, the Museum will be closed until further notice.
A re-opening announcement will be published in THE LUMBER SHOVER.
Official Home: The Historical Society of the Tonawandas, Inc.
Museum and General Office: 113 Main Street, Tonawanda, NY, 14150-2129
(716) 694-7406 Email tonahist@gmail.com
© 2023 Written authorization required.
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