The history of this church is closely intertwined with the development of the city of Lawrence.

At first, Sunday school classes for children in the area bordering the Merrimack were conducted with the assistance of teachers from various churches throughout the city. Evening prayer meetings were added to these classes, led by laymen from other churches.

The next step toward establishment of a separate church came in January 1863, when the former Union Schoolhouse, donated by Deacon Benjamin Coolidge of Lawrence St. Church. was dedicated and became the new chapel.

The building had to be moved from Essex St. and was set up on the banks of the Merrimack on Water St., present location of the church.

The First morning worship services were held there in February 1869, with Robert Aldred preaching the sermon.