In the Beginning
The First Unitarian Society of Westchester (FUSW) traces its roots to the 1850s, when Sunday services were held in a Yonkers home. By 1856, the growing congregation moved to the Getty House Lyceum, alternating Sundays with the Universalists. In 1857, the Unitarians called their first minister, and in 1858, the church applied for incorporation. In 1861, a Gothic Revival church was dedicated on North Broadway, Yonkers, where it remained until 1965, when it relocated to Hastings-on-Hudson.
The congregation expanded in the late 19th century, introducing a Sunday evening service on contemporary topics. During World War I, membership declined, and services were temporarily held in homes. Post-war, the church grew, with a thriving music program, active church school, and social action involvement. After WWII, modern congregational features emerged, including a weekly bulletin, paid advertisements, and a monthly social hour.
In the 1960s and 70s, the congregation shrank due to the move and changing attitudes. A part-time minister was hired, and the congregation formed Program Groups to lead services. In 1985, the church name was changed to “The First Unitarian Society of Westchester” to reflect its wider membership. In 1992, a full-time minister was hired, leading to growth in both membership and religious education. The church expanded its facilities, hired a Director of Religious Education, and enhanced musical and artistic offerings. It adopted a Safe and Sacred Policy, became a Welcoming Congregation, and committed to being a green sanctuary.
Despite economic challenges and a natural disaster, FUSW remains a vibrant, supportive community committed to growth, inclusion, and joy in shared UU values.
For more details about our history, please see "Our Longer History".
The congregation expanded in the late 19th century, introducing a Sunday evening service on contemporary topics. During World War I, membership declined, and services were temporarily held in homes. Post-war, the church grew, with a thriving music program, active church school, and social action involvement. After WWII, modern congregational features emerged, including a weekly bulletin, paid advertisements, and a monthly social hour.
In the 1960s and 70s, the congregation shrank due to the move and changing attitudes. A part-time minister was hired, and the congregation formed Program Groups to lead services. In 1985, the church name was changed to “The First Unitarian Society of Westchester” to reflect its wider membership. In 1992, a full-time minister was hired, leading to growth in both membership and religious education. The church expanded its facilities, hired a Director of Religious Education, and enhanced musical and artistic offerings. It adopted a Safe and Sacred Policy, became a Welcoming Congregation, and committed to being a green sanctuary.
Despite economic challenges and a natural disaster, FUSW remains a vibrant, supportive community committed to growth, inclusion, and joy in shared UU values.
For more details about our history, please see "Our Longer History".
