First Congregational Church in Plympton, Massachusetts records, 1698-1809
Early New England Church Records I’m working on a project to identify all the New England church records before 1900, specifically focusing on outliers in random archives and libraries. I plan to share blog posts highlighting my most interesting discoveries. My research brought me to Boston College in October, specifically to the John J. Burns Library, where I planned to examine a ledger of the First Congregational Church of Plympton, Massachusetts, spanning 1698–1809. The Boston College Experience Boston College’s campus in Newton, Massachusetts, is stunning, especially in the fall. Crisp air, colorful autumn leaves, and the serene charm of New England made for a perfect backdrop to my visit. Walking into the Bapst Library, I was in awe of Gargan Hall, a space that feels like stepping into Hogwarts. Within Bapst is the John J. Burns Library, home to special collections and manuscripts, where I had arranged an appointment to study this fascinating church ledger. According to the