Though early Congregationalists came to the Massachusetts Bay Colony as Pilgrims in the 1700’s, our church’s rich heritage can be traced all the way back to the 16th century Protestant Reformation. Emphases on salvation by grace through faith, the primacy of the Scriptures, and the priesthood of all believers remain our guiding precepts. Plymouth Church, Seattle's second oldest congregation, was founded in the winter of 1869-70 by early settlers. The congregation held its first meeting in Yesler's Store at Second and Yesler. Over the years, Plymouth, much like Seattle itself, has traveled slowly up the hill from Elliott Bay. Our first church was built in 1873 at Third and Union. After it was destroyed in the Great Fire of1891, a second stone building was erected in its place. In 1911, the congregation moved to its present site at Sixth and University. In 1967, it built the present church building which underwent major renovations in 1996 in order to preserve and showcase its architectural significance. Plymouth has long understood itself as part of the city of Seattle. Members of the congregation have served as Seattle's mayor, on the city council, the school board and as state and county judges. The congregation's life and ministries have served the city and region through Boy's and Girl's Clubs, programs for those serving in the Armed Forces, refugee resettlement, and shelter and support for the homeless and those affected by mental illness. At the turn of the century Plymouth was the "Mother Church" for a number of new, neighborhood Congregational Churches. In 1999-2000 Plymouth helped to form and sponsor a new multi-racial, multi-cultural church, Bethany UCC, on Beacon Hill. Other major initiatives in recent years include Plymouth Healing Communities, which provides companionship and housing for people living with mental illness; Shared Ministry, which helps individuals in the church discover and respond to God's call; and substantial commitments of time and treasure to many local groups in the church's focus areas (children, youth, and families at risk; housing and homelessness; hunger, and economic justice). In November, 2005, the Rev. Allen Hilton began his service as Plymouth’s twenty-first Senior Minister. He joins a long tradition of outstanding pastoral leadership that includes Anthony B. Robinson, Joseph Williamson, David G. Colwell, John Felible, Martin Goslin and Wendell Fiefield. Back To Top