Scarsdale Congregational Church

Edward Chadbourne Boynton - 1930-1951

Edward Chadbourne Boynton began his ministry in Scarsdale on January 1, 1930, having previously served the Congregational Church in Rutland, Vermont. He was installed as Minister and Pastor on April 22, 1930. His father, Nehemiah Boynton, delivered the charge to the minister and to the people.

The depression placed strains on the finances of the church and on the finances of its members.

The Honor Roll of service in the armed forces of the United States in World War II contained 153 names from the Scarsdale Congregational Church. Six of these names have gold stars.

In 1947 the Guild hit upon the idea of having an Election Day Bazaar, the $3,700 proceeds of which went toward the Building Fund for a sanctuary building.

In 1948 Boynton advised the church he planned to retire from the ministry at age 65, as had his father.

The first services in the new sanctuary were held on Easter Sunday, March 25, 1951. Attendance at the two services was 924, exceeding the seating capacity. The church building was dedicated on April 1, 1951, with Boynton preaching the dedication sermon and Howard Stone Anderson, the next Senior Pastor, giving the benediction.

On January 1, 1930, the active membership of the church was 428; enrollment in the church school was 400. Average attendance at worship was 200. On April 1, 1951, the active membership was 624.