What People Say

We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.”
~Winston Churchill

Importance in the Community

“Churches inspire all of us, not just those who attend, and this is one of the finest in the state.”
~ Greg Paxton, Executive Director Maine Preservation


“In historic towns across Maine, the village church steeple is a highly visible symbol of a community’s faith, its history, and its identity. For more than two centuries, the graceful Federal style tower of the First Parish Church on Main Street has played this role for Kennebunk. It has helped define the town’s special character for residents and visitors alike.”
~ Earle G. Shettleworth, Jr. Director, Maine Historic Preservation Commission


“First Parish Church stands today as it has since we owed allegiance to an English king, since Maine was Massachusetts, and since Kennebunk was Wells. It is truly a part of our nation’s history, and is both an anchor to our past and a constant reminder of our heritage we owe to those who come after us.”
~ Joe Foster, Retired KHS teacher and long time active member of the community


“Having led architectural tours of the Kennebunk Historic District for more than 25 years, I see the First Parish Church as the single most important icon of federal architecture in town. It is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and of the ideals of the new republic.”
~Sandra Armentrout, Historic Preservationist and Former Board Member

Keys to the community

In recent times, the building has continued to serve many unaffiliated community groups including Alcoholics Anonymous, Maine SpeakOut, discussion groups, community theater productions, dance and exercise groups, coffee houses and concerts, Girl Scouts, and a nursery school.