[3] The values of the Puritans who founded the First Church in Salem stated that they were on a pilgrimage to the city of God.

It also made some of their members such as third minister Roger Williams, activists in the community.

He specifically argued that Native Americans should be compensated for their land and that the colonial government should not have power over the church.

[4] In December 1851, the Salem Female Anti-Slavery Society held their annual general meeting at the church.

[5] For twelve years, Charles Wentworth Upham was minister of the church.