1793 to 1797 — The First Meetinghouse
David Ray donates one acre on Otisfield Hill for a meeting house and cemetery. Construction begins in 1795 and is completed in 1797. The first building is known as the Otisfield Congregational Church and serves as the center of worship and town meetings. Muster Days, sermons, and community life take place here.
1797 to 1810 — Early Church and First Minister
The meeting house is dedicated in November 1797. The church is organized with its first members, and in 1798 Rev. Thomas Roby is called as minister, serving until 1810. Two services with long sermons are the weekly pattern.
1797 to 1845 — Community Center and Muster Days
The first meeting house becomes the site of town meetings, church services, and twice yearly Otisfield Militia training. The whole community gathers to watch drills, hear fife and drum music, and enjoy refreshments like the remembered Muster Gingerbread.
1837 to 1839 — Decision to Build a New Meetinghouse
As the first building falls into disrepair, the congregation decides to build a more modern structure. Nathan Nutting Jr., a noted local builder, designs the new Meetinghouse. Construction takes place from 1838 to 1839.
1845 — Old Building Moved
The upper story of the original meeting house is moved down the hill for use in town business until the present Town House is built in 1905.
1839 to 1887 — Worship in the Present Meetinghouse
The new Meetinghouse serves as the center of worship and community gatherings. Its architecture blends Greek Revival form with Federal-style fan windows. The original pew boxes, balcony, pulpit, and faux-grained pew doors remain intact today.
1887 — Decline in Use
As population shifts to Bolsters Mills and Spurrs Corner, regular services at Bell Hill end. The hilltop becomes quieter but remains culturally significant.
1913 — July Services Revived
Annual July services return, renewing local interest in the building.
1927 — Bell Hill Meetinghouse Association Formed
Concerned citizens organize BHMA to preserve the Meetinghouse and, later, the 1839 brick Schoolhouse.
1927 to 2000 — Care and Restoration
The Schoolhouse, once abandoned and even occupied by porcupines, is restored as a furnished one room school museum. Preservation and maintenance continue for both buildings.
2003 — National Register Listing
The Meetinghouse and Schoolhouse are added to the National Register of Historic Places for architectural and historical significance.
Today — A Preserved Hilltop Landmark
The Meetinghouse and Schoolhouse host July services, concerts, school visits, art shows, weddings, and community programs. Bell Hill remains one of the most scenic and historic places in Otisfield.