THE Congregational church in Hopkinton was organized 23 November, 1757. Rev. James Scales, who graduated at Harvard College in 1733, was the first minister, and was ordained the same day the church was formed. The church records say, in reference to this event, that "there was yet no house for the publick worship of God in the place, because the place being the outmost settlement, and much exposed in time of war: therefore the ordination was solemnized in Putney's Fort, so called, and the numerous spectators attended the solemnity abroad in the open air, the weather being very warm, calm and pleasant for the season." Rev. Mr. Scales was dismissed 4 July, 1770, and was succeeded by Rev. Elijah Fletcher, who was ordained 27 January, 1773. He was son of Timothy Fletcher of Westford, Mass., and graduated at Harvard College in 1769. He died 8 April, 1786, in the 39th year of his age, and of five ministers settled in that town, is the only one who has died there. Rev. Jacob Cram, who graduated at Dartmouth College in 1782, succeeded Mr. Fletcher, 25 February, 1789, and was dismissed 6 January, 1792. Mr. Cram was succeeded by Rev. Ethan Smith, who graduated at Dartmouth College in 1790. He was installed 12 March, 1800, having been previously settled in the ministry at Haverhill, N. H., and was dismissed 16 December, 1817. He is author of a Dissertation on the Prophecies, a View of the Hebrews, and several other religious publications. Rev. Roger C. Hatch succeeded Mr. Smith, and was ordained 21 October, 1818. He was graduated at Yale College in 1815.