Religious institutions played an important role in Nebraska history during the frontier period, when churches met both the spiritual and social needs of early inhabitants. The Congregational Church was one of Nebraska's pioneer denominations, brought to Washington County in 1856 by the Reverend Reuben Gaylord, and it operated an early institution of higher learning, the Nebraska University at Fontenelle, from 1858 to 1872. The Congregational Church of Blair was organized with eight communicants on February 10, 1870, less than a year after John I. Blair auctioned the original town lots a few blocks north of this site. For a time, the Reverend Marshall Tingley, who had come from Sioux City, conducted services in the courthouse or in private homes. On November 22, 1874, a 28 by 40 foot sanctuary in the Carpenter-gothic style of architecture was dedicated on this site. Although additions and improvements have occurred through the years, the original structure and many interior furnishings have remained in use for more than a century as a center for worship and fellowship, and its style and simplicity reflect Washington County's religious heritage.