John's church was consecrated and set apart to the service of Almighty God, by the Right Rev. Horatio Potter, D.D., LL. D., D.C. L., the Bishop of the Diocese, on the 18th of September, 1855. The tower contains a fine toned bell weighing six hundred and ninety-seven pounds, which was presented by the late Benj. F. Loder, Esq., a native of this parish. The communion plate -- consisting of a flagon, two chalices and paten -- was a gift of Mrs. Nancy Weed ; and the service books were presented by Mrs. Benj. Williamson, of New Jersey. The chandelier was the gift of Gould Rockwell, Esq , of Ridgefield, Conn. The following inscription occurs on a slab in the chancel :

Iu Memoriam REV. EPENETUS TOWNSEND, A M., Missionary of The Venbla Prop. Society, A. D. 1766. And First Rector of Salem. Inducted May 29, 1768. Born, April, 1742. Lost at sea with his family Sept., 1179. "His Exemplary Life, sober conversation and devout Performance of Religious Offices, Highly Recommended Him to the Lovo and esteem of His People." Peace.

Hovt, of Stamford, was born December 9, 1871, married Elizabeth Jaggar, June an, 1697, and di-d in 1747. He was selectman of Stamford four years, in 1719 and later His second son, David Hovt, of Stamford, was born June 23d 1702; married Hannah Hait Jnno 2>d, 1727, and died 1761-2, leaving a third son, Jacob Hoyl, who was born at Stamford about 1735, he married Sarah-- lived in South Salem near Hoyt's mill. He and his wife connected themselves with the Presbvterian church there, June 30. 1765, and had children baptized there in 1766, 1767. We tiud his ear-mark at Salem, Dec. 22d, 1755. lie was overseer of the poor there 1766, 1779, 1784, 1794, etc. : a trustee of the South Salem Presbyterian church 17S4, 17ss aud 1799.