es under which she
labored. The revivals that followed brought many into the church, and
the heart of the pastor was greatly encouraged.

At first it was thought that the entire cost of the land and building
would not exceed $10,000; but the whole cost, from the time they began
to build until the close of the war, was $14,044.09. In 1861 the
indebtedness of the church was $2,967.62; at the close of the war it
was about $2,000.

During all these years of financial struggle the church had ever paid
her notes with promptness and without difficulty. And now that the war
was over, freedom granted to the enslaved, and the public again
breathing easy, the little church, not weary of well-doing, again
began the work of removing the remaining debt. The public was sought
only in the most extreme necessity. The ladies held sewing circles,
and made with the needle fancy articles to be sold in a festival,
while the members of the church were contributing articles of wearing
apparel, or offering their services at the sale tables. The proceeds
were given to the society to pay its debts; and it was no mean gift.

From 1865 to 1871 the church grew rapidly. Revivals were of frequent
occurrence; and many from the South, learning of the good name of Rev.
Mr. Grimes, sought his church when coming to Boston. But it was
apparent that their once commodious home was now too small. The pastor
saw this need, and began to take the proper steps to meet it. It was
at length decided that the church should undergo repairs; and the
pastor was armed with the proper papers to carry forward this work.
The gallery that was situated in the east end of the church was used
chiefly by the choir and an instrument. In making repairs it was
thought wise to remove the organ from the gallery, and put in seats,
and thereby accommodate a larger number of people. Then, the old
pulpit took up a great deal of room, and by putting in a new pulpit of
less dimensions, more room could be secured for pews. This was done,
with the addition of a baptistry, the lack of which for nearly
twenty-five years had driven them, in all kinds of weather, to Charles
River. Every thing, from the basement up, underwent repairs. The pews
were painted and furnished with book-racks. The floors were repaired,
and covered with beautiful carpet; while the walls and ceilings were
richly clothed with fresco, by the hands of skilful workmen. In the
centre of the ceiling was an excellent ventilato