Wilson Memorial Union Church
Submitted by Cota Kania
Mary E. Wilson Memorial Union Church was the recipient of a modern-day miracle during this world-wide pandemic, thanks to the Watrous Family!
Bob Watrous approached Wilson Memorial to express an interest in helping restore the original 1889 stained glass windows in what is now referred to as The Chapel. With the assistance of his brother Scott Watrous and his sister, Nina Nesky, the three Watrous siblings committed to honor their parents, Bill and Vera, with the full restoration of the Chapel’s stained glass windows. Bob said, “My parents loved this church, and the church loved them back.”
Bill and Vera were long-time members of Wilson Memorial Union Church, and Bill was the caretaker of the Memorial Garden. Wilson Memorial began as the Washingtonville Sunday School Association in the 1850’s, and in 1886 the Sunday School needed a permanent home.
The current Chapel was dedicated in 1890 to honor the wife of Colonel John E. Wilson, Mary E. Wilson, who contributed funds in order to complete its construction.
Today Wilson Memorial Union Church, located on the corner of Hillcrest and Valley Roads, at 7 Valley Rd, Watchung, NJ, continues to fully function as an interdenominational Christian Church, and welcomes all to worship in a family-friendly environment. For more information visit wilsonmemorialchurch.org.
