A timeline for Dinkey Memorial Church, which is celebrating 175 years on Sunday:

• April 12, 1851: Pennsville Church is established to serve a community that lacked nearby worship options.

• Mid-1800s: Church is built on the present site; land and cemetery donated by Charles Dinkey.

• Late 1800s to early 1900s: Congregation thrives, serving both Lutheran and Reformed (now United Church of Christ) members.

• 1914: New stone church constructed through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schwab in memory of the Dinkey family. Church renamed Dinkey Memorial Church and reincorporated.

• Sept. 12, 1915: Dedication of the new sanctuary.

• 1941: Transition from gas lighting to electricity as service reaches the area.

• 1952: Ongoing improvements, including a basement addition that was dug by hand by church member with no power equipment, updated entrances and preservation of stained-glass windows.

• 1958: Pipe organ installed; continued improvements to worship space.

• 1977: Lutheran and UCC congregations formally share one pastor, strengthening their unified ministry.

• Sept. 8, 1985: Christian Education building dedicated, expanding space or learning and fellowship.

• Jan. 3, 1988: Dinkey Memorial Evangelical Lutheran Church begins as the consolidation of the two former congregations.

• 2004-05: Outdoor pavilion was added to the property.

• 2026: Church celebrates 175 years of faith, unity and service to the Ashfield community.