Then and Now
Pastor Jeffree Wendel leading services at the dedication
of the stone in memory of Rev. Sarah Henshaw,
first licensed woman preacher in the Methodist Church.

May 1988 This is a photograph taken during the dedication of the stone memorial to Sarah Henshaw, 1803 – 1885, who in 1830 became the first licensed female preacher in the Reformed Methodist Church. Sarah served as a preacher in Charlton and starting at age 77 preached at the Union Hall in Podunk.

The home is the sight of Sarah’s birth place, known then as Henshaw Tavern. This tavern served many weary stage coach passengers traveling on the busy Springfield and Providence stage run which followed along parts of Podunk Road. As many as 6 stages and 40 freight wagons stopped at the tavern daily.

July 2009 Today the home, located at 539 Podunk Road (Charlton Road), East Brookfield, is owned by Tom Terry and is barely visible.

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