Brick

In 1797 serious discussion began in Salem about the building of a church. I have researched the brick used and came up with two results.

It does seem that Joseph Essic was contracted to make brick for the building project in 1797.

In one account it was estimated that 50,000 brick would be needed. Three years later the brick making was finished. He had made a total of 117,000.  

In a second account in the literature of Home Moravian Church I found the following: "In 1799, the walls 2'6" thick were laid up. This took over 300,000 bricks, which were made in the valley behind the church." 

Despite the disparate numbers the brick making is impressive. The making of the brick, whatever the number, is one more way the Moravians of old had grit and a "can-do" spirit. 

Ground was broken and the foundation was laid for the Salem Church in 1798. Today it is known as Home Moravian Church. All this to the glory of God.