GREENLAND, N.H. (AP) – Members of a Greenland church celebrated its 300th birthday with a special service, cake and a little bit of a history lesson.

The Greenland Community Congregational Church was founded in 1706 after settlers petitioned the government to establish the town and church. During a service Sunday, the Rev. Douglas Carter explained early settlers wanted to avoid being attacked by American Indians during the journey to North Church in Portsmouth.

Congregants also celebrated the 250th anniversary of the current church building on Post Road.