One evening in December of 1961, a handful of Unitarians got together at the now extinct Redwood Lodge to talk about starting a fellowship. Mainly couples with young families, they were hoping to find a place to voice their liberal views and provide religious education for their children. With assistance from the UUA Extension, they formed the Tri-Valley UU Fellowship and affiliated with the Unitarian Universalist Association in February of 1962. Members eagerly took the many workshops given by the Pacific Southwest District so they could learn how to run this organization effectively. The Fellowship quickly grew in those early years, attracting many teachers, writers and other creative members with its stimulating lectures and programs. Members were energetic and visionary, having a spirit that still prevails to this day.

From the very beginning, attaining our own facilities was important so we started a building fund and in 1969 purchased a midtown residence that we had to sell in 1974 because of zoning restrictions. Before and since, we have rented in many locations. We have also had a number of part time ministers through the years and Rev. Betty Stapleford is our second installed minister (the first took place in 1980) but she is our first full time minister. The UUA Extension assisted us in this step and has taken an interest in our growth throughout the years.

Ours has not been a history of steady growth but one that reflects our changing society. Since the mid-90's, we have experienced unprecedented growth as people are searching for community and meaningful lives without dogma. Throughout our history we have had many highs and lows in membership and yet our spirit, energy, and caring has kept us alive over the years.