The First St. Michael's (1839)

Tenders for the construction of "the Catholic Chapel in the vicinity of the Town of Chatham" were published in the local press in 1836.

On March 17, 1839, the local newspaper speaks of the opening of the church for the first time and declares it to be "a handsome spacious building situated on the brow of a hill, giving it a commanding aspect and making it a worthy addition to the young and growing community."

St. Michael's in Chatham is a daughter of St.
Patrick's Parish, Nelson-Miramichi and a
"grandchild" of St. Peter and Paul Parish,
Bartibogue Bridge. The first priest to minister in
this new church was Rev. Michael Egan
pastor of St. Patrick's (1832-1882). Out of respect for this venerable missionary, the church in Chatham bears the name of his patron, St. Michael the Archangel.

The first three resident pastors in Chatham were Rev. John Shanahan (1842-1846), Rev. John Sweeney (1846-1849), and Rev. Richard Veriker (1849-1860). It was during Father Veriker's pastorship in 1856 that the spire was replaced by a central bell tower and new entryway.