Are you still wondering why Arcade was originally known as “China?” One theory was revealed at the June 3 worship service at the United Church of Christ, Congregational. It was the title of several hymn tunes from the early 1800s, and one version of “China” was sung at the service. It is a known fact that nearby Sardinia is named for the hymn tunes “Sardinia,” so it is reasonable to assume that is how China, NY came to be as well. Arcade Town and Village Historian Jeff Mason found the music and brought it to the congregation. The Society is making a DVD of the song so you can hear it at the Gibby House.
Here are the words to one version of the hymn tune "China" (there was more than one titled "China."):
Let God the Father and the Son,
And Spirit be adored,
Where there are works to make him known,
Or saints to love the Lord.
Early, my God, without delay,
I haste to seek thy face;
My thirsty spirit faints away,
Without thy cheering grace.
Not life itself, with all its joys,
Can please my soul so well;
Or raise so high my cheerful voice,
As thy forgiving love.
Thus till my last expiring day,
I'll bless my God and King;
Thus will I lift my hands to pray,
And tune my lips to sing.
