New England Meeting Houses were simple, rectangular buildings used primarily for religious gatherings in the 17th and 18th centuries. They served as places for worship, community meetings, and social events, reflecting the Puritan values of the region. The architecture typically featured a central pulpit and rows of pews, emphasizing the importance of the sermon. These structures were often built in town centers, symbolizing the community's commitment to faith and civic life. Over time, many meeting houses evolved into more elaborate churches, but their historical significance remains, representing the early American spirit of community and religious devotion.