THE FIRST CHURCH 1821-1858

In the fall of 1820 a site was cleared for the first church building on a lot donated by General James Hedges at the southeast corner of the Public Square.  The next spring, a community wide "frolic" (barn raising) was held and in a day the 80'x40' structure was assembled.  It had a gallery on three sides with the pulpit platform elevated four feet above the floor and large enough to accommodate six ministers.

THE SECOND CHURCH 1858-1893

A new stone church was built on the grounds of the old one.  The cornerstone was laid September 17, 1858.  Our church history during these 50 years closely parallels the history of the nation~civil liberties, women's rights, music in the church and even the transition from "owning pews" to all seats in the new church being free.  The must never have been a time without a burning issue during this era.

THE THIRD CHURCH 1893-1965

It was during the pastorate of the Reverend D.J. Meese, D.D., that a new church was built on Mulberry Street between Park Avenue West and Third Street.  It was a large stone structure with beautiful stained glass windows.  Over one thousand people attended the dedication service on May 14, 1893.  By 1916, assistants to the pastors helped with Christian education and music.  A church school building was added to the church proper in 1929, and Sunday School became Church School.  In 1948, Miss Janet Sangree was first to be called Director of Christian Education.  Westminster Fellowship was started in 1950.  Miss Mabel Zehner, renowned organist, after many years as organist and choir director, gave her farewell recital on September 27, 1955.

THE FOURTH CHURCH 1965-PRESENT

Our present church on an eleven acre tract at Trimble and Millsboro Roads, opened on November 14, 1965, is a beautiful example of Georgian style architecture.  The sanctuary seats five hundred and fifty, the chapel ninety.  Church facilities provide class rooms, social centers, kitchen and dining areas, a library, and offices.  Today's church has grown from a Sunday Services meeting place to a busy center for Christian growth and fellowship seven days a week.  Our staff consists of a Senior Pastor, Associate Pastor, Director of Children's Ministries, Youth Minister/Director, College and Young Adult Ministries, an Administrative Assistant, and Organist, and a Facility Manager.  Many volunteers also contribute to the life and vitality of the church and it's programs.  Form a modest beginning of thirteen members in 1816, the church has grown to a membership of over six hundred in 2004.

THE FUTURE

We are currently working, through the church's Capital Campaign Committee, to make renovations and additions to the church in order that we night work better for Christ and in His Name be able to do more.  As well, we need to impact our community ~ our mission ~ in new and powerful ways.  Faith without works is dead, said James (2:26).  And good works, well done, said Christ, reap great reward.