Central Presbyterian Church (Montclair, New Jersey) facts for kids
|
Central Presbyterian Church
|
|
Central Presbyterian Church on a vintage postcard
|
|
 Location in Essex County, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 46 Park Street, Montclair, New Jersey |
|---|---|
| Built | 1921 |
| Architect | Carrere & Hastings; Shreve, Lamb & Harmon |
| Architectural style | Colonial Revival, Georgian Revival |
| MPS | Montclair MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 86003051 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | November 14, 1986 |
The Central Presbyterian Church is a really old and important church building in Montclair, New Jersey. It's located at 46 Park Street. This church was built in 1921 and officially opened on October 15, 1922.
It's so special that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. This means it's recognized as a significant historical place in the United States, especially for its amazing architecture. Famous architects like Carrere & Hastings and Shreve, Lamb & Harmon designed it.
Contents
History of the Church
Early Beginnings
In 1837, a group of people met at a local schoolhouse. They decided to start a Presbyterian church in an area then known as Cranetown. This area later became the town of Montclair in 1870.
The schoolhouse they met in was fixed up. A wooden church building was then built right on top of the schoolrooms. This first church was in the middle of town. It was on a triangular piece of land. This land was surrounded by Bloomfield Avenue, Park Street, and Church Street.
The church was officially opened on August 9, 1838. Samuel Ware Fischer was the first pastor, serving from 1839 to 1849. He later became the president of Hamilton College.
Growing and Changing
As the community grew, the church needed more space. In 1860, a new and much larger building was built behind the first church. This new building was named The First Presbyterian Church of Montclair.
In 1867, the church bought the school building next door. This allowed them to make the church even bigger. It could then hold up to 700 people! The very first meeting of Montclair's town board was held in the church's lecture room in 1868.
Merging Together
In 1886, some members of the church disagreed about how the church should be run. This led to a new church being formed, called Trinity Presbyterian Church.
However, years later, on December 2, 1913, Trinity Church and Old First Church decided to join together. They officially became The Central Presbyterian Church of Montclair.
A brand new church building was then constructed. It was built at the corner of Park Street and Claremont Avenue. This new building was officially opened on October 15, 1922.
Modern Times
The Central Presbyterian Church has continued to be an important part of the community. In 1950, the church made a big step forward. They ordained their first women elders. This meant women could hold important leadership roles in the church.
See also
Images for kids
-
1837 session notes
-
Central Presbyterian Church, 1856
