First Presbyterian Church (Augusta, Georgia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Presbyterian Church of Augusta
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First Presbyterian Church in 2017
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 Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Location in the United States
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| Location | 642 Telfair Street, Augusta, Georgia |
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| Built | 1812 |
| Architect | Robert Mills |
| Architectural style | Romanesque Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 97000100 |
| Added to NRHP | February 21, 1997 |
The First Presbyterian Church in Augusta, Georgia, is a very old and important church. It's located on Telfair Street in the United States. It's a Presbyterian church, which is a type of Christian church.
Contents
A Look Back: Church History
This church was started in 1804, and its main building was finished in 1812. Even before the building was ready, church members helped start another church in a nearby town called Smyrna in 1808.
A President's Family Connection
Did you know a United States president's father was a minister here? Woodrow Wilson's father, Joseph R. Wilson, was the minister at First Presbyterian Church from 1858 to 1870. The Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home, where young Woodrow grew up, is also nearby in Augusta. In 1861, during the time of the American Civil War, the church hosted an important meeting for the Presbyterian Church in the Confederate States. President Wilson's father became the first minister in this new church group.
The Church During the Civil War
During the Civil War, the church building was used as a hospital for wounded soldiers. The churchyard even became a camp for Union prisoners after the Battle of Chickamauga. Sadly, some soldiers who died were buried in the Magnolia Cemetery. Joseph Wilson, the minister, also served as a chaplain in the army during this time.
Growing the Community: Schools and Missions
First Presbyterian Church has always been active in its community. In 1972, they started Westminster Day School. Today, Westminster Schools has a large campus and teaches over 500 students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The church also holds an annual missions conference. This event is a special gathering for missionaries and their families. It's also a chance for people in Augusta to learn about important work happening around the world.
Changes in Church Affiliation
In 1973, First Presbyterian Church decided to leave the Southern Presbyterian Church. This was due to disagreements about things like the authority of the Bible and the role of women in the church. The church became independent for a few years. Then, in 1977, it joined the Presbyterian Church in America.
The Church Building: Design and Changes
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The church building was designed by a famous architect named Robert Mills. He was also a Presbyterian and helped lead a church in South Carolina. The main part of the church, called the sanctuary, was built between 1809 and 1812. It was first designed in a Classical style.
Architectural Style and Updates
In 1847, the church was changed to have a Romanesque style. This included adding round-arched windows and doors, and decorative walls that looked like castle tops. Even with these changes, you can still see Robert Mills' original design in the building's shape.
Special Features and Recognition
Inside the church, there's a special plaque marking the pew (a long bench) where the Wilson family used to sit. A letter signed by President Wilson and some furniture from his family's home are also kept in a classroom. Over the years, more parts were added to the building, including four halls between 1951 and 1978. Because of its history and architecture, the church was added to the National Register of Historic Places on February 21, 1997. The church celebrated its 200th birthday in 2004!
What the Church Believes
First Presbyterian Church is part of the Presbyterian Church in America. This means they follow certain beliefs and rules. They believe in the Westminster Confession of Faith, the Westminster Shorter Cathechism, and the Westminster Larger Catechism. These are important documents that explain what Presbyterians believe. The church has about 1,900 members today. The lead pastor is Rev. Michael K. Hearon.
