First Presbyterian Church (Macon, Georgia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Presbyterian Church
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First Presbyterian Church
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 Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Location in the United States
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| Location | 690 Mulberry St., Macon, Georgia |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1858 |
| Architectural style | Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000364 |
| Added to NRHP | September 14, 1972 |
The First Presbyterian Church is a historic church building in Macon, Georgia. It belongs to the Presbyterian Church in America. This church has been an important part of Macon's history for a long time.
Contents
A Look at the Church's History
How the Church Began
The First Presbyterian Church began on June 18, 1826. It was founded with 25 members. This was just three years after the city of Macon itself was officially created. Reverend Joseph C. Stiles helped start the church. Later, Reverend James C. Patterson led the church for two years, until 1830.
Early Buildings
During Reverend Patterson's time, the church built its first wooden building. It was located on Fourth Street. This building was later given to the Baptists. They moved it and made it bigger. Today, it is known as the Second Baptist Church.
Reverend Edwin Holt became the first official pastor in 1831. He served the church until 1834. After him, Reverend James Stratton led the church for two years. During this time, work began on a second church building made of brick. Reverend Samuel J. Cassels took over as pastor in 1836. He stayed until 1842. The brick building was finished during his time.
The Current Church Building
The church's current building was finished in 1858. It stands tall on Mulberry Street in downtown Macon. Its spire reaches 183 feet (56 meters) into the sky. This made it the tallest building in Macon when it was completed. It held this record until St. Joseph's Catholic Church was built.
The First Presbyterian Church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. This means it is recognized as an important historical site. The famous poet Sidney Lanier was once a member of this church. Today, the church has more than 1,000 members.
First Presbyterian Day School
In 1970, the church started the First Presbyterian Day School. This school was founded during a time of big changes in schools across the United States. A judge had ordered public schools in Bibb County to end racial separation. The new school's campus was located in a mostly white area outside of downtown.
Images for kids
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The First Presbyterian Church, as seen in this picture of Macon from the early 1900s towards the left of the photo, was currently the tallest building in Macon.
