First Presbyterian Church of Blissfield facts for kids
|
First Presbyterian Church of Blissfield
|
|
 |
|
 Location in Michigan
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 306 Franklin Street Blissfield, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Built | 1849 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 71000403 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | September 3, 1971 |
The First Presbyterian Church of Blissfield is an active church building in Blissfield, Michigan. It is located at 306 Franklin Street. This church is very special because it is a historic site.
It was named a Michigan State Historic Site on June 11, 1965. Later, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 3, 1971. This means it is recognized as an important historical place in the United States.
A Church with a Long History
The church community in Blissfield started a very long time ago. It was officially formed on February 29, 1829. This makes it one of the oldest Presbyterian groups in Michigan.
At first, the church held its services in people's homes. One of these homes belonged to Hervey Bliss, who helped start the village. Later, they met in a schoolhouse.
Building the Church
The church building you see today was built in 1849. It cost about $2,800 to build. This was a lot of money back then! The church was built in the Greek Revival style. This style looks like ancient Greek temples.
A minister named John Monteith led the church at this time. He helped raise money for the building. Reverend Monteith was a very important person. He even helped start the University of Michigan. He was the university's first unofficial president from 1817 to 1821.
Monteith moved to Blissfield and preached there from 1845 to 1855. The First Presbyterian Church of Blissfield is the fifth oldest Presbyterian church still operating in Michigan. It is also the oldest church building in Blissfield itself.
Changes Over Time
In 1883, the church building was moved a short distance. It now sits just north of U.S. Route 223, close to the River Raisin.
In 1953, a large new section was added to the church. This addition changed how the original building looked quite a bit.
