First Presbyterian Church
Caldwell, Kansas
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Our History

The 1870-1910
Our first church was organized on April 24, 1873 consisting of 11 members. They met in the school house.  On May 19, 1879 the congregation started proceedings to build a church building.  It was built on lots 67 and 69 on N. Market, which were a gift to the church.  It was a frame structure, dedicated on October 17, 1880.  Rev. J.S. McClung was the Pastor.   Later, a new church was built on the present site on N. Osage in 1907-08 and was dedicated on August 23, 1908.  The Pastor was Dr. W.W. Curtis.

1910-1960

 The beautiful brick building had magnificient stained glass windows and served the congregation and the community of Caldwell until it was totally destroyed by fire on April 27, 1956.   Valuable records and  the beautiful furnishings were consumed by the fire.  Undaunted by this catastrophe, the congregation made immediate plans for the continuation of church activities.  Worship servces were held for two years in the high school auditorium.

Following diligent research and untiring efforts by the various committees of the church, the cornerstone for the present church building was layed on November 24, 1957.  Thousands of bricks  were salvaged from the old building, cleaned one at a timeto be used in the new structure.  Dedication services for the present church were held September 28, 1958.

1960-present

The building has went through a few facelifts with typical repainting, new carpet, handicap accessibility measures, fire coding, sidewalk repair, and more.  The entrance to the building is planted with beautiful shrubbery and is equipped with both stairs and a ramp and leads to the narthex area.

Currently, the church has approximately 40 members and meets for worship services at 10:30 on Sunday.  Recent years have brought new life to the church with the addition of a youth group, bible study, and choir.  Volunteers can be active in worship services by becoming liturgist or helping with communion.  Communion is open to all believers and held quarterly.