Old First Presbyterian Church, Newark
The Old First Presbyterian Church, situated in the Four Corners Historic District of Newark, New Jersey, is a beacon of historical and architectural significance. Known also as the First Presbyterian Church and Cemetery, this site has been central to the community since its inception. Established around 1668, initially as a Congregational Church, it transitioned to the Presbyterian denomination in 1720, reflecting its evolving community and spiritual needs.
The church’s current building, constructed in 1787 on Broad Street, showcases Colonial and Georgian architectural styles, making it a visually striking landmark. This building was erected on the site of an earlier meeting house voted for in 1668, underscoring the church's longstanding presence and significance in Newark.
Significant in its history is the church's role in absorbing other congregations; in 1945, it merged with the High Street-Sixth Presbyterian Church and later, in 1951, with the Olivet Presbyterian Church. The church was renamed the Old First Presbyterian Church in 1959, a nod to its deep historical roots and continuing legacy in the community.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, the Old First Presbyterian Church not only serves its congregation but also houses an old burial ground. This cemetery is the resting place of notable historical figures, such as William Burnet, Silas Condit, Thomas Ward, and Thomas M. Woodruff, linking it directly to significant moments and personalities in American history.
Today, Old First Church remains a vital part of Newark, committed to serving its community while preserving the rich history encapsulated within its walls and grounds. Its designation as a nationally registered historical landmark further celebrates its contribution to Newark’s cultural and historical tapestry.
The church’s current building, constructed in 1787 on Broad Street, showcases Colonial and Georgian architectural styles, making it a visually striking landmark. This building was erected on the site of an earlier meeting house voted for in 1668, underscoring the church's longstanding presence and significance in Newark.
Significant in its history is the church's role in absorbing other congregations; in 1945, it merged with the High Street-Sixth Presbyterian Church and later, in 1951, with the Olivet Presbyterian Church. The church was renamed the Old First Presbyterian Church in 1959, a nod to its deep historical roots and continuing legacy in the community.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, the Old First Presbyterian Church not only serves its congregation but also houses an old burial ground. This cemetery is the resting place of notable historical figures, such as William Burnet, Silas Condit, Thomas Ward, and Thomas M. Woodruff, linking it directly to significant moments and personalities in American history.
Today, Old First Church remains a vital part of Newark, committed to serving its community while preserving the rich history encapsulated within its walls and grounds. Its designation as a nationally registered historical landmark further celebrates its contribution to Newark’s cultural and historical tapestry.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Newark. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Old First Presbyterian Church on Map
Sight Name: Old First Presbyterian Church
Sight Location: Newark, USA (See walking tours in Newark)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Newark, USA (See walking tours in Newark)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Newark, New Jersey
Create Your Own Walk in Newark
Creating your own self-guided walk in Newark is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Newark Introduction Walking Tour
Newark, the most populous city of New Jersey, is also one of the oldest cities in the United States, established in 1666. Settled by Puritans from New Haven Colony, Newark was initially a theocratic community, which diversified as new settlers introduced different ideas.
Named likely after Newark-on-Trent in England, the city's moniker reveals its colonial roots. Alternative theories... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Named likely after Newark-on-Trent in England, the city's moniker reveals its colonial roots. Alternative theories... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Newark's Historical Buildings Walking Tour
Founded in 1666, Newark has no shortage of historic locations: districts, buildings, parks, cemeteries, and other venues. Much of its old-time architecture are notable sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
One such is the Essex County Courthouse, a striking example of Renaissance architecture, built in 1904. This grand building, with its impressive marble columns, ornate... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
One such is the Essex County Courthouse, a striking example of Renaissance architecture, built in 1904. This grand building, with its impressive marble columns, ornate... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles