Earliest Church
Old First Presbyterian Church (originally Congregational)
Founding & Early Years
The congregation began in 1658, led by Rev. William Leverich, who had been ministering in Oyster Bay since 1653. [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org], [huntingtonny.gov]
At first, services were held in a schoolroom.
First Meetinghouse (1665)
In accordance with the Duke’s Laws, the first purpose-built church was erected in 1665 next to Meeting House Brook (at today’s Main & Spring Road), seating around 200. [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org], [huntingtonny.gov]
A historical marker today commemorates that first building, noting it was sold in 1717 for £5. [hmdb.org], [huntington...istory.com]
Second Building (1715)
As the congregation grew, a second meetinghouse was constructed in 1715 at the current East Hill site (125 Main St.). [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org], [huntingtonny.gov]
Revolutionary War & Reconstruction
During the British occupation (1777–1783), the church was seized, used as a stable and storage depot, and ultimately dismantled in 1779 under orders from Col. Benjamin Thompson. Its timbers helped build Fort Golgotha; the bell was removed for use on British ships. [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org], [huntingtonny.gov]
In 1784, parishioners rebuilt the church. The original bell was recovered (for £6 9s) and recast. [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org]
Denominational Shift & Expansions
Originally Congregational, the church officially became Presbyterian in 1748. [freepages....otsweb.com], [huntingtonny.gov]
Additions in the 20th century include a parish hall in 1928 and a school wing in 1958, marking its 300th anniversary. [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org]
Significance & Recognition
The current 1784 building, with its distinctive five-story bell tower, is the third on that site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. [en.wikipedia.org], [aubreyresearch.com]
📜 Historical Timeline
1658 Church congregation organized (Rev. Leverich, in a schoolroom) [ofchuntington.org], [huntingtonny.gov]
1665 First meetinghouse built (Main & Spring Road) [ofchuntington.org], [hmdb.org], [huntingtonny.gov]
1715 Second meetinghouse built on East Hill (site of present church) [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org]
1748 Transition from Congregational to Presbyterian affiliation [freepages....otsweb.com], [huntingtonny.gov]
1779 British dismantle the church and build Fort Golgotha [ofchuntington.org], [huntingtonny.gov]
1784 Rebuilt church completed and original bell returned [ofchuntington.org], [en.wikipedia.org]
