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Ottumwa First Presbyterian Church |
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The first Presbyterian house of worship was built in the spring and summer of 1856 at Fourth and Marion streets. At the time the church was being built a complaint was made that it was too far out of town. When the congregation outgrew the first building arrangements were made for the purchase of a lot at the corner of 4th and Green. Construction began in the fall of 1865 and the following October the church was dedicated free of debt, having cost about $7,000. The building stood until 1919 when it was destroyed by fire.
The third church located at Fourth & Washington was considered a fine example of ecclesiastical architecture for the 1880's. The cornerstone laying took place May 3, 1889, and the first service in the building was at Thanksgiving time the same year. The total cost was $22,000.
Ground was broken at the present site at Marion and Fourth streets on March 1, 1926, and the building was completed and occupied May 1, 1927. The expected cost, including the organ and other equipment, was $239,000.
As we look back on the church's beginnings and see where we are at today, many changes have taken place. It is amazing to see Gods' guiding hand on First Presbyterian Church. Through the years one thing remains true and constant, and that is the love and faith for Jesus Christ. With that in mind, the Evangelism commission in 2001 established a vision statement for 1st Presbyterian Church of Ottumwa.
By blending traditions of the past with the opportunities of the future - we strive to grow our faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior - with our congregation, our neighborhood, and our community. |
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