Our History
A history of worship, mission, and community
The story of First Presbyterian Church of Danville is woven into the story of the city itself. As the first religious organization in Danville, organized in 1829, our congregation has prayed, served, and grown alongside this community from its earliest days.
A Living Legacy
In more recent years, the sanctuary, offices, and restrooms have been renovated and redecorated. The stained glass windows have been cleaned and repaired. The pipe organ has been restored. The lighted parking lot has been landscaped with shrubs and flowers. The building is now accessible and fully air conditioned.
Gratitude is due to the many pastors, members, staff, and custodial workers whose dedication has shaped the life of the church. Each has added their own faith, creativity, and labor to the ongoing story of this congregation.
Today, First Presbyterian Church continues to live out its calling as a welcoming, affirming, mission centered community that honors its history while looking ahead with hope. The same Spirit that sustained the founders now inspires us to worship joyfully, love generously, and serve faithfully in Jesus Christ’s name.
Growth and Leadership
On the second Sunday of January 1831, the Rev. Enoch Kingsbury became pastor of the church. He served for twenty years as pastor and then seven more years as a supply pastor. His ministry guided the church through a critical period when both the town and the congregation were still taking shape.
For nearly six years, the congregation worshiped wherever space could be found. In 1835, a building measuring forty by twenty-six feet was constructed for both church meetings and school use. As the congregation grew, a larger church was erected in 1858 at the corner of North and Franklin. In 1891, the cornerstone for the present church building was laid. Since that time, renovations, additions, and reconstructions have shaped the building that stands today.
Early Roots
In the early nineteenth century, settlers arrived in the region after long and difficult journeys. Many carried Bibles with them and found strength through scripture, prayer, and shared worship. They began to gather to sing hymns and give thanks for God’s mercy and kindness.
On March 7, 1829, following worship led by the Rev. Samuel Baldridge, a congregation was formally organized as the Presbyterian Church of Danville. The original members included Asa R. Palmer, Mary Ann Alexander, Josiah Alexander, Solomon Gilbert, Submit Gilbert, Lucy Gilbert, and Parmela Tomlinson. Asa R. Palmer, an elder from New York, was installed as the ruling elder.
The first Communion recorded in the church books took place on May 5, 1829. Later that year, on September 20, the Session expanded with the ordination of Josiah Alexander as an elder.