First Presbyterian Church, Gothic Revival church in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York City, United States
First Presbyterian Church is a Gothic Revival building that incorporates design elements from European landmarks like St. Saviour Church in Bath and Magdalen Tower in Oxford. Two pipe organs fill the sanctuary with music, with the Rees Jones Memorial organ added in 2003.
The congregation was founded in 1716 and first gathered at Wall Street before relocating to its current Fifth Avenue location between 11th and 12th Streets in 1846. The Gothic structure visible today was built during that era of relocation and has anchored the neighborhood for nearly two centuries.
The congregation actively supports the neighborhood through educational programs and community services. Visitors can see how the church remains woven into daily life in Greenwich Village.
The building sits directly on Fifth Avenue in Greenwich Village, making it easy to reach on foot and visible from the street. Services are held on-site and can also be followed online for those unable to visit in person.
During the American Revolution, British troops occupied the building after Pastor John Rodgers left to support the Patriot cause. This episode reveals how deeply the congregation was entangled in the political upheaval of that era.
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