First Presbyterian Church of Natchez, church building in Mississippi, United States of America
The First Presbyterian Church of Natchez is a church building in the city center that combines Federal and Greek Revival architectural features. The brick structure features a prominent tower, large windows, and an open interior with a vaulted ceiling and gallery space.
The first church building was designed by Levi Weeks between 1812 and 1815, even before the congregation officially formed in 1817. The current building was completed in 1830 after the original structure was demolished in 1828, quickly becoming the most notable church of its kind in Mississippi.
The church serves as a gathering place where the community has assembled for nearly two centuries. Its location in the heart of Natchez makes it a focal point for local traditions and everyday community life.
The church is located in the Natchez On-Top-of-the-Hill Historic District on South Pearl Street and is easy to include in a walking tour of the area. The adjacent Stratton Chapel holds historical photographs and is open Monday through Saturday, making it convenient to visit both.
Behind the building stands the Stratton Chapel, which houses a valuable collection of photographs dating back to around 1860 that were carefully restored by Dr. Thomas Gandy and his wife Joan. These images document steamboats on the river, local families, and homes that reveal the daily life of Natchez in an earlier era.
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