Marysville First Presbyterian Church

Tonight my family enjoyed a Christmas Concert performed by the Scioto Valley Brass Band. This concert was held at the historic Marysville First Presbyterian Church. And, what a venue it was! The accoustics were outstanding!

MARYSVILLE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
The Marysville First Presbyterian Church was founded on September 9, 1829. Today it is one of the oldest church congregations in Union County, Ohio. Founding members included Eri Strong, Stephen McLain, Nancy McLain, Silas G. Strong, Mims Strong, Mrs. Phebe Adamson, Mrs. Mary Richey; on profession of their faith-James Richey, William Richey, Mrs. Sarah Phelps, and Mrs. Catharine January. The organizing pastor of the congregation was Reverend D. O. Allen.

In 1831 the church was incorporated by the Ohio Legislature. Until 1835, the church was a part of the Columbus Presbytery. It then became a part of the Marion Presbytery. Today it is a part of the Scioto Valley Presbytery. In 1835 or 1836 a brick church was completed for use by the congregation. Much of the money required to erect the church was loaned to the congregation by member Silas Strong. Because Mr. Strong was never reimbursed for for money he put into the church, he retained the title on the property for many years. He held the title until a New York merchant who was a creditor of Mr. Strong's took possession of the church building. In the mean time the church congregation split into old and new school factions. The old school faction was eventually able to purchase back the church by 1844. The new school faction became the founding members of the Congregational Church on the opposite side of the Court House Square.

In 1867, a cornerstone was laid for a new (the current) church building. In 1870, the new church ediface was dedicated. And, in 1993, a large renovation project greatly enlarged the current church building. This edifice remains the oldest in use as a church in Union County, Ohio.