L’pool landmark Presbyterian Church re-crowned Dec. 16

By Russ Tarby

Contributing Writer

Liverpool’s 154-year-old First Presbyterian Church had its highest steeple topped with a new roof on Friday, Dec. 16.

Its smaller steeple received its new roof a few weeks ago.

The beautiful brick church at 603 Tulip St. has been one of the village’s most recognizable landmarks since it was constructed in 1862, according to Village Historian Dorianne Elitharp Gutierrez.

The church was founded in 1829, and the brick church designed by architect Horatio Nelson White replaced an 1840 wooden structure on the same site.

“Prominent 19th century Liverpool businessmen Lucius Gleason and Jonathan Hicks were big contributors to the building fund,” Gutierrez said.

Its congregations and its neighbors often refer to the church as “Old First.”

On Wednesdays, Dec. 21 and 28, from 4 to 7 p.m., First Presbyterian will host an Open Sanctuary in which visitors can experience God’s presence in a safe place where life in all its preciousness is honored.

The pastor, Rev. Garrett Anderson, invites the public to enjoy the church’s ambiance in the middle of the day as quiet, afternoon light slowly dims; 457-3161; liverpoolfirstpres.org.