History

Learn About Our History

Wallingford Presbyterian Church was organized in 1891 and built on an acre of ground at Brookhaven and Avondale roads donated specifically for a Presbyterian church. The 32 charter members were among those who five years earlier formed a church school which met in the living room of a farmhouse near the current site of Wallingford Elementary School. A fulltime pastor, the first of eight to serve the congregation, was called in 1894.

The social hall and kitchen were added in 1929. As the township grew, the church kept pace with major building programs in 1953-54 (sanctuary expanded and classrooms added) and 1970-71 (sanctuary expanded again; narthex, choir room, church and Pastors’ offices added). The complex was outfitted in 1991 with amenities such as sanctuary air conditioning and an enlarged parking lot. WPC continues to be a focal point for the community through worship, children’s and adult Sunday School, youth groups and a variety of educational, service and mission opportunities.

1885
1888
1891
1894
1898
1899
1900s – 1930s
1911
1912
1929
1931
1943
1946
1953
1970
1980
1991
2002
2013
2016

1885

William Eves began Sunday School in his home.

 

1888

Wallingford Chapel cornerstone laid June 21.

 

1891

WPC organized with 32 charter members.
Benjamin Jones D.D. became stated supply minister.

 

1894

The Rev. Robert Labaree named first pastor.
Christian Endeavor Youth groups began.

 

1898

Women’s Missionary Society formed.

 

1899

The Rev. Edward Fitz-Simons installed.

 

1900s – 1930s

Church became spiritual and social focus of the community.
Clay tennis courts constructed on grassy area between Brookhaven Road driveways.

 

1911

The Rev. Edwin Riley installed.

 

1912

Manse built on land donated by Louise Spear.

 

1929

Social Hall and kitchen added.

 

1931

The Rev. Edwin Rein installed.

 

1943

The Rev. Dr. John Rowland installed.

 

1946

Boy Scout troop organized.

 

1953

Sanctuary expanded and classrooms added.

 

1970

Sanctuary expanded again;
choir room, narthex, church and Pastors’ offices built.

 

1980

The Rev. Dr. David Drain called as Head of Staff.

 

1991

Church Centennial celebrated with year-long activities and refurbishing facilities.

 

2002

The Rev. Dr. Suzan Hawkinson called as Head of Staff.

 

2013

The Rev. François Lacroix called as Head of Staff.

 

2016

WPC celebrated its 125th anniversary and launched Vision 250 for the next 125 years.

 

 

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