The History of First Presbyterian Church
   
In 1838, “The Western Presbyterian Church” was organized by 18 Cabell County Presbyterians in the then unfinished chapel at Marshall Academy.  In 1872, a small church was erected at the rear of our 5th Avenue lot.  It contained a 900 pound bell ($296!), which is the same bell that hangs in our present bell tower. The cornerstone of our present sanctuary was laid August 18, 1985, with the first worship service being held in the sanctuary on September 20, 1896.  The cost of the construction was a staggering $22,000! 

As Huntington grew, First Presbyterian Church gave hundreds of members and much of our funds to organize the Second (1908), Highlawn (1913), Beverly Hills (1945), Enslow (1949), Bates (1956), and Rome (Ohio) Presbyterian Church in 1958.  

In 1913, during the year of the 75th anniversary of the church, the building doubled in size by with the addition of the Sunday School addition on the south side of the Sanctuary.  In 1951, the present Church School Building was erected, and the Fellowship Hall, kitchen, and other spaces in the old building were remodeled.  In 1954, the Moller pipe organ was installed, which over the years has experienced many renovations and improvements.

In 1962, our Cabwaylingo Presbyterian Chapel at Dunlow first held services.  The rural chapel with its many social outreach programs to the community is still a very important part of our church’s mission.  The next year, 1963, the General Assembly PCUS held it’s 103rd annual meeting in our facilities from  April 25-30 as we celebrated our 125th Anniversary. It was here they voted to ordain women! In 1965, the first International House program was held in our facilities.  One hundred and eighty international students, from 43 countries, came from 40 American colleges and universities to spend their Christmas vacation at the church. 

In 1988, the 150th anniversary of the church, the congregation voted to proceed with plans for the renovation of the church building to make it safer, more accessible, and more functional.  This $3.5 million renovation was completed and paid by 1996!

In 2005, we celebrated 100 years of our beautiful sanctuary and in 2007 the chancel area was expanded and renovated, adding more flexibility and modern improvements. 

It has been an exciting journey of faith as we seek to be faithful to our mission and ministry to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!