Old First Presbyterian Church, Newark, NJ

Building on the First Presbyterian Church in Newark began before the American Revolution but was halted during the war. Work resumed in 1787 with first services held in 1791. It was designed by Eleazer Ball. The organizing of the congregation dates to the founding of Newark in 1666; originally they were Congregationalists. By 1720, the congregation was organized as a Presbyterian church.

Abraham Pierson, one of Newark's original founders, was the congregation's first minister.

The church still stands at 820 Broad Street, at the intersection of Market Street. It is at this intersection that the original settlement of Newark began. First Presbyterian is the oldest congregation in Newark.

This engraving was made in the year the church was opened, 1792. Tiebout, Cornelius, 1777-1832, engraver. Illus. in: New York Magazine, 1792 (September). Repository: Library of Congress Rare Book and Special Collections Division Washington, D.C. 20540 USA. Call Number: Illus. in AP2.A2 N5 [Rare Book RR]

For more information see:

• Historic American Buildings Survey
• The New Jersey Churchscape
• A Walk Through Newark
• Library of Congress, photos of First Presbyterian
• Old Newark, Houses of Worship
• Old Newark, Houses of Worship: List of Pastors