About

History

First Presbyterian Church was established in 1818 and was the first church organized in Florence. Since that time our history has been an integral part of the history of this community.

For almost 200 years this congregation has sought to provide nurture and support for its own membership and outreach to the community. In the early days, this meant sharing the meeting house with our neighbors of other denominations who worshiped with us or held their own services in our building while their churches were being organized and built.

The best available evidence indicates that our first building was a log meeting house erected on our present location in 1818. The original outer walls of an 1824 building are still incorporated in the present-day sanctuary. The church building was enlarged in 1898-1899.

In 1968 the congregation decided to remain a downtown church and to continue its historical presence in the heart of Florence. In 1971 we updated our facilities by adding a three story classroom, office, and fellowship hall.

This building serves not only our congregation but also the Florence community as a meeting place for many civic and charitable organizations.

Ours is a historic church with both a long record of service and a commitment to the future. Our hope is that, with God's help, we will continue to be loving, caring, and dedicated witnesses in the heart of the Florence community and in the world.