Our roots
began as a branch of the Reformed Church of Holland. The Original church was built on the
banks of the Pequannock River and dedicated on April 7, 1736. The church located on its
current site, was built in May 1771. Teunis Dey of Preakness conveyed one Acre of ground,
forming the original lot on which the first Church was built and on which the present
building now stands.
The church served as a mother church
to many surrounding communities, that later built their own churches as their membership
increased. George Washington attended services here while visiting
friends. For more than 60 years, Dutch was the prevalent language used in the church services
and up until the Revolutionary War, the church records were kept in Dutch.
In 1814, the church was enlarged 16 feet, the steeple was put in
the east end, and the walls and windows were raised. There was originally a rental system
for pew space. This was abolished on June 26, 1922 upon assurance that the members
continue to contribute to the church generously.
Tradition informs us that our steeple is one of the four possible
spires in the United States of the Christopher Wren Architecture. Many of our forefathers
rest in the only cemetery in Pequannock Township which is at the rear of the church.
When a fire on October 24th, 1937 destroyed all but the exterior
walls, the people were determined to promptly undertake the gigantic task of rebuilding
our beloved church and to restore its colonial proportions along the same architectural
lines as closely as possible. In April 1939, a three day celebration took place to
dedicate the rebuilt church to our Lord so future generations could assemble to worship
God.
In 1983 we adopted a church logo for the first time, and
the slogan
"Share the Spirit." In 1986 we celebrated our 250th anniversary.
If you have any other questions about the churches past, present
or future, feel free to E-mail the Business Manager, Frank
Chara.
