“Old First,” they call it. Founded in 1654, Old First Reformed Church is one of New York City’s oldest congregations. It began as the Reformed Dutch Church of the Town of Breukelen. Governor Pieter Stuyvesant himself established it. Imagine services held under a tree. Then picture a barn serving as their church.
Old First’s story involves multiple moves and expansions. The first church was built in 1666 on what is now Fulton Street. A second church followed a century later adding a burial ground. But thirty years later, the congregation needed even more space. In 1807, they laid the cornerstone for a third church on Joralemon Street. This location served them until 1833. Finally in 1835, they built a new church behind the third one facing Livingston Street. Today, Macy’s stands on that very site.
This wasn’t the end of the changes for Old First Reformed Church. The original congregation also split. The branch we see now is on Seventh Avenue and Carroll Street. They first built a chapel here in 1886, which is still used today for programs. The Livingston Street church was sold and demolished around this time. The iconic church building that stands before you was dedicated in 1891.
Architect George L. Morse designed this Late Gothic Revival masterpiece. It features Indiana limestone on a granite base. The facade boasts a 212-foot-high stone tower and spire. Inside, you will discover stained-glass windows by masters such as Louis Comfort Tiffany. William Willet and Otto Heinigke also contributed their artistry. These windows bring biblical stories to life.
Old First’s elaborate design was intentional. During a time when competitor churches were opening, Dutch Reformed was known as an austere denomination. The elaborate style was meant to attract new members. In 1894, The New York Times reported that the church “was full of a Sunday morning.”
Recently, Old First completed a major restoration. The first phase alone cost $1.6 million. It focused on the coffered ceiling. Hundreds of plaster panels were re-stenciled. Every rib was reattached or re-cast. Over half a mile of wooden supports were reinforced. Even the pews were reconfigured. Originally there was no center aisle. The restoration added one while preserving the original arc of the pews.
The floor was replaced with architectural vinyl that resembles the original rug. The chancel and tympanum above were also restored. The limestone exterior and the towering spire received attention as well. Future phases will restore the painting above the altar and the stained-glass windows.
Old First is more than just a beautiful building. It’s a community hub. It hosts a nursery school, the Brooklyn Community Chorus, and many other groups. They also run a Summer Respite Shelter. This provides meals and beds for men in need. The church actively seeks community funding for its ongoing restoration. Its doors are open to all. Old First stands as a beacon of faith and service.