How did the Brick Presbyterian Church get its unique name? It’s a question worth pondering as we stand before this historic building. Let’s step back in time to discover the story of the Brick Presbyterian Church.
The Brick Presbyterian Church has a rich history dating back to 1767. At that time Presbyterians worshipped in a wooden building. This original church was located on Wall Street. As the congregation grew it needed to expand. Thus the leaders decided to build a second church. This new church would serve those who had moved further north.
In 1767 a glorious brick structure was erected. It was located on the corner of Beekman and Nassau. The first service was likely held on New Year’s Day in 1768. The brick building was quite startling for its time. That’s why it was named Brick Church.
Eventually the two congregations split. The Wall Street Church became First Presbyterian Church. The Brick Church became the official name of the Beekman Street congregation. So First Presbyterian Church is either our mother or sister church.
The Brick Church has had three locations in New York City. Its first site was on Beekman Street. Later it moved to Fifth Avenue and 37th Street in 1858. Finally it relocated to its current site at Park Avenue and 91st Street in 1940.
The current building is not the first home of the Brick Presbyterian Church. The congregation moved uptown as the city expanded. The area around City Hall Park changed dramatically. Church leaders wanted to remain a parish church. They wanted a church that people could walk to. That’s why they chose a new location on 5th Avenue and 37th Street. Again they chose bricks.
In the 1930s the corner of Park Avenue and 91st Street was appealing. Many church members lived in that area. The third brick building for the Brick Presbyterian Church was completed in 1940.
The New York Times described the current building. It called it a model of a colonial house of worship. The building features red brick with white trimmings. Huge circular white pillars adorn the front.
During the American Revolutionary War the British used the first church to house prisoners of war. The church has a long history of service. During World War II the church provided a space for servicemen. Two floors of the parish house were converted into a space for them. It included beds a sun-room and a piano.
Over the years many notable people have been associated with the Brick Presbyterian Church. Mark Twain’s funeral was held here in 1910. The Reverend Henry van Dyke Jr officiated.
Several prominent figures have served as clergy at the Brick Presbyterian Church. These include Gardiner Spring Henry van Dyke and Maltbie D Babcock. Babcock is known for composing the hymn This Is My Father’s World. Van Dyke wrote the text for Joyful Joyful We Adore Thee.
The Brick Presbyterian Church is also known for its music programs. The sanctuary features a French Symphonic style organ. It has 6288 pipes.
The Brick Church School was founded in 1940. It offers early childhood programs. Members of the church receive preference in the application process.
The Brick Presbyterian Church has been in continuous operation since 1767. The church’s history is longer than that of the nation. It continues to serve its Carnegie Hill neighborhood.
So as you pass by the Brick Presbyterian Church remember its long history. It has been a constant presence in New York City for centuries. It has moved and adapted but its commitment to its congregation has remained strong.