Lenzie Parish Church

Was Lenzie Old Parish Church always a parish church? No. Here, at the corner of Kirkintilloch Road and Garngaber Avenue, stands the Lenzie Old Parish Church. It first opened its doors on August 30, 1874, as a “Chapel of Ease.” It wasn’t until two years later, in 1876, that it was officially designated as a Parish Church. The church’s centenary was actually celebrated in 1976, marking 100 years since its elevation to Parish Church status, not its initial construction. Lenzie itself has a unique history. While the name “Lenzie” is old, the modern town we see today began to flourish only after piped water reached the area in the 1870s. This boom led to the construction of not one, not two, but three churches within a single decade. Lenzie Old Parish Church, St. Cyprian’s, and Lenzie Union Parish Church all rose during this period of growth, each serving the burgeoning community. In 1885, the church purchased a villa called “Northwood” on Moncrieff Avenue for £1500. This building became the church’s manse. The purchase was made from Miss Beatrice Clugston, a prominent local philanthropist. A notable figure in Lenzie Old Parish Church’s history is Reverend William Brownlie. He served as minister for an impressive tenure, from 1891 to 1926, guiding the congregation through a significant portion of its early life. Lenzie Old Parish Church has stood as a witness to the growth and changes in Lenzie, a testament to the enduring spirit of the community.