In 1867 fifteen families left First Reformed Church. They formed the True Dutch Reformed Church. Dissatisfied with the Americanizing tendencies of the Reformed Church in America they sought to preserve their Dutch heritage. Their decision was a delayed reaction to the 1857 secession in West Michigan. This secession birthed the Christian Reformed Church. The True Dutch Reformed Church’s concerns mirrored those of the Michigan seceders. They worried about the RCA’s embrace of American culture including its acceptance of lodge members.
The True Dutch Reformed Church built its first church on Gurley Street. This was later renamed Lexington Street. It stood between Morgan and Sangamon Streets. The location was chosen because Dutch families were moving into this area. The new homes were west of First RCA’s Foster Street church.
Their first church a 40×60 foot building. It miraculously survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The fire swept northeastward missing the area west of Jefferson Street. The congregation grew rapidly. In 1883 they bought a larger church from the Presbyterians. This church was on 14th Street east of Ashland Avenue. This upscale area was becoming the new Groninger Hoek. Affectionately known as the Old Fourteenth Street Church. The congregation boasted 1000 souls by 1886. It eventually birthed other churches on the West Side. It also saw members transfer to congregations in Englewood and Summit.
The True Dutch Reformed Church exemplified a strong denominational loyalty. Members upheld the Dort Church Order. They valued orthodoxy over church unity. They followed the example of Hendrik De Cock of Groningen. He was the leader of the 1834 Secession. This group sought to maintain ties to the mother church in the Netherlands. They preferred not to fully embrace the Americanized RCA.
The story of the True Dutch Reformed Church is a testament. It shows the importance of preserving cultural and religious identity. It also shows the challenges of adapting to a new land. The church’s journey reflects the experiences of many immigrant groups. Their story reminds us of the enduring strength of faith. It is also a testament to the lasting power of community. The True Dutch Reformed Church’s legacy continues to resonate today.