In 1915, a small group gathered, laying the foundation for what would become Wedgwood Presbyterian Church. They started as the Morningside Sunday School. They met in homes and later, a small building on 35th Avenue NE. Wedgwood Presbyterian Church wasn’t always at its current location. Its journey reflects the growth and changes of the Wedgwood neighborhood itself. The church’s first official building was shared with the Morningside Sunday School. It was located near the bustling intersection of NE 95th Street and 35th Avenue NE. This area was expected to become a major commercial hub. However, the economic hardships of the 1930s and the war years stalled its development.
After World War II, Northeast Seattle experienced a population boom. Families flocked to the area. The Morningside Sunday School outgrew its space. The congregation decided to relocate. They envisioned a new home, a larger sanctuary that could accommodate the growing community. In 1951, the church moved to its current location at 8008 35th Ave NE. They also adopted a new name: Wedgwood Presbyterian Church. The move symbolized a fresh start. It was a testament to the church’s commitment to serving the Wedgwood community.
The original church building was designed by a team of architects: William J. Bain, Harrison J. Overturf, and Edwin T. Turner. Just a few years later, in 1957, the church expanded. John Graham & Company designed a two-level addition, providing more space for the growing congregation. Today, Wedgwood Presbyterian Church continues to be a vital part of the neighborhood. It’s not just a place of worship. It’s a community hub. The church opens its doors to various groups, including the Scouts and the Seattle Audubon Society. It hosts music recitals, weddings, funerals, and community meetings.
Wedgwood Presbyterian Church’s commitment extends beyond its walls. The church owns the “Grassy Lot” at the corner of NE 80th Street and 35th Ave NE. This green space offers a place for church parking and outdoor gatherings. The church’s Scout troop maintains a compost bin there. The Grassy Lot serves as a venue for outdoor meetings, garden sales, and social events throughout the year. Wedgwood Presbyterian Church is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a welcoming community. It’s a place where people of all ages connect, nurture their faith, and strive to make a positive impact. It’s a church that embraces its role as a gathering place. It fosters connections and serves the needs of the Wedgwood neighborhood and beyond. Wedgwood Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to the enduring power of community, faith, and service.