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About This Old Church

History of the Church

The congregation was officially organized in 1802 as the Vernon Centre Congregational Society–the first organized church in the town of Vernon, NY. The first building was erected in 1811, in the middle of the town green (near today's historic gazebo), with a cornerstone inscribed with AD 1812. Church services in the building ended in 2005. But the building's story doesn't end there.

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News and Updates

The Site

The church is the first and oldest in Vernon. But it began its life in 1811, in the middle of the 6 acre Vernon Centre Green, near where the gazebo is today. Within 40 years, the congregation had…

Finding The 1837 Pipe Organ

The Opus 1 pipe organ, created by Alvinza Andrews in 1837, served the Vernon Center church for much of the church’s history. Read about the history of the original organ. While in the process of purchasing the church,…

The Fallen Window

On practically Day #1, we packaged up the window, the fallen shards of glass, and brought it to Sullivan Studios in Chittenango to get the advice of stained glass craftsman, Don Henry. Don had a lot of helpful…

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For This and Future Generations

Our history should not only be preserved, it should be celebrated. Let's bring the former Vernon Center Presbyterian Church building back to life, and ensure it remains a vital contributor to the present and future of Vernon.

Contribute to the Restoration

If you'd like to support the restoration, please enjoy an upcoming event or browse the items in the shop. And for those who have asked, we have the option to make a donation. Any donation of $20 or more, if you provide your mailing address, will get a special gift. Thanks!