Christ Presbyterian Church in Madison is celebrating its 175th anniversary this weekend. Founded in 1851, the church has evolved alongside the city, with a history deeply intertwined with significant social changes. Members will gather for commemorative meals and services on Saturday and Sunday.
Historian Phil Haslanger uncovered fascinating insights from church archives, highlighting, for example, the modest startup costs of the 1850s, where pledges were only about $49, translating to $5 as the largest individual contribution. Initially called First Presbyterian Church, its name changed in 1891 after several incidents, including a tornado that damaged the original building.
Over the years, the church has been engaged with various social issues, from debates about slavery and the Civil War to civil rights and women’s rights. In 1930, Edna Chynoweth became the first woman elected to the church’s governing board in Wisconsin. The church also actively supported civil rights, notably assisting in the rebuilding of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Mississippi.
The Community Immigration Law Center was established in 2009 on church grounds, reflecting ongoing efforts to meet community needs. As societal conditions shift, the church’s adaptive approach remains crucial for future engagement, as highlighted by Haslanger’s reflections on the importance of community connections for newer members.
