205 years ago, in 1819, the First Presbyterian Church of Ashland Kentucky was established, making it the oldest congregation in Ashland and Boyd County. Just 27 years prior, The Commonwealth of Kentucky was founded. At that time, the town of Ashland was called Poage’s Landing, after the Poage family, early settlers of this area. This was the same family that established this church. As most of the settlers were Scot Irish, Presbyterianism was their form of Christianity. Yet, not until 1855, a few years after the town became known as Ashland, that the church was renamed as the First Presbyterian Church. As the new town was plotted, First Presbyterian was given Lot #1, reinforcing its centrality to the growth and prosperity of Ashland from a small, rural settlement along the Ohio River, to an important town centered on oil refining and transportation.
Celebrating this important event began with the dedication of a mural painted on the town’s floodwall highlighting the Victorian Era church building’s prominence as a city landmark.
Friday, June 5th, the church was opened up for the community to tour the iconic building with the huge ornate stained-glass window, overlooking Winchester Avenue—the main thoroughfare in Ashland. As a rare example of Victorian architecture, it was nice to show off the stained glass, iron and woodwork, that show the impressive detail and artistry. In the narthex, in glass cases, old photos and articles about the history of the church were displayed.
Sunday June 9th the church celebrated its 205th birthday with a special service. Reverand Phillip Lotspeich, the General Presbyter of Transylvania Presbytery came to recognize this event. During a short speech, he reflected on the many things, good and bad that the church had experienced during its time: a Civil War, 2 world wars, a Great Depression and yet, he noted, the church still thrives. After praising this congregation for its steadfastness, Rev. Lotspeich assisted our pastor, Reverand Bill Pollack as the church acknowledged twenty-five people who have been members 50 years or more. Fifteen of these had been attending since birth. Each was given a pin signifying this occasion.
Next congregational songs were sung. Following this, the children’s choir—a group of 12 children—dressed in white and red robes for this special service, rang handbells as they sang two songs. They exemplified the future of the church. After the children finished and left for children’s worship, the chancel choir sang a song. After the morning creeds were said, Pastor Bill preached. The sermon reminded us of where we’ve come from, and where we are heading with the guidance of the Spirit.
After the service the whole church met in the fellowship hall for a celebratory dinner. A good time was had by all, as the church reinforced its prominent role in the development of Ashland.