Our Building:

The Church was also known as the Ponckhockie Union Chapel and the Children's Chapel.

The structure was built in 1870 by the Newark Lime and Cement Company. Early photographs show large troughs extending from the adjacent hillside - supported by scaffolding - so that concrete could be poured into forms. It has been written that the materials, technique and technology used in this structure were applied in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge.

The original steeple was 220 feet at the tip of the concrete cross that adorned the top - and was reportedly the highest of it's type in the world until 1962 - at which time the steeple was removed due to weather and lightening damage. Inside, a natural "air-conditioning" system consisted of air channels in the walls and floors that allowed cool air to enter the main auditorium (sanctuary) during summer months. This system was controlled by a series of vents and shutters that have since deteriorated.

The stained glass windows contain the names of prominent families of the era - who supported the project. Many also became charter members of the church (when it was "chartered" in 1915).