First Presbyterian Church

The story

Behind the sketch.

First Presbyterian has occupied this corner since its first meetinghouse was dedicated in 1822. The present sanctuary, designed by Nashville architect Adolphus Heiman, followed in 1860 with Gothic arches, red brick, and a tower intended to hold its own against the nearby Church of the Nativity. Church history says Heiman was not enthusiastic about adding a spire, but the congregation insisted. The wind settled the argument in 1878 by toppling it into the roof. The church survived the mishap, along with the Civil War, changing fashions, and more than two centuries of Huntsville growth. Its building has evolved, but the congregation's claim on this particular corner has remained remarkably steady since Huntsville was still learning how to be a city.

Neighborhood

Twickenham

Book location

Page 39