When settlers established towns across Nebraska, churches were some of the first structures to be established. Not many of those churches have survived to the present day, but there’s one that has stood since the mid-1800s. It’s thought to be the oldest church in the state, and you can still visit it today.
First Presbyterian Church is located on Franklin Street in Bellevue. The city claims to be the oldest in the state, so it’s only fitting that the oldest church should be located here.
By Ammodramus - Own work, CC0
Construction on the church began in 1856 and was completed in 1858.
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
The building has been expanded twice since it was built, but remains a small structure that looks like it would be right at home in the middle of the countryside.
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
The church’s simple but elegant interior is a popular place for weddings. The intimate space is perfect for smaller weddings.
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
Regular church services are no longer held in this building; the congregation outgrew it long ago and moved to a new building elsewhere in Bellevue.
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
The church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and has been beautifully preserved. It’s a wonderful piece of Nebraska history that every architecture lover and history enthusiast should visit.
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
The First Presbyterian Church is located at 2002 Franklin Street, Bellevue, Nebraska 68005. See more photos of this stunning building on the City of Bellevue website.
By Ammodramus - Own work, CC0
City of Bellevue, Nebraska
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