Our Beginnings
When German settlers came to this area, they brought the German Reformed Church with them, including baptism records dating back as far as 1740. A small congregation began here in Old Zionsville, and around 1752, the members built a log cabin in which to worship. A small cemetery that was near the log cabin is still in existence.
A Growing Congregation
In 1789, as the area grew, the congregation decided to build a one-story fieldstone church and an adjoining cemetery. On the exact spot of the present church, a brick church was built in 1858. Finally, in 1909, our beautiful stone church, with all its magnificent stained glass, was erected.
Becoming Part of the UCC
In 1957, the Old Zionsville Evangelical and Reformed Church joined a new denomination called the United Church of Christ, with the intent to bring all Christian denominations closer together. This new denomination lifted up the phrase from Jesus, “That they may all be one” (John 17:21).
Celebrating Our Story Today
We continue to celebrate milestones in our shared history, including our 275th anniversary in 2015 and our 285th in 2025.
We proudly marked our 275th anniversary in 2015 with year-long festivities including special events at Sunday services, displays of historical documents and other memorabilia, dinners, and fellowship opportunities. We look forward to our next 275 years!
More recently, during worship on Sunday, May 18, 2025, the Rev. Dr. Bonnie Bates, PNEC Conference Minister, presented us with a certificate recognizing our 285 years of ministry.
Marking Our 285th Anniversary
From left to right:
The Rev. Dr. Bonnie Bates, PNEC Conference Minister
Kathy Latshaw, Consistory Vice President
Cheryl Martucci, Consistory President
Rev. Lori Esslinger, OZ UCC Pastor
Explore Our History
Learn more about our history in our Historical Room at the back of the sanctuary, or explore these pages: