Funds are being raised to preserve First Presbyterian Church of Carson City, the oldest building in Nevada. Photos by Jessica Garcia of the Nevada Appeal.
Members of the First Presbyterian Church restoration steering committee are seeking help to improve the historic sanctuary, a project being completed in phases. FPC is Nevada’s oldest structure, built in 1864.
Over time, portions of the sanctuary’s ceilings and walls have decayed, rotted or been stripped away. The building never has been condemned, but members would like to make repairs and ensure the structure is fully functional and safe.
Jennie Clemens, the only daughter of Orion and Mollie Clemens and niece of Samuel Clemens, began saving to purchase a large King James Bible for Carson City’s new church in 1862 but died at the age of 10 of Rocky Mountain spotted fever on Feb. 1, 1864, just a few months short of the church’s opening, according to church records. To honor Jennie Clemens’ efforts, the local townspeople donated funds and purchased this Bible, dedicating it in her memory for use in the pulpit service until it was retired in the 1950s. The Bible has been preserved by the First Presbyterian Church.
Jennie Clemens, the only daughter of Orion and Mollie Clemens and niece of Samuel Clemens, began saving to purchase a large King James Bible for Carson City’s new church in 1862 but died at the age of 10 of Rocky Mountain spotted fever on Feb. 1, 1864, just a few months short of the church’s opening, according to church records. To honor Jennie Clemens’ efforts, the local townspeople donated funds and purchased this Bible, dedicating it in her memory for use in the pulpit service until it was retired in the 1950s. The Bible has been preserved by the First Presbyterian Church.
Members of the First Presbyterian Church restoration steering committee are seeking help to improve the historic sanctuary, a project being completed in phases. FPC is Nevada’s oldest structure, built in 1864.
Church members have been preparing the old sanctuary to host McAvoy Layne for a fundraiser May 4.
Church members have been preparing the old sanctuary to host McAvoy Layne for a fundraiser May 4.
First Presbyterian Church’s steps, in need of repair after crumbling, were sandblasted and powder coated this week.