Trinity Lutheran Church

Since 1892

 

   
A brick church was built in 1892-93 at what is now Fifth and Chestnut Streets. A brick parsonage, or home of the minister, was added in 1900 (attached to the Chestnut Street side of the building). In 1907 the brick church was moved about 40 feet toward Market Street.  

 A new granite church was built in 1907. Here is Trinity Church as it appeared in 1907-1923.

The town clock was placed in the tower in 1912.

   Today the parsonage has been removed with the 1970 renovation.

 Early Church History

Trinity Lutheran Church began in 1891. The construction started on July 17, 1892 and the cornerstone was also laid on that date; the lot was purchased from Charles Bissey at Sellersville Rd. and Main St. (which is now Fifth and Chestnut Streets). The design of this church was copied from a church that shares its name, Trinity Lutheran Church of Quakertown. The congregation was formally put together in November of 1892. The first Sunday school was organized a year later in 1893. On March 19, 1893 Doors of Trinity Lutheran were officially open for the worship for the first time ever. In October there was the first communion service, and in December the first choir was formed. The church council was formed on March 19, 1893 during the first service. Pastor Waidilich served as the first pastor from 1892-1898 while he was also the pastor at his own church which was St. Michael's in Sellersville.

   
 The chancel of the church as seen before 1930.    Second floor Sunday School auditorium 1923-1960.    Church interior today (2000).

The Building & Changes to the Structure

  • The first church was a 40' x 60' brick structure that cost $7000 to build.
  • A bell was purchased at a cost of $232.50 with donations by Sunday school students; it was installed on New Year's Day 1897.
  • In 1900 an annex was added to the church as well as a parsonage.
  • Outgrowing the church by 1906, the decision was made to move the church (on rollers) in from the corner and build a larger nave (worship area).
  • The cornerstone for the new larger church was laid at the base of the bell tower on June 23, 1907. Due to an additional 18' length of the the new building, a porch-like addition was added to the front of the relocated old building. The new church was constructed of granite quarried in Port Deposit, Maryland and the front of the old building was refaced with the same material.
  • Extensive renovation in 1923 included a second floor to the old building and the removal of the old steeple.
  • A new education building was added in 1960 and the parish house was disposed of at this time. The new building included two floors of classrooms, fellowship hall, and a kitchen.
  • Renovations in 1970 included many interior design and furniture changes, razing (knocking down) the old parsonage, a new chancel, and a new organ.

GOTHIC STYLE

     
The Gothic architectural style dates back to the Middle Ages. it is characterized by pointed arches for window, and doors. Pointed details or spires are also typical of this style (as seen at top of page).   Large windows and dormer windows repeat the pointed arch design throughout the building.
     
 Churches in the middle ages traditionally were used to tell stories to those who could not read.. They are often found in Gothic Revival buildings (more modern buildings of the Gothic style).   These decorative features add both color and light to the building while telling religious stories.

CLOCK TOWER

         
 The clock tower is found at the corner of Fifth and Chestnut Streets. Gothic windows with pointed arches are found on the many sides of the tower.   Four clock faces can be seen from all directions in the town.   The tower for the clock is supported by additional structures that push against the wall, working like a buttress.

Town Clock History

In 1912 community funds were used to purchase a Seth Thomas clock "at the cost of $693 which was raised by popular subscription" (Central News, September 25, 1912). The clock with four faces was installed in the bell tower and was known as the community clock; it was illuminated at night. The weight of the clock is estimated to be 3500 lbs.

 
 In 2001 the clock hands were out for repair. Many individuals who rely on this clock miss their time keeper.  
In 2003 the clock tower is restored.

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