Reflections - A PennySaver News photo series
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From the Gowanda PennySaver News "Reflections" series compiled by Mary Pankow.
issue date - June 30, 2002

First Presbyterian Church - 175th Anniversary
     In March 1980, the church decides to sponsor a refugee family from Indochina and relocate them to Gowanda. The Phommahaxays, a Laotian family of seven, lands at Buffalo International Airport in January 1981 and reside at 255 Buffalo St. In 1984, they move to Amarillo, TX.
     On Sept 1, 1984, the church enters into a contractual relationship with Community Action Organization (CAO) of Erie County, and houses the Head Start program.
     The restoration and protection project of the stained glass windows is started in 1986. In addition, a grand piano is installed in the sanctuary.
     The title of "Pastor Emeritus" is bestowed upon the Rev. Gideon vonGalambos in 1992, a landmark event.
     In 1998, the Food Pantry of the Gowanda Ministerium is housed in the Christian Education Building, and the Presbyterian Women's Group is formed.
     To commemorate the 175th anniversary of the church, a worship service is slated for Sunday, June 30 at 10:30 a.m.
     The celebration continues on July 13, when a catered dinner will be held that includes a special program.

(Photo courtesy of the church)
 First Presbyterian Church - undated photo

Undated photo

Reflections ...            by Ruth Bury

     The First Presbyterian Church has been a vital influence in the growth and development of our village.
     It was the first church established in Gowanda, then known as Lodi.
     Its members made their mark on village growth as industrialists, merchants, bankers, professional men, educators.
     The Presbyterian Men's Club and the Presbyterian Young Women's Society attracted members from all Gowanda clubs and churches, casting an influence throughout the village.
     The church had the first circulating library and the first village cemetery. When the need for a larger cemetery became apparent, Joseph Plumb. son of Ralph Plumb, founder of the Gowanda Presbyterian Church, gave 20 acres for what is now our Pine Hill Cemetery.
     Many Presbyterians were elected and served on our village boards over the years.
     The church and the village have grown hand in hand over the years.