Fairfield
Presbyterian Church was organized near what is now the
village of
New Vernon, in September, 1799, and is, therefore, the oldest
congregation of the
denomination
in Mercer County. Elisha McCurdy and Joseph Stockton superintended the
organizing of the congregation. Daniel Axtell, David Condit
and
Ithiel Dodd, all “Ten-Milers,” were the first elders. They came from
Washington County, and brought their religious convictions with them.
Rev. William Wylie was the first pastor, from 1802 to 1804. He also
preached for Upper Sandy congregation. He was succeeded by Rev. Cyrus
Riggs in October, 1807, the pastorate continuing until April, 1812.
Rev. Ira Condit began at the last date, and continued as pastor until
October, 1836. The next pastor was Rev.David Waggoner, remaining from
July, 1838, to May, 1853, at which latter date Rev. J. M. Shields began
his labors, and continued them until 1864. Rev. John Rice succeeded as
a stated supply.
Such is the early history of the pioneer
Presbyterian congregation in
the county. The present church edifice is seventy-one feet long, and
proportionately wide. Near it is a grave-yard, which has received the
bodies of many of the pioneers, as its marble, slabs will plainly show.
History of Mercer County, 1888,
page 562
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Fairfield
Presbyterian Church
(click
image to enlarge)
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