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.