Historic Iowa sanctuary gifted to community care
Presbytery of East Iowa gives former Princeton Presbyterian Church property to the City of Princeton
In an act of true gratitude to the community, the Presbytery of East Iowa has announced the gifting of the former Princeton Presbyterian Church property to the City of Princeton, marking a new chapter in the life of a congregation that faithfully served the community for 170 years.
The congregation formally closed in November 2024 after careful discernment by its members and the presbytery.
Founded on April 14, 1854 by 18 charter members, Princeton Presbyterian Church stood as a spiritual and social anchor for generations.
After its closing, the presbytery appointed an administrative commission to responsibly steward the property and discern its future use.
The deed gifting the property was signed on Nov. 26. The city's mayor, Travis Volrath, conveyed to the presbytery visions of using the property for a new city hall and/or community center. The administrative commission voted unanimously to gift the property to the City of Princeton for the benefit of the wider community.
The Rev. Dr. Kristopher D. Schondelmeyer, pastor and head of staff of First Presbyterian Church of Davenport, the moderator of the Presbytery of East Iowa and a member of the administrative commission, expressed deep hope for the legacy of this historic space.
“In every generation, the church is called to entrust its gifts to the flourishing of the communities we serve. Princeton Presbyterian Church has offered nearly two centuries of worship, compassion, and neighborly presence,” Schondelmeyer said. “Our prayer is that this gift to the City of Princeton will allow the property to remain a place where lives are nurtured, relationships are strengthened, and the common good of the community is advanced. Even as the congregation’s formal ministry has concluded, its faithful witness endures in the ongoing life of the city of Princeton.”
The Presbytery of East Iowa remains committed to fostering partnerships that strengthen local communities and honor the legacy of congregations whose ministries have shaped this region’s history.
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