First Presbyterian Church, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, records

Collection

Identifier: MSS-0518

Scope and Contents

This collection includes nine church record books, from 1820 through 1948. Book number seven is oversized. Loose papers throughout the books provide supplemental information regarding important events in the church’s history. One book recording baptisms covers the years 1845-1894, two record books for the church's Board of Trustees cover the years 1838-1911, and one minute book for the Board of Deacons covers 1886-1888. There is also a hymnal of school Psalmody, printed in 1832. The last folder contains the minutes of the teacher’s association from the Tuscaloosa Union Sunday School, 1831-1848.

Dates

1820-1948

Creator

Tuscaloosa Union Sunday School (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research. Researchers must register and agree to copyright and privacy laws before using this collection. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations. Due to the nature of certain archival formats, including digital and audio-visual materials, access to certain materials may require additional advance notice.

Biographical / Historical

First Presbyterian Church was formed by 16 Presbyterians who left Pendleton, SC, settled on the banks of the Black Warrior River and established this congregation in 1820. The first building was erected on the present site in 1830. First Presbyterian was instrumental in establishing Stillman College after the Civil War to train African-American pastors. The current Sanctuary building was completed in 1920 and renovated in 1952. The church features a surprising variety of antique European craftwork throughout. Some of the unique items include a 15th century French pulpit, 15th century German and Flemish stained glass, and 16th Century Italian baptismal font.

Extent

1.6 Linear Feet (1.5 linear feet and 1book)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Overview

Contains record books, 1820-1948; list of baptisms, 1845-1894; Board of Trustees record books, 1838-1911; Board of Deacons minute book, 1886-1888; and miscellaneous other documents for this Tuscaloosa, Alabama church.

Provenance

Rev. McClain, 1993?

General

To provide faster access to our materials, this finding aid was published without formal and final review. Email us at archives@ua.edu if you find mistakes or have suggestions to make this finding aid more useful for your research.