Artist rendering of Carrollton Presbyterian Church
The Carrollton Presbyterian Church on Maple Street in Downtown Carrollton is one of the oldest structures in Carroll County. Built in 1902, its neo-gothic style architecture reflects the Scottish heritage that was principal in the formation of the early Presbyterian denomination. On the front of the church, you can see two towers of different sizes. The right tower is higher than the left. This represents the Reformed church, our constant and never ending journey to strive toward Godliness, and our certainty that we, as humans, can’t attain it.
The sanctuary has been preserved in an almost pristine original state, with handsome millwork railing, rafters & trim, and plaster columns adorned with acanthus leaf details. In 2011 we underwent an extensive renovation of the stained glass windows to return them to their original condition.
Although the current brick structure was completed in 1902, the actual organized church is older still. In 1841, two decades before the Civil War began; West Georgia was a frontier community bordering the unknown wilds of Alabama. It was that year that individuals who lived in the area made a request of the Flint River Presbytery, in session at West Point Georgia, to be constituted as a church known as the Carrollton Presbyterian church. In response, the Presbytery directed two of its members to repair to Carrollton and organize a church. This makes Carrollton Presbyterian the oldest organized church in Carroll County.
In 1952, Westminster Hall, the three-story addition to the original church, was completed and has since then been renovated several times over. This space houses Sunday school rooms, meeting rooms and the Fellowship Hall.
When the church was built in 1902, an article in the Carroll County Times – Feb. 13, 1902, read:
“The present elegant and lasting edifice is the outcome of studious investigation, extending over several years past by members and friends of the Church, with a view of originating a building plan, not too expensive for the means of the Congregation, and yet one which, while meeting every requirement of taste and comfort in its interior appointments, would insure a structure creditable in the estimation of the community and responsive to civic pride in our growing and ever progressive City.”
A very interesting feature of the church is that the founders chose not to put their names on a cornerstone, preferring instead to dedicate the building solely to the glory of God.
HISTORICAL FACTS
• New Church constructed between July 1901 and February 1902
• Architects: Butt & Morrin, Atlanta
• Contractor: J.A. Pierce, Gainesville.
- Bids $10,000.00 up to $17,000.00.
- Raised Low Bid
- $1,000.00 to cover a mistake on the Stone Work.
- Total Contract Amount = $11,000.00
• Pastor: Rev. William Edwin Dozier (1894-1915)
• Building Committee:
- L.C. Mandeville
- Mrs. Mary Aycock
- Abner A. Simonton
The last Sunday night of each month, CPC members, friends, and community members gather at 6 o’clock for a time of contemplative prayer that we call “Evening Song.” This 35-minute service incorporates scripture readings, musical meditations, and time for silent reflection. Those present are also invited to participate in open and responsorial prayer and simple, repeated congregation songs as they feel led. The music consists of traditional contemplative hymns as well as responses used in the Iona Community on the western shores of Scotland (http://www.iona.org.uk/) and the Taizé Community of Southern France (http://www.taize.fr/en).
