Elmendorf Reformed Church: Harlem’s Timeless Landmark As The Oldest House Of Worship, 1660 –

Step into the rich tapestry of Harlem history as you journey through the hallowed halls of the Elmendorf Reformed Church.

A venerable institution that stands as a true gem in the heart of Harlem.

Once known as the Elmendorf Chapel, this historic Reformed Church in America (RCA) edifice holds a captivating story that dates back centuries.

Nestled gracefully at 171 East 121st Street, between the charming Sylvan Court and Third Avenue, the church’s roots trace back to its genesis as a parish house and Sunday school for the esteemed First Collegiate Church of Harlem.

With origins dating to the early 17th century, the church first emerged as the Low Dutch Reformed Church of Harlem, or the Harlem Reformed Dutch Church—truly a pioneer as Harlem’s very first house of worship.

Delving into the annals of time, a remarkable discovery in 2008 shed light on the Church’s history, when an African American burying ground for congregants was unearthed at the 126th Street Depot of the MTA Regional Bus Operations.

This solemn resting place, a poignant testament to the lives once lived, prompted a compassionate response from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, agreeing to relocate the Depot by 2015 to honor the sanctity of the site.

Through the years, the Elmendorf Reformed Church has witnessed numerous metamorphoses, with sanctuaries rising and evolving at different locations in the area—each a testament to the unwavering faith and devotion of its congregation.

In 1893-94, under the visionary leadership of Rev. Joachim Elmendorf, a magnificent Neoclassical parish house was erected on the very grounds we stand today, bearing the distinguished touch of architect Joseph Ireland.

It was around 1910 when the winds of change swept through the church, leading to the transformation of the original chapel into the resplendent Elmendorf Reformed Church we know today. This metamorphic journey through the years has forged the church’s identity as the oldest congregation in Harlem, steeped in tradition and revered by generations of faithful worshippers.

The church itself stands as a timeless testament to architectural artistry, its two-story plus basement design forming an elegant “L” shape that gracefully occupies its expansive lot of 53 feet wide by 120 feet deep—a true architectural marvel that beckons admiration.

Recognizing its cultural and historical significance, the Elmendorf Reformed Church was rightfully listed on the esteemed National Register of Historic Places in 2010, affirming its place as a living heritage site of great importance.

A momentous occasion marked the annals of the church’s history when, on September 22, 2002, Patricia A. Singletary etched her name in the annals of time, becoming the very first female minister to grace the pulpit of the Elmendorf Reformed Church. This milestone served as a beacon of progress and inclusivity, honoring the church’s legacy while embracing a bright future.

The church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010.

As you traverse the corridors of the Elmendorf Reformed Church, take a moment to reflect on its genesis in 1660, when it emerged as the Harlem Reformed Low Dutch Church—an illustrious past that reverberates through the ages, resonating with the harmonious chorus of devoted worshippers who have called this sacred place their spiritual home.

In every corner, every weathered stone, and every heartfelt prayer that echoes through its hallowed halls, the Elmendorf Reformed Church stands as a living testament to the indomitable spirit of faith, a cherished landmark that continues to inspire and uplift all those who enter its embrace.

Photo credit: 1-5) Wikipedia. The Elmendorf Reformed Church at 171 East 121st Street between Sylvan Court and Third Avenue in the Harlem neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City was founded as a parish house and Sunday school for the First Collegiate Church of Harlem, which had its beginnings in 1660 as the Harlem Reformed Dutch Church. Sanctuaries were built in 1665-67, 1686-87, 1825 and 1897, at various locations in the area. In 1893-94 a Neoclassical parish house was built, designed by Joseph Ireland, and c.1910 the church at the time was torn down, and the parish house was rebuilt as the Elmendorf Chapel, which now stands as the Elmendorf Reformed Church, the oldest congregation in Harlem. (Sources: From Abyssinian to Zion and AIA Guide to NYC (5th ed.) https://www.elmendorfreformedchurch.org/

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