Central Ward in Newark in Essex County, New Jersey — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Old First Presbyterian Church
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The historic Old First, located downtown at 820 Broad Street, is the oldest church in Newark and one of the most significant churches in the United States. The original congregation was part of the Bradford, Connecticut Colony of Puritans. Under the leadership of Major Robert Treat, part of the congregation left and founded the city of Newark in 1666.
The original church was Newark's first public building, standing opposite the current location. For four decades, all public meetings, military proceedings and worship services occurred at the church. Early notable members included: Pastor Abraham Pierson Jr.; William Halsey the first mayor of Newark; and Aaron Burr, Sr., a founder in 1746 of the College of New Jersey, forerunner of Princeton University, which he served as President.
The current church, constructed in Georgian Colonial style, was built in 1791 and has a 204-foot steeple. It was reportedly used as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
In 2016, the church celebrated its 350th anniversary.
Erected by Greater Newark Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in
this page online
Location. 40° 44.056′ N, 74° 10.36′ W. Marker is in Newark, New Jersey, in Essex County. It is in the Central Ward. It is on Broad Street north of Lafayette Street, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 830 Broad St, Newark NJ 07102, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in North Jersey and in the New York City Metropolitan Area. It is also in the American Northeast, in the Mid-Atlantic, and on the Eastern Seaboard. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland and also one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Old First (here, next to this marker); First Settlers of Newark (a few steps from this marker); Newark Covenant (a few steps from
Credits. This page was last revised on January 3, 2026. It was originally submitted on January 3, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 57 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 3, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
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