The First Christian Church

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The Church of Christ, Monmouth, Oregon

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Earliest Wooden Schoolhouse before the Church of Christ building

Name: The First Christian Church

Built: 1877

Architects & Construction:

Past Uses: When Wesrtern Oregon University was first founded, it was placed under the supervision of the Christian Church. This building served as the Christian College and the church. It was located at the present site of Todd Hall and was later moved in 1893 when construction for Todd Hall began.

Before the Church:

  • From 1856-1858, prior to the two story church being built, a wooden structure of where the church stood was built as a one room wooden school house. It was used for both church services, and school services. Classes were held in the church in 1856 with only 35-48 pupils.
  • In 1858, a two story building was built that served as both the university and the church until the First Christian Church was built in 1877.

Extra Information:

  • This was the first church building in town
  • The land that was occupied was donated entirely by Christian Church goers.
  • John E. Murphy was the first minister of the church.