History of The Argyle Presbyterian Church

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In 1792, the Argyle United Presbyterian Church was organized as the First Presbyterian Congregation subject to the Associate Reformed Synod in the town of Argyle.  Before the election of officers in November of 1792, Argyle had been a preaching station under care of Salem.  The Rev. Thomas Clark, M.D. was the first clergyman to minister to this community and after him, his successor, the Rev. James Proudfit who presided at the election of our first session.

In November of 1793 the congregation called as its first pastor, the Rev. George Mairs, Sr., a graduate of Glasgow University and pastor of a congregation in County Cavan, Ireland, before coming to this country. The Rev. Mairs served the congregation for 30 years, and his son, George Mairs, Jr., succeeded him and served for 28 years. During these 58 years, 1750 members were received.  

The congregation built its first church sometime before 1792. This was located south of the village near the Scotch Cemetery. This church, a 40x30 frame building, proved too small; therefore, a second church was built in the village. 

In the spring of 1844, a new building was planned at a cost of $2772.50 and designed to seat 700. The unfinished church and sheds were burned on July 4.  In 1845, a fourth church was completed and used for less than thirty years.  As membership and the need for repairs increased, this church was taken down. The present building was constructed in 1875 and dedicated on July 18, 1876. This building, with the sheds, cost $32,000 and was constructed of brick from down the Hudson, slate from Salem and gray stone from a Glens Falls quarry.  

Although the Church's purpose has remained the same throughout the years, customs have changed dramatically. For many years, members received, at the preparatory service, a token made of pewter or lead which entitled them to receive communion. It was also a custom that the elders approve those who would take communion. Until 1896, United Presbyterians sang psalms exclusively, with no instrumental accompaniment. The Session voted to allow the use of an organ Sabbath School in 1895, and within a short time, in regular church services. In 1898, the present pipe organ was installed.  

 There have been, in more recent history, several events worth noting. In 1943, the 150th anniversary was celebrated with a 2 day event, the Sunday worship service and a "Cooperative Supper" the following evening.  In 1964, when Argyle observed its bi-centennial, our church hosted a union service.  Special rededications were marked in July, 1951 and in July, 1976.  In August, 1969, a reception was held for Miss Bernice MacWhorter, who retired after serving as our church organist for 50 years.  A Colonial Thanksgiving Service, sponsored by the United Presbyterian and the Methodist Churches was held in our church in November, 1973, the first in a series of events commemorating the Nation's bi-centennial. In 1982, our 190th year was celebrated with a picnic on the church lawn and a display of memorabilia.  

 We are grateful for the dedicated men and women who, through the years, have given their time and talents to found and continue the work of our church in the community.