churchphotoAbout the Church

At the time of the organization of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, as a denomination, on February 4, 1810, there were workers in the Huntsville area who were related to the Revival Party. Reverend Robert Donnell was traveling and preaching in the area at this time. In the early years a common place for camp meetings was the Big Spring (in what is now downtown Huntsville). Reverend Donnell helped organize the First Presbyterian Church (USA) (Alabamaʼs oldest Presbyterian Church) before he was a Cumberland Presbyterian. The congregation has worshipped in its present location at 1802 Bankhead Parkway since August, 1971.

The church site is extraordinary in its setting on a hillside in the foothills of Monte Sano Mountain. There is a spectacular view of the city of Huntsville. Major chances to the building through the years have been the installation of a steeple, installation of beautiful stained glass windows, remodeling of the altar area, installation of a Wicks five-rank pipe organ, and a sound system with taping capabilities. The sanctuary seats 200 and can be expanded with chairs to seat another 75 to 100. Classrooms are located on all three levels of the building. The mission of First Church is to glorify God through worship, share Godʼs Word with others, and provide opportunities where all may grow in Christʼs love.