Reviving a Legacy: The History (And The Future) of the Flatbush Presbyterian Church
The Flatbush Presbyterian Church at 494 East 23rd Street holds a rich and deep history in the community dating back to its construction in 1898. The church was built on land donated by Mrs. Benjamin Stephens, a prominent Brooklyn socialite and active member of the Flatbush community. Mrs. Benjamin Stephens was a woman dedicated to her community who worked alongside the Board of the New York Library back in 1887 and 1898 and crossed paths with Andrew Carnegie and Frederick Wurster, who was the last mayor of Brooklyn.
In 1897 The Brooklyn Daily Eagle reported that architect John J. Petit was commissioned to create the early English Gothic-inspired structure, which included a basement with a large recreational space and kitchen, and a first floor with a meeting room and a women’s parlor.
The church in 1932. Photo via Brooklyn Daily Eagle photographs, Brooklyn Public Library, Center for Brooklyn History.
Over the years, the church served as a religious beacon and active space for the community, hosting a rich congregation and ministers from different denominations. The Reverend Dr. Herbert H. Field served as the minister during the early 1900s, which was a strong and healthy congregation at the time. The church's women's society had significant impact and sway, mobilizing against polygamy practices in 1913. The church was home to renowned organist and choirmaster R. Huntington Woodman, who dedicated 55 years of service to the institution.
Like many religious institutions, the Flatbush Presbyterian Church's congregation began to dwindle as the years traversed. The surrounding community started to change fast as old communities began to leave, and new communities started to move in. During the 1960s and 1970s, many people from the Caribbean, particularly from Jamaica, began to immigrate to New York City in search of better economic opportunities and a higher standard of living. Flatbush became a popular destination for Caribbean immigrants due to its affordable housing and proximity to other Caribbean communities, such as Crown Heights and East Flatbush. These new communities didn't take on too much interest in being a part of this specific congregation.
In 1973, the church merged with the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in an effort to keep the doors open. While the merger allowed for the continuation of separate religious practices, it was a sign of the church's troubled future. Conjoining the two denominations in one church at the time created more separation and disinterest than it did union.
But now, a new chapter is being written for the Flatbush Presbyterian Church. A group of creatives, visionaries, and social impact leaders have come together to revitalize the historic building and create a community center and co-creating space for change makers and the community local to its walls. The new project will be an intentional community for creative and social impact networks. A space motivated by granting access to everyone. No matter what your background or financial situation is, every artist and every community member should have the opportunity to create.
Members will be required to apply and verify that they are either local community members, or active contributors to the arts or social impact ensuring an intentional and supportive community of local residents, devoted artists, creative doers, and change-makers.
The Church will offer 250 desks, 10 artist studios, a performance art space, a food pantry, supportive classes and programming, a community garden, and dining and retail from local businesses. Fold-out desks and private desks will be located in the beautiful nave, with artist studios basking in the golden light of the second floor. The Church will also host a variety of performances, musical gatherings, gallery shows, and happenings for all to enjoy.
The Flatbush Presbyterian Church has a rich history that spans over 120 years. From its early days as a beacon of hope and unity for the community, to its more recent struggles to maintain its congregation and relevance, the church has been a fixture in the Flatbush neighborhood. This new communal project is not only a way to save the building and its architectural significance, but also an opportunity to revive the legacy of the church by bringing it new life and purpose. It is a chance to honor the past and create a new chapter for the church, one that will continue to serve the community and make a positive impact on the lives of those who use it.
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