A Brief History of First Presbyterian Church

Newspaper ads announced the first worship service May 4, 1904.  The service was held in the assembly room of the Court House.  Mason City had a population of nearly 8,000 and eight churches when First Presbyterian was incorporated in 1905.The congregation rented space at the Court House for $16.00 a month until land was bought and a church built at what is now 9th street NW and Washington.  

WWII was a part of everyone’s lives.  Church women met at the night Milwaukee troop train to serve hot coffee and rolls to servicemen. July 1, 1945 the 425 member congregation counted 81 men in the armed services.

 1951 – A special meeting of the congregation approved the purchase of a 3 acre plot in Willowbrook as the site for the new church.  Ground breaking ceremonies were held on Easter morning 1956.  Exactly one year later, Easter 1957, a joyous “stand up” service was held in the new but pewless sanctuary.  Regular worship began May 19, 1957. 

Education Wing, the addition of the education wing in 1958 gave the growing congregation adequate space for the church school and activities.

Members of First Presbyterian continue to be active in the church, our community, and the world.  Activities range from Meals on Wheels, local, country, and global mission projects, Community Kitchen, and Mason City Schools Food/Clothing Bank just to name a few.  In addition, First Presbyterian has welcomed community activities providing a service and comfort.

 With eager anticipation we look forward to the future.

 Come just as you are, a child of God.

Together, we look forward to ways in which First Presbyterian Church of Mason City can be a witness to the extravagant love of God, the amazing grace of Jesus Christ, and the friendship of the Holy Spirit to all our neighbors.