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Bellevue Today
By the People, for the People
Historic Bellevue Church Stands as Oldest in Nebraska
The 170-year-old Presbyterian church preserves original features from the state's early days.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:50pm
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A historic church in Bellevue, Nebraska has stood for nearly 170 years, preserving original features from the state's earliest days. The Presbyterian church was founded in 1856 and has undergone expansions and renovations over the decades, but much of the original structure and design remains intact, including stained glass windows, manual-cut floors, and a restored tower.
Why it matters
As one of the oldest surviving church buildings in Nebraska, this Bellevue landmark provides a unique window into the state's history and the architectural accomplishments of early settlers. The church's preservation efforts ensure this important piece of local history is maintained for future generations.
The details
The Presbyterian ministry in Bellevue started in 1850 when Rev. Edward McKinney ministered to Native Americans and white settlers. After the Native Americans were moved to a reservation in the mid-1850s, white settlers needed their own place of worship. Rev. William Hamilton started the church in 1856, with construction overseen by Mr. Joseph Betz from Missouri. The original 30-by-40-foot building has since been expanded, including the addition of a tower in 1868 and a main structure expansion in 1904. A tornado destroyed the tower in 1908, which was later replaced with a stone tower. The city of Bellevue later restored the original tower design during renovations.
- The Presbyterian ministry in Bellevue started in 1850.
- The church was founded in 1856.
- The tower was added in 1868.
- The main structure was expanded in 1904.
- The tower was replaced in 1908 after being destroyed by a tornado.
The players
Rev. Edward McKinney
The Presbyterian minister who started the ministry in Bellevue in 1850, ministering to both Native Americans and white settlers.
Rev. William Hamilton
The minister who started the Bellevue Presbyterian church in 1856.
Mr. Joseph Betz
The man from St. Joseph, Missouri who oversaw the construction of the original 30-by-40-foot church building in 1856.
Lore Perl
A tour guide for the city of Bellevue who provided details about the church's history and preservation.
Judge Fenner Ferguson
One of Nebraska's first Supreme Court justices, whose home provided the stones for a fountain in the church yard.
What they’re saying
“Everything in here, in this church, is original except for the benches.”
— Lore Perl, City of Bellevue Tour Guide
What’s next
The city of Bellevue plans to continue maintaining and preserving the historic church, ensuring it remains a landmark for the community.
The takeaway
This 170-year-old Bellevue church stands as a testament to Nebraska's pioneering spirit and the architectural accomplishments of its early settlers. Its preservation ensures this important piece of local history is protected for future generations to appreciate.
