New Jersey's Oldest Church Traces Roots to 1660 Log Schoolhouse

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The Old Bergen Church in Jersey City, New Jersey traces its origins back to 1660, when settlers in the area began worshipping in a log schoolhouse. Over the centuries, the church has occupied three different structures, with the current Greek Revival building dating back to 1842. Despite changes to the physical building, the congregation has maintained an unbroken history spanning more than three and a half centuries, making Old Bergen Church the oldest continuous church in New Jersey.

Why it matters

As one of the oldest religious institutions in the state, the Old Bergen Church provides a unique window into New Jersey's colonial history and the evolution of religious life in the region. The church's longevity and the preservation of its historic cemetery highlight the enduring importance of community and faith in the state's development.

The details

The Old Bergen Church began in 1660 when settlers in the Bergen area started worshipping in a log schoolhouse. Over the years, the congregation moved to three different physical structures, with the current Greek Revival building constructed in 1842. Despite these changes, the church has maintained an unbroken lineage, making it the oldest continuous congregation in New Jersey. The church's historic cemetery also dates back to the 17th century and contains the graves of many early New Jersey residents.

• The Old Bergen Church congregation began worshipping in a log schoolhouse in 1660.
• The current Greek Revival church building was constructed in 1842.