Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church records
Call Number
Dates
Creator
Extent
Extent
Language of Materials
Abstract
The records of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church document the history of the church, from its founding in 1857 to 2011 (the collection includes material dating back 1816). These records include church bulletins, publications, scrapbooks, membership and vital records, financial records, annual reports, building and property records, clippings, and photographs. The files also document specific aspects of the church, including its pastors (especially Theodore L. Cuyler); the Session; its choir, organ, and music program; Elders and administrators; missionary work (in Korea, Kentucky, and locally in Brooklyn); its Christian education program; various church groups; and LAPC members' roles in World War I and World War II.
Timeline
Timeline
Historical note
The Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church (LAPC) was originally organized as the Park Presbyterian Church in the eleventh ward of Brooklyn, New York, in 1857. At first, the church was temporarily based in the former home of the Park Congregation Church on Carlton Avenue, near DeKalb Avenue, in what is today known as the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn.
In 1860, the church invited Rev. Theodore L. Cuyler to become its first pastor. Cuyler, a vocal supporter of the abolitionist movement, was then the pastor of the Market Street Dutch Reformed Church in New York City. Cuyler agreed to accept the call to Brooklyn on the condition that the church purchase land and erect a new church building on the corner of Lafayette Avenue and South Oxford Street. The congregation purchased the land just ten days later, and Cuyler was installed as pastor on April 24, 1860. The church building was completed and dedicated in March 1862, and the congregation was renamed the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church.
The congregation was greatly expanded under Cuyler, from 140 members in 1860 to over 2,300 in 1890. During this time period the church's Sabbath School was established, along with a number of church groups, such as the Young People's Associations, the Cuyler Mission Band, and Women's Home and Foreign Missionary Society. Several chapels were organized throughout Brooklyn, expanding the reach of the church beyond the Fort Greene neighborhood.
In 1872, Cuyler caused great controversy by inviting Sarah Smiley, a Quaker preacher, to be the first woman to deliver an address at a Presbyterian service.
Another major event which occurred during the Cuyler pastorate was the establishment of the Presbyterian mission in Korea, which was spearheaded by LAPC Elder Daniel W. McWilliams.
Cuyler retired in 1890 after serving 30 years as pastor for the LAPC. The congregation chose Rev. David Gregg, of the Park Street Congregational Church in Boston, as its second pastor. Gregg accepted the call and was installed on December 14, 1890. The church and its chapels continued to expand under his pastorate. Gregg remained at the church until 1903, when he accepted the call to be president of the Western Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
The third pastor of the LAPC, Rev. Cleland Boyd McAfee, was installed on October 8, 1904. He had previously served as pastor to the 41st Street Presbyterian Church in Chicago, Illinois. McAfee continued the church's support for missions, both locally and abroad, and was a strong proponent of the church's music program. A new organ was installed in November 1910. He resigned in June 1912, when he accepted the call to serve as the chair of Systematic Theology at McCormick Seminary in Chicago.
On May 6, 1913, Rev. Charles Carroll Albertson was installed as the fourth pastor of the LAPC. Albertson led the effort to enlarge the church's endowment fund during his fifteen year service as minister of the church. He was a leading advocate of the Social Gospel movement in American Protestantism. During his pastorate, the Buckhorn Association was established as a mission in rural Kentucky in 1916. Additionally, a Parish House was built in 1917 to house various community-service projects locally in Brooklyn. He retired on Easter Sunday, 1928.
Rev. Alvin E. Magary was installed as the fifth pastor of the LAPC on May 6, 1930. He led the church through a difficult period, as noted in the LAPC's One Hundredth Anniversary booklet, "with the depression, the war years and the confused times of the post-war period, Brooklyn changed in character far more than our immediate neighborhood. Older members of church families retired and moved away or were taken by death. Younger members of these families moved out of the neighborhood or city." Magary remained pastor for 26 years, retiring in 1956.
The sixth pastor of the LAPC, Rev. George Litch Knight, was installed on December 29, 1957. That year marked the 100th anniversary of the church. The congregation had shrunk dramatically in the previous years, from a height of 2,500 at the turn of the century to less than 100 in 1960. Knight guided the church through another period of change. He led the effort to rehabilitate the church building and oversaw the development of the church's Cultural Crossroads program in the 1970s. The church also catered to newly arrived ethnic populations, such as the "Spanish" congregation, led by Rev. Moises J. Senti, and the Korean congregation, led by Elder Chung H. Ro, Rev. John Y. Paik, and Rev. Sung Kook Shin.
Rev. Knight retired in 1989 after leading the church for over thirty years. He was succeeded by Rev. David W. Dyson, who was chosen as pastor in 1992. Dyson was ordained in 1972, and spent much of the 1970s and 1980s as a labor advocate, first for the United Farm Workers and then for the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union. Prior to coming to the LAPC, he served for two years as executive minister for the Riverside Church in Manhattan. He served as LAPC pastor for eighteen years, where his ministry focused on social justice, retiring in 2011.
As of October 2015, the LAPC is led by Interim Pastor Lindsay Borden.
Arrangement
The records are organized into 18 series:
Series 1: Church Bulletins
Series 2: Parish Newsletters
Series 3: Lafayette Record
Series 4: Scrapbooks
Series 5: Pastors
Series 6: Membership, marriage, and baptismal records
Series 7: Session, Board of Trustees, and financial records
Series 8: Church manuals and calendars
Series 9: Historical files
Series 10: Elders and Administrators
Series 11: Music and organ
Series 12: Building and property
Series 13: Mission work
Series 14: Sunday School
Series 15: Young People's Association
Series 16: War service records
Series 17: Clippings
Series 18: Photographs
Scope and Contents
The records of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church document the history of the church, from its founding in 1857 to 2011 (the collection includes material dating back 1816). These records include church bulletins, publications, scrapbooks, membership and vital records, financial records, annual reports, building and property records, clippings, and photographs.
The files also document specific aspects of the church, including its pastors (especially Theodore L. Cuyler); the Session; its choir, organ, and music program; Elders and administrators; missionary work (in Korea, Kentucky, and locally in Brooklyn); its Christian education program; various church groups; and LAPC members' roles in World War I and World War II.
Subjects
Organizations
Families
Genres
People
Topics
Conditions Governing Access
Open to users without restriction.
Conditions Governing Use
Photographs and publications published prior to 1923 are in the public domain. The copyright status for all other material has not been evaluated. Please consult library staff for more information.
Preferred Citation
Identification of item, date (if known); Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church records, 2009.011, Box and Folder number; Brooklyn Historical Society.
Location of Materials
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Gift of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, 2009. A second accrual of records was deposited at BHS by LAPC in September 2015.
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Access to digital materials is available onsite at the Othmer Library. Requests to access born digital materials must be made at least 2 days in advance by emailing cbhreference@bklynlibrary.org.
The majority of the materials in this collection are stored offsite and advance notice is required for use. Please contact cbhreference@bklynlibrary.org at least three weeks prior to research visit.
Scrapbooks in boxes 30-31 are brittle and flaking, so not available for research use.
About this Guide
Processing Information
The records were processed, arranged, and described by archivist John Zarrillo, May-August 2015. Series 1-3 were processed primarily by volunteers from Goldman Sachs in June 2010.
Some material that had been deposited at Brooklyn Historical Society has been returned to the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church in accordance with the policies set forth by the Session in a meeting on July 12, 2015, including official Session minutes and financial records dating from 1916 and later.
An accrual of LAPC files were deposited at BHS in September 2015. These files included a bound volume of Brooklyn City News, 1862 (added to Series 17: Clippings); video recordings relating to Rev. Dyson, 2011 (added to Sub-series 5.8: Rev. David W. Dyson); and several items relating to Rev. Cuyler, 1816-1923 (added to Sub-series 5.1: Rev. Theodore L. Cuyler).
The collection includes one CD, which was imaged using BitCurator-2.0.14 in 2019. No viruses or personally identifying information were identified during imaging.
Repository
Series 1: Church Bulletins, 1882-2003, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Church Bulletins consist of weekly "orders of services" and notifications concerning upcoming events and organizational meetings held at the church and locally, new members, deaths, requests for donations to various charities, and other matters of interest to LAPC congregants. This series contains bulletins dating from 1882 to 2003. This not a complete collection of LAPC bulletins; there are many gaps in the series, especially for the years prior to 1930 and after 1990. Early bulletins which do not appear in this series are likely to be found in Series 4: Scrapbooks.
Beginning in the 1970s, many of these announcements concern art exhibitions, music programs, and other cultural events held at LAPC. The series includes the programs, flyers, and other matter related to these events, including in the late 1970s and later, material regarding the performances, exhibitions, and other programs sponsored at LAPC by Cultural Crossroads, Inc.
Included in this series are bulletins for special events, such as pastor installations and anniversaries, wedding and memorial services for church members, Children's Day, concerts, and building and organ dedications.
Programs for concert and choir performances are especially well represented in the years 1882 to 1903.
The series includes one folder of memorial service bulletins and programs dating from 1960 to 1976.
Beginning in the mid-1970s, the series includes some parish newsletters which were filed with the church bulletins.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Church Bulletins (16 folders), 1882-1927, inclusive
Church Bulletins (17 folders), 1927-1935, inclusive
Church Bulletins (16 folders), 1935-1953, inclusive
Church Bulletins (16 folders), 1953-1963, inclusive
Church Bulletins (20 folders), 1963-1971, inclusive
Church Bulletins (14 folders), 1972-1979, inclusive
Church Bulletins (16 folders), 1980-1984, inclusive
Church Bulletins (15 folders), 1985-1990, inclusive
Church Bulletins (16 folders), 1991-1997, inclusive
Church Bulletins (15 folders), 1997-2001, inclusive
Church Bulletins (8 folders), 2002-2003, inclusive
Series 2: Parish Newsletters, 1957-1991, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Series includes newsletters concerning parish activities and other matters of interest to the LAPC congregation.
Prior to the date range of this series, this type of information was generally found in the Lafayette Record (Series 3).
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Parish Newsletters (5 folders), 1957-1991, inclusive
Series 3: Lafayette Record, 1907-1960, 1990-1991, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains issues of the Lafayette Record, LAPC's periodical that was published from 1907 to 1960, and then again in the early 1990s. The publication included sermons; announcements of births, deaths, and other personal events among the congregation; annual reports from the church's governing bodies; and information about activities from organizations affiliated with the church.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Lafayette Record (2 folders), 1907-1908, inclusive
Lafayette Record (21 folders), 1909-1928, inclusive
Lafayette Record (26 folders), 1929-1953, inclusive
Lafayette Record (6 folders), 1954-1960, 1990-1991, inclusive
Series 4: Scrapbooks, 1858-1961, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The scrapbooks document the day-to-day affairs of the church, and include church bulletins, announcements, calendars, special event and concert programs, clippings, and other ephemera, dating from 1858 to 1961. LAPC organizations and affiliations, such as the Young People's Association, the Gregg Chapel, and the church bible school, are well represented in the scrapbooks.
The series includes one scrapbook documenting the church's centennial celebration (1957).
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically, with the centennial celebration scrapbook placed at the end of the series.
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Scrapbooks in boxes 30-31 are brittle and flaking, so not available for research use.
1858-1910 scrapbook (1-5 of 8 folders), 1858-1910, inclusive
1858-1910 scrapbook (6-8 of 8 folders), 1858-1910, inclusive
1910-1914 scrapbook (1-2 of 5 folders), 1910-1914, inclusive
1910-1914 scrapbook (3-5 of 5 folders), 1910-1914, inclusive
1914-1918 scrapbook (1-2 of 4 folders), 1914-1918, inclusive
1914-1918 scrapbook (3-4 of 4 folders), 1914-1918, inclusive
1918-1921 scrapbook (4 folders), 1918-1921, inclusive
1921-1925 scrapbook (4 folders), 1921-1925, inclusive
1925-1929 scrapbook (4 folders), 1925-1929, inclusive
1929-1932 scrapbook (1 of 4 folders), 1929-1932, inclusive
1929-1932 scrapbook (2-4 of 4 folders), 1929-1932, inclusive
1929-1932 scrapbook (3 folders), 1929-1932, inclusive
Loose scrapbook pages, 1930s, inclusive
1932-1935 scrapbook (4 folders), 1932-1935, inclusive
1935-1939 scrapbook (4 folders), 1935-1939, inclusive
1939-1943 scrapbook (4 folders), 1939-1943, inclusive
1943-1948 scrapbook (1 of 3 folders), 1943-1948, inclusive
1943-1948 scrapbook (2-3 of 3 folders), 1943-1948, inclusive
1948-1953 scrapbook (3 folders), 1948-1953, inclusive
1953-1957 scrapbook (4 folders), 1953-1957, inclusive
1958-1960 scrapbook (3 folders), 1958-1960, inclusive
1960-1961 scrapbook (4 folders), 1960-1961, inclusive
Centennial celebration scrapbook, 1957, inclusive
General
Oversize
Series 5: Pastors, 1816-2011, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains records relating to the church's first seven pastors (Cuyler, Gregg, McAfee, Albertson, Magary, Knight, and Dyson), and one interim pastor (Vamos).
Arrangement
The series is organized into eight sub-series:
Sub-series 5.1: Rev. Theodore L. Cuyler
Sub-series 5.2: Rev. David Gregg
Sub-series 5.3: Rev. Cleland B. McAfee
Sub-series 5.4: Rev. Charles C. Albertson
Sub-series 5.5: Rev. Alvin E. Magary
Sub-series 5.6: Rev. George L. Knight
Sub-series 5.7: Rev. Jeffrey A. Vamos (Interim Pastor)
Sub-series 5.8: Rev. David W. Dyson
Sub-series 5.1: Rev. Theodore L. Cuyler, 1816-circa 1980s, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series contains material related to Rev. Thedore L. Cuyler, most of which documents his time as pastor at the LAPC. It includes sermons (handwritten and published, 1852-1900s), correspondence (1854-1908), four bibles (1826-1890), portraits (circa 1850s-1900s), clippings (1867-1978), anniversary and retirement service programs (1885-1890), and published addresses delivered by Cuyler (1890-1896).
Material related to his mother, wife, daughter, son, and grandson can also be found in the series. Addtionally, it contains some biographical materials related to Cuyler, as well as typescripts of a portion of his correspondence.
There are several items of note in the series, including: an 1826 bible (in two volumes), presented to Culyer by his father; his mother's diary (1831-1834); an 1842 broadside advertising a temperance lecture delivered by Cuyler at the Canon Street Chapel (England); a collection of scrapbook pages which include poetry authored by Cuyler, abolitionist writings, and a list of his colleagues at Princeton University (1837-1842); and a handwritten sermon on Abraham Lincoln delivered shortly after his assasination (1865).
Arrangement
The sub-series is organized into five sections:
Section A: Bibles
Section B: Sermons and writings
Section C: Correspondence
Section D: Portraits
Section E: Other items
Section A: Bibles, 1826-1890, inclusive
Cuyler family bible (2 volumes), 1826, inclusive
Cuyler's bible, circa 1860s, inclusive
Cuyler's bible, 1885, inclusive
Cuyler's bible, 1890, inclusive
Section B: Sermons and other writings, 1837-circa 1900s, inclusive
Scrapbook pages, 1837-1842, inclusive
General
Collected while at Princeton. Includes poetry by Cuyler, abolitionist debates, and list of colleagues at Princeton.
Handwritten sermons, 1852-1901, inclusive
General
Includes listings of where and when each sermon was delivered
The Empty Crib: A Book of Consolation advertisement, circa 1870s, inclusive
"A Discourse on Abraham Lincoln" handwritten sermon and typescript, 1865, inclusive
Clippings - Sermons and talks, 1870s-1908, inclusive
"Demas the Deserter" published sermon, 1884, inclusive
General
The Pulpit Treasury vol. II no. 1; includes Cuyler portrait
Handwritten memorial to Mrs. Proal, circa 1890, inclusive
Published addresses, 1890-1896, inclusive
General
Lasell Seminary for Young Women (1890) and the Bible Society of Virgina (1896)
"A Shot at the Decanter" published sermon, circa 1900s, inclusive
General
First published in 1865
Section C: Correspondence, 1854-circa 1980s, inclusive
Correspondence - To Cuyler, 1854-1891, inclusive
Correspondence - From Cuyler (originals), 1869-1908, inclusive
Correspondence - From Cuyler (typescripts), circa 1980s, inclusive
Letter from Edger Ketchum to Louise F. Cuyler, 1875, inclusive
Letter to Mary Cuyler Cheesman regarding her mother, 1909, inclusive
General
Incomplete
Theodore L. Cuyler Jr. letter from Kyoto, Japan, 1923, inclusive
Section D: Portraits, circa 1850s-1920s, inclusive
Lithographic portrait, signed by Cuyler, circa 1850s, inclusive
Portraits of Cuyler, circa 1870s-1900s, inclusive
Portrait of "The Three Theodores", 1892, inclusive
Portraits of Theodore L. Cuyler the Third and others, circa 1910s-1920s, inclusive
Section E: Other items, 1816-1974, inclusive
The Christian's Inheritance... by Clarke, and envelope annotated by Cuyler, 1816-1818, circa 1880s-1900s, inclusive
Louisa Frances Cuyler diary, 1831-1834, inclusive
Temperance broadside, 1842, inclusive
Cuyler clipping, 1867, inclusive
General
Oversize
Cuyler and Sarah F. Smiley, 1872, 1974, inclusive
Anniversary and retirement service programs, 1885-1890, inclusive
Calling cards and invitations, circa 1880s-1900s, inclusive
General
Includes Rev. Cuyler, Mrs. Cuyler, Miss Mathiot and Arthur Reese Proal (in an enveloped labeled "Mrs. Eliza Davidson"), and Lafayette Avenue Church
Clippings - About Cuyler, 1890-1978, inclusive
General
Includes an issue of The Quill (vol. 1 no 4. - April 1893)
The Evangelist - Theodore L. Cuyler the Third clipping, 1895, inclusive
Theodore L. Cuyler memorial booklet, 1909, inclusive
"Theodore Ledyard Cuyler: Friends of Lincoln and of Mankind" typescript, circa 1950s, inclusive
Cuyler visiting London, circa 1960s, inclusive
Sub-series 5.2: Rev. David Gregg, 1872-1911, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series contains three volumes of bound, handwritten sermons by Gregg. The sermons, dating from 1872 to around 1884, were written and delivered while Gregg was pastor of the Third Reformed Presbyterian Church in Manhattan. Also included is a hymnal card from the Third Reformed Presbyterian Church (circa 1870s-1880s), two folders of published sermons (circa 1890-1911), documents related to this call to the LAPC (1890), a program for a lecture entitled "The Consecration of Music to the Service of Religion" (1893), a poem written by LAPC Elder A.G. Van Cleve in honor of Gregg departing the LAPC (1904), and a letter from Gregg to John R. Sager (1917).
A letter from Gregg to then-current pastor Cleland B. McAfee regarding the church's music and new organ is housed in the Music and organ series (1910).
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Handwritten sermons (3 volumes), 1872-circa 1884, inclusive
Third Reformed Presbyterian Church hymnal card, circa 1870s-1880s, inclusive
Call to LAPC, 1890, inclusive
Portraits, circa 1890s-1900s, inclusive
Sermons (2 folders), circa 1890-1911, inclusive
"The Consecreation of Music to the Service of Religion" lecture program, 1893, inclusive
Poem commemorating Gregg leaving the LAPC, 1904, inclusive
General
Composed by A.G. Van Cleve
Letter to John R. Sanger, 1917, inclusive
Sub-series 5.3: Rev. Cleland B. McAfee, 1901-circa 1960s, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Contains a family scrapbook (1901-1912, 1974), correspondence (1907), reports of the pastor (1908, circa 1910), two sermons ("The Book of Books" and "The Tonic of Prayer," 1911), a typescript written by McAfee's daughter Mildren McAfee Horton on her childhood in the church (circa 1950s), and a photocopy of hymnal sheet music composed and written by McAfee (circa 1960s). The correspondence folder also includes a photographic portrait of George T. Purvis and minutes for a special meeting of the Board of Deacons.
A letter from former pastor David Gregg to McAfee regarding the church's music and new organ is housed in Series 11: Music and organ (1910). Correspondence between McAfee and Henry Logan is housed in Series 7: Session, Board of Trustees, and financial records (1935-1939).
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically
McAfee family scrapbook, 1901-1912, 1974, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes 1993 letter
Installation of Cleland B. McAfee group photograph, 1906, inclusive
General
Includes McAfee, Theodore L. Cuyler, David Gregg, Robert W. Anthony, and George H. Lunn.
McAfee portraits, 1906-circa 1930s, inclusive
Correspondence, 1907, inclusive
General
Primarily with Caleb V. Smith, also includes portrait of George T. Purvis and minutes for a special meeting of the Board of Deacons
Reports of the pastor, 1908, circa 1910, inclusive
Sermons, 1911, inclusive
General
"The Book of Books" and "The Tonic of Prayer"
Typescript by Mildred McAfee Horton, circa 1950s, inclusive
Hymnal sheet music by McAfee, circa 1960s, inclusive
Sub-series 5.4: Rev. Charles C. Albertson, 1902-1959, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series documents Rev. Charles C. Albertson's time as pastor of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church (LAPC). It includes clippings (1902-1959), correspondence (1919-1959), four sermons (1920-1940), a bookplate belonging to his wife Permelia Hogg Albertson (circa 1900s), hymns and prayers (circa 1920s), a typescript entitled "They Saw the Emperor" with handwritten edits, a service book which was presented to Rev. Frank L. Gosnell by Albertson (1925), his letter of resignation as pastor of the LAPC (1928), and a historical typescript documenting his time as pastor at the LAPC (circa 1957). The series also includes the minutes for the Pastoral Committee which selected Albertson as pastor of the LAPC (1912).
A letter from Albertson to then current Pastor Knight is housed in the correspondence file of Sub-series 5.6: Rev. George L. Knight.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Pastoral Committee minutes, 1912, inclusive
General
Journal containing meeting minutes of the committee which selected Rev. Albertson to become pastor of LAPC
Clippings, 1902-1959, inclusive
Bookplate belonging to Permelia Hogg Albertson, circa 1900s, inclusive
Correspondence, 1919-1959, inclusive
Sermons, 1920-1940, inclusive
General
"The Greatest Mystery" (1920), "The Holy Night" (1920), "He Who Troubleth Us" (1922), "I Want to be Happy" (1940)
Hymns and prayers, circa 1920s, inclusive
"They Saw the Emperor" typescript with handwritten edits, circa 1920s, inclusive
Albertson portraits, circa 1920s, inclusive
Service book, 1925, inclusive
Resignation letter and clipping, 1928, inclusive
Historical typescript, circa 1957, inclusive
General
Probably produced for centennial celebration
Sub-series 5.5: Rev. Alvin E. Magary, 1929-1964, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series documents Rev. Alvin E. Magary's time as pastor of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church (LAPC). It includes documents relating to his selection as pastor (including correspondence, Session meeting minutes, service of installation program, and a clipping which includes an image of Magary after preaching his first sermon at the LAPC, 1929-1930), a sketch of Magary featured in the Brooklyn Eagle Magazine (1930), a sermon entitled "Shall the Republic Perish?" (1931), documents relating to his marriage (1938), Christmas cards (1943-1956), clippings documenting a burglary and attack on Magary and his wife (1947), sermon typescripts on notecards (1954-1957), retirement clippings (1957), a historical typescript on his time as pastor (circa 1957), and documents relating to his memorial service (1964).
Correspondence from Magary to the Session is housed in Series 7: Session, Board of Trustees, and financial records.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Call to LAPC, 1929-1930, inclusive
Installation of Alvin E. Magary group photographs, 1930, inclusive
General
Two photographs, one framed. Includes Magary, Cleland B. McAfee, Charles C. Albertson, Basil D. Hall, Frank L. Gosnell, Robert W. Anthony, John E. Steen, and F. Raymond Clee.
Sermon: "Shall the Republic Perish", 1931, inclusive
Marriage, 1938, inclusive
Magary portraits, 1930s-1950s, inclusive
General
Includes wife Marion Clayton Magary
Margary's Christmas cards and letters, 1943-1956, inclusive
Attack clippings, 1947, inclusive
Margary sermons, 1954-1957, inclusive
General
It is possible that the undated sermons in this file are actually Rev. Knight's sermons from the late 1950s.
Retirement clippings, 1957, inclusive
Historical typescript, circa 1957, inclusive
General
Probably produced for centennial celebration
Memorial service and obituaries, 1964, inclusive
Sub-series 5.6: Rev. George L. Knight, 1952-1995, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series documents Rev. George L. Knight's time as pastor of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church (LAPC), with material dating from 1952 to 1995. It includes, but is not limited to, a photograph documenting the installation of Rev. Knights as pastor (1957), four folders of sermons (1957-1982), correspondence (1959-1981), daily diaries (1963-1982), and a booklet commemorating his memorial service (1995).
Additional sermons by Rev. Knight can be found in Sub-series 10.3: McWilliams family papers. Also, some undated sermons which have been filed under Rev. Alvin E. Magary (sub-series 5.5) may actually be Rev. Knight's sermons from the late 1950s.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
"The Creative use of Hymns in Worship" by Knight, 1952, inclusive
General
Union Seminary Quarterly Review, vol. VII no. 4
Service Book, 1956, inclusive
Installation of George L. Knight group photograph, 1957, inclusive
General
Includes Knight, Alvin E. Magary, Norman S. DeWolfe, John Van Zanten, Phillips P. Elliott, Charles E. Souter, David D. Cockcroft, and Paul A. Wolfe.
Knight - Personal, 1957-1962, inclusive
General
Includes photograph
Knight sermons (3 folders), 1957-1973, inclusive
Knight sermons, 1973-1982, inclusive
Correspondence, 1959-1981, inclusive
Yearbooks / Daily diaries (20 volumes), 1963-1982, inclusive
General
There is no 1964 book, and two books for 1977
Holy Bibles (2 volumes), 1964, 1982, inclusive
Memorial service booklet, 1995, inclusive
Sub-series 5.7: Rev. Jeffrey A. Vamos (Interim Pastor), 1990-1992, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series is composed of administrative files which were maintained by Interim Pastor Rev. Jeffrey A. Vamos, dating from 1990 to 1992.
Related files can be found in Series 7: Session, Board of Trustees, and financial records.
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by folder title.
Bible Study, circa 1990, inclusive
General
See also: Social Action/Peacemaking folder
Building use forms, 1990, inclusive
Daily News, 1991, inclusive
Memos to Elders, Parishioners, 1991, inclusive
Persian Gulf, 1991, inclusive
Resumes/Professional information, 1990-1991, inclusive
Sexuality Report, 1991, inclusive
Social Action/Peacemaking, 1990-1991, inclusive
General
See also: Bible Study folder
Sound System, 1990, inclusive
Special programs/projects, 1990, inclusive
Stewardship, 1990-1991, inclusive
To-do forms, circa 1990, inclusive
Upcoming to publicize, 1990, inclusive
Wedding: Sweet/Quach - June 30, 1990, inclusive
Music and Worship Committee, 1990-1992, inclusive
Youth Ministers, 1990, inclusive
Sub-series 5.8: Rev. David W. Dyson, 1992-2011, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series consists of material related to Rev. David W. Dyson, dating from 1992 to 2011. It includes four sermons, church flyers, clippings, and a program for Dyson's ten year anniversary testimonial brunch program. It also contains recordings of the community tribute to Dyson at the Irondale Center (October 2, 2011) and Dyson's last service (October 30, 2011) on two DVDs and five Mini Digital Video cassettes.
Rev. David W. Dyson file, 1992-2002, inclusive
General
Contains four sermons, church flyers, clippings, and Dyson's ten year anniversary testimonial brunch program
Dyson community tribute and last service recordings, 2011, inclusive
Series 6: Membership, marriage, and baptismal records, 1853-1995, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains LAPC records documenting church membership, marriages, baptisms, and deaths, dating from 1853 to 1995. Several 19th century registers were maintained by Rev. Culyer and are written in his hand. The series includes a register for the Market Street Church (Manhattan), where Cuyler served as pastor prior to coming to the LAPC. Additional lists of members can be found in Series 8: Church manuals and calendars.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Market Street Church baptism, marriage, and membership journal, 1853-1877, inclusive
General
Written in Cuyler's hand
Alphabetical member register revised, 1857-circa 1880s, inclusive
Register of members, 1857-1897, inclusive
Register of members and baptisms, 1858-1868, inclusive
Register of members, circa 1850s-1890s, inclusive
General
Oversized; written in Cuyler's hand
Member address directory, 1869, inclusive
General
Written in Cuyler's hand
Register of baptisms, 1869-1890, inclusive
General
Includes 1938 letter
Register of members, 1874-1895, inclusive
Member address directory, circa 1875, inclusive
General
U.S. Christian Commission journal; written in Cuyler's hand
Member address directory, 1877, inclusive
General
Written in Cuyler's hand
Marriage certificate: Stewart M. Steven and Agnes Gorden, 1877, inclusive
Marriage journal, 1878-1909, inclusive
General
Written in Cuyler's hand
Member address directory, 1881, inclusive
General
Written in Cuyler's hand
Member address directory, 1886, inclusive
General
Written in Cuyler's hand
Matilda Sherwood information card, circa 1890s-1910s, inclusive
Register of members and baptisms, 1891-1905, inclusive
Register of baptisms, 1893-1896, inclusive
Official directory, 1893, inclusive
Charter members list, 1901-1909, inclusive
General
Oversize
Dedication and baptism cards, 1901-1925, inclusive
Register of members, marriages, and baptisms, 1906-1915, inclusive
General
#6851-8319
Membership statistics, 1909, inclusive
Register of elders, members, baptisms, and marriages, 1915-1958, inclusive
Member list, circa 1920s-1940s, inclusive
Members for fifty years or more, circa 1930, inclusive
Register of elders, members, baptisms, and marriages, 1939-1961, inclusive
Members and addresses, 1945-1946, inclusive
Ella Danielson Holm membership transfer card, 1951, inclusive
Park Presbyterian Church - list of original members, 1957, inclusive
Church directory, 1959, inclusive
Baptisms, deaths, marriages, and new members, 1961, inclusive
Membership forms, 1958-1959, inclusive
Membership records for bulletin, 1960, inclusive
To be noted and recorded (3 folders), 1961-1969, inclusive
General
Member addresses
Membership book, 1962-1970, inclusive
Membership and baptism records, 1964-1973, inclusive
Membership and baptism forms (4 folders), 1964-1975, inclusive
Ruth M. Strang funeral card, 1971, inclusive
List of members - 25 years of more with the church, circa 1974, inclusive
Baptisms, marriages, deaths, and new members, 1983, 1989-1991, inclusive
Presbytery of New York City directory, 1988, inclusive
Register of marriages and John Okike certificate of transfer, 1990-1992, inclusive
Directory of members and friends, 1995, inclusive
Series 7: Session, Board of Trustees, and financial records, 1854-1995, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains records of the LAPC Session, in addition to financial records and files relating to the LAPC Board of Trustees, dating from 1854 to 1995.
It contains annual reports dating from 1879-1920, in the form of manuscripts (handwritten), typescripts, and published booklets.
Financial records are primarily composed of Treasurer's reports and account books, dating from 1854 to 1915. Financial records dating from after 1915 have been retained by LAPC.
The series includes a two folders of letters sent to and from the Session and the Board of Trustees, dating from 1879 to 1953.
Finally, the series contains a small set of Session adminstrative files, primarily concerning Session committees, dating from 1990 to 1995. Related files can be found in Sub-series 5.7: Rev. Jeffrey A. Vamos (Interim Pastor).
Arrangement
The series is roughly arranged as follows: Annual reports, by-laws, financial records, Board of Trustees and Session correspondence, and Session administrative files.
Annual reports - manuscripts/typescripts, 1879-1889, inclusive
Annual reports - manuscripts/typescripts, 1891-1896, inclusive
Annual reports - booklets, 1890-1901, inclusive
Annual reports - typescripts, 1908-1920, inclusive
Annual report - booklet, 1917, inclusive
By-laws, 1892, 1896, 1938, inclusive
Pew rentals, 1854-1900, inclusive
Account book, 1860-1904, inclusive
Financial reports, 1865-1915, inclusive
Miscellaneous financial records, 1868-1913, inclusive
Account book, 1882-1883, inclusive
Board of Trustees correspondence, 1879-1937, inclusive
General
Includes John T. Underwood and correspondence with Session regarding music and choir (1879)
Session - Letters, 1891-1953, inclusive
Correspondence between Henry Logan and Rev. McAfee, and Rev. Magary and the Session, 1935-1939, inclusive
General
Found in a copy of The Ruling Elder by Cleland B. McAfee (LAPC BX9195 .M25 1931)
Christian Education Committee, 1990-1991, inclusive
Personnel Committee, 1990, inclusive
Presbytery of New York City, 1990-1991, inclusive
Social Concerns Committee, 1993-1995, inclusive
Standing Committees of the Session, 1990, inclusive
Series 8: Church manuals and calendars, 1855-1923, circa 1980, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains pulished church manuals and calendars, dating from 1855 to the 1980s. It includes a Park Congregational Church manual (1855) and a Park Presbyterian Church manual (1860). The manuals contain historical sketches, rules and regulations, and membership rolls.
Manuals, 1855-1899, inclusive
Calendars, 1896-1899, inclusive
Manuals and membership rolls, 1904-1909, inclusive
Manuals and membership rolls, 1916-1923, inclusive
New member booklet, circa 1980, inclusive
Series 9: Historical files, 1858-2004, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains historical material which had been collected by the church, dating from 1858 to 2004. One item of note is the certificate of incorporation of the Park Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn (1858). Other subjects include the Cumberland Street Church (1897-1905), the Olivet Presbyterian Church (1901-1941), the Gregg Chapel (1916-1933), church attendance (1931-1950), Marianne Moore (1958-1990), and the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn (1970s-1980s). Several church groups are represented in the files, including the Brooklyn City Mission and Tract Society, Cuyler Mission Band, Men's Bible Class, Women's Federation, Young Men's League, and the Young Men's Literary Society.
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by folder title.
75th Anniversary, 1942, inclusive
General
Regarding first telephone in Brooklyn
100th Anniversary, 1957, inclusive
125th Anniversary, 1982, inclusive
Advertisement, circa 1910s, inclusive
Artwork, 1970s, inclusive
Assistant Pastors, 1882-1957, inclusive
Attendance, 1931-1950, inclusive
Bequests, circa 1900s-1940s, inclusive
Brooklyn City Mission and Tract Society, 1919, inclusive
Certificate of Incorporation - Park Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn, 1858, inclusive
Correspondence, 1875-1964, inclusive
Correspondence - Henry Hand, 1892, 1906, inclusive
Cumberland Street Church, 1897-1905, inclusive
Cuyler Mission Band, 1888-1895, inclusive
Cuyler Mission Band - The Zenana No. 1 and 3, 1869, inclusive
General
Oversize
Deacons, 1894-1957, inclusive
Dinner menus, 1922-1923, inclusive
Easter card signed by Rev. Knight and Elders, circa 1960s, inclusive
Ephemera, 1906-1977, inclusive
Financial Aid, 1905-1906, inclusive
Fort Greene, 1970s-1980s, inclusive
Fort Greene - Martyr's monument, 1972, inclusive
Fort Greene - Walking tours, circa 1970s, inclusive
Fundraising, 1971, 1990, inclusive
Gregg Chapel - Italian Congregation, 1913, 1933, inclusive
Gregg Chapel - Photographs, 1916, 1944, inclusive
Habitat for Humanity calendar, 2004, inclusive
Handbook, 1907, inclusive
History of the Church, 1957, inclusive
Home Department, 1905-1917, inclusive
Homecoming Day, 1933, inclusive
Lafayette Record, 1907-1940s, inclusive
General
Includes Cuyler letter
List of contents of package received from Mr. Healy's son, circa 1920, inclusive
MaCauley's paper, circa 1850s-1860s, inclusive
Marianne Moore, 1958-1987, inclusive
General
Includes photographs and negative
Marianne Moore commemorative stamp, 1990, inclusive
Members - Obituaries and memorials, circa 1870s-1976, inclusive
Members - Prominent members of the past, circa 1970s, inclusive
Men's Bible Class, 1915-1917, inclusive
Men's Club, 1917-1921, inclusive
Ministers, 1930s-1960s, inclusive
Note from Mrs. S. Theodore Dauchy to Mr. Egg, circa 1910s, inclusive
Nursing homes, 1960s-1980s, inclusive
Officers / Staff, 1900-1958, inclusive
Olivet Presbyterian Church, 1901-1941, inclusive
Pastors - Notes on pastors, possibly for use in a play, circa 1950s-1960s, inclusive
Play script, circa 1960s, inclusive
Postcards, 1905-1907, inclusive
"Recollections" by Willoughby Powell, circa 1930s, inclusive
Responsive Service books, 1893, inclusive
Responsive Service books, 1897, 1906, inclusive
Silent Auction Gala catalog, 2003, inclusive
Synodical Homes Missions, 1909-1910, inclusive
Woman's Board of Home Missions of the Presbyterian Church, USA - Young People's Work pamphlet, 1916, inclusive
Women, 1909-1989, inclusive
General
Includes photographs
Young Men's League, circa 1890s, inclusive
Young Men's Literary Society, 1902, inclusive
Zeppelin L49 - Piece of outer skin of zeppelin brought down at Bourbonne-les-Bains, October 22, 1917, inclusive
Series 10: Elders and Administrators
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains three sets of files pertaining to LAPC Elders and Administrators: Anna Colcord diaries (1928-1949), Wallace Dunbar Vincent papers (1887-1949), and the McWilliams family papers (1857-1973).
Sub-series 10.1: Anna L. Colcord diaries, 1925-1949, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Anna L. Colcord was a church Elder who served as the church's Executive Secretary. The sub-series consists of daily diaries maintained from 1925 to 1949.
Anna L. Colcord diaries (3 folders), 1925-1949, inclusive
Sub-series 10.2: Wallace Dunbar Vincent papers, 1887-1949, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
This sub-series contains material created by Wallace Dunbar Vincent, who was the church Assistant from the 1920s through the 1940s. He was an author who was sometimes published under the pseudonym Beech Hilton. The sub-series contains scrapbooks of his works, which include poetry, prose, games, and puzzles, dating from 1914 to the 1930s. Some of these writings were published in the weekly publication of the YMCA of Brooklyn. It also contains a 1949 Christmas card, featuring a portrait of Vincent.
Wallace Dunbar Vincent was also involved in the LAPC's bible school, and school yearbooks which were produced by Vincent can be found in Series 14: Sunday School. Church publicity scrapbooks that were also produced by Vincent can be found in Series 17: Clippings.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Wallace Dunbar Vincent / Beech Hilton scrapbook front page, 1887-1895, inclusive
Wallace Dunbar Vincent / Beech Hilton scrapbook, 1914-1929, inclusive
Some Published Writings of Wallace Dunbar Vincent, 1924-1931, inclusive
Happy Valley Notes by Wallace Dunbar Vincent, 1927-1929, inclusive
Merry Games for Everyone by Wallace Dunbar Vincent, circa 1920s-1930s, inclusive
The Merry Puzzle Book by Beech Hilton, circa 1920s-1930s, inclusive
Wallace Dunbar Vincent poems, 1940s, inclusive
Wallace Dunbar Vincent Christmas card, 1949, inclusive
Sub-series 10.3: McWilliams family papers, 1857-1973, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The sub-series contains papers relating to the McWilliams family, especially Helen McWilliams, and her father, Daniel W. McWilliams. Both Helen and Daniel served as Elders of the LAPC. The papers includes bibles, legal documents, correspondence, photographs, biographical files, and personal mementos, dating from 1857 to 1973.
The sub-series includes a substantial amount of LAPC files that belonged to Helen McWilliams. These include files relating to the Women's Federation/Association and the Session, as well as sermons by Rev. George L. Knight. Helen's role as a member of the Vassar College alumni association is also documented in the sub-series.
The papers were collected and maintained by Helen McWilliams, who upon her death donated the papers to the LAPC.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Daniel W. McWilliams - Book inscriptions, 1857-1906, inclusive
Daniel W. McWilliams' bibles, 1872, 1900s, inclusive
General
Two bibles, one of which is inscribed to Daniel W. McWilliams from Rev. Moody (1872)
Daniel W. McWilliams legal documents, 1873, 1906, inclusive
General
Henry G. Marquand (1873) and Ira D. Sankey (1906)
Daniel W. McWilliams correspondence, 1875-1915, inclusive
General
Includes Rev. Cuyler, Rev. Gregg, D.L. Moody, and family
McWilliams family portraits, 1878-1927, inclusive
Frederick Marquand, 1882-1901, inclusive
General
Includes will and memorial service
Daniel W. McWilliams missionary work, 1886-1957, inclusive
Daniel W. McWilliams - Common prayer book, circa 1890s, inclusive
Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, 1894, 1909, inclusive
Daniel McWilliams biographies and memorials, 1890s-1919, inclusive
Rev. Cuyler letter, circa 1890s-1900s, inclusive
General
Found amongst Helen McWilliams' papers; page 3 only
Helen McWilliams photograph album, 1900s, inclusive
Helen McWilliams dance group clippings, circa 1900, inclusive
Daniel W. McWilliams - Sunday school superintendent, 1900, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams diaries and travel journals (11 volumes), 1902-1959, inclusive
Daniel W. McWilliams - Brooklyn Public Library appointment, 1903, inclusive
General
Signed by Mayor Seth Low
Vassar College Class of 1903 book, 1903, inclusive
Daniel W. McWilliams - Experimental subway train permit, 1904, inclusive
General
Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT)
Helen M. McWilliams photographs (1 of 2), circa 1900s-1940s, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams photographs (2 of 2), circa 1900s-1940s, inclusive
Clarence A. McWilliams travel letters, 1910s, inclusive
World Missionary Conference, Edinburgh, 1910, inclusive
General
Group photographs and notes by Helen M. McWilliams
Vassar songbook, circa 1910, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams Red Cross papers, 1917-1919, inclusive
Clarence A. McWilliams framed French certificate, 1919, inclusive
Helen F.M. McWilliams, 1919-1920, inclusive
General
Includes will
Helen M. McWilliams passports, 1926-1958, inclusive
Clarence A. McWilliams, 1927, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams - Daughters of the American Revolution certificate, 1928, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams ephemera, 1931-1969, inclusive
General
Includes D.L. Moody publication
Helen M. McWilliams - Coconut Grove photographs, 1936, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams correspondence, 1937-1959, inclusive
General
Includes Rev. Albert Lindsey Jr., Wilbert W. White, Rev. Cleland B. McAfee and his daughter
Henry Marquand's home, 1939, inclusive
General
Fairfield Connecticut Tercentenary book
Helen M. McWilliams postcard/travel correspondence (2 envelopes), 1930s-1960s, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams travel ephemera, 1930s-1960s, inclusive
Howard McWilliams, 1942, inclusive
Women's Federation scrapbook, 1945-1959, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams recipe box, circa 1940s-1960s, inclusive
Helen M. McWillians Vassar reunion photographs, 1953-1963, inclusive
Elizabeth Field poetry books inscribed to Helen M. McWilliams, 1950s, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams ephemera, 1950s-1970s, inclusive
General
Includes Willoughby House Settlement
Helen M. McWilliams address book and letters, 1960s-1973, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1939-1962, inclusive
General
Includes Women's Federation, bible study outlines, special event church bulletins, Outreach Committee, church renovation report, and Music Committee
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1962-1969, inclusive
General
Includes Women's Association, membership directories, and Session minutes
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1963-1965, inclusive
General
Includes church bulletins, Clarence Dickison material, United Presbyterian Residence, Theodore Yun-Kuk Kim, Elders, and Women's Association handbook
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1963-1968, inclusive
General
Includes Korea, organ and hymns, new members, stained glass windows, special messages and programs, history, Grace E. Brainaird Underwood Barton memorial, photographs, and Building Committee
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1969-1970, inclusive
General
Includes memoranda, Rev. Richard E. Ittner, 1969 annual report, Korean Congregation, Christian Education Committee, and a proposal for an experimental law office of an advocate attorney investigator as a specialized ministry instituted by the Presbytery of New York City
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1970, inclusive
General
Includes reports, minutes, memoranda, bulletins, Women's Association, and newsletters
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1970-1971, inclusive
General
Includes Rev. Richard Ittner, memoranda, reports, Women's Association, and Fort Greene
Helen M. McWilliams - LAPC files, 1971-1972, inclusive
General
Includes stained glass windows, memoranda, annual report, and Women's Association
Helen M. McWilliams - Rev. Knight letters and sermons, 1960-1970, inclusive
General
Also includes Edward P. Holden Jr. (President, Board of Trustees)
Helen M. McWilliams - Rev. Knight sermons, 1962-1965, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams - Rev. Knight sermons, 1969-1970, inclusive
General
Includes one sermon by Rev. Richard Ittner
Helen M. McWilliams 75 year membership celebration photographs, 1970, inclusive
General
with Rev. Knight
Helen M. McWilliams 75 year membership celebration audio reels, 1970, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams 75 year membership celebration scrapbook, 1970, inclusive
General
Includes photographs of the McWilliams family and several LAPC pastors
Helen M. McWilliams memorial service, 1973, inclusive
Helen M. McWilliams Vassar alumni papers (7 folders), 1960-1973, inclusive
Series 11: Music and organ, 1880-1995, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Contains files relating to the LAPC's Ministry of Music, including items related to its organ, its musical director and choir, concerts, and its Cultural Crossroads programs, dating from 1880 to 1995. It includes one file of material on musical director and organist John Hyatt Brewer, which contains his original contract with the church, along material related to celebrations in his honor, photographic portraits, and other documents. Material related to the church's organ includes a contract and correspondence with organ manufacturers Hook and Hastings (1886-1892) and specifications and other documents related to a new organ, which was installed in 1910. A letter from former pastor David Gregg to then-current pastor Cleland B. McAfee regarding the church's music and new organ is included in the series (1910). The series also contains sheet music, including a book of music composed by Dudley Buck and owned by soprano Elizabeth Tudor (1880). Finally, the series includes five scrapbooks containing clippings and programs relating to concerts at the LAPC, as well as other Brooklyn churches and clubs (1870-1895).
Additional concert and choir performance programs and announcements can be found in Series 1: Church Bulletins and Series 4: Scrapbooks.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Music scrapbooks (5 folders), 1870-1895, inclusive
"Ye Juvenile Olde Folke" in ye Greate Concerte program, 1880, inclusive
General
Includes an invitation to "Singing Nyghte offe ye Juvnile Olde Folke" (1880) and letter regarding the donation of invitation to the church (1940)
Elizabeth Tudor, 1880-1928, inclusive
General
Oversize; includes correspondence, clippings, portrait, brochure, and copy of "Golden Legend" sheet music by Dudley Buck which belonged to Tudor
John H. Brewer, 1881-1931, inclusive
Hook and Hastings organ contract and correspondence, 1886-1892, inclusive
Various sheet music, circa 1880s-1990, inclusive
Organ work correspondence, 1892, inclusive
Choir clipping, 1893, inclusive
Marie Vaw choir resignation, 1895, inclusive
Loose scrapbook page, circa 1890s, inclusive
Group photograph of music director and choir with church organ, circa 1890s-1910s, inclusive
General
Oversize
Sheet music with handwritten notation by John H. Brewer, circa 1890s-1930
General
Oversize
Choir contracts, 1905, inclusive
Madam Butterfly songbook (German version), 1907, inclusive
Letter from Gregg to McAfee regarding music and organ, 1910, inclusive
New organ specifications, correspondence, and dedication, 1910, inclusive
Organ blueprint, circa 1910, inclusive
Music budget, 1932, inclusive
Clippings, 1932-1969, inclusive
Reception to Dr. Karg-Elert by the American Guild of Organists - Dedication of the New Moeller Organ in the Grand Ballroom of Hotel Waldorf-Astoria group photograph, 1932, inclusive
General
Oversize
Voice of Music - Mr. Croswell, 1957, inclusive
Other churches, 1957-1969, inclusive
Clarence Dickison - The Brick Church concert program and clipping, 1959, inclusive
Organ card, 1959, inclusive
Church organ - edited negative and print, circa 1960s, inclusive
"God Save the Queen", circa 1960s, inclusive
Lilian Carpenter F.A.G.O. performs at the Austin Organ of LAPC - LP record sleeve, 1969, inclusive
General
Oversize; record is missing
Concert programs/flyers and Ministry of Music booklets, 1969-1985, inclusive
Alma Ketchell Yodel correspondence, 1970, inclusive
General
Former choir soloist
Dr. Melville Charlton, 1970, inclusive
General
Church organist; includes photographic prints and negative
Guidelines for a Vital and Creative Ministry of Music, 1975-1980, inclusive
Hymnal supplement, circa 1970s, inclusive
Cultural Crossroads and other concerts, 1987-1996, inclusive
Hampson A. Sisler organ songbooks (signed), 1990-1994, inclusive
Series 12: Building and property records, circa 1870s-2003, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains building and property records, dating from 1881 to 2003. Of note are property deeds, images of the church and other buildings, visitor guides that provide detailed information on the church building's history, and records and photographs related to the church's stained glass Tiffany windows.
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by folder title.
302 Cumberland Street, 1962-1963, inclusive
Architecture manuscript, circa 1960s-1980s, inclusive
Border Mission Sabbath School / Olivet property, 1901, inclusive
Building maintenance, 1912-1937, inclusive
Church and building images, circa 1890s-1964, inclusive
Church interior photographs, circa 1870s, 1960s, inclusive
Cuyler Church, 1906-1907, inclusive
Deeds and mortgages, 1881-1939, inclusive
First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn, 1960s, inclusive
Gladys Underwood James Memorial Garden, 1970s, inclusive
General
Includes photograph
Irondale Esemble project proposal, 2003, inclusive
Miscellaneous, 1899-1960, inclusive
Visitor guides, 1970s-1990s, inclusive
Windows and tablets, 1897-1979, inclusive
General
Includes historical timelines
Window photographs, circa 1960s, inclusive
Windows / Re-building campaign, 1998-2003, inclusive
Series 13: Mission work, 1886-circa 2000s, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains files relating to LAPC mission work in Kentucky and Korea, dating from 1886 to circa 2000s.
Arrangement
Organized into two sub-series:
Sub-series 13.1: Buckhorn Association
Sub-series 13.2: Underwood family and Korean Congregation
Sub-series 13.1: Buckhorn Association, 1909-circa 2000s, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains files relating to the Buckhorn Association, dating from 1909 to the 2000s. It includes photographs, publications, clippings, and meeting minutes.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Witherspoon College and Buckhorn photographs, 1909, inclusive
Buckhorn Association publications, circa 1920-1972, inclusive
Clippings and reprints, 1922-1964, inclusive
Financial records, 1924-1948, inclusive
Rev. Harvey S. Murdoch portrait, 1932, inclusive
Buckhorn Presbyterian Church notecard - Mrs. Crit Keen correspondence, 1961, inclusive
Annual meeting minutes, 1962, inclusive
Buckhorn, Kentucky slides by Elmber E. Gabbard, circa 1960s, inclusive
Historical notes, circa 1960s-1990s, inclusive
Lincoln Day Luncheon - February 11, 1979, inclusive
Tax exempt application, 1993, inclusive
General
Includes by-laws and meeting minutes
Harvey S. Murdoch Society / Buckhorn Children's Foundation reproduction photographs, circa 2000s, inclusive
Sub-series 13.2: Underwood family and Korean Congregation, 1886-circa 1990s, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series documents the Underwood family, their missionary work in Korea, and Korean cogregations in New York City, dating from 1886 to the 1990s. The records include publications, clippings, photographs, correspondence, sermons, and biographical files on the Underwoods.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Korean mission correspondence, 1886, 1907, inclusive
Horace G. Underwood Korea lecture tickets, 1902, inclusive
The Assembly Herald vol. XV no. 1, 1909, inclusive
General
Regarding missionary work
Underwood children in Korean garb photograph, circa 1910s, inclusive
The Finished Task, 1917, inclusive
General
Foreign missionary booklet with profile of Horace Grant Underwood
Korea missionary publications, 1922-1958, inclusive
Grace B. Underwood birthday menu, 1927, inclusive
Underwood-Korea articles and clippings, 1928-1969, inclusive
General
Includes material written by Ethel and Horace B. Underwood
Seoul Union Church Thanksgiving Day sermon by Horace H. Underwood, 1932, inclusive
John Thomas Underwood, 1935-1959, inclusive
General
Includes biographical booklet, portraits (prints and negatives), giant Underwood typewriter postcard, and a letter regarding donations to the church by his widow Grace V. Barton.
Underwood family biographical, circa 1940s-1990s, inclusive
Ethel Underwood death, 1949-1950, inclusive
Horace H. Underwood death, 1950-1951, inclusive
Letter from Lt. Richard F. Underwood to Grace Underwood, 1950, inclusive
Centennial Celebration sermon by James H. Underwood, 1957, inclusive
Brooklyn Korean congregation, 1964-1988, inclusive
Underwood family portrait, circa 1970s, inclusive
Series 14: Sunday School, 1865-1996, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains files relating to the Sunday School (also referred to as the Sabbath School and the Bible School) at the LAPC, dating from 1865 to 1996. The records include reports, record books, yearbooks, photographs, and teaching materials. The bulk of the series is composed of yearbooks, which document the activities of the Bible School from 1928 to 1950. These yearbooks were assembled by Wallace Dunbar Vincent, a church administrator who was the Bible School secretary during this period.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Sunday School reports, 1865-1913, inclusive
General
Includes building report and Sunday School Missionary Association
Sunday School record book, 1872, inclusive
Sunday School record book, 1876-1884, inclusive
Sunday School programs, bookmarks, and other ephemera, 1879-1911, inclusive
General
Includes Brooklyn Sunday School Union
Officers and teachers of the Sabbath School honor Major Thomas Harwood, 1889, inclusive
Sunday School lesson book, 1905, inclusive
Young Women's Bible Class, circa 1920s, inclusive
Bible School group portrait, 1928, inclusive
General
Oversize; with notes and poem by Wallace Dunbar Vincent
Bible School yearbook - Vol. 1, 1928-1929, inclusive
Bible School yearbooks - Vol. 2-9, 12-14, 1929-1940, inclusive
General
Volumes 10 and 11 are missing
Bible School yearbooks - Vol. 15-20, 22-24, 1940-1950, inclusive
General
Volume 21 is missing
Aids to worship for the church school, circa 1960s, inclusive
Confirmation class, 1989-1990, inclusive
Sunday School, 1990, inclusive
Sunday School picnic, 1996, inclusive
Series 15: Young People's Association, circa 1868-1945, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Contains items related to the LAPC Young People's Association (YPA), including a meeting book (circa 1868-1873), manuals (1880-1913), event programs and fliers (1886-1916), photographs of the YPA fair (1892 and 1894), meeting attendance statistics (1900-1909), two pieces of correspondence (1905 and 1919), two Junior YPA advisory committee reports (1907), election tickets (1917-1919), an annual report (1918-1919), one newsletter (1927), and a revised constitution (1945).
YPA meeting book, circa 1868-1873, inclusive
YPA programs and flyers, 1886-1916, inclusive
YPA fair photograph, 1892, inclusive
General
Oversize
YPA fair photographs, 1894, inclusive
YPA meeting attendance, 1900-1909, inclusive
YPA correspondence, 1905, 1919, inclusive
Junior YPA advisory committee reports, 1907, inclusive
YPA tickets, 1917-1919, inclusive
General
Used for executive elections
YPA annual report, 1918-1919, inclusive
"Sparks from the Hearth" newsletter, 1927, inclusive
Constitution of the YPA, 1945, inclusive
Series 16: War service records, 1918-1946, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains records relating to LAPC members' service during World War I and World War II. It includes one newspaper clipping (1918), war service questionnaires (1918-1919, 1946), and two copies of a published volume entitled Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church World War Honor Roll, which documents the role of church members in World War I (1921).
World War I clipping, 1918, inclusive
War service records (2 folders), 1918-1919, inclusive
World War Honor Roll, 1921, inclusive
War service records, 1946, inclusive
"To the Boys in Service" poem by Wallace Dunbar Vincent, circa 1940s, inclusive
Series 17: Clippings, 1862-2000, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series contains publicity clipping scrapbooks, which were assembled by Wallace Dunbar Vincent (1930-1935); loose clippings relating to the church (1870s-2000); one file containing profiles of church members published in Newsday (1990); and one bound volume of the Brooklyn City News (January-June 1862), which contains an article on the the dedication of LAPC's building in March 1862.
Church Publicity (5 folders), 1930-1935, inclusive
Clippings (5 folders), 1870s-2000, inclusive
General
Includes The Quill, vol. 1 no. 9 (1893)
Member profiles, 1990, inclusive
Oversize clippings, 1872, 1972, inclusive
Brooklyn City News bound volume (January-June), 1862, inclusive
General
Includes an article on the LAPC's building dedication (March 1862)
Series 18: Photographs, 1890s-2002, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The series contains photographs (primarily prints) dating from the 1890s to 2002. Church social activities and groups are well represented in the collection (such as the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and dramatic groups). Pastors Magary and Knight also feature prominently in the series. This series also includes one digital file, a digitized version of an early 1900s photograph of a woman and child.
Please note that additional photographs can be found throughout the collection, and are typically filed with other documents which are thematically related. For instance, Sub-series 5.1: Rev. Theodore L. Cuyler includes numerous portraits of Rev. Cuyler, and photographs of the Underwood family can be found in Sub-series 13.2: Underwood family and Korean Congregation
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
1890s-1910s photographs, 1890s-1910s, inclusive
Group photograph of Elders, circa 1890s, inclusive
General
Oversize
Photographs identified by Louise Cumberbatch, circa 1890s-1940s, inclusive
Lillian Conard Gosnell's photographs, circa 1900s-1930s, inclusive
Photograph album, 1928-1929, inclusive
1930s photographs (2 folders), 1930s, inclusive
General
Includes Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, church club dramatic groups, Majorie Vetter, David Porter, Rev. Magary, Business Girls Supper Group, Anna L. Colcord, Wallace Dunbar Vincent, and others
Roll Call prints and negatives, 1933-1934, inclusive
General
Includes Rev. Magary and others
John Ewing Steen framed photographs (Associate Pastor, 1926-1941), circa 1940s, inclusive
1940s-1960s photographs, circa 1940s-1960s, inclusive
General
Includes Anna L. Colcord, Marjorie Vetter, Emma Jessie Ogg, an unidentified organist, and others
1960s slides, 1960s, inclusive
William Holden framed photograph (Treasurer), circa 1950s, inclusive
Lillian Conard Gosnell framed photograph (Clerk of Session, 1972-1989), circa 1970s-1980s, inclusive
Dedication of Cuyler Gore, 1970s, inclusive
General
Includes Rev. Knight and others
1970s photographs, 1970s, inclusive
General
Includes Summer Youth Program, Vivian Douglass, Rev. Knight, and others
1980s photographs (2 folders), 1980s, inclusive
General
Includes dedication of Brooklyn Public Library's Clinton Hill branch
