The Reformed Church of New Paltz

About our Church History

The roots of this historic church are in the soil of the 16th century reformation in Europe.  The Reformed Church in America originated with the Dutch Colonists who settled in New York and New Jersey, but our church traces its beginning to another and older source.  From France, Protestant refugees fled to Pfalz on the Rhine in the German Paltinate to escape persecution. 

Eventually they crossed the seas and found sanctuary in this peaceful and vedant valley under the Shawangunk rampart, arriving in 1678.

Our congregation was organized on January 22, 1683.  The first stone church was built in 1717; the second Stone Church, 1773 and our present brick church in 1839, with transepts added in 1872.

In the earliest time the speech of the pulpit and the street was French.  Gradually the Dutch infiltrated the valley and soon a curious mixture of speech.  The first ministers came from France, succeeded by Dominies (Pastors) from Holland.

Today our church is Congregational in spirit, Presbyterian in government, Reformed in theology.  Officially we belong to the Reformed Church in America.

While we are proud of the long tradition and glory in our heritage we are in no sense bound by our past.  We fully realize that it is our task and privilege to serve the present day.  From children in Nursery School through adult discussion groups, we have activities for our entire membership, whatever their age or interest.

Wullschleger Education building

The 275th anniversary of the founding of our church was marked in 1958, by the erection of the Wullschleger Building.  It is located directly across the street from the church and was named in honor of the Rev. Gerret J. Wullschleger, who served our church as minister from 1932-1968.  This building houses the Pastors' offices, Church office, Church School, Fireside room, Fellowship Hall, Youth Lounge, Community Room and Care Nursery.

Still have questions? Please contact us anytime! We look forward to hearing from you.