History
A Presbyterian Presence in Tillsonburg
The Journey to St. Andrew’s
1836 – The first log meeting house was erected at Dereham Forge by local Presbyterians.
1849 – Tillsonburg congregation was organized. Meetings were held in the old school house on
the west side of South Broadway & later moved to Temperance Hall at the corner of Bidwell and
Baldwin. Harvey Tillson presented a site on Harvey St for a new church.
1853 – Foundation laid and church was dedicated on May 1, 1855
1885 – E. D. Tillson was awarded the contract to build a larger church. The cornerstone was laid
in June. John Scott originally from a neighbourhood in Scotland called Avondale donated $3,000,
and the new church was named Avondale Presbyterian Church.
1925 – A vote in favour of church union saw ownership of the building and records pass to the new
United Church of Canada
– Presbyterians who voted not to join the United Church carried on and held their first post-union
meeting on April 21, 1925.
– Starting on May 3, 1925, they met in the White Star Theatre owned by Mr. Preston, and they
settled on a rent of $8.00 per Sunday
1927 – The property on the northwest corner of Brock and Bidwell was purchased.
1930 – On April 21, 1930, the site was dedicated. Local builder Stephen Scott constructed the
building and the cornerstone was laid on November 26, 1930.
1931 – St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church was formally dedicated on April 17. 1931.
Minister
We are currently in the process of seeking a full time pastor. In the meantime, our worship
services are led by Rev. Ralph Meizsinger and ministry student, Kyoungsoo Hwang. Pastor Paul
Robinson continues as our Pastoral Care Minister. He provides ongoing support for our
congregation members and adherents as well as others in the community. From time to time,
Pastor Paul leads special worship services such as Remembrance Day and Christmas Eve. In
addition, he is involved with outreach and mission projects in our community and beyond.