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A Presbyterian Presence in Tillsonburg
St. Andrew’s exists to that all may experience and share the joy of knowing Jesus
We seek to engage and compassionately serve our community with open arms and transforming love, making a positive difference as we offer hope, comfort and joy to all.
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
