Our History

“Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses… let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1, NRSV)

A House of Worship Since 1675

The granite monument in front of the church proclaims: “A house of worship has stood on this site since 1675.”

On May 27, 1675, the frame of the original Meeting House was raised. It served not only as a place of worship for 128 years but also as the seat of Woodbridge Township government until 1700. Founded by Puritans, the congregation was non‑denominational until 1710, when it became Presbyterian. Today, we are the sixth‑oldest congregation in New Jersey and the third‑oldest Presbyterian church in the state.

Historical Monument

The Church Buildings

Only two buildings have stood on this site: the original Meeting House and the 1803 sanctuary built by Jonathan Freeman. The 1803 structure retained its original appearance until about 1875, when it was updated with Victorian features. In 1972, the building was completely renovated, giving the church its present appearance. Long known as the “Old White Church,” the name remains an affectionate reminder of our heritage.

Date Stone

A Recognized Historic Site

In December 2007, the church and cemetery were added to both the National Register of Historic Places and the New Jersey Register. This effort, led by the Heritage Committee under the leadership of the late Robert J. McEwen, reflects our commitment to preserving this sacred place for future generations who will worship and serve here.

Historic Register

Early Ministers (1670–1707)

Before the formation of the first American Presbytery in 1706, the spiritual needs of Woodbridge were met by five independent ministers from New England. Their ministries laid the foundation for the Presbyterian congregation that would follow.

Samuel Treat

Served six months in 1670. Declined a permanent call.

Benjamin Salisbury

Served in 1674 but was dismissed after three months.

John Allen

Served from 1680–1685 and was well loved. Continued as a town Freeholder until his death in 1715.

Archibald Riddell

Served 1686–1689. A powerful preacher who endured imprisonment in Scotland and later in France.

Samuel Shepard

Served 1695–1707. Declined ordination due to his wife’s objections but continued preaching until a new minister was found.

Notable Pastors in Our History

The Rev. Nathaniel Wade (1707–1714)

Led the congregation into the Philadelphia Presbytery in 1710.

The Rev. John Pierson (1714–1752)

Served 38 years. Son of Yale’s first president and a founder of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University).

The Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Whitaker (1755–1760)

Oversaw the granting of the church’s Royal Charter by King George II in 1756.

The Rev. Dr. Azel Roe (1763–1815)

Our longest-serving pastor (52 years), a Revolutionary War patriot, and a Princeton trustee.

The Rev. Dr. Joseph M. McNulty (1874–1906)

Guided major renovations, expanded ministries, and helped establish a church in Carteret.

The Rev. Earl Hannum Devanny (1933–1941, 1946–1959)

Oversaw the construction of the Christian Education building in 1956.

The Rev. Lewis Bender (1967–1977)

Led the complete renovation of the 1803 sanctuary and revitalized church membership.

A Living Legacy

For more than 350 years, the First Presbyterian Church of Woodbridge has played a vital role in the spiritual and civic life of the township—from hosting graduations and community celebrations to serving as a gathering place for remembrance and hope.