January 21, 1723--Kingston Presbyterian Church Organized

January 21, 1723--Kingston Presbyterian Church Organized
by Ed Belding South Brunswick Historical Society

The very first Kingston Presbyterian Church was organized on January 21, 1723. It was located in a humble log structure by the Millstone River. This original location is associated with the cemetery overlooking the river. The noted Pastor in those early years was Rev. Eleazar Wales. He led a growing congregation which rivaled like-minded worshippers in Lawrenceville, Pennington, Princeton, and New Brunswick. The original log structure burned down in 1791, during a time when the Kingston congregation was losing members to the Princeton congregation. A new building was raised on the original foundation the following year. This church was used until 1852. A larger church was built on the main street (pka: Route 27) on land purchased from Elijah Stout in 1852. Thus, the church remained on the Franklin side of Kingston. In 1853, the old church by the cemetery was sold and later dismantled. All this occurred during a time of revival when the church experienced prosperity and growth. Two additions on the new church were built later. In the 1940's, Sunday School rooms were added in the back. In the 1980's, another addition included a new kitchen, an assembly room, and a Pastor's office. Many generations of residents on the South Brunswick side of Kingston attended services and participated in various programs at this venerable landmark church. It may lie on the Franklin side, but it is part of South Brunswick in the hearts of many.