First & Central Presbyterian Church, Wilmington

Located on the edge of Rodney Square in downtown Wilmington, First & Central Presbyterian Church stands as both a spiritual and architectural landmark. Originally founded in 1737, the present structure dates to 1929, when the First and Central congregations-merged in 1920-commissioned a new home that would reflect their deep Presbyterian roots and civic engagement.

The red brick exterior blends Gothic and Neoclassical design, inspired by Colonial Revival ideals. Architectural details such as a gabled portico modeled after the Draper Mansion, hand-made style bricks, a 115-foot steeple crowned with a fish emblem, and a marble-trimmed façade lend the building a sense of historical continuity. Inside, Roman Doric columns frame arches above classic box pews, while fireproofing, radio wiring, and a film booth highlight the church’s modern outlook.

This balance of tradition and innovation extends to the church’s mission. First & Central is known for its welcoming ethos-"a Church without Walls that Welcomes without Limits"-and its commitment to inclusivity through its affiliation with the More Light Presbyterians. By participating in a movement rooted in the 1970s push for LGBTQIA+ inclusion within the Presbyterian Church, First & Central underscores its progressive values while remaining grounded in its faith traditions. The congregation actively engages with the community through education, service, and frequent cultural programming.

The church has also earned a reputation for its high-quality music and thoughtful preaching. Its central location and active programming make it a regular venue for musical performances, lectures, and civic dialogue, helping it serve not just as a house of worship but as a cultural hub within Wilmington. In this way, First & Central continues to bridge past and present-honoring its colonial heritage while speaking to the needs and values of a changing city.