History

This fifth structure of the First Presbyterian Church of Salem faces the Oregon State Capitol Mall. Built originally between 1958 and 1960 (and added to since then), it incorporates the sanctuary of 1928 with the chancel widened and deepened to afford choir seating. Also added when it was moved to the new location were a fine Möller Pipe Organ which now has 3 Manuals and 33 Ranks, an elevated pulpit, a lectern, and a communion table. On the south of the sanctuary is the Christian Education with providing three floors of Church School departments, the Fireside Room and Pioneer Room (for meetings), and the Fellowship Hall, added in the Fund 2000 remodeling to ease hallway congestion after worship and provide a space for people to mingle. On the north of the sanctuary is a shorter wing which includes the chapel and the church offices. Below the sanctuary is a large social hall with a spacious kitchen, reached by an elevator and stairways. Nearby are a choir room and a bridal room. The enlarged church consistently follows the Georgian-colonial architectural style of the sanctuary.