Capital Campaign

Preserving the Past &
Partnering for the Future

A Campaign for the First Presbyterian Church

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First Presbyterian Church (FPC) has been anchored in the Stamford Community since 1853. Its vibrant congregation is one of great diversity and inclusion in both worship and outreach. Over the years, the dedication to community service is reflected in the after school program, active participation in local agencies and the leadership role of our staff in community service organizations.

The sanctuary, dedicated in 1958, is internationally acclaimed as a masterpiece of modern art and architecture. Inspired by the 13th century Sainte-Chappelle chapel in Paris, architect Wallace K. Harrison succeeded in his intent to impart the emotional impact of a gothic cathedral in a modern American church. Harrison pioneered the use of dalle de verre glass within the thin shell walls. Impact from weathering of the glass panels is the major challenge to the building’s stewardship.

Our Needs at a Glance

Sanctuary, Built in 1958

Multi-phase, multi-year preservation project to conserve, repair, stabilize and, in some places, replace the dalle de verre glass elevations in the sanctuary. The projects not only include the glass but the adjacent precast and poured in place concrete surfaces. The projects will ensure the integrity of the superior acoustics of the sanctuary.

56 Bell Carillon, Built in 1968

Repair and maintain stairways, railings, bell house and tower

Grounds, Built in 1958

Lighting focusing on the sanctuary and concert space

FPC - Sanctuary Interior 9 - Robert Gregson 2020
FPC - Fellowship Hall Exterior 4 - Robert Gregson 2020
FPC - Courtyard View 1 - Robert Gregson 2020
FPC - Glass Hallway View 4 - Robert Gregson 2020
FPC - Sanctuary Exterior - Fish Church Silhouette 4 - Robert Gregson 2020
FPC - Courtyard View 6 - Robert Gregson 2020
FPC - Fellowship Hall Interior 1 - Robert Gregson 2020
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Centrally located in downtown Stamford, the 7 acre property contains the sanctuary with a Vissor-Rowland mechanical action organ, a 260 foot 56 bell carillon tower, administrative and classroom area, chapel, memorial garden, historic wall, memorial walk, and Fellowship Hall with a commercial kitchen. The buildings serve many people and organizations. And the large green space at the church is a neighborhood gathering place, attracting 18,000 visitors annually.

Sanctuary Restoration Project

This is a multi-year, multi-million-dollar project. The funding required is well beyond what can be provided from the FPC annual budget. 

Phase 1

East Wall in the Narthex

Field test conservation and repair work following recommendations in the 2017 FPC Conservation Management Plan. Pilot appropriate and successful solutions on the Narthex wall that will be used on the South & and North wall of the sanctuary.

Phase 1 - $1.45 Million
$1,450,000 97%

Phase 2

South Wall

Replace glass and repair supporting structure in the South wall.

Phase 3

North Wall

Preserve and repair original 1950's glass in the North wall.

To date, the campaign has received active support from the FPC congregation, a $240,000 grant from the Getty Foundation Keeping It Modern program and a $250,000 matching grant from the National Fund for Sacred Places.

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HGF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting community outreach programs on the campus of the First Presbyterian Church

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Photo Credits

Interior & exterior views by Robert Gregson; Aerial photo by Propeller-heads Aerial Photography; Lewis Finkel, David van Dyke, Steve Hart and Jane Love