Madison Presbyterian Church
1821 - present

Early in the nineteenth century, the Presbyterians in Morgan County and Madison began meeting together.  They worshipped with spiritual leaders and elders, holding their services in the courthouse and the Male Academy.  This group is first listed in the records of Montreat in 1821.  It is a matter of record that the Reverend Remembrance Chamberlain, a native of Vermont and fresh from the Seminary, came as a missionary to Georgia.  The Reverend was a colorful figure who became thoroughly captivated by the southern way of life.  He was well known throughout the state for his wit and diplomacy.  He was the stated supply for the Madison Church in 1825.  The Church membership was recorded as being between ten and twenty people very soon after this time.

MPC first land purchase was recorded February 14, 1825.  The property was on what is now Porter Street and sold January 17, 1842.  This present Wester Tract was purchased by Francis McKinley, John G. Rivers and John Wingfield who acted as agents for the MPC.  It cost the sum of $500. 

Daniel Killian, a skilled mason and a member of the church, constructed the sanctuary, and the new building was dedicated on the first Sabbath in May, 1842.   The Church is Greek Revival and in the style of Doric.  The balcony was at one time designated for the slaves of the Church members until the time of the Civil War.  The pews are the original with a partition that separated the men from the women.  The cherry furniture above is original and remains today in front of the pulpit. 

Many distinguished worshippers have visited MPC.  Alexander Stephens who later became Vice President of the Confederacy worshipped here.  Reverend Wells, former minister, served as Chaplain to Congress.  Reverend I. S. K. Axson supplied the pulpit here.  He was the father of Ellen Axson, the first Mrs. Woodrow Wilson. 

The silver communion service was taken by the Federal troops of General Sherman during the Civil War.  It was found later in Savannah and returned.  It is on display at the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center when not being used during communion service at the Church.

In 1908, Miss Elizabeth Speed contributed the seven beautiful Tiffany windows that now make the sanctuary so unique.  

In October, 1992, the Madison Presbyterian Church celebrated 150 years of worshipping in its Sanctuary