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About Us

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Our 
Story

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First Reformed Church of Wynantskill (FRCW)

Our story begins with the Dutch settlers in 1609, when explorer Henry Hudson established a trading post near Albany. In 1793, members from the First Church in Albany formed their own congregation in Wynantskill. Early worshipers crossed the Hudson River by rowboat or horseback, gathering in a simple structure that still stands today with much of its original, hand-crafted timber framework intact.

As our community grew, so did our church. By 1824, we had become the “Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of Wynantskill.” Despite challenges, including a schism in 1824 and the financial strains of the Civil War era, the church persisted. Over the years, we added essential features like a parsonage, heating, and stained glass windows, each marking a step in our journey of growth and resilience.

 

Modern Developments


Throughout the 20th century, FRCW expanded its outreach and educational programs, including Vacation Bible School and partnerships with other local churches. In 1946, we began hosting the “Released Time” program, providing religious education to local youth. Our facilities continued to grow with additions like a Church School building, a new Chancel area, and accessibility upgrades.

By 1993, FRCW had reached its 200th anniversary, celebrating with the publication of our history book, History of the First Reformed Church of Wynantskill by Lee M. Bowman and John C. Hintermaier. In the same year, we welcomed our first female pastor, Rev. Sophie Mathonnet-VanderWell, marking a new era of leadership in our congregation.

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Today, we honor our heritage while looking forward, embracing change as part of our calling to be “reformed and always reforming.”

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The Reformed Church in America

The Reformed Church in America (RCA) finds its roots in the Protestant Reformation, a movement in the 1500s where believers sought a reformation, or change for the better, by aligning their faith with Scripture alone. This commitment led groups of Christians to break away from the established church to form what is now known as the Reformed tradition, focusing on worship and community life centered around God’s Word. With roots in the Netherlands, the RCA is the oldest continuous Protestant denomination in North America, embodying the belief that we are “reformed and always reforming” according to God’s Word, adapting to new ideas while honoring our rich history.

Join us as we carry forward our story—a faith deeply rooted in history yet always open to where God leads us next.

To explore more of our rich heritage, visit the North Greenbush Library or our church library to read our bicentennial publication.

 

If you're searching for specific records or genealogical information, we’re here to help. Simply fill out the Contact form below for any inquiries.

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