First Presbyterian Church of Austin marked its 175th anniversary on May 26.

The History

The congregation first began with five members in 1850, who met at the old state Capitol building. The group was led by Rev. William M. Baker.

“We are honored to be part of Austin’s spiritual and civic history for 175 years,” Rev. Elizabeth Boone McLean, First Presbyterian Church pastor and head of staff, said in news release. “We’re still following God’s call to be a church where all are welcome, all stories are honored and wonder is encouraged.”

What else?


The church plans to commemorate the anniversary through the end of the year with additional celebrations to come.