A new life for the former United Presbyterian Church

AMENIA— After closing its doors in 2015, the former United Presbyterian Church of Amenia has been given a new life and purpose, thanks to the labors of Stoneleaf Construction (the developers behind Silo Ridge).

The story behind the historic building dates back to the Civil War era with construction beginning in 1861, ending four years later in 1865. After completion, it saw a dedicated following of worshipers from across the Harlem Valley. Whether they came for the annual Christmas concerts or the Strawberry Festivals in June, many community celebrations and services were offered at the church with plenty of barbecue dinners, bake sales, drumming circles and meetings in between.

During its final years in the community, the church struggled with low attendance on top of financial challenges. By the time the church officially closed its doors, its congregation was down to six active members. The church held a final service for the community on Nov. 22, 2015, followed by an official closing service on Jan. 24, 2016.

Piece by piece, the elements of the former church found new homes, such as the 1871 Jardine organ, which was salvaged and transferred to the St. Paul Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tenn., in June of 2017.

At the beginning of 2017, the former church building caught the eye of Silo Ridge Field Club. Apart from the church’s close proximity to the Silo Ridge Golf Course and luxury home development on Route 22 in Amenia, Silo Ridge developers liked the building’s character and felt it would be a unique location for much-needed office space. Through its purchase of the church, Silo Ridge plans to transform the building into both office space as well as a design center for its clients.

By February of 2017, the purchase was official and the church found new ownership with Silo Ridge and Stoneleaf Construction. Construction began this past January and is expected to be completed by November.

Since the town of Amenia classified the location as an historic site, Stoneleaf Construction Project Manager Stephen Talaber said the church exterior won’t be altered. Rather, it will be restored to its former glory during construction. A mezzanine will lead into the church building to create a second floor and new electric and heating systems will be installed. New walls will also be installed as will new interior partitions.

Along with implementing “a modern industrial feel” to the building’s interior, Talaber said there will be several elements of the former church that will be preserved, including the wooden timbers, several wooden doors and elements of the altar and stained glass. Altogether, he said the overall structures will remain the same, though they will be revamped during the course of the project.

When asked how the town as well as Silo Ridge will benefit from the church’s transformation, Talaber said, “It will increase the teamwork atmosphere that we have by being in one central location, and I think for the town, it’ll bring everyone to the center of town. Overall, it was a bit of an eyesore before — and with the new renovation, it’ll look pristine.”

“We’re really happy to see it back on the tax rolls,” said town Supervisor Victoria Perotti. “We’re very excited to have the church repurposed.”