Where Elizabeth’s story begins.

Founded in 1664, the First Presbyterian Church of Elizabeth stands as one of the oldest continuous congregations in the United States. Adjacent to it, the Old First Cemetery holds the resting place of generations who lived through the earliest chapters of American history.

Together, they form one of the most historically significant sites in New Jersey — a place where the story of Elizabeth, and in many ways the nation itself, can still be felt.

The Story Behind the Site

The First Presbyterian Church was established shortly after the founding of Elizabethtown in 1664, serving as both a religious and civic center for the early settlement.

Over the centuries, the church has witnessed colonial expansion, the American Revolution, and the continued growth of Elizabeth into a modern city.

The adjacent Old First Cemetery reflects this history in a deeply personal way. Its grounds contain graves dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, including individuals connected to the Revolutionary War and the early formation of the United States.

Each marker represents a life lived during a time when the nation itself was still being defined.

Why This Stop Matters

This site is more than a historic landmark — it is a direct connection to the people who built Elizabeth from the ground up.

It provides a rare opportunity to stand in the same place where early residents gathered, worshipped, and were ultimately laid to rest.

For visitors exploring Elizabeth’s role in American history, this stop offers something deeper than a traditional historic site — it offers perspective.

It reminds us that history is not only made by well-known figures, but by entire communities whose lives shaped the world we live in today.

A Living Connection to the 313+ Ancestors Speak Project

The Old First Cemetery plays an important role in ongoing efforts to identify and honor individuals connected to Elizabeth’s early history.

Through initiatives like the 313+ Ancestors Speak Project, research continues to uncover names, stories, and family connections that deepen our understanding of the community’s past.

This site stands at the intersection of history, memory, and discovery — where the past is not only preserved, but actively explored.

Visiting First Presbyterian Church & Old First Cemetery

Located in the Historic Midtown District, this landmark is easily accessible as part of a self-guided walking tour through Elizabeth’s colonial and Revolutionary sites.

Visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully, taking time to observe the historic markers and reflect on the generations represented here.

It is both a place of learning and remembrance.

Explore Nearby Historic Stops

• 313+ Ancestors Speak Monument
• Boxwood Hall State Historic Site
• The Minuteman Statue
• Union County Courthouse

Together, these sites create a deeper understanding of Elizabeth’s role in the founding of the United States.