Construction has begun on the enlargement of Whidbey Presbyterian Church’s Heritage Hall.

Ground-breaking ceremonies were held Sunday, July 11, at the site at 1148 SE 8th Ave., with church and construction company representatives president. The addition was designed by architect Terry LeDesky.

The new addition will contain the much-needed kitchen and enable increased use of the building for fellowship. Presbyterian Women under the leadership of Marilyn Arnsberger will play an active role in the design and installation of appliances.

The church dates back to the early 1900’s when a small church was formed in Oak Harbor involving the Christian Reformed and Presbyterian denominations. This new church had a hard time of it with little support money coming in, according to church member Dorothy Bradfield, who researched church history for this article. During the next four years this early church became known as the Presbyterian church, as the earliest records contain no further mention of the Christian Reformed denomination.

As this church grew with the influx of Hollanders moving to Oak Harbor, there was demand for a Dutch-speaking pastor. In the summer of 1903 John Vanderbeek, who was a student at seminary training, was called to serve for the summer months. When he graduated two years late Rev. Vanderbeek returned and preached in both English and Dutch. The church at this time was called The First Reformed Church.

The sanctuary building was constructed in 1929 for $10,000 and used by Reformed and Presbyterian congregations combined for several years. A great deal of volunteer labor was used to build it. Several pioneers have vivid memories of a team of horses hauling rough oak timber for pews and the challenge it was to adapt the pews to the slanted floor of the church. The stained glass windows were in memory of special members of the church and donated by individuals.

In March 1963 the Presbyterian church was organized formally, with a call to its first pastor, Rev. Arnold O. Pederson. The first worship service was held at the junior high school. Later they worshipped at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. Rev. Dwight Whipple was its second pastor, coming in 1969. During his pastorate, the Reformed Church offered the building for rent with an option to buy, and in 1971, the negotiations having been completed, the Whidbey Presbyterian Church’s new home became a reality.

Heritage Hall was added in 1983, and the Blue House in 1987, the latter being used for office and classroom space. This summer, 40 children attended Vacation Bible School.

Subsequent pastors included Rev. Muriel Brown, Rev. Stewart Congdon, Rev. Vernon Elgin, and the current Pastor, Rev. David Templin, who came in 1997. In addition, as Youth Ministry Director, Chris Ward, Mandy Staley and now Justin Ross have served.