Prayer Service At Old Stone Church, 1981

Prayer Service At Old Stone Church, 1981
Just as the history of Old Stone Church was shaped by Cleveland's evolution into an urban center, members of the church's congregation influenced the political, social, and economic development of the city. Many of Cleveland's most prominent politicians and business leaders were members of the congregation, including the city's first mayor, the founder of Higbee's, and the builder of the Old Arcade.

The church leadership was instrumental in encouraging members of the congregation to exert their social influence and participate in philanthropic activities. Under their guidance, church members are credited with organizing Cleveland's first public school and offering the first English classes to immigrants. Through gifts of money and land, the congregation also helped develop settlement houses, shelters, temperance organizations, and colleges throughout the city.

Photograph courtesy of Cleveland State University Special Collections
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