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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Religious sites

Fifteenth Street Presbyterian Church

Founded in 1841 by John F. Cook, Sr., this historic congregation is a vital landmark on the African American Heritage Trail and a progressive center for faith and community in Washington, D.C.

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Fifteenth Street Presbyterian Church
www.15thstreet.org, website_hero_img_www.15thstreet.org

What is the Fifteenth Street Presbyterian Church known for?

Founded in 1841 by John F. Cook, Sr., the church has served as a vital social, educational, and religious center and is part of the African American Heritage Trail in Washington, DC.

Where is the church located?

The church is located at 1701 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, in the Logan Circle/15th Street NW corridor.

What are the worship hours?

Visitors are invited to Sunday worship at 11:00 AM. Additionally, there is an outside worship and prayer gathering on the church's front steps every Sunday morning from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM.

Does the church have other weekly activities?

Yes, the church holds a weekly Prayer Ministry meeting via conference call on Wednesdays from 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM.

When was the current building constructed?

The current building was constructed in 1979.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Fifteenth Street Presbyterian Church, located at 1701 15th St NW, stands as a pillar of the Logan Circle and 15th Street NW corridor. Since its founding in 1841 by John F. Cook, Sr., the church has served as a vital religious, educational, and social center for the community. Its deep roots in the city's history are recognized by its inclusion as a stop on the African American Heritage Trail in Washington, DC. While the congregation's legacy spans nearly two centuries, the physical structure has evolved over time. The Library of Congress archives a historic photograph of the church dating from the 1890–1900 period, illustrating its long-standing presence in the neighborhood. The current building that visitors see today was constructed in 1979 to accommodate the growing needs of the congregation. Today, the church defines itself as a progressive, caring community that adapts its mission as the surrounding neighborhood changes. It continues to be an active site of spiritual practice, hosting an outside worship and prayer gathering on the front steps every Sunday morning from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM. Beyond its Sunday services, the church maintains a commitment to spiritual support through a weekly Prayer Ministry. This ministry meets via conference call every Wednesday from 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM, extending the church's reach beyond its physical walls in the heart of the city.

Visitor tips

  • Visit on Sunday mornings between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM to see the outdoor worship gathering on the front steps.
  • Check the church's website at www.15thstpresbyterian.org for information on upcoming ecumenical programs.
  • Allow time to locate and read the historical marker erected by Cultural Tourism DC on the property.

Nearby context

The church is situated within the Logan Circle/15th Street NW corridor, an area known for its blend of historic residential architecture and evolving urban development.

Sources

Evidence and links