The First Presbyterian congregation of Ontario Center organized in 1833. The original church on this site was a cobblestone building, construction of which was completed in 1843 from lake and field stones. At that time, the congregation had joined the Congregational Church. In 1857, the congregation returned to the Presbyterian affiliation.

Replacing the cobblestone church in 1914 is the present First Presbyterian Church of Ontario Center - a Tudor Revival style pre-cast rusticated concrete block building. The square footprint includes a front façade featuring a massive square corner tower capped with a notched stockade-like parapet. The church was dedicated on July 15, 1915.

The stained-glass windows are of particular note. The last names of the founding members were included in the design of the large stained-glass window on the north side of the church.

What about this rusticated concrete block? This turn of the century construction material was an inexpensive alternative to brick or stone. Manufactured from readily available materials like cement and sand was important, as lumber supplies were diminishing. Layered like regular masonry, these pre-cast blocks were also advertised as convenient, fireproof, lighter than stone, and stronger than brick. A good choice for many homes, businesses, and - churches throughout the northeast in the early 1900s. These blocks were even sold in Sears catalogs. Can you find any buildings in your neighborhood constructed with this kind of block?