Church Overview

Founded in 1855, First Presbyterian Church of Shakopee has a long history of being a church who will listen to the needs, the concerns, the sorrows and the joys of its own people and those in the community, while together praying for guidance in how we will respond to God’s will, and in how we may be “God’s hands at work.” We do rejoice that we share questions, grow in love for Christ and are being transformed together according to God’s purposes.

Historical Timeline

1834 Samuel Pond and his brother, Gideon Pond, arrived in Minnesota as independent missionaries.

1847 Samuel Pond accepted the invitation of Chief Sakpe II after whom Shakopee was named, to labor among the 600 Indians here. He settled with his wife here and built a mission house just east of Faribault Springs.

1852 The Rev. Samuel Pond began preaching to the settlers.

1855 Samuel Pond organized the First Presbyterian Church of Shakopee with six charter members.

1856 First Presbyterian Church’s first building, a log cabin, was built

1899 Ground was broken for the second church building at First and Fillmore streets. Dedication took place in February, 1900, the 45th Anniversary of the organization of the parish by Samuel Pond. The building cost about $4,000.

1905 The 50th Anniversary of Samuel Pond’s parish.

1930 Diamond Jubilee. The bell, which had been brought from the original structure at 2nd and Main, was rededicated.

1955 Centennial. The Reverend John O. Wollin was pastor.

1959 A committee was formed to plan for the new church building.

1967 The first services were held on March 26, 1967 in the new building on Easter Sunday. The new church was formally dedicated May 7th, 1967. First Presbyterian church continues to worship in this building today.

2005 The 150th Anniversary of Samuel Pond’s parish.

2009 Presbyterian USA recognized First Presbyterian Church for membership growth.

2015 First Presbyterian Church of Shakopee, Minnesota celebrated its 160th Anniversary.

Samuel Pond, founder of First Presbyterian Church in Shakopee, Minnesota.

Samuel Pond, founder of First Presbyterian Church in Shakopee, Minnesota.