In the late 1800s, the arrival of the railroad led to the development of a booming granite industry in Barre. Thousands of people immigrated from Europe and Canada to work in Barre, including skilled stone workers. Founded in 1889, the First Presbyterian Church served the wave of Scottish immigrants that arrived to work in the granite industry. The congregation continues to hold an annual Scottish tea to celebrate its roots. The church also provides meals and an occasional day shelter for those in need.

In July 2023, the region experienced record rainfall, resulting in catastrophic flooding. The church had two feet of standing water in the basement, with some damages extending to the main floor. The water damaged or destroyed the oil furnace, heating system, elevator, bathroom, insulation, walls, kitchen appliances, and carpets. 

An Intervention Fund grant of $50,000 awarded in 2023 helped First Presbyterian replace their furnace and move equipment to a higher floor in the building to avoid damage from future flooding. They also used funding to repair the elevator, replace the basement carpeting with waterproof vinyl, and repair the basement walls and insulation. The grant allowed the church to make critical progress in their recovery while waiting on additional funding from FEMA. In 2025, First Presbyterian will once again be able to host the annual Scottish tea at the church building.

Photo by Rachel Hildebrandt