A community Legacy: Glenwood Church

Glenwood Presbyterian Church stands proudly at 3190 Grand Ave., DeLand, Florida, since its founding in 1884. This is and has been a Christ-centered church for over 140 years and welcomes everyone with open arms.

It continues to provide spiritual guidance and heartfelt support to residents of DeLand and people far beyond the area. Throughout its long and meaningful history, the church has embraced community life in many wonderful ways. It once hosted lively events such as tennis, golf, and shuffleboard. It organized numerous charity efforts to help those in need. The church even operated a grade school right on its property, where it educated and uplifted local families for many years.

Today, Glenwood thrives once again as a growing and vibrant congregation. Traditional worship services take place each week, while the church keeps its strong tradition of outreach alive. It actively supports the Neighborhood Center, provides Snack Packs for underprivileged children, hosts Community Dinners that bring neighbors together, runs monthly Bingo for Missions to benefit important causes, and offers many other local events that unite the community.

Whether you are seeking a place for worship, genuine fellowship, or meaningful ways to give back, Glenwood remains a vibrant, faith-filled partner in DeLand. It beautifully blends a rich history with a present focused on service and connection. Come visit and experience the warmth that has defined this special church for generations.

Explore these wonderful articles! They highlight Glenwood’s rich history and show its vibrant life today. Writers have shared these inspiring stories across many decades.

Glenwood Presbyterian Church history

By 1896, the congregation constructed its original wooden building on the picturesque Grand Avenue. This charming structure stands proudly to this day and continues to serve as the church’s fellowship hall—a beautiful testament to enduring faith and craftsmanship.

Check out these vintage views of the original building and its timeless architecture:

Yesteryear and Today

Grand Avenue itself remains a highlight in the area, with its scenic, tree-lined charm that has welcomed generations of worshippers. Enjoy these historic and beautiful street views of avenues in the DeLand area, evoking the same welcoming atmosphere.

The Presbytery

Glenwood Presbytery church began its journey under the St. Johns Presbytery. Then, in 1895, it transferred to the South Florida Presbytery—now known as the Florida Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). This transition reflects the evolving structure of Presbyterianism in the region while maintaining Glenwood’s commitment to Christ-centered ministry. From humble home gatherings to a thriving landmark on Grand Avenue, Glenwood Presbyterian Church continues to embody over 140 years of faith, community, and generosity!

Glenwood Presbyterian Church traces its inspiring origins back to 1884, when dedicated members first gathered to worship in the home of the Samuel Boyd family. Reverend J. W. Shearer, the pastor of First Presbyterian Church in DeLand, Florida, led the organization of this new congregation, planting the seeds for a lasting faith community.

In early 1890, generous donors Charlea, Frances, and Etta Waterman stepped forward and donated the land for both the church and the manse (pastor’s residence). Subsequently, this pivotal gift allowed the young church to establish a permanent presence in the community. Its location was perfect, just a few minutes from Deleon Springs (picture below) , with crystal-clear springs an historic charm, which is now Deleon Springs State Park. The park now showcases its natural springs, swimming areas, boating in the spring canal and timeless appeal.

Here are some evocative historical images capturing the era of horse-and-buggy travel around early Florida churches and pioneer scenes:

Charlea, Frances and Etta Waterman

Grand Avenue

Boat house and Deleon Springs

In 1894, the Glenwood Presbyterian church grade school was started. The school continued at the church until 1915 when the public school was moved off the church property. A Picture of some of the students from the early 1900s can be seen below.

Glenwood Presbyterian Church School

Glenwood Presbyterian Church School Kids

In 1890 the Ladies Aid Society was Organized which is now called the United Presbyterian Woman (UPW), a picture of the women can be seen below.

Glenwood Presbyterian Church Ladies Aid Society

The New Manse

In 1950, the church opened an account to finance the Manse (pastor’s home) with $56. In 1955 a grounding breaking for the Manse was performed. With that that in mind, in 1956, the people of Glenwood opened their homes to the public to view their unusual homes and charged $1 for the “Pilgrimage”. The intent was to pay off the $2000 mortgage of the church. The “Pilgrimage” netted $610 which went toward retiring the manse mortgage.

In May of 1958 the church voted to build a new church which would seat 225 people instead remodeling the old church. in 1960 the church broke ground for the new sanctuary which is where the church currently meets for services (seen below).

New Sanctuary for Glenwood Presbyterian Church

To date, Glenwood Presbyterian Church has had about 35 different ministers, below are pictures of a few.

As you can see from above, Glenwood Presbyterian Church has been a anchor in the Glenwood community for many years and hopefully many years to come. Please come and join us.

Other Interesting Photos

The above photo is of Mr and Mrs Elmer Van Cleef in a Murray Auto circa 1902.