The establishment of Ashburn Presbyterian Church, formerly known a Farmwell Presbyterian Church, has a long history and commitment to the people of the community beginning in 1876. The historical building was funded beginning in 1877. "The area of land was ten acres, two rods, three and six tenths perch" as originally recorded. Also recorded, in 1877, was a "handsome church building, the largest Presbyterian Church in the county with general numbers from two to three hundred people." The town of Farmwell was a small railroad town and was renamed Ashburn in 1896. In 1999, the sanctuary of the Ashburn Presbyterian Church was designated by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources as a registered Virginia Landmark and is a testament to those 150 years of dedication.
The structure of the building is an example of Carpenter Gothic style. 10 of the original 12 windows illuminate the interior. The pews have slanted backs with decorative wooden scrollwork at each end. The church was first heated by two potbellied stoves, places still visible in the structure.
Many dedicated and hard working ministers have led the church and its congregation beginning with the first, Reverend J.F. Cannon. Bible Study's, weddings, baptisms, choirs, dinners, ice cream socials, men and women's groups, were and still are part of the structure and well being of the church.
The church has even had its "famous moments" to include an appearance of the youth choir on the Cousin Cupcake Show on television. The same choir sang at the 100th anniversary celebration of the United States Navy Chaplains held at Quantico Marine Base.
Over the years, the addition of Pickell Hall and the new Sanctuary has provided the church with room to grow, enriching its community outreach, misson efforts, and the ministries that support the life of the congregation. The church has a rich heritage. It has been blessed to have people as far back as from its beginning 150 years ago, willing to work and make sacrifices that God's word may be heard. It is a friendly and caring church. May God continue to bless and guide us in the years to come.
