1914
The first service was held with Rev. Walter Houston presiding.
Our History
100 Years of Faith, Service, and Love
In the early 1900s, Columbus was a bustling, growing city celebrating its centennial. The city's northern end was home to Clintonville, a neighborhood of summer homes for downtown Columbus residents and professors from Ohio State University. Due to brand new housing developments and the extension of streetcar lines running to and from Columbus, the community was becoming very accessible and affordable for young families. Within this growing community, Overbrook’s founders saw a need for a spiritual anchor and welcoming place of fellowship. Here's a timeline of 100 years of Overbrook history.
1915
The church officially became Oakland Park Presbyterian Church at 35 Oakland Park Avenue.
1953
We moved to the current location on N. High Street and changed our name to Overbrook Presbyterian Church.
1966
The congregation built an educational wing, and the Overbrook Weekday Preschool opened.
Learn more about our preschool.
1966
Mr. and Mrs. John Beltz gave the church a 96-acre parcel of land near Hoover Reservoir that became the John Beltz Retreat Center.
Learn more about the Beltz Retreat.
1989
Overbrook joined the Interfaith Hospitality Network, teaming up with other local congregations to provide meals and shelter for homeless families. The Network was eventually folded into the YWCA Family Center located off 5th Avenue.
Early 2000s
In response to the changing times and our members’ needs, we established the weekly Contemporary Worship Service and the Contemporary Worship Band.
Learn more about our worship services.
2015
Overbrook celebrated our 100th Anniversary.
2021
Our congregation came together and pledged more than $500,000 to ensure our church home stands strong now and into the future. We earmarked 10% of the total pledges to support and advance the Hygiene Connection project.
Today
Overbrook has meant so much to all who have called it home since 1915. Each has left a legacy that has helped us learn, grow, and embrace each other as we walk with God and strive to make a positive impact on the world. Our future is bright thanks to their service and steadfast love of God.
Celebrating 100 Years of Overbrook History
For more information about Overbrook’s history, please read
Celebrating 100 Years: Memories of the Congregation and Those Who Have Served.
Discover the 100 year Overbrook history of faith and service in the Clintonville neighborhood and beyond. Come as you are, and discover a supportive and inclusive family ready to embrace you. For more information, click one of the buttons below.