First Congregational Church

First Congregational Church, located at 73 S Palouse St, Walla Walla, WA 99362, offers a variety of meeting, conference, and event facilities. The church has a rich history and has been a significant place of worship in the community since its establishment in 1864. Here is a detailed description of its facilities:

Meeting and Event Facilities

• Auditorium:

• Capacity: Approximately 500 people
• Features: The main auditorium is designed to accommodate large gatherings, including worship services, concerts, and community events. It features excellent acoustic properties and is equipped with a large organ loft, which houses a pipe organ.

• Parish Hall:

• Capacity: Varies depending on the layout
• Features: The Parish Hall is a versatile space that can be used for various functions such as meetings, receptions, and smaller events. It is located in the existing 1900 church building and has been converted to meet the needs of the growing congregation.

• Classrooms and Sunday School Rooms:

• Capacity: Each room varies, but typically accommodate 20-50 people
• Features: These rooms are located in the brick basement under the auditorium and are used for Sunday school classes, educational programs, and smaller meetings.

• Library and Service Room:

• Capacity: Limited to a few people
• Features: These rooms are designed for quiet activities such as study groups, book clubs, and administrative tasks.

• Kitchens and Pantry:

• Capacity: Limited to a few people
• Features: These facilities are available for event planning and hosting, providing necessary amenities for food preparation and service.

Services

• Audio-Visual Equipment: The church is equipped with basic audio-visual equipment, including microphones, speakers, and projectors, to support various types of events.

• Seating Arrangements: The auditorium can be configured to accommodate different seating arrangements, including circular pews facing the pulpit.

• Catering Services: While the church does not have in-house catering services, it can be used in conjunction with external catering services to accommodate event needs.

• Event Coordination: The church offers basic event coordination services, including setup and cleanup, to ensure smooth execution of events.

Additional Notes

• Architectural Design: The church building is a blend of architectural styles, reflecting its history and the evolving needs of the congregation. The main building is of pressed brick with an upper part of fancy shingles, and it features a tall spire.

• Historical Significance: First Congregational Church is the oldest congregational church in what is now the state of Washington, having been established in 1864. It has undergone significant changes and expansions over the years to meet the growing needs of the community.

First Congregational Church provides a unique and historic setting for various types of events, from small meetings to large gatherings, making it an ideal venue for both religious and community activities.