Overview

Collingwood was organized in 1893.  The Old West End was then known as the fashionable seventh ward and many Presbyterians were in this new area around Ashland and Collingwood near Madison and Jefferson. 

A Sunday School was started at 2012 Ashland Ave.  Furniture was loaned by sister churches, First Presbyterian and Westminster.  Since a lot at Collingwood and Prescott had already been purchased for $8,820, it was natural to select the name Collingwood Avenue Presbyterian Church, which was changed after Collingwood Ave. became Collingwood Boulevard.

 

The church is in the Gothic style.  It occupies the entire frontage on Collingwood Avenue between Floyd and Prescott Streets.  The Sanctuary seats approximately 600.  It was built in 1904 at a cost of $90,257 and had its first service on January 4, 1905. 

An amusing detail is the carving of the heads
on the exterior column capitals, purported to
be contemporary members of the congregation.  Because the sanctuary is built of sandstone,
there has been considerable wear over the
years and plans are in the works to restore
this wonderful part of the church. 

The attached Community House was built in 1926, has three floors, with 25 classrooms, a library, chapel, administrative offices, lounges, a full gymnasium with shower rooms attached and choir rehearsal facilities.  A dining room at ground level seats up to 800 people with a fully equipped kitchen attached.  Lincoln Hall Theatre has a full stage and seats approximately 750.