HISTORY OF THE ALEXANDER VALLEY COMMUNITY CHURCH

In 1852, Cyrus Alexander, one of the earliest settlers in Alexander Valley, started nondenominational services in his home for families in the Valley. Soon a small church was built on his property, but it was destroyed by fire in 1863.

Church services continued to be held, nevertheless, in the old Guilford School situated on the Peter Young property and Rachel Young organized a Sunday School. The community rallied to build a new church with subscriptions from the community. The present church was built by volunteer labor in 1896 on property purchased for $125.00 from George Alexander, one of Cyrus’ sons. Farmers used their teams of horses to haul lumber by wagon from Petaluma and Mill Creek and the ladies organized potluck suppers and sold lunch for 25 cents to help raise funds. Mr. Bolles of Healdsburg superintended the work, while everyone pitched in carpentering and painting until it’s completion and dedication on December 20,1896.

The first Trustees of The People’s Protestant Church of Alexander Valley were The Rev. William Floyd, S.L. Osborne, J. W. Cottle, J. M. Chitwood, Peter Young, Rosa Cottle, Emma Smith and M. E. Collins. The original hand-carved pews and pulpit built by Rev. Floyd are still in use. The organ was purchased the following year, as was the bell, which was in place just in time for Thanksgiving of 1898. In those early years the pulpit was shared by various ministers from Healdsburg and Geyserville.

The new church became the catalyst for many charitable activities. The Ladies Aid Society was organized in 1897 and continues its charitable work even now.

In 1982 the church building was designated as a Sonoma County Historical Monument and today, the church continues to be used for nondenominational services, Sunday School, weddings, baptisms, bazaars, and Senior Citizen luncheons, and is a testament to the community spirit of Alexander Valley.

Facility Availability
Sanctuary
Christenings Free
Memorials Free
Religious Services & Weddings
(includes: limited use of the Annex)

Alexander Valley residents $300 donation
Non- Valley residents $600 donation

Annex
Limited kitchen use
Alexander Valley residents $25 donation
Non- Valley residents $50 donation

Full kitchen use
Alexander Valley residents $50 donation
Non- Valley residents $100 donation

Policy & Contact Info
To maintain the integrity of this historic building we ask that some rules be followed. The Sanctuary and Annex can hold 100 people. The pews may not be moved. The building has heating and air conditioning. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted, nor is smoking.
The building was renovated in 1992. There are two ovens, a coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, one sink, and one restroom. Sorry, there is no dishwasher.

For Availability &/or property tour:
Call MaryAnn Lynch (707) 433-2507