Providence Presbyterian Church in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is the result of a 2007 merger between  the former Broad Avenue and First Presbyterian churches. Additionally, the Second United Presbyterian Church in Altoona merged with Broad Avenue Church in 1981. Providence Presbyterian is located on the corner of Broad Avenue and 24th Street in the structure that was the Broad Avenue church’s original building.  Following, is a brief history of the three individual churches that ultimately formed the church we know today.

As its name implies, the First Presbyterian Church was the first Presbyterian church to serve the Altoona area. (TO BE FINISHED LATER)

The Second United Presbyterian Church was established as a result of the increasing memberships in the First United Presbyterian Church. On June 21, 1869, the Second Presbyterian Church was organized with 40 people enrolled as members. The congregation rented a hall on the corner of Seventh Avenue and Twelfth Street. This hall served as the church until moving to their new chapel on Eighth Avenue between Thirteenth and Fourteenth Streets. The construction of this chapel started in 1870 and was occupied in 1871. A new church building had its construction commence in 1875 and was opened for public worship in late 1876. All buildings, lots, and furnishings combined for a total of $62,965. The church purchased a manse in 1928 at 3008 Fourth Avenue. Second Church has been involved with several missions and ministries since its founding. A Panethnia Missionary Society, which provided funds for missions, was formed on October 6, 1885. The Olivet Chapter was organized in 1907, and aided in the work of the church and promoted the spiritual life of its members. A strong Sunday School organization, originally organized in 1869, contributed greatly to the work of the church. A 100th Anniversary was observed with a special worship service on September 14, 1969.

Broad Avenue Presbyterian Church was founded on a lot fronting Broad Avenue between 24th and 25th Streets that was purchased for the sum of $100. A small chapel was built and the first sermon was preached there on June 5, 1892. The present structure was completed in 1897 at a cost of $25,000. A remodeling of the chapel and choir loft was undertaken in 1937. Basement excavation, a new furnace and kitchen, and Sunday school rooms were completed in 1949. The third major improvement began in 1957 when a new pipe organ was installed. Subsequent work to the original building included a new heating system, new sanctuary carpeting, complete refinishing of all the sanctuary pews, and repairs to the pipe organ. During the week of September 10-17, 1967, a seventy-fifth anniversary celebration took place. A second milestone was recognized on September 15, 1992, when Broad Avenue church held a 100th anniversary banquet at The Casino at Lakemont Park. Members of Broad Avenue Presbyterian Church have worked to build a church that is alive and serving God and His people seven days a week. The church has been made available to fill many community needs. At one time or another, our facilities have served as a meeting place for the Boy Scouts, Welcome Wagon, and Family and Children Services of Blair County. Other stories could be told, but the true history of a church is recorded in the hearts and lives of people who have accepted God as their Heavenly Father, Christ as their Lord and Savior, and the Holy Spirit as their Guide and Comforter through the ministry of that church.