A Story of Resilience and Community
Nestled on the eastern side of the Leelanau Peninsula, Omena Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and community. Its roots trace back to the mid-1800s when Reverend Peter Dougherty moved his mission from Old Mission to Omena. He established what would become one of the oldest Protestant churches in Michigan. This historic landmark reflects the trials, triumphs, and dedication of its congregation over the decades.
The Founding Years
In 1839, the Presbyterian Board of Missions sent Reverend Peter Dougherty to Michigan’s Grand Traverse region to establish a mission. He founded the first church at Old Mission in 1843, welcoming both European settlers and Native Americans into the congregation. As the mission grew, Dougherty followed the Ahgosa band of Chippewa to a picturesque bay on the Leelanau Peninsula, relocating the mission in 1852 to what is now Omena.
The church, initially called Grove Hill Mission Church, was completed in 1858 with help from local carpenters and the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions. The church bell, crafted from copper pennies donated by the Chippewa Indians, symbolized the unique cultural collaboration at the heart of the mission.
Challenges and Changes
Despite early success, financial struggles arose in 1867 when the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions ceased its support. Reverend Dougherty sold off mission properties in 1868, funding the ministry for a short while before retiring in 1871. With no official leadership, the church fell into disrepair, and its congregation dwindled.
However, lay leaders like George Craker and David Ahgosa, son of Chief Ahgosa, worked tirelessly to sustain the church. Fluent in the Chippewa language, Craker continued the Sunday School, while Ahgosa upheld Bible studies. Their efforts ensured the church survived through challenging times.
Evolution of a Legacy
Between 1871 and the mid-1920s, Omena Presbyterian Church saw various ministers and a fluctuating congregation. In 1928, the church transitioned to a summer-only worship model, reflecting the seasonal population of Omena. Despite this, it maintained its strong community ties and historical significance.
By 2008, the congregation celebrated the church’s 150th anniversary, marking its status as the oldest Protestant church in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, north of Grand Rapids, to remain in continuous service under its original denomination.
Christmas in Omena: A Tradition of Joy
Christmas in Omena has long been a cherished community event, dating back to the early 1850s under Reverend Dougherty’s guidance. The annual Christmas Eve celebration was an anticipated affair, with Indian children gathering at the mission for handmade gifts and festivities.
Families arrived by sleigh, braving the winter cold with warm blankets and soapstones to ward off the chill. The mission’s Christmas tree stood adorned with simple yet heartfelt decorations, and stockings knitted in the mission sewing class were filled with small treasures. Handmade toys, dolls, marbles, and even wooden skis brought joy to children during this festive time.
Today, the community continues to celebrate Santa’s arrival in Omena, keeping the spirit of togetherness alive.
The story of Omena Presbyterian Church is one of perseverance, adaptation, and community. From its humble beginnings as a mission to its cherished place in local history, the church remains a symbol of faith and unity. Whether you’re visiting for its historic significance or joining the festivities during the holidays, Omena Presbyterian Church stands as a beacon of enduring legacy and warmth.
Omena Presbyterian Church Historic Marker
Statehood Era (1815-1860) – Registered in 1971 and erected in 1974 – ID #S350
Located on M22, Omena – Lat: 45.05709100 / Long: -85.58675700
In 1839 the Reverend Peter Dougherty founded Old Mission, the first Protestant mission in the Grand Traverse area. The church, comprising Indians and whites, was organized in 1843. After 1850 the Indians were allowed to buy land; they and the church moved to Omena, or New Mission in 1852. This church, resembling those of New England was built and dedicated in 1858. Since the 1880s it is used mostly in summer. It remains relatively unchanged from the original.
