The Springfield Reformed Presbyterian Church
was organized about five miles northeast of Mercer, on the Crabtown road, nearly fifty years ago
[abt 1838]. It has had comparatively few
preachers in the half-century of its existence, the following pastors
having served: Rev. James Blackwood, Rev. J. J.
McClurkin (twenty-two years), Rev. J. R.
Wylie, from 1877 to 1888. Between the pastorates of Mr.
McClurkin and Wylie there was a
vacancy for a period of four years. The labors of the former began in
1851. Rev. Blackwood’s labors were less than thirteen years. In
November, 1888, a portion of the old Springfield Reformed Presbyterian
Church came to Mercer and purchased the old Congregational
house of worship. Rev. J. R. Wylie, who was
the pastor of the Springfield congregation from 1877 to 1888, became the
minister of the branch that located in Mercer, and worked hard to have
the entire congregation transferred to the town. His labors ceased with
the congregation May 1, 1888, he having been called to the pastorate of
a church in New Galilee, Beaver County.
History
of Mercer County,
1888, page 362.
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In
Nov 1888 the Springfield Reformed Church moved to Mercer and purchased the
old Congregational house of worship.
