The Little Church on the Hill was founded in Wellsburg in 1855. Money to build the structure was raised by selling certificates at $5 each. Building was started in 1854, but before completion, a tornado severely damaged the building. It was finally completed and dedicated in 1855. In 1871 major renovations were undertaken at the church. A balcony was incorporated into the structure, as well as the
addition of the bell. The original name was “Church of Our Father, Universalist” it has gone under several names over the years but the last was the same or similar to the first. In 1936, a celebration was held to celebrate the anniversary of the Formation of the congregation at Wellsburg. Modern lighting, offering plates, and a communion set were added, along with pew cushions. The communion set is still available for viewing. The church had its final closing in 1957. In 1981, the Universalist Convention signed the building over to the Elk Creek Township, requesting that it be used as a community center. Again, the building stood mostly unused and unattended. In 1989, a group of interested residents of the township organized to prevent the building from demolished. The group began holding events to fund the preservations projects, some that still continue to this day. The Historical Committee is now the Elk Creek Township Historical Society and includes both residents and non-residents of the township, with members ranging across West County and across the world to other countries. The Elk Creek Historical Society now partners with groups such as local churches and small businesses to hold family and community events, and groups such as Erie Yesterday to apply for grants to fund preservation projects. ECGRA Grants and donations from the Mikovich Foundation have assisted in ongoing repairs to the church and the help of local volunteers. The church has truly become a community treasure. The Elk Creek Township Historical Society is grateful to all those that help make this possible! Address:
10410 High Street
Albion, PA 16401
Email:
[email protected]
