When entering the empty church sanctuary, eyes are drawn to the cross behind the choir loft – the beautiful cross that Paul Cooper created from fine wood and donated to his church, Northside Presbyterian. Mr. Cooper passed away a number of years ago, but the cross remains in place, evoking a sense of peace and reverence to all who enter the sanctuary and hear its story.
Dr. Paul Rader
Paul and Linda Rader
Northside Presbyterian Church will celebrate its 129th birthday this year.
Just as North Chattanooga is diverse politically and socially, Northside is a full spectrum church. A visitor will find, to the right and left, people who love one another. Everyone is welcome. Jeans and suits feel comfortable next to one another. The church welcomes everyone – those who live in North Chattanooga as well as throughout the city and beyond.
“The first time my husband and I visited Northside, we knew this was our church.
Before we were even seated, countless people smiled and welcomed us.” - 26-year member
Come early for this special treat!
Each Sunday at 10 a.m., Tommy Hadden, also known as the “Northside Waffle Chef” offers his homemade waffles, followed by the 11 a.m. church service. Just follow the sweet aroma for one of these delicious treats.
On Sunday, Nov. 8, a “Happy Birthday, Northside” luncheon follows worship. The church is providing the main dish and a special birthday cake. Church members are bringing side dishes. All visitors are invited to enjoy this meal and celebration as special guests of Northside.
Northside Presbyterian Church began on Nov. 7, 1886, at a home located on the corner of Jarnigan Avenue and Baker Street. Its first building was constructed in 1888. In 1910, the land where the current building is located, was purchased for $3,500, and in 1916, the present building was constructed at a cost of $30,000.
American architect Reuben Harrison Hunt designed Northside’s building, at 923 Mississippi Ave. in North Chattanooga. Along with many of his other projects, Northside’s Greek Revival structure is included in the National Register of Historic Places listings in Hamilton County.
Northside grew and in 1926, added a church school annex. In 1958, the education building was constructed at a cost of $170,000. The sanctuary was remodeled in the 1960s and two major renovations took place in both the 1980s and 1990s.
There are many more accomplishments that enrich North Chattanooga and beyond. More information is available on the church website regarding programs such as the Northside Learning Center, The Hope House on UTC’s campus, the Northside Neighborhood House, founded by two Northside church members, Rose Longgley and Emily Page Schlessinger and Presbyterian Women who are active in many areas including world-focused missions.