In 1828, a small group of people, led by John Elliott, settled on the banks of the Etobicoke River to establish what’s become St. Paul’s United Church, in Brampton.

This year, the church is celebrating its 190th anniversary with a series of events, including a concert on Saturday, June 2, featuring the Elmer Iseler Singers and a Strawberry Social on Tuesday, June 19. Other activities include a Fall Bash Sept. 15 and a roast beef dinner Oct. 13. For information visit stpauls.brampton.on.ca.

“In 1818 John Elliott wanted to strike out on a new adventure,” explained church officer Jack Drew, who has worked for St. Paul’s Church for 26 years.

Elliott left his home in Brampton, in the District of Cumberland, England, sailing his own ship to the St. Lawrence River, settling in Kingston, York and finally Hurontario and Queen streets.

A Primitive Methodist believer, Drew said Elliott built a log cabin that became one of the preaching places on the Primitive Methodist Circuit in 1831. The cabin was located on land that would later become Ward Funeral Home.

By 1840, the congregation grew so much that Elliott purchased property at 47 Queen St. E. and built a brick church. The church was so overcrowded, Drew said the current property at 30 Main St. S. was purchased in 1884 to build the existing church.

Sadly, both Elliott and his wife, Mary, passed away before St. Paul’s Church was constructed.

“I really like the history of this place,” said Drew. In 1925, St. Paul’s became part of the United Church of Canada.

The church is 28,000 square feet and includes a 500-seat sanctuary, although the church can accommodate up to 1,000 people. There is a church office, the Four Seasons Room, providing meeting space for smaller weddings, and the Sanderson Room, including a stage and old-fashioned projection booth.

The exterior of the church is Credit Valley Brown stone, with white facings. The church also has a 2,135-piece pipe organ, built by Warren & Company of Montreal, three kitchens, a wood room, where Drew can do custom woodwork, a history room, with complete church records, an Upper Room and gymnasium.