Early in 1912, Elfinwild’s congregation was born when the Rev. S. E. Irvine, DD, pastor of Etna’s Calvert Memorial Church, recognized the need for religious work in the Elfinwild area. In response to that need, the Presbytery of Allegheny began a weekly afternoon Sabbath school, which met in the DeHaven Schoolhouse. Later that year, on land donated by the late James M. DeHaven, Elfinwild’s first official home was erected with funds from the Board of Home Missions and monies raised through a neighborhood collection. On August 4, 1912, twenty-seven charter members were received in a dedication service presided over by Dr. John Knox McClurkin of Shadyside United Presbyterian Church. The ministry of Elfinwild Presbyterian Church had begun!

During the ninety years of our church’s life, Elfinwild Presbyterian has been served by three pastors. The Reverend Joseph M. McCalmont began a 33 year pastorate on September 1, 1913. The first part of our present building was dedicated in 1927. The congregation of 250 struggled through the Depression, but managed to pay off the mortgage in 1945.

The Reverend J. Robert Henderson was installed as pastor on October 17, 1947. The community and the congregation experienced steady growth. Elfinwild’s expansion included a larger sanctuary, duplicate worship services, a Christian Education building, and the installation of The Tellers pipe organ.

In 1980, Dr. Robert F. Tuttle became our third pastor. His pastorate included the establishment of a pre-school, a Meals-on-Wheels program, and a financial campaign to upgrade our facilities. Dr. Tuttle retired on March 31, 2002. The Reverend Leland R. Stoops served as Interim Pastor during this time. He also served as an Associate Pastor during the ministry of The Reverend J. Robert Henderson.

Through the years, all three of our pastors were assisted by capable and dedicated Associate Pastors and Christian Education Directors.