Riverview United Presbyterian Church
Watson Memorial Presbyterian Church got its start on Easter Sunday in 1891 as Watson Mission, organized by 45 people. The group erected a chapel on ground donated by Miss Watson. They held their first meeting in November 1891, and, in January 1892, the chapel was dedicated free of debt. The group decided to organize the mission into a church, the Watson Memorial Presbyterian Church, recognized by the Presbytery of Allegheny on June 25, 1894. The church prospered, and the congregation had outgrown its chapel by 1897. They built a new stone church, and the chapel was moved into Riverview Park. The congregation continued to grow and built a larger building in 1907.
On October 16, 1977 the congregations of Watson Memorial, North Church, and Eighth Church voted to merge. The Watson Memorial property became the home of Riverview United Presbyterian Church. The congregation had the exterior sandblasted, installed an elevator installed, and hired Mellon Stuart Co. to renovate the church school rooms on the lower level.
On Mother's Day in 1985, many members of the congregation helped to remove the pews and carpet, and new pews and carpeting were installed and dedicated on June 23, 1985. On October 25, 1987, our Tenth Anniversary, we broke ground for a new addition.
This section, built by Peters Construction and designed by McConnell Associates, was completed in late fall of 1988 and dedicated on January 29, 1989. At their regular monthly meeting on September 11, 2000 the Session approved a major project—the restoration of the stained glass windows in the main building. The project cost $275,000, and included two large mural windows in the front of the sanctuary.
Riverview Church’s ministries have included opportunities for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, and service to both its members and those in our surrounding community. The congregation continues to seek God's guidance as we reach out with His love and good news.