Organized in 1797 by early pioneers, the First Presbyterian Church became the oldest congregation in Chillicothe and its simple log structure reflects the lifestyle of early Ohioans. Its first minister and organizing pastor was Reverend William Speer, who led the church for four years. Several pastors later, Reverend Hugh S. Fullerton encouraged the congregation to aid people fleeing slavery on their way north to Canada. Members of the church also hired a teacher to educate African American children in Chillicothe.