The Presbyterian Church of
Tipton was re-organized March 9, 1867 in the original Baptist Church building. A Mr.
Chapin had been a Presbyterian clergyman here prior to that time. There were 12 original
members of the 1867 church. By 1869, the membership had grown to 24. A number of
Evangelical Lutheran Society of Tipton members were admitted as well as members of the
United Presbyterian Church of Clarksburg. By 1888 a total of 253 members had been admitted
to the church.
The present church was built
in 1898. It replaced one built in 1872. The old church was then converted into a manse.
Extensive redecorating was done and repairs were made to the church to prepare for the
hosting of the Sedalia Presbytery in 1907 and again in 1951. Other repairs made throughout
the years include restoring the stained glass windows to near their original appearance
after severe weather damage.
The plot of land adjoining
the churchyard was given to the church in 1897 by the trustees of the estate of Mrs. Ellen
Brown.
The Presbyterian Church has
been without a full time minister for much of its history. Between full time ministers,
there were part-time ministers, plus members of the Presbytery and theological students
filled in throughout the years. A Rev. Asdale served as minister of the Tipton church for
two separate terms, from 1883 to 1892 and from 1905 to 1912. At the present time, Rev.
Treece holds services on the first and third Sundays.
Although the present
membership is small, the church continues to meet all obligations. The Tipton Community
Church currently uses the building for their services, also.