1887 Church named to the Florida’s “11 to Save” 2025 list

Bradenton, Fla. (July 17, 2025) – The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation has named the 1887 Church at Manatee Village Historical Park to its 2025 Florida’s 11 to Save list.

Construction of the church began in 1887 but was delayed by a yellow fever outbreak. It was completed in 1889 and became home to the first Christian congregation on the Florida mainland south of Tampa. In 1975, the church and the 1860 courthouse were relocated to their current site as part of a bicentennial preservation effort. These two buildings became the foundation of what is now Manatee Village Historical Park.

Today, the church—like many historic buildings—requires rehabilitation. Repairs needed include a new roof and structural stabilization to ensure the building’s long-term preservation.

As part of the 11 to Save program, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation will assign an ambassador to learn more about the 1887 Church at the Manatee Village Historical Park. The program will support the nonprofit group, Friends of Manatee Village, with their goal in raising much-needed awareness about the church’s history and condition and their efforts to secure funding for its continued preservation.

“As the steward of this museum and other historic assets, the Clerk’s Office remains committed to preserving the places that define Manatee County’s identity,” said Angel Colonneso, Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller for Manatee County. “We deeply value the work of our nonprofit partners who lead efforts to raise awareness and secure funding to keep this building—and the stories it holds—accessible for generations to come. We’re also grateful to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation for bringing statewide attention to this important piece of our local history.”

“Reading about history is valuable, but nothing compares to stepping into a historic space,” said Andrea Knies, APR, CPRC, Acting President of Friends of Manatee Village. “This building carries the energy of those who experienced life’s milestones—weddings, baptisms, funerals—within its walls. It continues to serve as a place for reflection and connection. We thank the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing the importance of preserving places like this.” 

“The preservation of the 1887 Union Congregation Church enriches our community,” said Phaedra Dolan, Director of the Clerk & Comptroller’s Historical Resources Department. “Like many historic projects, this one began with grassroots advocates who recognized its value as one of the first community gathering spaces for homesteaders along the Manatee River. Their efforts helped create Manatee Village Historical Park, where preserved structures spark conversations about our shared past and future.”

Though the 1887 Church no longer holds weekly services, it remains a consecrated space for weddings, baptisms, memorials, and private events. During regular museum hours, visitors can sit in the original pews, admire the vaulted ceilings, and view the stained-glass star window above the altar.

For more about the 1887 Church, Manatee Village Historical Park, and how to support preservation efforts, visit www.manateevillage.org.

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1887 Church. Photo taken by Jeff Downing.

Published date: July 17, 2025