Landmark Long Island Church To Have Centuries Old Steeple Restored

HUNTINGTON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Work has begun to restore a landmark church on Long Island that dates back to colonial times.

At the center of the renovation is the structure's iconic steeple that's 100-ft tall. As CBS2's Hazel Sanchez reported, it will be returned to its original look in time for the holidays.

Inside the old First Presbyterian Church on Main Street in Huntington, parishioners were busily preparing classic Christmas decorations they will sell to raise money for the church's community outreach.

They're equally excited about the scaffolding that's risen on the steeple which towers over the community in preparation for its makeover.

"If you drive into town from the west end, you see the steeple way up in the sky. It just sort of welcomes you to the town," parishioner Kris Colbert said.

As it has for more than 230 years. The now, weather-worn steeple was built in 1784 after the previous steeple was torn down by invading British troops.

"During the American revolutionary war, the British army stayed right here in Huntington. They were quartered here and used the sanctuary as a stable and as an armory," Reverend Miller explained.

Rev. Miller is overseeing a million dollar renovation of the church, first founded in 1658.

Its rich history dots the walls and hallways, from photos of church fathers dating back a century to a bell that once rang from the previous steeple more than 300 years ago. It too was plundered by the British.

"They stole the bell to use it for bullets against the local army," church archivist Jim Colbert explained.

Fortunately, the British never melted down the bell and it was recovered after the way.

Now, the focus is on stripping and repainting the steeple's faded wood exterior. The renovation will include restoring the church's original rounded windows design.

"It's wonderful. At Christmas time we will put little candles in the windows, so truly a beacon at the holidays," president of church trustees, Cindy Samuels said.

The work inside the scaffolding will be completed by early December when the restored steeple will once again remind Long Islanders of their origins in Huntington.

The renovation is being paid for by grants and money raised by the 500 member congregation.