The formation of what is now known as Zion Presbyterian Church, had its roots in the histories of the Free Church Congregation of Charlottetown and Queen Square Church.

FREE CHURCH: The Free Church (Presbyterian) had its first meeting under the sanction of the Free Church Synod on July 26, I854. Alexander Sutherland of New London was elected Moderator. On September I |, I854, Hon. Sergeant Kenneth Henderson, MD. and George Henderson were ordained as the first Elders of the new congregation in Charlottetown. Communion was first served on September l7, I854, by Rev. Murdoch Sutherland of Pictou, who also ordained the two Elders. Alexander Roffs, a probationist, was appointed by the Free Church Home Mission Committee to preach at Charlottetown, Long Creek and adjacent settlements.

As the Free church was in need of outside help to support a minister, West River, previously belonging to the New London Presbytery, was disjoined from New London and joined with the Free Church in Charlottetown on May 9th, I855.

Rev. Murdoch Sutherland, then a young man in charge of the congregation of Knox Church Pictou, preached for a few Sundays the following year. Although a call was extended to him to become the fledgling 'preaching station's' first pastor, his appointment was opposed by his present Presbytery and his own congregation in Pictou.

By late I855, the Free Church had started construction on their

church at the head of Prince Street. An ad placed in Haszard's Gazette of December 26, 1855, reads:

"The Church Committee of Trustees of the Free Church, having inspected the building, feel much pleasure in stating that they are satisfied with the progress which the contractor is making in the work, and as they are anxious to have the building completed as soon as possible, they hereby respectfully request the congregation and other friends who have not yet paid their subscriptions to forward them with as little delay as possible.

The Committee beg leave at the same time to tender their most grateful acknowledgements to all those whose contributions they have already received.

Any persons who may have a desire to contribute towards the completion of the above place of Worship will have an opportunity still to do so, and will oblige by handing over their donations to the Treasurer, George Allan.

John Scott, Secretary"

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