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The Joseph Yerkes Society has been created by the First Presbyterian Church of Northville Endowment Committee. The Joseph Yerkes Society is a special donor recognition program for individuals who have signed a non-binding statement of intent indicating they have included the Church or its Endowment Fund in their last will and testament.

Joseph Yerkes was born July 5, 1769 in Montgomery County, PA. He was a farmer, an accomplished cooper (barrel maker) and businessman. He was a father of 7 children. In April, 1826, he came to Northville from Seneca County, Romulus, New York. He purchased 488 acres in 1825 on the south side of Eight Mile Road which included the only natural body of water in Wayne County, known as Yerkes Lake. His wife Mary was the first school teacher at the log school house.

The early development of First Presbyterian Church can be traced to the dedication and commitment made by Joseph Yerkes, his family and six other members.

The first meeting of the First Presbyterian Church of Plymouth was held in his home near Baseline and Griswold. He was the first enrolled member and the first treasurer of the Church on November 28, 1829. . Other meetings were held in his home, in the homes of other members and in a log cabin school house on his property on the north side of Baseline. In the winter, he would thaw snow and ice from the wooden seats piled outside, by aid of a fire-shovel, in time for service. Summer services were held outside or in neighboring barns. He joined the Church Triumphant January 10, 1850, Northville, MI.

Membership Privileges

Members of the Joseph Yerkes Society will enjoy many benefits, most importantly participating in a program that will help maintain and continue our proud heritage.

- All individuals that enroll in the Joseph Yerkes Society during its first year will be designated a “Charter Member” and will receive a pen and ink drawing of First Presbyterian Church of Northville and a 175th Anniversary plate.

- Members will receive a membership Certificate.

- Members will be invited to an annual complimentary event near the Church anniversary in November.

How do I Qualify?

In order to qualify for membership to the Joseph Yerkes Society, you need only to have included, or plan to include a gift in any amount to the Northville Presbyterian Church Endowment Fund from your estate. To enroll as a member of the Joseph Yerkes Society, just print, complete and return the Statement of Intent available by clicking here.

For further information please contact the Church Treasurer by phone 248-349-0911, ext. 202, or e-mail the Church at: fpc@firstpresnville.org