Support the Revolutionary Renewal
We need your help to connect Trenton’s heritage to the hope of tomorrow.
WELCOME
Located in the heart of downtown Trenton, 120 East State is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving history while creating opportunities for the future.
Today, we are transforming one of New Jersey’s most historic landmarks—the former First Presbyterian Church of Trenton — into The Steeple Center, a vibrant community destination where history, arts, culture, education, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement come together.
Welcome to The Steeple Center
Through public and private investment, we’re creating a welcoming space that serves both Trenton residents and visitors from across the region.
Our vision includes:
- A cultural and performing arts venue
- Community gathering and event spaces
- A neighborhood café
- Educational programming
- Historical exhibitions
- Business and entrepreneurial opportunities
- A destination that celebrates Trenton’s past while investing in its future
Whether you’re attending a concert, exploring an exhibit, hosting an event, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee, you’ll find a place where everyone belongs.
Our goal is simple: Honor the past. Serve the present. Build the future.
We believe historic spaces should continue serving the communities around them. By preserving one of Trenton’s most significant historic landmarks and reimagining it for modern use, we’re creating opportunities for connection, creativity, economic development, and community pride.
Continuing A Legacy of Service
For more than 300 years, this site has served the Trenton community.
As the city evolved from a colonial settlement into a thriving industrial center and, eventually, New Jersey’s capital, the church remained a place of gathering, support, education, and service.
After faithfully serving the community at this location through 2022, a new chapter began. The organization now opens its doors, resources, and networks to support over 15 community organizations and historic trusts.
Honoring A Place That Shaped America
Few cities played a larger role in America’s fight for independence than Trenton.
Following George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River, the Battle of Trenton marked a turning point in the Revolutionary War and renewed hope for the American cause.
Located just steps away from where history unfolded, 120 East State has stood as a silent witness to nearly three centuries of American history.
Today, we continue sharing both the well-known and untold stories of the people who shaped our nation.
Our Future: The Steeple Center
The Today, we’re building something bigger than a restored historic building. The Steeple Center will become an engine for arts, culture, education, tourism, economic development, and civic pride serving Trenton for generations to come. Our vision is to create a destination where:
- Artists can perform.
- Entrepreneurs can grow.
- Neighbors can gather.
- Students can learn.
- Visitors can experience Trenton’s rich history.
- Local businesses can thrive.
- Community voices are celebrated.
Why It Matters
Historic preservation isn’t just about protecting buildings. It’s about preserving stories, strengthening neighborhoods, and building community. Every exhibit, concert, workshop, walking tour, and community event will help write the next chapter in the story of Trenton’s lasting impact on the world.
The restoration of The Steeple Center is being made possible through the generosity of a growing number of public agencies, private foundations, community partners, donors, and volunteers. Together, we’re preserving history while creating new opportunities for Trenton’s future.
The Steeple Center Project is powered in part by the following organizations:
