Hebron Center:
A Forty-Year Adventure in our Presbytery's Mission

Half a century ago, what is now the Presbytery of Albany was two presbyteries. When the presbyteries merged in 1959, one of the first pieces of business was to acquire and develop a camp and conference center to be used by youth and adults alike. A committee was formed to search for appropriate property and a fund-raising effort was launched. It was successful: more than $500,000 was raised for the camp and conference center and two other projects.

The current property was bought in two parcels from separate owners, architects were hired, and work began in 1963 on what is now the main lodge. One year later the Presbytery met at the new Hebron Camp and Conference Center and dedicated it to the use of the Presbytery and the glory of God. A swimming pool, two staff lodges, a health lodge, and a parking area as well as the manager's house were part of the plan and soon completed.

In the late 1970's, the Presbytery, facing major financial difficulties, seriously considered selling the property. After much difficult discussion, the Presbytery decided to retain the property and give new priority to summer camping and youth programming. Shortly thereafter, Jerry McKinney, the current director, was called as summer camp director. He became director of Hebron Center year-round in 1992.