Freedom Presbyterian Church was founded by Rev. Sidney S. Murkland, a native of Scotland, in October 1864 when he invited local blacks, forbidden to fully participate in established church congregations, to gather in his home for worship. The future members of Freedom Church often walked long distances to attend these new welcoming religious services and they became Murkland's students. In addition to religious training, he instilled in them a determination to seek education and economic improvement.