By Dean Kahn
One of the oldest religious buildings in Bellingham – the original First Presbyterian Church at 519 E. Maple St. – is for sale and a potential buyer might keep the 125-year-old structure intact, said Steve Huizenga of Pacific Continental Realty, which is handling the deal.
“It’s going to take a little bit of rehab work,” Huizenga said, “but it’s got a lot of character.”
Most people know the steepled white building as the home to Bellingham Academy of Self Defense, a karate dojo started by insurance businessman Duane Sammons in 1973. Whatcom County resident Patrick Scroggin bought the property in 2011.
Asking price for the church and its corner lot is $398,000.