Warren County Iowa Genealogical Society

 

 

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    Indianola First United Methodist Church

    Indianola First United Methodist Church, 307 W. Ashland, Indianola, IA, (515) 961-5317, http://indfumc.org

           

    A history of the First United Methodist Church in Indianola, Iowa is provided by Patricia HICK, Church Historian

    Our church began in the summer of 1849, when Rev. George TEAS and his family were assigned to the new Three Rivers Mission. Named for the North, Middle and South Rivers the mission included all of Warren and Madison Counties as well as southern Polk County and a portion of Marion County. A taunting task to cover such an area on horseback. The first church building was a log house near the southeast corner of the Indianola square.

    By 1855 the church began constructing its first building about one block north of the log cabin. Dedicated in 1856 the brick building was an impressive site for the new community and was also used as a courthouse. Thirty years later the building was sold and converted into a livery stable and a larger church began construction on the corner of Ashland Ave and B Street.

    In 1903 a new parsonage was built next to the church and in 1926 the church school building was constructed. That addition is now used for the church offices, library, Hospitality Room, Gable Chapel and on the second floor, Parish Hall.

    On February 14, 1956, the church was destroyed by fire. The next day church leaders met and began planning for a new church on the same site. Our current church was completed and consecrated on September 8, 1957.

    A new parsonage was built across the street in 1963. The buildings have been remodeled and updated over the last 48 years, but remain much as you see them today.

    The buildings aren’t the only part of our church keeping up to date. We now have three worship services, choral and bell choirs for all ages, church school classes for the youngest to the oldest member, youth groups, Bible studies, and a special Wednesday night program know as TGIW.

    Our church is also home to a number of organizations in Indianola. Boy and Girl Scouts, and Campfire, meet regularly as well as providing space for WIC, Wee Care Respite services, and other socially responsible groups.

    A loving, caring, and welcoming congregation are the true history makers in First United Methodist Church.

    “125th Anniversary First United Methodist Church, Indianola, Iowa,. 1849-1974, October 27, 1974,” booklet is at the Warren County Historical Society Library.