The winter of 1837-38 found two Methodist men working Scotland County, holding services in the homes of the settlers. They were Rev. John Thatcher, a circuit rider, and the Rev. Condley Smith, an early Methodist preacher.

The first land for a Methodist Episcopal church building was purchased January 17, 1862, and a little brick church was build on the lot prior to the Civil War. It had not been completed when the war reached our community. The soldiers stabled their horses in the church during their stay here. The church was completed after that. The last service was held in it was July 10, 1892.

Due to a growing congregation, there was a need for a larger building. The little brick church was torn down, and a new frame building was erected, large enough to accommodate 500 people. It was completed on February 19, 1893.

The frame church burned on December 6, 1903, and work was soon underway to replace it. The cornerstone of the new church was lain in 1904. It was completed February 2, 1905, and dedicated May 14, 1905. A new parsonage was built about the same time and was ready for occupancy by October 1, 1905.

The member of the Methodist Church promoted Sunday School, a vacation Bible School was held and an Epworth League was organized. By 1880, the Sunday School had 19 classes, 35 teachers, and on Rally Day 1916 boasted an attendance of 346.

Our church was member of the Scotland County Larger Parish from June 1, 1969, until 1982, when it was again granted the status of a Station Church with our own minister. 54 ministers (including those that have assisted with the Parish) have served our church -- from James Calloway in 1844 to presently the Rev. Terry Lippstreu.

In 2001, the church at Brock closed and we welcomed that congregation into our church family.

Music has always held an important place in our church with people giving concerts, recitals, and cantatas. Every year our church hosts a Community Christmas Program which is known far and wide.

Then there were the Ladies Organizations, without which many things would never have been accomplished. There was the Ladies Aid Society, Home and Foreign Missionary Society, followed by the W.S.C.S. and now the UMW. The UMW consists of the Martha, Mary, and Priscilla Circles. They serve dinners, have rummage sales, and many other events. The work of these ladies is invaluable in our Christian Mission.

Our church also has a very active Youth Group, encompassing grades 3-High School. They participated in various service projects, all the while having fun on numerous outings and trips.

And not to be forgotten, our Men's Groups are an invaluable asset to our church. They help with the maintenance of the church, be it through refinishing the stained glass windows to building the ramp and reupholstering the pews. The men also share in the fellowship of the Men's Breakfast as well as help teach in the Youth Groups.

We are always trying to improve and updated our beautiful Church building. In 1992, a new roof was put on the building and in 1993-94, the kitchen was remodeled and two new electric cook stoves were installed. In 2001, air conditioning and new carpet was added. In 2002, we refinished and restored the stained glass windows.

A member of the Church owned property across the street. She donated the lots when the congregation wished to build a new parsonage. Before long, the money was donated. The new parsonage was completed in 1991. Rev. Ted Bass and his wife were the first to live there. Next, Rev. Charles Hammack and his wife Helen lived there, followed by Rev. Carol Blackwell and her mother Sarah. The Rev. Terry Lippstreu family now resides there.

The Memphis United Methodist Church is celebrating nearly 160 years of bringing Christ to its parishioners. This parish is proud of its history and its mission and strives to be a beacon in the community. Our church welcomes everyone to come worship the Risen Christ in a warm and spiritual Church.