OUR CHURCH

About US

history of edmond first

Welcome to Edmond First United Methodist Church!
Located just west of the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond First has been a worshiping community since 1889. Our rich history is intertwined with the university, as our church building once hosted the first classes when we were situated nearby. This longstanding relationship with the academic community shapes our identity and drives our outreach efforts.

At Edmond First, our worship is deeply rooted in the liturgical tradition. We draw from a vast well of Christian practices, blending both modern and ancient elements to create a meaningful worship experience. As you step into our sanctuary, you'll be greeted by a warm and friendly atmosphere that exudes intimacy. Our congregation values the connections we have with one another, and we would be delighted to have you join us for worship.

What sets Edmond First apart is our unwavering belief in the fundamental importance of connecting people to God and their neighbors. We hold dear the top commandments Jesus emphasized in the Gospels – loving God and loving our neighbors. These commandments shape our priorities as a congregation, and we are committed to fulfilling them through various mission and service opportunities.
Our mission extends beyond the local community, reaching out to those in need both near and far. We collaborate with different organizations and actively engage in projects that make a positive impact. Through our collective efforts, we strive to build a better world and make God's love tangible to those around us.

Edmond First United Methodist Church is a vibrant community of faith where you will find solace in God's love and be challenged by the call of Christ upon your life. Whether you are seeking spiritual nourishment, fellowship, or a place to serve, we invite you to journey with us. Together, we can make a difference in the world as we embody the teachings of Jesus and care for one another. We look forward to welcoming you and partnering with you on this faith-filled journey!

Fourteen Methodists arrived in what became Edmond and formed a class on April 22, 1889, the day of the Land Run. Oklahoma then was U.S. Indian Territory with a missionary from Kansas in charge of the Methodist religious interests. The brand new town of Edmond, I.T. issued city lots in August 1889. Rev. James E. Roberts of the Frisco Methodist Episcopal Church preached fine sermons either at the school house or at Central Hotel or the Catholic church when he was in town.

We have a postal card, now 125 years old, from Rev. Roberts to Aaron Fretz announcing Roberts arrival in November to organize the Methodist Episcopal Church. Fourteen men and women became the first members of this church. By December 1890, the M.E. Church on Broadway and Hurd began construction of a church building 28x50', supervised by Rev. Joseph H. Brooks and Fannie Morrison (Mrs. Henry), who also organized the Epworth League. First worship services were held in this building on October 18, 1891.

Edmond’s community leaders wanted to establish a two-year Normal School, and began work on a building (now known as “Old North”). Their desire to open was strong and enabled them to open the teacher training school on November 9, 1891, in the newly constructed M.E. Church. Church member Richard D. Thatcher served as the school’s first president and taught classes. The Normal School became Central State College, now the University of Central Oklahoma.

Fourteen years later (1905), the little frame church was turned half way around and a new much larger brick church with an organ joined it. The Sarah Riley Memorial Methodist Church is visible in many pictures of old Edmond. Sadly, 22 years after it was built, the church and most of its contents burned to the ground on Sunday afternoon, November 13, 1927. By Monday morning, plans were underway to relocate. Larger lots were later chosen at Hurd and Jackson, moving away from the noisy location near the railroad and interurban lines.

The cornerstone of our present church was laid on December 30, 1928. Completion of this $60,000 church came two years after the fire, and the church’s architect received a $25 prize for plans drawn for the best church costing under $100,000. Local newspapers contained many stories of construction progress, fund raising and the day-long dedication on June 9, 1929. Not until 1957, 28 years later, was a new Education Addition added, at a cost of $104,000.

Many Edmond streets are named for the college’s first professors who were also members of the Methodist church.  We are indeed fortunate to have many documents, letters, photographs and news articles surrounding our history.