For over 170 years First United Methodist Church has stood in the heart of downtown Dallas. The neighborhood changed. The city evolved. The world transformed. Yet, First United Methodist Church stands strong in the Dallas Arts District.
Methodism’s Dallas roots trace back to 1846. Back then Dallas was a small village. Methodist circuit riders stopped here. The first organized group of Methodists met in November 1850. They continued for almost 20 years without their own building. Land was donated and funds raised. The Civil War delayed construction. The money was then lost.
Church members persevered. The Lamar Street Methodist Church was dedicated in November 1868. But tragedy struck. The structure burned in 1879. The congregation used Temple Emanuel’s facilities. A new building was completed in 1889. It was dedicated in 1894. The name changed to First Methodist Episcopal Church South.
In 1916, First Methodist and Trinity Methodist churches united. Both had about one thousand members. The Trinity Methodist Church site was sold. The money went toward Highland Park Methodist Church. A new building was dedicated in 1926 for the expanded First Methodist Episcopal Church South.
By 1927, membership soared to 3440. The congregation kept growing. During the church’s 1946 centennial, five former pastors returned. They dedicated the 1926 building. Denomination-wide changes occurred. First Methodist Episcopal Church South became First Methodist Church in 1939. It then became First United Methodist Church in 1968.
First United Methodist Church has long helped form Methodist churches in North Texas. Its influence extends beyond. Today the First United Methodist Church of Dallas remains active. It engages in mission work, service, and worship. It honors its founders’ traditions. This plaque commemorates that rich history. It is a testament to faith and resilience. It celebrates a legacy of service. Take a moment to appreciate the enduring spirit of this place. Consider the generations who have found solace and community within these walls.