Imagine, if you will, a small group of determined people. They gathered in a humble home in 1893. That’s how the story of Alameda Heights United Methodist Church truly begins.
This church has a rich history. It is deeply intertwined with the development of its surrounding community. Let’s step back in time.
The late 19th century was a time of growth. Denver was expanding rapidly. Among the newcomers were Frank and Hattie Lort. They were devout Methodists. They longed for a church closer to their home. They also desired one for the local children.
Finding no suitable option, the Lort sisters took initiative. They offered their house at 725 S. High St. as a venue for Sunday school. On February 5, 1893, their home transformed into a place of worship. Twenty children and fifteen adults attended the first gathering.
The congregation quickly outgrew the Lort’s residence. The need for a dedicated church building became apparent. Frank Bailey and his wife donated five lots. These lots were located at the corner of Tennessee and High streets. This act of generosity paved the way for the construction of the first community building in the area.
The Alameda Heights United Methodist Church began to take shape. A $250 donation and a $500 loan from the Methodist Mission Board helped. A construction contract was signed for $2,265. The University of Denver Chancellor formally opened the church on September 3. On October 8, 1893, fifteen charter members signed their names.
Despite facing an economic depression, the church persevered. Through sacrificial giving, the interior was completed by 1895. A furnace was installed in 1900. In 1904, Reverend Paul Spenser became the minister. He also ran a program at a Larimer Street mission. During his five-year tenure, this church helped organize Warren Methodist Church.
The church continued to grow. It was considered a community institution. It provided a space for community gatherings. By 1916, membership had doubled. It reached 343 members. Discussions about constructing a new building began.
Dr. Nuckolls was appointed minister. The fundraising goal was set at $12,000. It eventually reached $70,000. World War I began. Despite this challenge, people continued to give. John Evans donated land. The church was renamed Washington Park Community Methodist Church.
During the building process in 1918, the church bought a parsonage. It was located at 1312 S. Gaylord. The Red Cross used two rooms to make surgical dressings.
A fragment from a bombed-out church in France was placed in the chancel floor. The bell from the old Myrtle Hill church was hung in the tower. The first services were held on December 29, 1918.
The Alameda Heights United Methodist Church continued to serve its community. It housed a branch of the Denver Public Library until 1930. Because of the church’s support of the University of Denver, a scholarship was created. It continued for 40 years.
In 1931, the church helped start Highlands and Grace Methodist churches. It also supported a Spanish mission. Later, it underwrote the mortgage for Northglenn Methodist and Good Shepherd. In 1962, the church aimed to spend as much for others as it spent for itself. That year, the church was among the top Methodist churches in giving to others.
Today, Alameda Heights United Methodist Church stands as a testament to the enduring power of community. It is a beacon of hope. It is a place where people belong. The church looks forward to the next 100 years. It will continue to be a cornerstone in the neighborhood. It is ready to build something for the future.