Epworth United Methodist Church

Amidst the bustling city of Chicago, the Epworth United Methodist Church stands as a testament to time and faith. The church’s journey began in 1888, when a small Methodist congregation sought a place to worship in the then-sparsely populated Edgewater neighborhood. John Lewis Cochran, the visionary founder of Edgewater, generously donated land in 1886, paving the way for the church’s establishment. The congregation formally organized as the Epworth Methodist Episcopal Church in July 1889. A cornerstone was dedicated in 1890, marking the beginning of construction. The Epworth United Methodist Church, designed by parishioner Frederick B. Townsend, opened its doors in 1891. The church became the second church in Edgewater, following closely behind the Episcopal Church of the Atonement, completed in 1889. The church’s Romanesque architecture, featuring striking exterior walls of brown, rusticated boulders, quickly became a neighborhood landmark. Interestingly, some of these boulders were transported from Wisconsin, floated down Lake Michigan to their final resting place in the church’s walls. The Epworth United Methodist Church served the community for over a century, witnessing countless services, celebrations, and moments of solace. In 1930, the church underwent a significant expansion. A basement, gymnasium, chapel, and additional rooms were added to accommodate the growing congregation and its various activities. The church continued to thrive, evolving with the times and adapting to the changing needs of the community. Throughout its history, the Epworth United Methodist Church bore several names, reflecting the evolution of the Methodist denomination itself. It was first known as the Epworth Methodist Episcopal Church from 1889 to 1948. From 1948 to 1968, it was called the Epworth Methodist Church. Finally, in 1968, it adopted its current name, the Epworth United Methodist Church. The Epworth United Methodist Church’s historical and architectural significance was recognized in 2008 when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This honor cemented its place as a treasured piece of Chicago’s heritage. The church held its final service on May 15, 2022. In 2023, the Epworth United Methodist Church achieved another milestone. It was designated a Chicago Landmark, ensuring its preservation for future generations. While its role as a place of worship has concluded, the church’s story continues. Plans are underway to convert the building into affordable housing, offering a new chapter of service to the community. The Epworth United Methodist Church stands not just as a building, but as a story etched in stone. It speaks of faith, community, and the enduring spirit of a neighborhood.