Picture this. You stand before the First United Methodist Church of Seattle. Its current location isn’t the church’s first home. In fact it’s not even its second.
The First United Methodist Church of Seattle boasts a rich history. It’s Seattle’s oldest church founded in 1853 just two years after the Denny party arrived at Alki. The first service? A humble gathering in a log cabin. Imagine Reverend David Blaine the first resident pastor delivering his sermons to a small congregation.
This wasn’t always a grand church. The congregation started small. It began with four members Arthur and Mary Denny John Nagle and Catharine Blaine. This tiny group met in various locations. One of these was Guthrie Latimer’s house. They eventually built the “Little White Church”. This modest building served the growing city for years.
But Seattle boomed. The church’s growth mirrored the city’s explosive population increase. It moved from the “Little White Church” to a larger Gothic Revival style church. This building too proved too small. The 1906-1907 regrading of 3rd Avenue forced another move. This necessitated services held temporarily in a tent and even a theater. This leads to the construction of the impressive Beaux Arts building. James Schack and Daniel Huntington designed it. Construction began in 1907. The sanctuary with its 66-foot high ceiling brick and terra cotta facade was completed and dedicated in 1910.
The church wasn’t without its trials. A landmark designation was challenged in court. It was deemed unconstitutional. Threat of demolition loomed. However the congregation found a solution. A deal was struck with developers. This ensured the preservation of the historic sanctuary. The church relocated to its current building in 2010. This shows the church’s enduring spirit.
Today the First United Methodist Church of Seattle stands as a testament to resilience. It’s a vital part of Seattle’s fabric. It continues to serve its community offering shelter and support. It is a beacon of hope. It provides a safe haven for the homeless and hungry. The church’s legacy continues. It carries on the tradition of faith and service. The First United Methodist Church of Seattle is more than just a building. It’s a living testament to faith perseverance and community.