Crossing the Jordan River is a central symbol for the congregation at Washington Park United Methodist Church. This Denver church has deep roots in the community. It actively remembers its past. This helps shape its future.
Washington Park United Methodist Church has a rich history. The congregation was organized in 1893. The current church building dates back to 1919. Throughout its history, the church has quickly grown out of each building. The church building celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019.
The story of Washington Park United Methodist Church begins even earlier. In 1880, Frank Lort crossed the Elk River in Maryland. He sought a cure for Hattie Lort’s asthma in Colorado. Frank bought a house at 725 S. High St. The Lorts were devout Methodists. They attended services at Trinity. They later switched to Grant Avenue Methodist. They desired a church closer to home for their children.
F.A. Bailey offered lots in Myrtle Hill. The Lort sisters learned about Rev. John Collins. He planned to start a church in Arapahoe County. They offered their house for Sunday School. On February 5, 1893, 20 children and 15 adults gathered. This marked the humble beginning of the church.
The community decided to build a church. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bailey donated five lots. These lots were at the corner of Tennessee and High streets. This would be the first community building. The Methodist Mission Board provided a loan. The University of Denver Chancellor formally opened the church on Sept. 3. On Oct. 8, 1893, 15 members signed a charter.
The church continued to grow despite a typhoid fever epidemic. It was a community institution. It provided space for gatherings. By 1916, there were 343 members. A new building was needed. Dr. Nuckolls was appointed minister. They started with a $12,000 goal. They ended with $70,000. WWI began. John Evans donated the land. The church was renamed Washington Park Community Methodist Church. The Red Cross used two rooms for 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 Dec. 29, 1918. The church continued to serve the community. It housed a branch of the Denver Public Library until 1930.
Washington Park United Methodist Church supported the University of Denver. They provided a scholarship for 40 years. In 1924, two more lots were purchased. In 1925, the Steinway grand piano was purchased. The church helped start Highlands and Grace Methodist churches.
The church decided to spend as much for others as for themselves. In 1962, it was a top church in giving to missions worldwide. On Easter Sunday 1961, 2,187 people attended. In 1973, the church gave its pipe organ to Aspen. They bought a digital organ. In 1975, they sponsored a Vietnamese family.
Washington Park United Methodist Church is more than just a building. It is a beacon of hope. It is a place where people belong. It is a cornerstone in the Washington Park area. The church welcomes all to join in worship. It is a place for service, fellowship, and spiritual growth. Whoever you are, wherever you are in your life, you are welcome here.