Our Church
Brief History
Methodists have a strong tradition of proclaiming Christ on the north shore of the Manatee River. Records indicate the first sermon by a Methodist Circuit Rider was preached by a Rev Harrell in 1867 in a log cabin which served as the school for the Lamb family. The log cabin was located under six towering oaks on the river front just down from the current location of the church. Before the organization of the church people in Palmetto travelled across the river to attend services at what is now Manatee United Methodist Church. The Methodist Church in Palmetto was organized in 1882 and first met in members homes until the original sanctuary was built on the northeast corner of 10th Avenue and 5th Street adjacent to the Post Office. The Cast Iron Bell that is outside the Fellowship Hall was in the original sanctuary. It was purchsed in 1895 for $40.00. When that sanctuary was replaced it was put in storage until it was placed in its current location. Members still like to ring it on the way into worship.
This community of faith has weathered many storms in its history. In the 1880's the town survived a yellow fever epidemic. Between 1900 and 1910 there were waves of scarlet fever, typhoid fever, and diptheria, to the point that public gatherings including worship would be suspended until the crisis passed. A strong women's society ministered to the sick during these times as well as generously supporting world missions.
The current sanctuary was constructed in 1924. The impressive brick design includes a bsaement, unusual for Florida. In 1952 the Youth of the church led fund raising for the Sunday School Building. The sacntuary was remodeled and expanded in 1958 and also had a major restoration in 1997. As a part of the Centennial Celebration in 1982 the current Fellowship Hall was constructed.
