Bethel’s History

Bethel United Methodist Church is a church built on love. The original structure's stone foundation was laid in 1859 on land given by David W. Frye. As the construction of the sanctuary began, workers freely gave of their time and talents. Logs for the structure were hand-hewn and many are still intact. As soon as the roof was in place, regular worship and Sunday School services began, and continue to this day. Bethel started as a community or "free" church and later entered the Methodist organization. The church was also used for educational purposes until the erection of a one-room schoolhouse adjacent to the church.

The remainder of Mr. Frye's land was cleared for development into a subdivision, leaving many tree stumps to enhance the view. As a result, the church's surrounding community received its current nickname, "Stumptown." The subdivision was not entirely successful, but this once small community has grown steadily throughout the years. Bethel, however, always sustained its country charm with wonderful ham and turkey suppers, special

Bethel Outing circa 1959

revival and prayer services, Homecoming, apple butter making, festivals and picnics, and the much joked about lack of indoor plumbing.                                       

Bethel's dream of indoor plumbing becamea reality with the addition of new Sunday School rooms, a great room, basement with a fireplace, a beautiful new kitchen, and three indoor bathrooms. The dedication ceremony was held in the Spring of 1997. Countless fundraisers and donations of labor and love, not only by church members, but of the community as well, has made Bethel's strides into the 21st century possible. In 1998, the church purchased an adjoining property, christened "God's Acre," with prospects for future expansion.

The wonderful church has a rich and beautify history, and is to many a reminder of Christ's humility and acceptance of all who will love Him. So as you look among the faces on this web site, individuals giving their time and talents to the glory of God, enjoying fellowship, studying God's work, inviting new members, serving at endless fundraisers, perhaps you will be reminded of those who burgeoned the land and created

Bethel Today

this place of worship. May you also gain a glimpse into the strong sense of community and the "free" spirit that we have inherited from this one special place on Earth: Bethel Church.