Methodism in the area began
with circuit riders in the early 1800s. It was firmly established
by 1832, and the first church was built at Oakley in 1838. It was
used as a school for a while during the Civil War. At the end of
the war, it was used as a mustering out place for the Tensas Calvary.
At the end of the 19th century,
a railroad was built through nearby Gilbert. The congregation decided
to move and built a frame church there in 1900. A larger two-story
brick structure was built in 1923 to accommodate the growing congregation.
Since it was large and had a Hammond Spinet organ, other denominations
used the church for special events.
Although the church had 158
members in 1943, its numbers have decreased over the years due to lack
of work in the area. The church building was showing its years and
was taken down in 1964-65. It was replaced with a smaller building. |
|
