The area was first served by
traveling circuit riders. After the church was organized in 1845,
the first church was built on Market Street. It was 35’x40’, with
a 16’ ceiling. The first pastor was Rev. R.J. Harp. The church
was shared with the Baptists and Presbyterians.
In 1881, plans began for larger
facilities. Two lots at the head of Texas Street were purchased on
March 15, 1882 for $2,700. The cornerstone was laid by Bishop A.V.
Wilson on January 8, 1883. Beginning in 1884, while construction
was still taking place, the congregation began to worship in the basement.
The church, with a seating capacity of 400, was dedicated almost seven
years later. The tower stood 165 feet tall.
With the congregation still
increasing, larger facilities were needed. In 1913, the present building
was constructed. It was later dedicated on September 18, 1932 with
Bishop Henry Clay Morrison leading the service.
Two more lots were purchased
in 1920 (for $20,000) and another in 1938 (for $3,000) to allow the facilities
to expand. The Dawson education building was constructed in 1939-40.
Additional property has been acquired since then to allow for even more
growth.
In 1950, the capacity of the
sanctuary was increased to 1300. Couch Chapel and the Hunter activities
building were added in 1964. In 1972, a steeple was added to the
church. The church now has a television studio, a Human Resource
Center, an Adult Education Building, a parking garage, and four parking
lots. |
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