In 1851, Preacher-Missionary E.L. Briggs was sent to Chariton, part of the western most frontier, to establish a church.  Classes were being held in people’s homes and services were held in the courthouse – men sat on one side, women on the other. In October of that year Pastor Briggs gave the first sermon in Chariton by a person of any denomination.  Much of Pastor Briggs’ time was spent on horseback going from farm to farm for baptisms, weddings, funerals, and comforting the ill.  During that early time, a Methodist Society was formed with eight people and made up the first Official Board of the church.

More and more settlers were arriving in Lucas County, and it was time for a meeting house.  In 1853 the small frame wood building was erected and served well until 1864.  In the 1850’s many brick buildings were being erected around the Chariton square, and in 1864, the new brick church was built.  It was demolished in 1899 and the current block stone building was completed and consecrated in July of 1900.

Since then many renovations and additions have taken place resulting in the impressive church and education wing (1962) we have today.  What started with eight members in 1851, has grown to 400+ members today.