History
Useful Links
The United Methodist Church was created on April 23, 1968, when The Evangelical United Brethren Church and The Methodist Church united to form a new denomination.
But Methodism in the U.S. dates back to 1736 when John and Charles Wesley came to the New World to spread the movement they began as students in England. United Methodists share a historic connection to other Methodist and Wesleyan bodies.
In this section, you will find stories and useful links to help you learn more about the roots of our denomination and trace developments that led us to today.
The United Methodist Church has an agency dedicated to preserving the rich history of the denomination. Visit the Archives and History site »
Formation of The United Methodist Church
What is the story of The United Methodist Church? Learn more about how the denomination was born and about the people and issues that shaped it. Read More
History Features
Read more about the people, places and events that have shaped the rich texture of The United Methodist Church. Read More
An Eye on History
The United Methodist Church has a rich history. The videos in this section will help that history come to life in words and pictures. Share the links or download the... View
Notable Women in History
Meet women who made noteworthy contributions in the Methodist tradition. Read More
Methodist History: The What and Why of Love Feasts
John Wesley was influenced by the Moravians in adopting this Christian fellowship meal as a way of building community in the early days of Methodism. View
Peter Cartwright: Memorable Methodist Circuit Rider
This colorful, early Methodist challenged Abraham Lincoln for political office and won 8-10,000 souls for Christ. View
Barratt’s Chapel: Independence Hall of American Methodism
Get a drone's eye view of the site where ‘the first truly American-born denomination’ came together. View
Do you know why we are called United Methodists?
The United Methodist Church was born in April. Learn more about how our denomination got its name and why it matters how you say it. Read More
Methodist History: Tiffany Church Windows
A preservationist offers a quick way to tell if stained glass windows are valuable Tiffany originals. View
Where was the first Methodist annual conference in America?
The first annual conference in America was held in 1773 at a church that is still in existence today. Read More
James Lawson: Befriending James Earl Ray After MLK’s Death
A United Methodist pastor and close friend of Martin King's explains why he reached out to the man accused of killing the civil rights icon. View
Christmas Carols at United Methodist Landmark
Step back in time and enjoy traditional hymns at Barratt's Chapel. “Worshipers were singing those same carols here, same notes, same words, 200 years ago, and that’s special.” View
Preserving Methodist Life Stories
Archivist helps families bring the stories of Methodist preachers and lay people to life. View
To Be United Methodist: What is “itineracy”?
Founder John Wesley was a circuit rider who set up a system the church still uses today. Learn why pastors move and who decides. More