Our History

The history of First United Methodist Church of Whitesboro reaches back to the earliest days of the community and reflects the long Methodist tradition of serving both settlers and the surrounding region.

Before Whitesboro was officially established, Methodist circuit riders were already ministering in the area. Historical records indicate that before 1850, a Methodist missionary known as Rev. Blue built a simple log church near what is now the old section of Oakwood Cemetery. The church served both Native Americans and the scattered white settlers living along the Texas frontier. This was the first known house of worship in the area.

As the town of Whitesboro grew after its founding in 1856, Methodist worship continued to flourish. By about 1879, the Methodist congregation had constructed one of the community's first church buildings. Along with the Baptist and Presbyterian churches, it became an important part of the spiritual and civic life of the young town. By 1895, Whitesboro was home to several denominations, with the Methodist church serving a growing congregation.

Over the decades, the congregation expanded its ministry through worship, Sunday school, missions, music, and community outreach. Like many Methodist churches, it experienced several denominational name changes:

• Methodist Episcopal Church, South
• The Methodist Church (1939)
• First United Methodist Church (1968), following the merger of The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church that created The United Methodist Church.

Today, First United Methodist Church of Whitesboro continues that legacy from its campus at 122 S. Union Street, seeking to be a welcoming congregation where people of all ages can grow in faith, serve their neighbors, and experience the love of Christ.