Bethel UMC History

Bethel UMC traces its beginning to a brush arbor meeting, held on the banks of a nearby pond, in 1834. Since that time, it has had a continuous presence in the lives of families and individuals in this community. We invite you to find out more about the history of the church, the congregation, and the community. Here you'll find a written history of Bethel and other items that document events in the recent and distant past.

Brief History - This is a brief account of Bethel's history that has appeared on the back of the bulletin covers. It was prepared by the church historian at that time, Thelma Royce.
History Booklet - This is a longer history of Bethel, which was begun in 1947 by Dr. W.F.Dunkle & Mrs. Lilla Crowder Burns and has been extended several times through the years.
20-Questions about Bethel's Past - This is the history of a list of informational to whimsical Questions (and "answers") about Bethel first compiled in 2001 but which has reappeared periodically in various forms up to 2022.
Picture Library - This page provides access to several collections of pictures/photos from Bethel's past to more recent.
From the "Archives" - This page provides access to a variety of materials, including old Membership books, attendance records and cemetery records.
Bethel Cemetery - This is a link to the entry for Bethel UMC Cemetery in the Find A Grave web site. Click here for a list of all Bethel Cemetery memorials in that site. (Note: The information at this site has not been entered or maintained by Bethel.)
Musical Instruments - This is a link to a page on "Musical Instruments"...not really a part of Bethel's Archives, but something that might be of interest to some of the youth, and perhaps others. (peb)