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In the early years of Bismarck, during the year 1884, Rev. Ben Warren came to Bismarck from Caledonia, Missouri, and organized the Bismarck Methodist Church with the help of eleven ladies and the use of the red brick school house on the corner of Mulberry Street and Walnut Street.
At this time the Belleview Collegiate Institute, located in Caledonia, sent young student ministers to help until the first minister, Rev. McFarland, who came from Virginia in 1886, was assigned to the Bismarck charge. Although he seemed disappointed with his appointment, he moved into the Union Church and soon increased the membership to 28. Included in this membership and known by many in Bismarck are Mrs. Martha Tumbleson Steel, Mrs. Mattie Vineyard Templeton and Miss Leona Ross.
A great decision came in 1895, when Rev. Headley wanted to build a church. Mr. Henry Bisplinghoff gave the first $10 for the hauling of rock for the foundation. Mr. Thomas Barrett, Mr. George Beard and Mr. William Tumbleson gave $50 each to start the building, which was completed during 1896. This building was located at 906 Mulberry St., or the same location of the present church. It remained the same until 1911, when, under the leadership of Rev. Del Longgrear, it was remodeled.
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During the pastorate of Rev. T. L. Bess, and on Christmas Eve, 1934, the church was destroyed by fire. By this time the church had grown strong, and the membership went to work and the church was soon rebuilt. This house of worship was used until 1950. Rev. William Stewart was the pastor when the present church building was planned and built. All three church buildings have been on the same site, just across the street from the first building (the school house) used for the organizing of the Bismarck Methodist Church.
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The women organized the first Missionary Society, which today is the Women's Society of Christian Service, during the year 1898. The first president was Mrs. Clara Goeltz and the first secretary and treasurer was Mrs. Jim Wood.
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