New Bethel Methodist Church

Guthrie County Historical Village

The Presbyterian Mission Society started the first church in Guthrie County in 1856.

The New Bethel Methodist Church was organized in 1875 with the first religious service being held in the Bethel schoolhouse, or Bear Grove #8. This school sat at the SW corner of Sec. 27, Bear Grove Twp. For many years, pastors would come and go, and services continued to be held in the schoolhouse.

At this time, New Bethel was one of five churches on the North Branch circuit. The other churches were Bowman Chapel, Diamond Dell, Greeley Center, and Wichita. Greeley Center was first to drop out, then Diamond Dell closed. In 1946, Wichita obtained a resident pastor. The next year New Bethel left the North Branch circuit and joined Adair Methodist.

Some of the early settlers instrumental in organizing the first church were: L. B. Tabor, Ann Tabor, Minerva Tabor, Delia Warner, Adda Jobes, Jessie Spitler, Alta Spitler, J. B. Spangler, and Martha Spangler. As years passed, several more names were added to the membership list: Josephine Merrill, Helen Jobes, Amos Spangler, Emmeline Spangler. By the turn of the century, the following were members: Tillie Spangler, Vernon Spangler, Maggie Long, Andy Long, Lettie Warner, Frank Warner, and Jennie Lemon.

In the year 1913, through the determined efforts of the members, a movement was started to erect the present church building to be called New Bethel. The community rallied and everyone did his or her part. Roney Hurd gave the land for the church. Josh Kirkwood donated the sand and gravel. The rest of the materials were purchased at the Adair Lumber Company and hauled with team and wagon.

Some of the active members at the time the church was built were: Nellie and Powell Randel, Minnie Huston and family, Mrs. Mame Martin and daughters, Clarence and Jennie Kirkwood, the Bert Kirkwoods, and many others. Rev. Schwick was pastor at the time the church was built.

Soon after New Bethel left the North Branch Circuit in 1947, the first remodeling of any consequence was done. The basement was enlarged and a modern kitchen was installed. A library, classrooms, and a larger vestibule were built. Walls were painted, a furnace installed, and a new rug added, too. It is believed that the stain-glass windows were also installed. In June 1963 new pews were purchased and installed.

On October 27, 1985, the New Bethel Church held its last regular service. After 72 years, the church building was donated to the Guthrie County Conservation Board and plans were made to move it to the Historical Village. The relocation project was funded entirely by private donations; no tax money was used. The church held an auction to sell extra items left in the church and the funds were used to build the church's new foundation at the Village. The church arrived at the Historical Village in the Spring of 1986.

GCHV:  phone 641.755.2989  |  email gchv@netins.net  |  206 W South St—Panora, IA  50216

For special occasions, such as weddings and anniversaries, the church is available for rental to the public.

 

If you are interested in reserving the church for a special event or social gathering, please call the Historical Village at 641.755.2989 or send an email for more information.

The New Bethel Church is Available for Special Occasions