Our History
In November of 1875, a few of the pioneers in Garden Grove met at the home of Dr. A.G. Cook to organize a Methodist Church. When the school house was built on Main Street, the congregation moved there for services.
The first wooden building, measuring 28′ x 40′, was completed and used for services beginning in 1879. The congregation delayed dedication of the building, however, until it was completely paid for in August of 1880.
Subsequently, the small congregation added classrooms, a belfrey, and stained glass windows. This small sanctuary, which seated about 100 people, served as a place of worship until early 1920’s/ Under the leadership of Rev. William Harkness, the plans for expansion were considered, and a fine new church was built.
This new building was quite different from the previous “little village church”. When the building was dedicated in 1922, the white stucco walls and red tile roof reminded all who saw it that this was a church of the mission style of architecture. Inside, formal oaken pews seated about 250.
Then the sanctuary was expanded at either side, where the doors had open in to the Sunday School rooms, so that with space in the balcony, about 400 worshippers could be seated.
This building also contained all of the offices, social hall and the kitchen. The estimated cost was $ 40,000, but the actual figure upon completion exceed that amount.
In 1955, the Mills Building was completed and occupied. Consisting of 8 classrooms and a large meeting room, it was followed by the building containing Fellowship Hall, school rooms, lounge, nursery, kitchen and additional Sunday School rooms. Built with much volunteer labor, the building was occupied in 1959.
By 1965, the present Administration building was in use. On February 26 1967, during the pastorate of Dr. Robert Washer the present day sanctuary was dedicated.
Today’s UMC of Garden Grove is a home to some 1000 members, with an average Sunday attendance of 564. A fine music program, a week-day nursery school, an exciting educational program, and inspiring services help to answer the needs of the congregation.
