First United Methodist Church / First United Methodist Church

The First United Methodist Church was designed by W. E. N. Hunter, a Detroit architect who specialized in church designs. The domed Beaux Arts-style building reflects a trend in using Early Christian architectural forms of the fourth and fifth centuries in early twentieth century churches. This church was completed in 1907 and retains its original semicircular auditorium plan interior and stained glass windows. The north window depicts the insignia of the Epworth League, a Methodist youth organization. In 1865 the Reverend W. J. Aldrich organized the first congregation in Big Rapids; it became the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1867. That year a frame church was built on this site. For many years the building served as a community center and was shared by members of the Presbyterian church. The present structure was dedicated on May 26, 1907. In February 1911 a fire damaged much of the building. The church reopened in time for Easter services on April 16.