Pioneer Beginnings
Worship in the Calvin Hobart cabin, where one of Schuyler County's earliest Methodist societies took root in 1823.
Bicentennial Anniversary of the First United Methodist Church · Rushville, Illinois
Two Centuries of Faith. Generations of Stories.
Discover the people, places, and enduring faith behind First United Methodist Church in Rushville, Illinois, through the history preserved by Marjorie Ann Parish.
The Book
A commemorative history, gathered from the memories of two centuries.
“Behind every building are the people who gave it life.”
From early worship gatherings in frontier homes to the congregation's 2026 bicentennial, The History of the First United Methodist Church preserves a remarkable story of faith and community in Rushville, Illinois. Marjorie Ann Parish brings together historical accounts, personal recollections, photographs, and the contributions of generations of ministers, teachers, musicians, and volunteers. Through changing buildings, moments of loss, and enduring traditions, the book reveals how a congregation carried its faith forward.
Inside the History
Four threads run through two hundred years.
Faith Through Adversity
The 1918 fire and the congregation's rebuilding of its church, dedicated in 1919.
Music and Memory
Methodist music traditions carried across generations of worship, musicians, and memory.
Generations of Service
Ministers, teachers, musicians, and volunteers whose contributions sustain the congregation's story.
The Timeline
Step through the years.
Buildings and Places · Pioneer Beginnings
Early Methodist worship at the Calvin Hobart home
Pioneer settlers gathered for worship in the Calvin Hobart cabin home, establishing one of the earliest Methodist societies in Schuyler County — the roots from which the Rushville congregation grew.
People and Service · Organized Ministry
Organized Methodist ministry takes root
With organized Methodist ministry in place, the congregation's two-century story as a church body begins — the span commemorated by the 2026 bicentennial.
Buildings and Places · Organized Ministry
Fire destroys the church building
Fire destroyed the church building — a moment of loss recorded in the congregation's history. The people of the church responded by rebuilding together.
Worship and Music · Organized Ministry
The congregation dedicates its rebuilt church
Only a year after the fire, the congregation gathered to dedicate its rebuilt church — a renewal of worship that carried the church's traditions forward.
Education and Fellowship · Organized Ministry
Completion of the Fellowship Hall
The Fellowship Hall was completed, extending the church's space for gatherings, teaching, and shared life in the community.
Worship and Music · Organized Ministry
Bicentennial commemoration
The congregation commemorated two centuries of faith, including a June 27 gathering at the original Hobart site — returning to the place where the story began.
Stained Glass & Architecture
Light through glass — the church's windows hold the congregation's memory.
View the photo gallery
Get the Book
Bicentennial Anniversary of the First United Methodist Church
Marjorie Ann Parish · Rushville, Illinois
A commemorative account of the Rushville congregation's two centuries — from the Hobart cabin to the 2026 bicentennial.
Explore the Book
Purchase details will appear here as soon as they are confirmed.
“Behind every building are the people who gave it life.”