The first Methodist church in Jefferson was located in West Jefferson. Over time, additional Methodist churches were established in the Jefferson hamlet, East Jefferson, and Morseville, located between Jefferson and Summit along State Route 10.

The West Jefferson church was destroyed by fire in 1925, the Morseville church was dismantled in 1936, and the East Jefferson church, located along the West Kill, closed in 1967. Today, only its front façade remains standing.

The remaining Methodist church in Jefferson was originally built in 1844 at the west end of Main Street. In 1859, the structure was relocated by oxen to the southeast corner of the Town Green and then moved again a short distance north in 1957. The original building was quite simple and resembled many churches of its era, featuring a front-facing gable. Over the years, numerous additions and renovations have altered its appearance so extensively that it now barely resembles the original structure.

Kevin Berner, President of the Jefferson Historical Society, will present a program on the history of the Methodist Church in Jefferson on Sunday, May 17, at 2 p.m. The presentation will take place in Judd Hall, located at 163 Main Street in Jefferson, and will be followed by a tour of the church at 158 Main Street.

This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served at the church.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Photo: The Jefferson Methodist Church ca 1900-1910.