Dear Friends:

Within the Village of Brockport, the Methodists were the first to erect their own church building, although the congregation known as the Methodist Espicopal Church of Brockport was not organized until December 10, 1827. Circuit Riders previously conducted services in private homes, later in hotels or schoolhouses. The first church, located on the north side of Market Street, was constructed of brick with a steeple containing a bell which called people to worship and was also used as the alarm in case of fire. It was dedicated in January 1829 at an expense of $3,000. John Copeland was the first pastor.

A history of our congregation & church referenced from "Town of Sweden Sesqui-Centennial Celebration, 1814 -1964", a commemorative booklet, created and instituted entirely by community volunteers. Also used were  historical materials  found in the BUM Church Library: Brockport United Methodist Church Historical Records booklet, which contains information from  "125 years of Methodism", "150 years of Methodism", Trustees books, Ladies Aid Society minutes, Probationer's Companion, Commemorative bulletins & SUNY Brockport Library articles from the Brockport Republic newspaper, Brockport, NY.: A narrative of that place (and the place of this narrative) (author believed to be Mary Smith)

Brockport United Methodist Church
Building Milestones

• 1827 Church founded.
• 1828 First church building occupied on Market St. approximately where Muesey's is located. Building cost $3,000.
• 1871 Present parsonage purchased for $3,000.
• 1875 Original building sold and worship services moved to Free Will Baptist Church.
• 1876 Present property purchased by Trustees.
• 1877 Present main church building dedicated on Dec. 12, 1877.
• 1912 Present church was improved with a kitchen, the choir loft.
• 1913 Moeller organ was installed.
• 1914 The Daughters of the American Revolution installed the clock in the South tower.
• 1950 The church organ was electrified.
• The Sunday School rooms were remodeled.
• A lot was purchased on Fourth Section Rd. for possible future relocation.
• 1969 Parsonage redecorated.
• 1970 Church foyer was remodeled and carpeted.
• 1973 Several substantial bequests put into growth funds for future building plans.
• 1974 Administrative Board appointed Planning Task Force to look at physical needs of the church.
• 1975 Decision to stay downtown and renovate and build addition was made.
• 1979 First plans drawn.
• 1980- Phase I Renovation completed.
• 1981 Clock Renovation by Village - successful fund drive to get pledges for Building Program.
• 1982 Contract for new building approved, ground breaking for new addition, bond program successful to finance addition, organ moved forward and rebuilding begun. Church dedication with Bishop.