History of Our Church

Burlington United Methodist Church was founded in 1857, shortly after the town of Burlington was laid out, and some 3+ years prior to Kansas being granted statehood. The first service was held in an unfinished hotel, and succeeding services in other locations including private homes, until the first building was completed on Hudson Street. The congregation continued to grow and a new church building was erected in 1870 on 6th Street in Burlington. The Kansas Annual Conference was held at this site in March, 1882. The congregation had grown to 1050 members by 1927 and movement to construct a larger facility was begun. This movement was unsuccessful until 1954, at which time a new site had been donated and enough money found to proceed. The first structure that was built on the new site was an educational wing, now known as Garst Hall, completed in 1956. A sanctuary addition was completed in December 1960. This building, with some remodeling in the interim, continues to serve the Burlington congregation. Should you be interested in more information about our rich history, please call the church office.