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.
First United Methodist Church, Rushville, Illinois — Photograph from the book cover
“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.
Pioneer Beginnings
Worship in the Calvin Hobart cabin, where one of Schuyler County's earliest Methodist societies took root in 1823.
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.
Stained Glass & Architecture
Light through glass — the church's windows hold the congregation's memory.
View the photo galleryAuthor portrait to come
The Author
Preserving the Stories That Connect Generations.
Marjorie Ann Parish is the author of The History of the First United Methodist Church, a commemorative account of the Rushville, Illinois, congregation. Her work brings together historical research, community recollections, and photographs to preserve the church's story for future generations.
Marjorie is the author of Sweetheart Letters and the article “A Maid Right Saturday Night,” published in Our Iowa magazine.
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.
Purchase details will appear here as soon as they are confirmed.
“Behind every building are the people who gave it life.”