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About Us
C o n t a c t U s
Reverend Margaret Gillikin
4th & D Streets, Salida, CO 81201
(719)539-2755
E-Mail: salidaumc@salidaumc.org
O u r H i s t o r y
Methodism arrived in the Salida area in 1863 under the direction of itinerant ministers, notable among whom was 'Father' John L. Dyer. It was not until 1883 that an organized congregation under the leadership of R.H. McDade came into being. These first meetings were held in the Presbyterian Church, but it soon became apparent there was a need for a building of their own. Land formerly belonging to Governor A.C. Hunt was purchased from Millie C. Ohmertz for $1.00. During the ministry of F.H. Essert, the beautiful brick building we have today was completed. Its dedication was held in 1900 shortly before Annual Conference convened in Salida.
Major renovations to the building since that time have included the expansion of the choir loft to accommodate the JOHN BROWN pipe organ installed in 1907. By the late 1930's there was need for a new fellowship hall and the ladies wanted a better kitchen. While the official board was trying to get around to act, Reverend H.C. Alley, pastor from 1937 -1941, picked up a shovel and started digging. He invited the men of the congregation to join him and a dedication dinner was held in 1938. The 1990's brought the need for a better facility for our aging congregation and the modern kitchen and fellowship hall we now enjoy was added.
Although ours is a historic structure of which we are justly proud, let us not forget that it is the many people who have passed through its doors that have preserved it for us. To quote from a 'church directory' published in 1903, "May it be true of the church of Salida that bears the name of Methodism that it shall continue to yield fruit unto righteousness for many scores of years."