Bastrop - Cedar Creek Edition | July 2025

History

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Spanning a full city block in Bastrop’s historic downtown, the First United Methodist Church of Bastrop preserves nearly two centuries of local history—its sanctuary building celebrating 100 years, while the congregation traces its origins back 190 years. From informal gatherings led by lay preachers during a time when Protestant worship was prohib- ited under Mexican rule to becoming an established presence in Bastrop with a dedicated sanctuary and community programs, the story of FUMC reects nearly two centuries of adaptation and continuity while honoring its foundation. The past FUMC’s roots date to 1835, when lay preacher James Gilliland led Bastrop’s rst Methodist service near its current site, according to church documents. Standing atop a barrel with a Bible and hymnal, he preached to 11 people seated on planks balanced on barrels. After years of meeting outdoors and in homes, the group built its rst permanent structure in 1851. Russell Bistline, chair of the commemoration committee, said the original building was damaged by a lightning strike in 1923. The current structure was completed two years later—when the 17-rank, 787-pipe organ was donated. The present FUMC recently welcomed the Rev. David Felps, who grew up in the church before leaving for col- lege. Felps said he was appointed to return as pastor in early July, though the bishop did so without knowing his connection to the congregation. “I am so excited about returning to this church that has been a faithful part of the community for over a century,” Felps said. “When I think about all the lives that have been touched in that time, I am in awe and honored to be returning.” The future Bistline said the congregation plans to continue supporting the community through preschool, child care, exercise classes, food distribution, clothing drives, educational programs and more. “Our vision is to share God’s love with the Bastrop community,” he said. “We want to be the church home for a new generation of parents and their children.” Bastrop church marks nearly 200 years of heritage, outreach

The Venetian stained glass windows, pews and the communion rail were moved from the original 1851 church two blocks away and incorporated into the 1925 building at the corner of Farm and Main streets.

COURTESY FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

First United Methodist Church milestones Tracing 190 years of worship and community in historic downtown Bastrop, plus a glimpse at what lies ahead

1835

First Methodist service led by James Gilliland near current site First permanent church building constructed

1851

Original building damaged by lightning 1923 Current sanctuary completed 1925

The brick sanctuary building was completed on donated land in 1925 for $40,000.

Bell moved to newly built bell tower 1928 July Felps returns as pastor 2025

Aug. 17-Sept. 30 Centennial exhibit displayed in FUMC Fellowship Hall Dec. Featured community spot in Bastrop Holiday Homes Tour July 7-Aug. 15 Centennial exhibit displayed at Bastrop Museum

FARMST.

1201 Main Street, Bastrop www.fumcbastrop.org

Russell Bistline said the pipe organ was donated in 1925 in memory of Sally McCord, organist from 1880 to 1922.

BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION