First United Methodist Church of Bessemer

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The First United Methodist Church of Bessemer was a United Methodist church founded in 1887 and dissolved in 2010. It was located at Arlington Avenue South and 19th Street in downtown Bessemer.

The church building burned to the ground on November 24, 1928 and was rebuilt the following year. A pipe organ was added in 1930. During the 1950s the church averaged attendance of more than 1,000 per week and became known for its annual performances of George Frideric Handel's "Messiah" oratorio. The church also hosted many graduation ceremonies for Bessemer High School.

Dwindling membership forced the church to close. Gordon McKinney led its final service on March 7, 2010.

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References

  • Garrison, Greg (February 27, 2010) "123-year-old First United Methodist Church of Bessemer will close." Birmingham News
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