Our Church History

 

 

The Baptist society of Wauconda was formed in the fall of 1838 and was more fully organized in 1840 with 11 charter members. The Methodist church was organized in September 1853, but held meetings as early as 1840.

 

 

 

The first church building was erected in 1855-56 and was occupied by both the Baptist and Methodist congregations on alternating Sundays until 1870 when the Baptists erected their own building across the street, near the old train station, at a cost of $5,537.88. At this time, both denominations worshiped every Sunday in their respective buildings. 

 

                                                                                                               

 

 

In 1915, both churches met to work out the Federated plans: They would worship together with alternating pastors – the first being a Methodist, the next a Baptist. Each group would keep their denominational connections. Worship services were held in the Methodist Church and the Baptist Church was used as a community center. Dedication services were held on June 23, 1925.

 

 

 

 

In 1929, when State Route 176 was built through Wauconda, it took the ground upon which the Methodist Church stood. At this time, the Methodist building was moved across the street and connected to the Baptist Church. Remodeling continued until 1935 when a new brick veneer was added. The joined structure was dedicated at this time. 

 

We presently worship in the original Baptist sanctuary while the Sunday School, sacristy, and lounge are housed in the section which was the former Methodist building.

 

 

 

 

 

The beautiful oil-on-canvas “Christ in Gethsemane” which adorns the wall over our altar was painted by renowned stained glass artist Oliver Croydon and his wife Ruth. The piece was dedicated on Palm Sunday, 1935. This is Oliver’s interpretation of the 1890 work of Heinrich Hoffman. Ruth Croydon and their son, Fred, were members of our congregation.