The first building constructed as the North Ontario United Methodist Church was made of cut lake stones around 1835. In 1860, the lake stone building was torn down. A new, brick building was constructed on the same foundation. The bricks were made on a nearby farm and painted with sour beer to give them their color. It is reported that one of the workers had to be barred from the painting process because he too frequently sampled the “paint.”

After the church was dedicated in 1867, a member purchased a bell from a foundry in Troy. Shipped to Palmyra, the bell was picked up by two younger members of the church. People prayed as the young men made the journey to Palmyra and back that the bell would arrive safely. It did.

In 1922, evangelist, Leman A. Robie, was employed as pastor. A young woman from Homer, who enjoyed listening to Robie, assisted with the evangelistic meetings. When Robie left in October, the congregation asked the lady from Homer, Miss Hattie Alvord, to remain as a supply pastor. After some training, Miss Alvord was ordained and served as pastor until 1940.

In 1974, the church decided to try conducting outdoor services during the summer. People could sit in their cars and even take communion. This custom was enjoyed so much, a gazebo was built at the end of the parking lot with a sound system. The practice of summer outdoor services continues today.

Thanks to church historian, Loreen Jorgensen, for images and historic information.