Finley United Methodist Church
47°30'43.1"N 97°50'10.5"W
Corner of ND-200 & 4th Street
Finley, Steele County, North Dakota 58230
47°30'43.1"N 97°50'10.5"W
Corner of ND-200 & 4th Street
Finley, Steele County, North Dakota 58230
Finley United Methodist Church, Finley, ND 1897-1997
During 1897, J.F. (Col.) Bistline and A.K. Cockrane spearheaded the building of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Rev. Collins was the first of a long line of ministers who have cared for our parishioners.
In 1909, a parsonage was built, the church was remodeled and the Epworth League formed. The beautiful stained-glass window was their gift to our church. The years since 1966 have seen many renovations, a large carpeted entryway, a remodeled kitchen, basement, heating system, electrical wiring, bathroom, new carpeting and organ. The parsonage was torn down. The roof cupola was removed, and the bell later placed permanently at ground level on a brick-faced concrete platform with a granite plaque on the front.
The Methodist Episcopal Church and the Evangelical United Brethren merged nation-wide, and our church became The United Medthodist Church during 1968.
Our membership has decreased through the years to a fairly steady group of 35-42 people. Throughout the years our people have been faithful in their service to our Lord and the care of His Church.
Limited Edition 1 of 150
Info from - back of Finley United Methodist Church plate.
During 1897, J.F. (Col.) Bistline and A.K. Cockrane spearheaded the building of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Rev. Collins was the first of a long line of ministers who have cared for our parishioners.
In 1909, a parsonage was built, the church was remodeled and the Epworth League formed. The beautiful stained-glass window was their gift to our church. The years since 1966 have seen many renovations, a large carpeted entryway, a remodeled kitchen, basement, heating system, electrical wiring, bathroom, new carpeting and organ. The parsonage was torn down. The roof cupola was removed, and the bell later placed permanently at ground level on a brick-faced concrete platform with a granite plaque on the front.
The Methodist Episcopal Church and the Evangelical United Brethren merged nation-wide, and our church became The United Medthodist Church during 1968.
Our membership has decreased through the years to a fairly steady group of 35-42 people. Throughout the years our people have been faithful in their service to our Lord and the care of His Church.
Limited Edition 1 of 150
Info from - back of Finley United Methodist Church plate.

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
The United Methodist Church was built in 1897, the first to be built in Finley. Originally called Methodist Episcopal, it was united in a nation-wide movement, with the Evangelical United Brethren in 1968, and the name changed to United Methodist.
The first church building was built mostly by J. F. (Col.) Bistline, and A. K. Cochrane. Col. Bistline was the grandfather of Mrs. Herman Martinson and Mrs. Charles Moores of our present congregation. The first pastor was Rev. Collins.
After the first school burned, classes were held in the church until the school was rebuilt. In the afternoon the Lutheran congregation used it for services from 1904 until 1908 when their new church was ready for use.
The church was remodeled in 1909-10. A basement, entry and side rooms were added. In 1966 a larger carpeted entrance was added, and in 1971 the church was completely rewired, and new light fixtures put in the basement.
Memorial gifts have been many. Among the larger ones are the electric organ and the record player with amplifier which sends hymns and Christmas carols from our steeple for the enjoyment of all.
Many helpful and dedicated pastors have filled the pulpit. Rev. Clarence Palmer, who lives in Hope, came to this church in 1968 from South Dakota, and is the present pastor.
Sunday School superintendent is Mrs. Glen Plaisted. President of the W.S.C.S. is Mrs. Elmer Gilbertson. Leader of Methodist Youth Fellowship is Glen Plaisted.
The Methodist church has continued to be active through the years. Many families in our congregation have come and gone. How grateful we have been for their help and inspiration. We hope that we may continue to serve for many years to come.
The Finley United Methodist Church will observe its 75th anniversary September 10, 1972. Bishop James Armstrong will be present.
Info from - Finley 75th, Diamond Jubilee, 1897-1972 (page 16)
The United Methodist Church was built in 1897, the first to be built in Finley. Originally called Methodist Episcopal, it was united in a nation-wide movement, with the Evangelical United Brethren in 1968, and the name changed to United Methodist.
The first church building was built mostly by J. F. (Col.) Bistline, and A. K. Cochrane. Col. Bistline was the grandfather of Mrs. Herman Martinson and Mrs. Charles Moores of our present congregation. The first pastor was Rev. Collins.
After the first school burned, classes were held in the church until the school was rebuilt. In the afternoon the Lutheran congregation used it for services from 1904 until 1908 when their new church was ready for use.
The church was remodeled in 1909-10. A basement, entry and side rooms were added. In 1966 a larger carpeted entrance was added, and in 1971 the church was completely rewired, and new light fixtures put in the basement.
Memorial gifts have been many. Among the larger ones are the electric organ and the record player with amplifier which sends hymns and Christmas carols from our steeple for the enjoyment of all.
Many helpful and dedicated pastors have filled the pulpit. Rev. Clarence Palmer, who lives in Hope, came to this church in 1968 from South Dakota, and is the present pastor.
Sunday School superintendent is Mrs. Glen Plaisted. President of the W.S.C.S. is Mrs. Elmer Gilbertson. Leader of Methodist Youth Fellowship is Glen Plaisted.
The Methodist church has continued to be active through the years. Many families in our congregation have come and gone. How grateful we have been for their help and inspiration. We hope that we may continue to serve for many years to come.
The Finley United Methodist Church will observe its 75th anniversary September 10, 1972. Bishop James Armstrong will be present.
Info from - Finley 75th, Diamond Jubilee, 1897-1972 (page 16)