About Westville United Methodist Church
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For more than two centuries, Westville United Methodist Church has been a place of faith, fellowship, and community in Champaign County, Ohio.
Early Beginnings
As Ohio became a state in 1803 and Champaign County was formed in 1805, pioneers began settling in the Mad River Township area. Among the first was William Owens, who arrived from Virginia in 1797 and later became a member of the Nettle Creek Baptist Church. By 1816, Westville had been officially laid out, with families and businesses beginning to establish roots.
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The First Methodist Gathering
The Methodist movement in the area began in 1801, when Rev. James Davidson preached under a large maple tree on the land of Ezekiel Arrowsmith—possibly the first public religious gathering in Champaign County. By 1811, a society had been formally organized, and in 1812, members built their first log church just west of Westville. The congregation worshiped there for 30 years, singing hymns without instruments and gathering in humble surroundings.
Growth & New Buildings
In 1841, the congregation erected a brick church known as The Stevens Meeting House. It served the community until a fire on Christmas Day in 1876. The following year, a new sanctuary was built and dedicated as Westville Methodist Church—the building that still stands today.
For decades, Westville was part of a multi-church circuit, sharing pastors with nearby congregations. In 1949, the church expanded with a major addition for classrooms and fellowship space. Later improvements included stained glass windows, a new organ and piano, remodeled facilities, and a redesigned kitchen.
For decades, Westville was part of a multi-church circuit, sharing pastors with nearby congregations. In 1949, the church expanded with a major addition for classrooms and fellowship space. Later improvements included stained glass windows, a new organ and piano, remodeled facilities, and a redesigned kitchen.
Milestones of Faith
- Centennial Celebration (1877–1977): Over 450 people gathered for a weekend of worship, fellowship, and community fun.
- Bicentennial Celebration (2002): A special service, luncheon, and community barbecue honored 200 years of ministry.
- Fellowship Hall (2002): A new addition provided even more space for meals, gatherings, and outreach.
Today
Since its founding, 131 pastors have served Westville UMC over the course of 224 years. From its first log church to today’s vibrant congregation, Westville United Methodist Church remains committed to sharing the love of Christ through worship, service, and community
