New York Hill Methodist Church

History

The earliest congregation of the New York Hill Methodist Church met in the Brunswick City Park in 1893 with hymnals and pews loaned by the Reformed Church. It was then decided to locate in an area of Brunswick known as New York Hill. A tent was secured from Washington and erected on a lot at the corner of 9th Avenue and B Street, but severe weather dictated the need for a more permanent structure for the eighteen families who were members. After the B&O Railroad donated the corner lot at 9th and Park Avenue to the congregation, a cornerstone was laid on November 7,1894, and the front portion of church was built. The current sanctuary and pastor's office are part of the original building. An educational unit was built around 1917-18, providing Sunday School rooms, a large kitchen and social hall as they exist today.

The church has had 33 ministers over its history, with Rev. J. W. Seay staying the longest, about eight years. Consideration of a new parsonage resulted in a $48,000 structure at 30 Eighth Avenue being realized after the arrival of Rev. George Earl. $300 was spent for the same purpose in 1897.

Late in 1989, New York Hill Methodist joined with First United Methodist to become the Brunswick United Methodist Cooperative Parish with each congregation continuing to meet in their respective buildings but sharing one pastor, Rev. George Earl.

W - Lorayne Ridenbaugh Feaster