History:

The History of Watertown and Codington County is well documented in many historical works. Likewise, the history of the First United Methodist Church of Watertown is also preserved in several anniversary issues that celebrated such milestones as the 75th anniversary and the centennial celebration which was held in 1979. In 2004, the First United Methodist Church of Watertown celebrated its 125th anniversary and, in honor of that event, the History and Archive Committee prepared a synopsis of each of the pastors that have served this congregation from its beginnings in 1879. In doing this, we have relied heavily on the work that has preceded us and thank those before us for their commitment and dedication to keeping alive the history of our congregation.

Briefly, Watertown came into existence in July of 1878 and its streets were plotted in September of that year, although it was not officially incorporated until May 30, 1880. As settlers poured into the region, aided by the arrival of the Winona and St. Peter Railroad and the many other railroads that followed, the organization of churches was one of the basic pillars of civilization that was quickly established in the community to tend to the spiritual needs of the hardy pioneers that settled this pristine land.