History
The Chetopa: St. Paul UMC was originally organized in 1871 in the home of W.G. Claridy with people who migrated from other states, possibly from the south. From within that group in the Chetopa area, a church for black persons with a Methodist background was formed. During this time, St. Paul's was the only black church in Chetopa.
The was a definite need for blacks of all denominations to be served. The name of Second Methodist Church was chosen. The Methodist members had services in various homes until a suitable building was acquired. The first building was located north of the first jail on North Third Street in Chetopa. At that time, the main street of Chetopa ran north and south instead of east and west.
Later a building was acquired on the corner of Second and Walnut. Services were held there until 1888, when it was voted to build a new building. It was built at a cost of $1,000. The current building was dedicated by Bishop Ernest T. Dixon on August 17, 1980.
Additional Information
To learn more, please contact:
Chetopa: St Paul UMC
Rev. Mary Alice Knewtson
P.O. Box 303
Chetopa, KS 66725-0303
Telephone: 620- 236-7828