First United Methodist Church Exhibit | Celebrating 100 Years at 1201 Main Street

Step into the rich history of one of Bastrop’s most enduring landmarks with our special exhibit on Bastrop's First United Methodist Church. Explore over 100 years of faith, architecture, and community as we showcase rare photographs, archival documents, and cherished artifacts from the church’s first construction in 1851 to its modern-day role in Bastrop’s spiritual and cultural life.

Learn how this historic congregation weathered wars, fires, and floods, all while serving as a cornerstone of the town’s identity. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or longtime resident, this exhibit offers a meaningful look at the story of Bastrop through the lens of one remarkable church.

Robbie Sanders, Exhibit Curator, said of the exhibit, “Our exhibit highlights people who donated the historic stained glass windows to the church sanctuary.  They were early settlers, San Jacinto veterans, county judges, and community leaders. Plus, there's the fine music that has been a part of the worship service since 1925 - the elegant pipe organ, the choir, the 11-member bell choir, and even a bluegrass band.”

Michal Hubbard, BCHS trustee, said of the exhibit, “The men and women who worshiped over the years in Bastrop’s Methodist Church provided a spiritual foundation for the Bastrop community.  They were also some of the town’s cultural and corporate ‘movers and shakers.’  The “100 Years at 1201 Main St.” exhibit brings these Bastropians to life and illustrates how Methodists have been part of the “heart and soul” of Bastrop for nearly 200 years.”