First United Methodist Church

110 North Cass Street

Built: 1900

Style: Gothic Revival

The First United Methodist Church was dedicated on March 11, 1900 during the pastorate of Reverend H. N. Herrick. The congregation was organized in 1837. The 1890 pipe organ in the church came from their 1863 building, once located on the site of Saint Bernard Catholic Church across the street.

This Gothic Revival structure has undergone minor alterations, yet it remains an excellent example of its style. Notable features include the octagonal turret with lancet windows at the corner, the two main sanctuary windows with tracery, and the three extruding limestone entry vestibules with sharply pointed gables. The stained glass windows were purchased from the Kansas City Stained Glass Company in 1899. An addition was completed in 1964, and another large addition is planned.

In early 2020, this site was opened as The Sanctuary, a boutique hotel and event venue. Major renovations and updates were performed to the structure, including preserving the iconic stained glass windows. More information can be found at www.thesanctuaryofwabash.com.