This spring marks a significant milestone for Methodists in Kewanee, as the congregation prepares to celebrate 100 years of worship in its church building at Main Street and Central Boulevard. A Methodist presence has served the community for more than 170 years, but for the past century, the congregation has gathered in the same landmark structure.
A special anniversary worship service will be held Sunday, April 19, at 9 a.m. District Superintendent Rev. Mike Crawford will serve as guest speaker. His wife, Rev. Patty Johansen, who was assistant pastor at the church in the 1990s and now serves at Dayspring Native American United Methodist Church, will also participate.
The celebration will extend beyond the morning service. Displays of historic photographs, memorabilia, booklets, plates and mugs will be available for viewing. In the chapel, visitors can join a sing-along of traditional Methodist hymns. A “treasure hunt with a twist” will invite attendees to reflect on and share personal memories connected to the church. A light lunch will follow at 11 a.m. Former pastors have been invited, and special invitations are being sent to all members.
The church building first opened its doors on Easter Sunday, April 4, 1926. Every chair in Wesley Hall—the first phase of construction—was filled that morning, with additional worshippers standing along the walls. The congregation had already outgrown two earlier buildings, prompting leaders in 1919 to begin planning a structure that could serve a growing community for generations.
Anderson Construction of Kewanee completed the project in time for the Easter dedication. The first service began at 6:30 a.m., and later that day Bishop Edwin Holt Hughes baptized a large group of children and dedicated the chapel in honor of Rev. Virgil Thompson. The original complex included classrooms, a chapel, an auditorium‑gymnasium, a ladies’ parlor, a Boy Scout room, a kitchen and dining room and additional community spaces.
Sally Senteney, chair of the 100th Anniversary Committee, noted that the construction of the current building was meticulously documented by the Kewanee Star Courier.
“It was almost like the whole town was involved in it,” said Senteney, who put the price tag for both phases of the building at $200,000.
As the April 19, 2026, centennial approaches, the planning committee is gathering memories and historical materials. Anyone baptized, confirmed or married in the church is invited to share photographs or mementos for display. The committee also welcomes written recollections from those who attended Sunday School, Bible School, youth groups or participated in the church’s music programs, including choir, bells and chimes.
The committee is encouraging community members to share photographs, stories or family connections to help honor the church’s century‑long presence in Kewanee.
The committee is also planning other events to mark the anniversary throughout the year.
