Our History
The Rosendale United Methodist Church was originally founded as a Swedish Methodist Church. In the 1800's, Methodist preachers in Sweden were encouraged to minister to pioneers in Minnesota. In 1857, PM Johnson, his wife, and children moved from Smaaland, Sweden to preach in cabins and dugouts around Lake Elizabeth, Swede Grove (Grove City), Lake Ripley (Litchfield), Lake Lillian, Fahlun, New London, and Belgrade. Johnson and his family fled the area during the Indian Uprising in 1862 however, his great grandson, the late Roger Johson and family are currently members of this church.
Rosendale United Methodist Church 1903
The Beginning
In 1883 Rev. J.A. Johnson donated 2 acres of land for a church and cemetery in Rosendale. The building of the church to be built just across the county line in Danielson Township, Meeker County was decided at the quarterly conference held in Atwater November 16, 1889.
The contract for the building of the church was let to O. Gunderson for $780. The building was 44 x 26 feet, put up in 1890 and dedicated on October 26th of that year.
In 1902 the first church was sold for $275 and replaced with the new (current) building with an auditorium 30 x 28 feet and 18 x 20 foot classroom connected to it, as well as a 75 foot tower.
1990's
Throughout the years
Many improvements have been made throughout the years:
1930's Rural Electric became available. Electrical light and fixtures were installed inside and out.
1950 a new basement was put under the church and a new oil burning furnace was installed.
1962 a well was dug and running water was available. Indoor lavatories!
1965 a new entrance way was built onto the church and would also provide a 4 foot wide stairway to the basement.
2015
Present Day
In 2009, thanks to a donation by Rose Sullivan and under the direction of Merlin Wallin, remodeling of the church was completed.
The Rosendale United Methodist Church became handicap accessible with front entrance ramp and main level restroom.
A kitchenette was installed on the main level which now serves as our post-service fellowship area as well as handicap-accessible serving area for various church functions.
Who Are We Today?
Today the Rosendale United Methodist Church is a vibrant church that both embraces the past and looks towards the future. We are a congregation growing younger and are excited about what is to come. The Rosendale United Methodist Church embodies the persona of a "Little White Country Church" with its warm, welcoming congregation that honors traditions through both worship and fellowship. We welcome visitors with a smile, open arms, and a warm cup of Swedish coffee.