SHARING THE HEART OF CHRIST FROM THE HEART OF AKRON

Nestled in the heart of Akron, New York, Akron First UMC dates back to 1807. The church holds the distinction of being the first Methodist congregation west of the Genesee River.

Services were originally held in a simple log cabin that doubled as a schoolhouse, where circuit riders from the Genesee Methodist Conference preached.

In 1837 - 1840, when the Village of Akron was formally established, the congregation planned and constructed a Greek Revival style, stone sanctuary at the current site overlooking Russell Park.

A catastrophic fire in 1942 destroyed the church’s interior, leaving only its stone walls intact.

The congregation rebuilt quickly and the interior was fully restored by 1944.

A Modernist style education wing was added in 1959.

The most recent expansion occurred in 2003, completing the north wing in a New Classical style that respects and compliments the older structures.

From its humble beginnings in a log cabin, Akron First UMC has endured through fires, rebuildings and multiple expansions. Akron First continues to serve as a spiritual beacon and a historic landmark in Western New York.

Its architecture evolution from Greek Revival to Modern Classical mirrors its ongoing commitment to community, education and worship.

Akron First UMC is a warm, multigenerational church where faith, friendship, and service come together. We worship every Sunday at 9:00 a.m. and are committed to serving our community through hands-on outreach and compassionate care. All are welcome—just as you are.