From humble beginnings in log cabins to its beautiful 1928 sanctuary, First United Methodist Church has been part of Downers Grove’s story since 1836. The congregation first gathered in log cabins, then in a Maple Avenue schoolhouse before building its first church on land donated by Henry Carpenter in the 1850s. Today, the Downers Grove Historical Society is proud to recognize this enduring landmark as its 2026 Historic Site of the Year. We’ll be presenting the Historic Site of the Year plaque in the near future—watch for details about this special celebration! Read more about this historic site here
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