The 1887 Church

Construction of this historic church began in 1887, but completion was delayed until 1889 by a yellow fever epidemic that claimed the lives of the pastor and many members of the congregation. It housed the first Christian congregation south of Tampa on the Florida mainland and served as a place of worship for 85 years. Donated by the Manatee United Methodist Church, it was moved two blocks to the Manatee Village Historical park in 1975 as a United States Bi-Centennial preservation project and was restored to its original size and configuration. Dedicated on July 4, 1976, it stands across from the Manatee Burying Ground, where many of the original congregation are buried. The circular stained glass window over the pulpit is original to the church. This design, usually referred to as a Star of David, is also called a Star of Creation. A very popular Christian symbol in the 1880's, it is frequently found in nineteenth century churches. The church remains a consecrated house of worship and is frequently used for baptisms, weddings, memorial services and other religious events.

Bradenton, Florida · United States