During the late 18th century, many residents of this area embraced the Methodist faith and often held meetings in the homes of church members. The origin of the Bethesda congregation can be traced to February 1832, when trustees purchased one-half acre of land southeast of here. Local mill owner Joshua Morris conveyed the land "in trust and confidence" that they erect "a house of place of worship for the use of the members of the Methodist Episcopal Church." In 1895, the existing church building was moved to this site and rebuilt. On January 25, 1896, the trustees received the deed for the land "where Bethesda Church now stands."