Richlands United Methodist Church has experienced many blessings since its conception in 1791.  As you browse through the following calendar of historical events for our church, please notice the growth in loving care for the Richlands community.

1791-1809—After Bishop Francis Asbury’s visits to the area, the Richlands Church was formally organized.  Goshen Circuit was created in 1792 to include Onslow County.

1813—After Methodists had shared Union Chapel with other denomination, a one-room log structure was erected in Richlands, then Oak Grove, to be a Methodist Church.  Early Methodist pioneer preacher Joseph Philmoor, when traveling from Norfolk to Wilmington, held services in Richlands.

1847-1858—A new church structure was built in 1848 across Hargett Street from the present church site.  Evidence shows another building was erected in 1857-58; a possibility for the rebuilding is destruction by fire.

1896—A new circuit was formed for the Jacksonville-Richlands area.

1907-43—A new church-- wooden structure with gabled roof, stained glass window, and bell tower-- was built on the present site; a two-story parsonage was on an adjacent lot; 1938-43—two-story educational annex was constructed; 1951, the old wooden parsonage was replaced with the present one.

1972-present—A new fellowship hall and classrooms were added.  1985, a former commercial building/lot provided the Youth Center, Thrift Shop, and parking.  Recently, a brick house adjacent to this parking lot has been acquired to house a Senior Citizen’s Center.  The Sylvester house across from the church on Wilmington Street will be the future parsonage.

As you can see, Richlands United Methodist Church has always had OPEN HEARTS, OPEN MINDS, AND OPEN DOORS!