Centenary History
Welcome to Centenary United Methodist Church.
Centenary United Methodist Church began as a fellowship on November 26, 1865, meeting in a building on Railroad Ave. The first church building was dedicated on our present site on February 23, 1896 under the name of Davis Methodist Episcopal Church. The structure was destroyed by fire on December 23, 1883. The rebuilt church named Centenary Methodist Episcopal Church in 1884, commemorating American Methodism's 100th Anniversary.
Our first parsonage was completed in 1893. The "new" memorial stained-glass windows and wonderful Estey pipe organ, which we enjoy today, were dedicated in 1917. In 1945, Centenary's Pastor became the first President of the Attleboro Area Council of Churches.
A complete renovation was undertaken in 1951, resulting in today's beautiful sanctuary. In 1962, space was expanded by creating a downstairs kitchen, dining hall, classrooms and a chapel. Then in 1968, the United Brethren and the Methodist Church merged into our United Methodist Church.
A new entryway, foyer and offices
were added in 1980, and our beautiful sanctuary restored. These renovations
took place as a result of the decision by the members of Centenary to remain in
downtown Attleboro.
In 1998 Centenary welcomed members of the Hebron Methodist church into the community after a consolidation of the two churches. The Hebron site is now used as a Methodist outreach center.
Many community groups and organizations have been welcomed to our lovely building as the fellowship that began so long ago continues to grow. We look forward to many more years of service to our congregation and to our brothers and sisters in Christ.