Thanks to a grant from the R.C. Smith Foundation, the Preston United Methodist Church upgraded its steps, railings, and sidewalk. Above: before and after photos of the entrance. A portable handicap ramp was purchased and improvements were made the parking lot, and the flower garden. (Submitted photos)

PRESTON - Originally called the Congregational Church, the Preston United Methodist Church was built across from the schoolhouse on County Road 19, formerly known as Heady’s Corners Road.

The Preston Church Community graciously invites you to join us for Sunday Service at 10:00 a.m. and experience the warmth of our welcoming congregation.

Recently, thanks to a grant from the R.C. Smith Foundation, the church replaced its steps, railings, and sidewalk with new concrete. A portable handicap ramp was purchased to ensure ADA compliance. Additional improvements were made to the small parking lot, and the flower garden was revitalized with new plants.

Several churches in Preston Corners had been closed, burned, or sold over the years.

The church was officially organized on May 1, 1860, and became the sole church in Preston. Construction of the church began in 1860 and took seven years to complete, costing $2,500. Church members and volunteers contributed to the building process. In 1915, a stone basement was added, which became the kitchen, dining room, and Sunday School area.

An interesting historical fact: during the church's construction, two front doors were installed—one for males and one for females. Separate aisles inside the church led to the pews for seating. There is no more history as to why this rule was enacted. Our members will always feel these separate doors “Balanced” our church appeal.

In June 1871, with contributions from 31 individuals, a parsonage and barn were built at a total cost of $1,342.85.

On May 6, 1890, the church took in several residents from the "insane home" located at the Chenango County Welfare Home, now known as Preston Manor. Tragically, the barn, which also housed residents at the home, burned down that night, resulting in the loss of 13 lives due to smoke and fi re.

Ministers around the area shared the pulpit for weekly services until 1902 when Reverend L.L. Vought began his fi rst church “charge” along with the Welfare Home and the East McDonough Church.

From 1902 until 2021, 37 ministers served the church.

After the last minister retired in July 2021, the church has continued to hold weekly services with the help of a retired minister, a lay leader from North Norwich, and former lay leaders within the church membership. These volunteers coordinate the services to ensure the church remains open and active.

Over the years, numerous improvements have been made inside the church, such as the addition of the pulpit and altar in 1922, 1941, and 1980. The pulpit and altar railing were donated in the 40’s from the abandoned church in Eaton, NY.

Community members also contributed the United States flag and the Christian flag. In 1977, repairs were made to the church steeple, and floodlights were installed for nighttime visibility.

The 100th year commemorative services were held for 2 days, celebrating this event.

In the early 1980s, facing financial difficulties, church members organized several potluck suppers, strawberry festivals, and ice cream socials to support the church’s finances.

Some funds were used to maintain the minister’s salary and dues to the United Methodist Church Conference. With these efforts, various interior improvements such as new carpeting and painting were completed.

On June 18, 2014, the church steeple was struck by lightning, causing significant damage. The steeple was repaired, but was not vertically straight so the repairs had to be redone to be corrected.

In 2023, new white siding was installed, significantly reducing future outside maintenance needs. All doors were repainted red during this upgrade, and a new bulletin board was also added.

In 2024, a grant from the R.C. Smith Foundation, helped replaced the steps, railings, and sidewalk and create a portable handicap ramp. Improvements were also made to the parking lot and flower garden.

- From the the Preston Church Community