From History of Perth County 1825-1902
by William Johnston, published in 1903

Methodism in St Marys did not exist as an organization previous to 1848.   Service was held by local preachers, of which there were several in Nissouri, as well as by regular ministers who chanced to visit the new settlement.   Subsequent to the old stone school house on Queen street being erected, meetings were held in that building.   A regular mission was just organized in 1848 by Rev. William T. Williams, who was succeeded in 1849 by Rev. Thomas Williams.   During 1849 a report on membership was presented showing 119 names in good standing. Although Mr. Williams has the honour of establishing methodism in St Marys, be was by no means the apostle of this body in Blanshard.   To Rev. Ephraim Evans undoubtedly belongs this distinction. His was the broke crying in the wilderness, 'prepare ye the way.'   In 1842 this preacher had established a mission on the M. R. in the shanty of Mr. Johnston Armstrong, which organization is now Zion church, Blanshard.

Methodist progress in St. Marys was rapid, and in 1856 a church was built.   This was of stone, nearly square, and rudely constructed.   Twelve years later an addition was built 25 x 75 ft., making rather a commonplace looking sanctuary.   Service was held in this building till 1879, when under the pastorate of Rev. Dr. Rice a fine edifice was erected at a cost of $13,000.   This did not long suffice for the wants of this rapidly increasing congregation.   In 1893 another large building was added for a Sabbath school and lecture room, and costing nearly $7,000.   In 1896 still further accommodation was necessary, and the interior was remodelled at considerable cost. The auditorium of this church is 55 x 90 ft., while its gallery is 50 x 12 ft.   This is a larger area than any other ecclesiastical building in St. Marys contains.   Its interior is handsome.   Beautiful translucent windows, Gothic panselling, crimson-covered doors and ornamental ceiing give an effect worthy of the cause it is desired to serve.   Not one of the old trustee board who laid the first church foundation is now left.   Messrs. Edward Long, Robert Dickie, Joshua Brink, and William Carroll (the greatest benefactor the old church ever had) have all passed away.   Over 600 members are now on the roll of this flourishing congregation under the ministration of Rev. Mr. Manning.   A Sabbath school is also conducted by Mr. Frank Butcher as superintendent, having 500 names on the roll and an average attendance of 400 every Sabbath day.