The Strahan Methodist Church, at 64632 360th Street, rural Hastings, Iowa, began as the idea of pioneer Clark Miller. Following the revival, regular services were held in the Sunbeam schoolhouse. Rev. Farlow of Clarinda is called to the charge, Clark Miller became Sunday School class superintendent.

Then and now, the church not only filled the spiritual needs the community, but also served as a social outlet. In May 1884 plans were drawn, fund raising started and work began at once. In early November 1884, stoves were in place and Sabbath School began at 1:30 PM each Sunday. However, on April 15, 1886 a tornado blew the church apart. “The damage to the church is $3,000 or all it was worth.” New plans also included a belfry on the east side the building.

The new church building was dedicated September 1886. In 1929, the church needed repair. With additional money raised, remodeling began to dig a basement, install a furnace, build a new vestibule, and to make other improvements.

Music abounds in the church. In the 1980’s four choirs, young women’s group, instrumentalists, and holiday cantatas filled the church with beautiful music. Sunday school at youth groups have functioned for all of the 118 years of the church. Father-daughter, father-son, mother-daughter, youth Easter sunrise breakfasts, and the still popular annual turkey dinners all have given fellowship. The women are the electrifying energy for well over the 100 years.

The Ladies Aid Society evolved into the Ladies Union, W.S.C.S., and now the U.M.W. On August 11-12, 1984, a two-day centennial celebration drew a crowd of over 300 people back home. The “Little White Church on the Hill” still stands as testimony to the dream long ago. The church has experienced many changes. But the people have never wavered from their dedication to Christ. And it is this commitment that has helped build a strong foundation for the church and community.

Source: adapted from History of Mills County Iowa, 1985~ transcribed by Cay Merryman