Wilton History 1854-1947

Source: Henry Wildasin's Revised History of Wilton, Iowa
***Containing a complete reprint of Wilton History 1854-1876 by Rider & Stevenson***1947

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METHODIST
By Frank Bacon

This church originally formed a part of, and was embraced in what was called Muscatine Circuit. As early as 1836, Rev.Daniel Cartridge preached at Bloomington, now Muscatine, services being held in a log building used as a post office.

In 1856, the General Conference divided the Iowa Conference, and the towns of Wilton and Moscow were made a station.

Rev. H. Wharton, of Hebron Circuit, Cedar County, held the first services in Wilton, in the depot, or freight house; but on account of the division, Rev. D. Thompson was appointed to the work without any missionary appropriation, and upon complaint being made by the brethren, Wilton was merged into Muscatine Circuit, with Rev. John Harris, Pastor.

In 1857, Rev. J. B. Hill conducted a successful revival in Wilton, and over fifty persons were received in the church. The meetings were held in the Garretson House ( now the Mooney hotel.)

In 1860, the present church building was erected and dedicated.

In 1865, the name of the circuit was changed from Muscatine to Wilton Circuit.

In 1866, it was voted at the fourth Quarterly Meeting, to divide the Circuit, leaving Wilton a station, with preaching every Sunday, which was accordingly done.

In 1867, under the labors of Rev. Morey, over one hundred members were added to the church.

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