In the fall of 1867, Dunlap was made one of the appointments on the Magnolia circuit. There was preaching every two weeks on Friday evenings at the home of Brother Whitely. The first house of worship was erected in 1868 on Gospel Hill and cost $800. The church extension aided the new church with a contribution of $300. The building was located on the site of the present Peter Von Ahnen home and directly across the street from the Congregational Church. This area was known as Gospel Hill since most of the churches were located there. The building was a large frame structure without much adornment. The seats were noisy, unfastened benches.
In the fall of 1870, Rev. I.M. O'Fling was appointed. The headquarters of the circuit were now Woodbine. Rev. O'Fling was reappointed in 1871 and removed to Dunlap, becoming the first resident pastor. In 1872 Rev. W.W. Glanville, while living on his farm, supplied the church at Dunlap which now became detached from the larger circuits.
1875-1876 Rev. A.C. Smith was pastor and conducted a revival when the church took new life. Seventy-five full members and twenty-four probationers are reported in 1876.
Plans for a new church were made in 1878. The next year the new church was begun and brick work for the basement put in. A parsonage was secured this year by brother Dunham, giving it as his subscription toward the church. July 9, 1882, the new church was dedicated. The pastor's salary was $750. Later the prayer room was furnished at a cost of $130. The present site was chosen for the new church, since it was closer to the business district.
On the evening of Dec. 1, 1911, this church burned and all its contents were lost. With the leadership and financial assistance of Mr. J.H. Gallup, a new church was erected, this time facing south in the same location. In the spring of 1913 services for the dedication of the new building were conducted by Bishop Frank Bristol, assisted by the pastor, Rev. A.W. Harned.
There have been improvements thru the years. Dedication of the new Wurlitzer Organ took place March 1948, during Rev. Marriott's ministry. The Tower Chimes were installed, and dedicated Jan. 12, 1964, in memory of Bess Humlicek and Glen Harper. Recordings for the chimes were also memorials.
The latest addition to the church facilities was the educational wing which was consecrated Nov. 27, 1966. Bishop Thomas presided at those services. There was a dinner for the congregation following the consecration served by the W.S.C.S. Open house for the public and refreshments were served in the afternoon.
The Methodist Women's organization, Women's Society of Christian Service, contributes to the welfare of its church and is an active service group. Its president is Mrs. Gerald Hicks. Methodist Youth Fellowship is headed by Colette Reed. Don McLean is the leader. The church at present (1967) is served by Rev. R.G. Walker.