Wichita, Dawson UMC

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: KUMA-01-1183

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection contains the records of Dawson United Methodist Church and records under its previous name of Dawson Methodist Church. The records date from 1953 until the time the church closed in 2020. They include membership, baptism, marriage and death records; committee meeting minutes and charge conference reports; financial records; legal documents; photographs, scrapbooks,and audio tapes; histories; policies and procedures; worship bulletins and newsletters; contents of a time capsule; blueprints; and minutes and activities of the many church groups including the United Methodist Women and United Methodist Men.

Dates

1953-2020

Biographical / Historical

On Sunday, September 13, 1953, Dawson Methodist Church in Wichita was formed with 25 members. The congregation met in various places, including the Coca-Cola building. The church was named for Bishop Dana Dawson. The first service in their own building was held on November 11, 1955.

The church was very active in the community. Through the years they provided many activities for children and families, held regular “Cook’s Nite Out” dinners and served as the distribution point for the Government Commodities Food Distribution Program.

On Sunday, February 23, 2020 a charge conference was held to vote on closing the church due to declining income, attendance and membership. With 22 members present, the vote was 19 to close and 3 to continue. The church held the final worship service on June 14, 2020.

Extent

14.00 Cubic Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

The collection of Dawson United Methodist Church of Wichita, Kansas was created by members and staff of the church. The collection contains a wealth of information about the activities and ministries of the church through meeting minutes, membership records, publications, and photographs.