Morey Powers, Winn's young son, died of scarlet fever, which also claimed the life of Elizabeth Powers, Stephen's two-year-old daughter. These were the first deaths in the settlement and Morey and Elizabeth were the first to be buried on the land donated by their Uncle Clark for the purpose of a burial ground and church site.
Plans for the church were delayed until 1875. By this time, the population of the area had increased and the need for a church at this site became more apparent. Beginning in the fall of 1875, Winn circulated a subscription paper asking for contributions of money, labor and materials. There were 102 subscriptions ranging from $1 to $100. The total of money, labor and materials subscribed was $1,825.
The church was built during the summer of 1876. The M.E. Class at York provided furnishings of carpet, chairs, lamps, stoves and other small items. The balance for completion of the cost was raised on Oct. 15, 1876, the day the church was dedicated.
The church was established as a 'free church,' which meant it was non-denominational, although Methodist ministers held services there. Regular services ceased in the 1920s but the church was used occasionally until 1953 for family reunions.
Restoration began in 1976 when a committee formed to restore the church to its original condition. The church features the original oak and butternut woodwork and pews, wood stoves, carpet, Bible, casket horses, kerosene lamps and other small items that are on display at the church in the summer. The wallpaper dates to the late 1800s.
On March 24, 1983, the church was added to the National Register of Historic Sites.
