First United Methodist Church, Santa Barbara

The first Methodist presence in the city dates back to 1854 when the first Protestant reverend Adam Bland visited the city. The population of Santa Barbara at that time was predominantly Spanish Catholic, and despite the initial anger toward the heretic preachers, the Methodists found their followers and the first church was built here in 1869, followed by the construction of the second in 1889. The beautiful church complex situated on East Anapamu Street was dedicated in 1927 after the Reverend Samuel Hughes raised funds to re-build all churches in town that were severely damaged during the 1925 earthquakes. It was designed and built by contractor and church member Charles Urton in Spanish-Renaissance architectural style. Today it has one the most beautiful stained-glass designs in Santa Barbara and welcomes young and old to visit its liturgical services.