OUR HISTORY

Beech Grove United Methodist Church has a rich history rooted deeply in the faith and community of Whites Creek, Tennessee. Long before the Civil War, worshippers began gathering near what is now the church’s present location. Early meetings were held at a brush arbor and later at the Talley School House, led in part by Rev. Elisha Carr, a local Methodist circuit rider who was likely the first pastor to serve the growing congregation.

In 1867, a one-room church building was constructed in a grove of beech trees along Hunters Lane, giving rise to the name Beech Grove. The one-acre site was donated by John M. Talley as an expression of his love for the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. The property was entrusted to a group of early church leaders, and among the first charter members were members of the Talley family along with several other local families whose faith helped establish the congregation’s foundation.

As the church continued to grow, a new site was purchased in November 1907 on Brick Church Pike, less than a mile from the original location. A frame sanctuary was built, followed by several additions over the next two decades to support Sunday School and ministry needs. In the early 1950s, church leadership recognized the need for a larger and more permanent facility. Plans were finalized in 1953, and the current brick sanctuary was completed in 1954. The congregation officially moved into the building in April of that year.

The present sanctuary has served as the spiritual home of Beech Grove United Methodist Church ever since. Over the years, the church has experienced seasons of both growth and hardship—including a fire in 1972 that caused significant damage to the sanctuary and education wing. Through restoration and perseverance, the church was rebuilt and continued its mission of worship, discipleship, and service.

Today, Beech Grove United Methodist Church remains an active and faithful congregation, still worshiping in the building constructed in 1954. Guided by a long legacy of faith and community commitment, the church continues to serve the Whites Creek area and is currently led by Rev. Rita Hays.