First United Methodist Church

First United Methodist Church is considered the most striking example of Classical Revival architecture in Conway. Built around 1915, it features a large portico with six Ionic columns supporting a pediment, stained glass windows, and a dome topped by an architectural element called a lantern. The church is home to a congregation founded in 1871 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The congregation's first two churches were small, wood-frame buildings. However, membership rose as the town prospered in the coming years so that by the 1890s it was apparent that a new church building was needed. The third church was built in 1898 and was only used until 1913 because it was too small. The congregation hired New York-based architect George W. Kramer to design the new sanctuary. At the time, Kramer was considered one of the country's best church architects. The third church started to be demolished in the fall of 1913 and construction of the new church was completed in August 2015. Over time, the congregation built additions and new buildings to provide more worship space and space for its various programs and community outreach services.

"A Tradition of Mission & Ministry." The Historical Marker Database. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.conwayfumc.org/about-us/the-sanctuary-building.

Story, Kenneth. "First United Methodist Church." National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. November 20, 1992. https://www.arkansasheritage.com/docs/default-source/national-registry/fa0523.nra2b02ec5-3880-47f5-8c31-3aa47d6e9a9b.pdf?sfvrsn=bd5fecfa_3