OUR STORY

After the Emancipation Proclamation, newly freed African Americans in Baton Rouge sought to establish their own houses of worship—sacred spaces where they could serve God freely and build community together.

In May 1866, William D. Mann purchased land in Beauregard Town, one of Baton Rouge’s oldest and most historic neighborhoods. Inspired by European design, the area was known for its plazas, gardens, and cathedral square—an ideal location for a lasting house of faith.

With saws and axes in hand, Wesley’s founders cut trees, floated logs down the Mississippi River to the Harbor Sawmill, and built the first structure of Wesley Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church—a powerful testament to their devotion, resilience, and unity.

Of note, it is vital to understand that even before a building was built the people of Wesley worshipped on the same land the present structure stands.  This event displays what was and still is in the hearts and minds of Wesleyans, the Holy Spirit has made a people to worship God not a building.  Moreover, Liberation of a people and the love of God go hand in hand!

For more than 80 years, the original church stood strong through fires, storms, and time itself. As the congregation flourished, a new sanctuary was constructed in 1966 to accommodate the growing membership.

Over the decades, the church’s name evolved to reflect its unity and continued growth within the Methodist faith:

• Wesley Methodist Church (1939)
• Wesley United Methodist Church (present day)

For over a century and a half, Wesley United Methodist Church has remained a beacon of faith and community in Baton Rouge.

The church has been blessed with over 50 ministers and a congregation that includes more than 55 members who have each served faithfully for over 50 years.

Wesley also holds a unique distinction—it is the only African American church in Baton Rouge to house a pipe organ, a beautiful symbol of musical excellence that continues to enrich worship today.

Our stained-glass window, designed for full visibility from top to bottom, serves as the radiant heart of the sanctuary. Many of the furnishings were lovingly donated by members, each one representing generations of faith, devotion, and love.

This year, we joyfully celebrate 160 years of service to God and His people. On Founders’ Day, we honor the pioneers who built our church on a foundation of faith, love, and resilience. Their legacy lives on in every hymn, every prayer, and every act of service that continues to bless our community.

As we look ahead, we remain inspired by the timeless words of John Wesley, which continue to guide our mission today:

“Do all the good you can,
By all the means you can,
In all the ways you can,
In all the places you can,
At all the times you can,
To all the people you can,
As long as ever you can.”

We invite you to become part of the Wesley family!
Join us each Sunday for worship, praise, and fellowship as we continue our mission to serve God, uplift one another, and make a lasting impact in Baton Rouge.

Explore our ministries, outreach programs, and community events to see how you can connect, serve, and grow in faith with us.

The Historic Wesley United Methodist Church — Celebrating 160 Years of Faith, Community, and Service.