In 1816, the Methodist Episcopal church made its first appointment to New Cumberland. The first Sunday School followed in 1826, and our first building was erected in 1828 at the southeast corner of Market Square. In 1861, our second building of stone was dedicated on the northwest corner of 2nd & Bridge Streets in New Cumberland. Our present church building with the adjoining parsonage was completed in 1908.

Our name was The Methodist Episcopal Church until 1918 when Joseph Baughman, a leading businessman in town and member of our church, died and a trust was established for the church. Our name changed in recognition of his leadership and his generosity.

The educational building was a creative addition in 1927 with three floors and a gym. The design was the third of its kind in the USA at that time. In 1933, the sanctuary was completely remodeled and the Austin Pipe Organ was installed. The 1960's brought two additions: a new parsonage was built on Harding Street and the parking lot and office were purchased.

In the fall of 1970 the first class entered our nursery school. Our old parsonage adjoining our church was remodeled: the first floor into the Linebaugh Parlor and the upper floors became our sexton's apartment. Our 175th Anniversary celebration in 1991 brought a new roof and a new ceiling to the sanctuary. The outside brickwork was also cleaned and repainted. In 1995 we embarked on a $115,000 capital funds campaign to provide $50,000 renovations to our pipe organ and $65,000 to upgrade structural concerns such as new oil tank, complete fire-security system for the entire church and office, plus improvement in the educational building. In 1996 we raised $70,000 toward that goal.

Central Pennsylvania Conference

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