Union-Sun & Journal Sep 23, 2018 - Royalton United Methodist Church celebrated its 200th anniversary last week. - The 200th anniversary was marked with a 9 a.m. morning worship and an anniversary celebration that featured cupcakes, a cake and guest speaker Bishop Mark Webb. Niagara Frontier District Superintendent Rev. Carlos Rosa-Laguer was also in attendance at the ceremony.

Pastor Bill Edmister said he is “very honored” to be the current pastor of a historic institution like Royalton United Methodist Church. He has been pastor of the church since July 2015. Edminster feels that the loyal following of the church is the main reason for its longevity. “Well, of course the people. They are a very loving congregation that has always reached out to their neighborhood,” he said.

Some church members work at Gasport Community Food Pantry and Clothing Closet. The church itself puts on a monthly meeting for the Royalton community and this year they had a pet blessing at the Royalton Veteran Park.

Royalton United Methodist Church started off as a log cabin with Joel Bixby being largely responsible for forming the Royalton Methodist Society in 1818. In 1836, the first board of trustees was formed and, in 1837, they purchased a large tract of land for $50. The original edifice was erected in 1838, with worshippers facing south. It was rebuilt in 1862 with brick and cost $3,000. The chapel was added in 1895.