Smethport was included on the Sinnemahoning Methodist circuit and the first meetings were held in 1820.  After the construction of the courthouse (1825), services were held there and also in Richard Chadwick’s first schoolhouse located on the north side of the corner of Church and King Street.  But it wasn’t until 1832 that the Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in Smethport.  Early financial supporters included Asa Sartwell, Brewster Freeman, A.M. Stanton, Nathan White, Richard Chadwick, and Nathan Burlingame.  The Methodist trustees were Samuel Smith, Cephas Scott, Willis Barrett, Daniel Rifle, and Gardner Barrett.  Funds were collected in 1836 for a wood frame building to serve as the church.  In 1837 a lot was purchased from the county commissioners and a church was completed in 1838.  Famed Smethport architect and contractor Solomon Sartwell, the builder of the first courthouse, and Philetus Ford, constructed the church at an expense of $3000.  In 1847 Richard Chadwick’s schoolhouse was moved to the rear of the church for a parsonage.  It was replaced in 1859 with the present parsonage.
 

Rev W. B. Wagoner, in 1878, became the first full-time pastor.  Other notable pastors were Rev. Thomas Carlton, who later worked at the Methodist Publishing House; Rev. L. A. Stevens and Rev. John Wentworth Sanborn, both who became noted authors; Rev. E. Ellsworth Holmes, D.D. (1891) who later served the largest church in America in Los Angeles.  Rev. E. J. Burton is noted for having served the longest from 1941-1951.

Improvements were made in 1918 by adding a basement, a brick educational wing in 1960, and a completely redecorated modern and bright sanctuary in 1972.  A new electronic organ was purchased in 2001.

The congregation today, under the leadership of Rev. Bob George, excels with its music ministries including the Chancel and Joyful Ringers Bell Choirs, directed by Carol Ball and accompanied by Janet Jaksetic.  Sunday school classes are available for all ages.  Methodist Sewers produce sewn items for missional use in hospitals and nursing homes.