Cody United Methodist Church has the distinction of being the first church in Cody, Wyoming. 

Rev. Lewis C. Thompson was a traveling Methodist-Episcopal Missionary who came from Nebraska into the Big Horn Basin on New Years day 1893.  He met with people in all the small stream drainages, including Marquette and stayed on the Otto Circuit for 5 years.  Rev. Thompson representatives determination that created the church in the West. The Basin was a wild, undeveloped area, but the folks were ready for “the word”. The only preacher for many miles drew crowds and encountered many colorful and exciting responses to his messages. 

In 1900 the Christian Endeavor Society was formed in Cody.  The Cody Methodist Episcopal Church was officially organized on January 18, 1901 with 13 charter members.  Early services were held at the old stone Schoolhouse.  The first church building was built during 1901 and dedicated, debt free, on July 20, 1902.  It was the first church in Cody because the Episcopal "Poker" Church met in this church while they were building theirs. By July 1902 services were held in the new building with the bell tower at the corner of Beck & 14th Streets. 

He established missions throughout the area and held the first Easter Sunrise Service at the entrance to the Shoshone Canyon. More than a century later we celebrate all those who went before us in the church. Three buildings have been built, numerous Christian organizations have been created and nourished… the word of God proclaimed through song, Choirs, teaching, preaching and evangelism. That was the intention of the founders of this Church … and it is our intention now. 

As we continue into the new century of faithfulness we acknowledge the past, celebrate the present and prepare for the future. We are encouraged in our endeavors with the words of scripture “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” We are also 
encouraged to reach out to the community and the world through Methodism.