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of Historical Data
In the early 1700s, the Methodist Circuit existed from Richmond to Old Point and was know as the Williamsburg Circuit. By 1789, five years after the first Methodist Conference in Baltimore (1784), Methodists were found in Hampton (then Elizabeth City County).
From 1791 through the early 1800s references are found to various meetings of classes, gatherings at the Meeting House, and the first minister Obadiah Thornman. First Fox Hill officially marks its beginning to March 20, 1844, when Henry Guy and his mother Elizabeth deeded land at the corner of Beach and Hall Roads to the Methodist Episcopal Church.
In 1862, the church either burned or was torn down. Materials salvaged by loyal members were used in 1866 to rebuild the church at Beach and Hall Roads. The building was again replaced in 1878, and in 1894, a lofty steeple was added.
In 1866, the congregation became part of the York County Circuit and in 1870 was on a charge with the First Methodist Episcopal Church, Hampton.
By 1930, the first communion silver had been purchased and the first Sunday School rooms were being used. The first church directory was printed in 1932.
The Women’s Society of Christian Service (now know as United Methodist Women) was organized in 1937 and received their charter on September 18, 1940.
An appropriate Centennial Celebration was held in 1944.
While not as speedy as the women, the men of the church received the charter for their organization, United Methodist Men, on April 2, 1954.
That was also the year that the first piece of the present church site was purchased from the Copeland Estate on February 14 for $5,000.
Just six years later, in 1960, the Youth presented the church with the first electric organ.
In 1975, the original frame church at Beach and Hall Roads was torn down.
Two years later, June 5, 1977, ground was broken for the current sanctuary. On March 28, 1978, the First Easter Sunrise Service was held "under the roof" and the original bell was rung in celebration. Finally, on October 22, 1978, the first service was held in the completed sanctuary followed by the cornerstone laying on November 26, 1978.
A new Baldwin organ was purchased in 1979 and in 1981 a new piano was given to the church by the family of Elijah and Annie Bloxom Wallace.
In May of 1983, our first handbell choir began practice following purchase of a two-octave set of bells. The youth bell choir was subsequently formed in September 1987 and a third octave of bells was purchased in 1990.
Our new parsonage at 1773 Lafayette Drive was purchased in 1987 to replace the one at 49 Beach Road.
In 1988, the Building Committee met to consider the next phase of addition to the church and Sunday School Facilities. Soon thereafter, on April 9, 1989, First United Methodist Church of Fox Hill and Buckroe Beach United Methodist Church merged. Nineteen eight-nine also marked the 145th anniversary of First, Fox Hill.
With the purchase of a parcel of land behind the church we were able to build a much needed addition to our parking lot. The 1995 purchase of the home now designated the Asbury House provided additional Sunday School space and would later allow the expansion of our main building.
Our new Rogers organ was purchased and installed in 1997.
Ground was broken for construction of a new fellowship hall, kitchen, expanded sanctuary, and renovated educational facilities on October 8, 2000.
To be a part of history in the making, we welcome all to
Come Grow With Us.