BY DAVID ECK
Enquirer Contributor
FRANKLIN -- This city was just 2 years old when the First United Methodist Church was established, and the two grew up together.
Two centuries later the city is still growing. The church, whose members are celebrating its bicentennial, has become its best-known landmark. The green steeple towers over the business district, and the building is featured on city programs and quilts.
But with an old building come large repair bills. The church recently spent about $16,000 renovating the original dining room, and is putting in an elevator for about $130,000.
"Everything we touch is thousands of dollars," said the Rev. Dale Lykins, pastor.
Fund-raisers and a recent bequest paid for the renovations. City council members and township trustees belong to the church. The stained glass windows are etched with the names of early city leaders.
"This is a place where members are involved in the town," the Rev. Mr. Lykins said. "There is that relationship between the town and the church. There is something about roots here."
That foundation goes deep. The church was established by the Rev. John Kobler, a 19-year-old clergyman who roamed the Miami Valley preaching in homes.
The first sanctuary was built in 1832 at Third and Main streets, only to be replaced by a larger building four years later. In 1859, the current sanctuary was constructed, the Rev. Mr. Lykins said. It remains on the same corner.
But the heartbeat of the church is its people, and the 255 members of First United Methodist are a busy bunch, the Rev. Mr. Lykins said. "We've always been active in the community," said Dot Schall, a Miamisburg resident who used to live in nearby Chautauqua. "We have a lot of fellowship."
The church houses the Rotary Club and Scout meetings, and next month will be part of a network of Warren County churches providing nighttime shelter to the homeless.
Each Christmas the Salvation Army puts together food baskets in the church for needy families.
"Our church has always been open," said Franklin resident Margaret Taylor, a member for more than 50 years. "It's like a family." "If we call for volunteers for something, we'll fill up the slots quickly," said the Rev. Lykins, 35, in his seventh year at the church.
"Actually, I have to keep up with them. There's always something going on."
The church has been a part of life for generations of Franklin Methodists.
"I have very, very fond memories of this church," Mrs. Taylor said. "There are a lot of people here that have been here all the time."
