First Methodist Church purchased property at the corner of 19th and Crocker on for “a new church enterprise.” Grace Church began as a mission of First Church and the Des Moines District. Early meetings were held in a tent.
1885
Funds were raised ($1500) to construct a frame building on the 19th Street location. This building was used until 1901.
January 26, 1902
A new church building was dedicated at the 19th and Crocker.
1925
A building committee began plans to construct the current building at 3700 Cottage Grove.
November 14, 1926
The cornerstone was laid for the new building
December 11, 1927
The third Grace Church building was dedicated.
1955 - 1957
The Educational Wing was built and Fellowship Hall Renovated
2003
The ReNew Grace campaign updated much of the building infrastructure.
A complete history of Grace United Methodist Church, founded in 1885 is compiled in A Tradition of Grace, yesterday, today and tomorrow: a history of Grace United Methodist Church, Des Moines Iowa 1885-2000; by Tamara Andrews, copyright, Grace United Methodist Church, 2001.