In trying to determine the first Methodist church in Oklahoma there are many intriguing and fascinating stories revealing a wide range of efforts. At this time, the oldest church still in existence is thought to be Eufaula. They can trace efforts there back to 1831.
Prior to 1831, much of the area of far eastern Oklahoma would have been encompassed by what was called "Arkansas Territory". The Methodist church was active in this region and had several strong ties back to Illinois and Tennessee. They also had notable pioneering and circuit riding preachers, such as Willam Stephenson who would launch explorations into Texas.
