The Willoughby Episcopal Church began in 1817, organized by Rev. Ira Eddy with families from western New York. By 1822, it became a Society with Rev. Elijah Ward and regular circuit riders. In 1821, the Willoughby Ridge Society formed and later merged into the Willoughby Circuit until1904, when the church became self-supporting. After the union of the Methodist Church and Evangelical United Brethren Church, it became Willoughby United Methodist Church.  In the late 1800s, women formed groups like the Ladies Aid Society and Missionary Societies. Men’s gatherings began in 1917.The first church building (build in 1834)was replaced in 1875, and the current building, funded by Mrs. Julia Boyce, was built in 1906, including a parsonage.  Growth after WWII led to the addition of an education wing, a new parsonage, and the Van Gorder Chapel in 1956. From the 1960s to today, the church has remained committed to service, spiritual growth, and community outreach. The historic building continues to house