The Portland Prairie
Methodist Episcopal Church

This church was established in 1855 by settlers from Rhode Island and Massachussetts. The small but vigorous congregation met in private homes and at the local school house until this building was built in 1877 from plans brought from St. Paul by Senator J. McNelly. The first class was formed by Mr. and Mrs. Peter Paige, Mr. and Mrs. J. McNelly, Mr. and Mrs. A. Gilbert, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Green, Sarah Albee, and Mr. Kramer. J. McNelly was designated leader.

George and Ellen Cass donated the land for the church and cemetery. Mr. Tuttle of New Albin, Iowa, build the church.

Served by Circuit Riders who ministered to several rural church, regular services were held until 1935. Special services are still held each year. The church is associated with the Caledonia United Methodist Church. Many of the original prairie settlers are buried in the cemetery, which is still in use.

The building is on the National Register of Historic Places

Dedicated in July 1996