The United Methodist Church in the Mahaska County town of Barnes City can trace its history to July 1894, when it was organized following an evangelical tent service. Construction on a permanent building began later that year, with a dedication service held in 1895 with the President of Iowa Wesleyan College as the ceremony speaker. Significant renovations were made in 1912, with the expanded church dedicated in October that year.

The church remains in service today, sharing a pastor with United Methodist Churches in the nearby communities of North English, Millersburg, and Deep River.