First Methodist Church, Royalton, Illinois, History  (I believe this to be the original First Methodist Church located in, perhaps, the 100 Block of South Royal Street and was destroyed by fire on November 29, 1929. I also believe that I see my grandfather, John W. Lovelace at the wheel of the auto on the far right. Please correct me if I am in error.) Services first started in a tent with 35 members in July 1914. Later church was held in Miners Hall until the First Methodist Church was organized July 20, 1916. Rev. Charles Smith was the Pastor. The church burned on November 29, 1929. They used the Miners Hall again, and began building the church we have today. In 1955 Royalton and Zeigler were made a two-point charge sharing a pastor. The church celebrated its 50th year anniversary October 30, 1966. The present Pastor is Rolland H. Devor Jr.