Rondo was settled about 1835. The first records show that a two-story building of handplaned lumber and shingles was built in 1861 at the church's present location. Although the church was Methodist, people of all faiths worshipped there. The building was also used as a school and Masonic lodge. The Rondo Methodist Church was organized in 1895, and the Rev. Whitesides was the first preacher. Members decided to build a new structure in 1937 and move the old building across the street. However, the old sanctuary burned the night before it was to be moved. Its bell, made of Mexican silver dollars, was never found and was believed to have melted in the fire. The new church was completed in 1939 because of the work of the Women's Missionary Society. In 1953, an annex was added for Sunday school and a new kitchen was added. The current fellowship hall was completed in 1993. The sanctuary was renovated and enlarged in 1999, and a steeple with electronic bells was added-the first steeple since the original one was destroyed in 1937. http://www.texarkanagazette.com/display/inn_news/news07.txt © VHR