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History of the congregation
Circuit Rider Jessie Lee came preaching the Gospel in Salem in the early 1800's. A small gathering of early Christians met in a storefront and sat on boxes to hear Jesus Christ proclaimed. They purchased the Harbor Street building and met for years till growth multiplied the congregation! Wesley was built at 8 North Street where 800 members worshiped regularly under the excellent ministry of outstanding pastors! In 1910 Lafayette St UMC moved to their new home at 296 Lafayette Street until the 1994 merger.

History of the building
The Wesley United Methodist Church of Salem, MA., was dedicated into Christian service as the "Wesley Episcopal Church" on July 31, 1888, as the corner stone was laid. The corner stone was laid in a ritualistic ceremony with the singing of the hymn "How Firm A Foundation."

The church was designed by Lawrence B. Volk of New York . The local contractors were J.F. Farrin, Joseph N. Parsons, and Joseph N. Peterson. The original cost was between $35,000 and $40,000. This was without the additional cost of the steeple that was added at a later date. The Salem News reported on February 24th, 1889, the following, as described by the foreman; R.G. Norton.

“The style of architecture, like most modern structures, is mixed, but the gothic prevails. Entrance is had through the cloisters at the N.W. and S.W. corners. The N.W. one is under the tower, now about 83 feet high, but will be 118 feet if the steeple is added eventually on the present design. The walls are of brick, with rock faced freestone foundation and trimmings. The outside dimensions are 68 by 116 feet. The basement is fitted up with a kitchen, dining-room and toilet arrangements. Three large heaters convey hot air all over the church. Under the auditorium are circles of brick piers, from 4 1/2 to 10 feet apart, which preclude the possibility of the floor ever giving way, no matter what weight is placed upon it."

Lafayette Street United Methodist Church {1910} and Wesley United Methodist Church [1888} merged in 1994. Many contemporary changes in lighting, sound system, fire alarm system and heating system have brought this historic building into the current century.