In the beginning, "The Summit" was a ridge in Licking County running northwest to southwest, it was the high point between Newark and Columbus. The railroad came through this wooded area and gave the place its name; but the people made it home.

Bringing their desire to worship God, the people built churches. It was in l893 that a Methodist Episcopal Church was built on land purchased from David McIntosh, on West Cleveland Street. The building was erected in September of that year. Many local people, including children who helped carry stones for the foundation, were responsible for the construction of that original building which stands to this day.