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First known as Bilesville Methodist Episcopal Church South, the New London United Methodist Church was formed in 1885.

The church first met at the local school building known as the Bilesville Academy.

The first church building was constructed in 1889 and was located behind the present structure. This original building was wood framed and held a sanctuary and five classrooms.

The town of Bilesville changed its name to New London in 1891, so the church followed suit and became New London Methodist Episcopal Church South.

With assistance from a Duke Foundation grant, the current building was built in 1931 and was dedicated on June 21, 1936. A Memorial Church Social Hut was added in 1944to honor the memory of church members who had served in the military during the Civil War, World War I and World War II.

A parsonage was added next to the hut in 1966. Due to a need for more space a fellowship hall was added in 1978.

{Lewis Bramlett – Stanly County Historical Society}