First Christian Church of Midland. Chartered in 1890, the First Christian Church of Midland was organized by sixteen members who met in private homes until 1892. Tradition of service to the church and community began when charter member S. E. Townsend pledged $300 toward the first of two downtown church buildings. The church grew steadily; by 1950 the congregation had erected a large building on the northwestern edge of Midland, making additions as needed. In 1990, the congregation celebrated its 100th anniversary and continues to serve the community with a variety of outreach programs and religious activities. (1997) #12153