St. Paul's in Winlock was formally organized on December 6, 1891 as a member of the Joint Synod of Ohio and Other States. In 1900 the question of admitting lodge members to membership in the church caused a split which resulted in two Lutheran churches in the community. Members of St. Paul moved to a store and met there until 1910 when a building was erected. This congregation organized as St. Peter's in 1905, being a member of the Joint Synod of Ohio until later that year when they joined the Pacific Synod. For most of its early history, St. Paul was served by pastors who lived in Winlock and also served the Castle Rock congregation. Rusert served both congregations until 1948 when each congregation called their own pastor. Additions were made to the physical plant between 1930 and 1950, and the church was completely remodeled. In 1961 land was purchased for the present church and a new sanctuary and parish unite were dedicated on May 2, 1971. On February 8, 1970, St. Peter's merged with St. Paul.
From the guide to the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Winlock, Washington, Records, 1891-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
