The building is a noticeable reminder of the influence of the Methodist Church on South Australia’s early colonial history. When the Pirie Street Methodist Church needed more space for its offices and a new home for its book depot, on 17 January 1924 the church board decided to construct a new building next to the church.
Designed by G K Soward, the six story “high rise” was among the city’s tallest buildings when completed. The commercial building which was the largest remaining Gothic revival in the city, had two modern lifts, electric light and bathrooms on each floor. Tearooms at the basement hosted a number of wedding receptions.
In 1976, the adjacent Pirie Street Methodist Church was demolished for the Adelaide City Council offices. From 1977 until 2003, the Methodist Church became part of the Uniting Church of Australia, then the Uniting Church decided to sell the Epworth Building and it has been privately owned ever since.
