Historical Marker

The Rev. John Wesley DeVilbiss

Historical marker location:
3030 DeVilbiss Lane, San Antonio, Texas
( Oak Island United Methodist Church and Cemetery, DeVilbiss Lane, 1 mile east of intersection of Loop 1604 (Anderson Loop) and SH 16)
Marker installed: 1967

Circuit Rider DeVilbiss came to republic to Texas in 1842 to minister on Hispanic Borders in the southwest. He pioneered among immigrants and native Texians to promote Harmony in varies cultures in this far outpost. In county clerk's office in April 1844 he delivered first sermon in English ever give in San Antonio--to lay foundations for confluence of civilizations.

Inspired organization of Oak Island Church, 1867 or '68. This building of 1872 holds furniture mande by Devilbis and his son.