Historical Marker

San Felipe United Methodist Church

Marker installed: 1962
Marker size: RTHL medallion on church and 27" x 42" marker with post

In 1837, the town of San Felipe de Austin was incorporated and the town council built a multi-purpose building to be used as a town hall, school, and church on land known as “Constitution Square.” The one-story building was constructed out of Cypress, an extremely long-lasting and rot-resistant wood that allowed the structure to exist today, over 175 years later.

The Methodist group in San Felipe de Austin used this building for evening worship though the building was secularly owned by the town. By 1847, a new town hall was constructed, leaving this building to serve as a church and school only. In this same year, the town also added the second floor to the building.

A new masonic lodge formed in San Felipe in 1859 and met on the newly built second floor. Today the ceiling still exhibits a painting of a blue sky with five-pointed stars and on the eastern wall an ‘eye of god’ painting. In 1880, a new school building was constructed for the town, allowing the first floor of this building to be used solely as a church.

In 1883, a steeple was added and a bell was donated to the church. This building became the Methodists’ official church and the congregation still meets here today. Up until the 1940s, when the building got electricity, the church used oil lamps hung on the walls of the sanctuary for indoor worship. These lamps are still hanging today and are lit every Christmas Eve in remembrance of the church’s history.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1962

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

Methodist denomination churches religion
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Texas random facts
Austin County, located in the southeastern part of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and the Akokisa. In the early 1820s, the Mexican government granted land to Stephen F. Austin, also known as the "Father of Texas," who established the first Anglo-American settlements in the region.

In 1824, Austin County was officially created as one of the original 23 counties of Texas. The county was named in honor of Stephen F. Austin and served as a major center for the colonization of Texas. During this time, settlers began to arrive and establish farms, bringing with them their unique cultures and traditions.

Austin County also played a significant role in the Texas Revolution. In 1832, local colonists held the Turtle Bayou Resolutions, which voiced their support for Antonio López de Santa Anna, who was then the leader of Mexico. However, as tensions escalated, the colonists became part of the rebellion against Mexican rule, leading to the famous Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. This battle marked a major turning point in Texas history, resulting in the defeat of Santa Anna's forces and the eventual independence of Texas.

Throughout the years, Austin County continued to develop and thrive. The county seat, Bellville, was established in 1848 and has remained an important cultural and economic center. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further contributed to the growth of the county, connecting it with other regions. Today, Austin County is known for its rich agricultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant community, making it a unique and significant part of Texas history.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Austin County, Texas.

  • 1821 - Austin County is established as one of the original 23 counties in Texas.
  • 1831 - Stephen F. Austin, the "Father of Texas", passes away and is buried in Austin County.
  • 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico, leading to an influx of settlers in Austin County.
  • 1856 - The town of Bellville is established as the county seat of Austin County.
  • 1861-1865 - Austin County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1878 - The Texas state legislature formally recognizes Austin County as the "Cradle of the Republic".
  • 1887 - The San Felipe and Southwestern Railroad connects Austin County to the rest of Texas.
  • 1907 - The Brazos River floods Austin County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1965 - The Stephen F. Austin State Park is established in Austin County.
  • 1992 - The Austin County Historical Commission is formed to preserve the county's history and heritage.
  • Present - Austin County continues to thrive as an agricultural and historic region in Texas.