Getsemani Presbyterian Church
Historical marker location:In the first decade of the 20th century, a number of immigrants came from Mexico and settled in the newly founded town of San Benito. Among these immigrants were individuals who followed the prinicples of the Presbyterian Church of Mexico. In 1911, Presbyterian families in San Benito organized the Mexican Presbyterian Church of San Benito. Anne E. Dysart, a missionary and teacher who evacuated Mexico during the country's revolution, led Sunday services and opened a school. The congregation officially dedicated the church on October 19, 1911.
By 1912, the congregation gathered funds to purchase a lot at the corner of Biddle and Hull Streets to build their first church building. In 1917, the church reorganized and in 1919, it became a member of the Presbyterian Church of the U.S.A. That same year, the congregation moved their buildings to 140 Diaz Street. As the years passed, the congregation became largely English-speaking; to reflect the shift, the church changed names to 2nd Presbyterian Church in 1961. In 1979, the members renamed it Getsemani Presbyterian Church.
The Getsemani congregation has a long history of aiding the community. The church has hosted the Texas Migrant Council's community center, run a food bank and a clothes closet, functioned as an emergency distribution center, offered English classes, and set up a benevolent fund for the indigent. The congregation has also focused strongly on area outreach, opening missions in Harlingen, Las Flores and El Fresnal. Today, Getsemani Presbyterian Church continues to be a spiritual leader in the San Benito community
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.
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
In the early 18th century, the Spanish established a presence in the area through the construction of missions and the establishment of ranches. This period saw the growth of agriculture and the introduction of Catholicism to the local population. However, these Spanish settlements faced numerous challenges, including conflicts with Native Americans and French incursions from Louisiana.
In the early 19th century, the area became part of Mexico after gaining independence from Spain. This period was marked by political instability, as Mexico went through numerous changes in leadership. In 1845, the region became part of the newly annexed state of Texas and experienced a surge in population as American settlers arrived. The county was officially named Cameron in 1848 after Ewen Cameron, an early settler and landowner.
The 20th century brought significant economic growth to Cameron County through the development of agriculture, oil, and tourism. The county became an important agricultural center, with cotton, vegetables, and citrus fruits being major crops. The discovery of oil in the nearby Gulf of Mexico also brought economic prosperity, leading to the establishment of a major oil industry in the region. Additionally, the county's beautiful beaches and warm climate attracted tourists, leading to the growth of the tourism industry.
Today, Cameron County continues to be an important agricultural and industrial region in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and remains a popular tourist destination, with its stunning beaches, historical sites, and natural beauty attracting visitors from around the world. The county's rich history is celebrated through various museums, festivals, and cultural events, showcasing the colorful past that has shaped Cameron County into what it is today.
Cameron County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cameron County, Texas.
- 1848: Cameron County is established as one of the original counties of Texas.
- 1850: The first federal census is conducted in Cameron County, recording a population of 285 residents.
- 1866: The first wooden courthouse is built in Brownsville, the county seat of Cameron County.
- 1875: The Rio Grande Railroad reaches Brownsville, boosting economic growth in the county.
- 1893: The current Cameron County Courthouse is completed in Brownsville.
- 1909: The first automobile bridge across the Rio Grande River is built, connecting Brownsville with Matamoros, Mexico.
- 1925: The Port of Brownsville is established, becoming a major hub for trade and commerce.
- 1933: The construction of the Brownsville Ship Channel begins, further enhancing the county's maritime capabilities.
- 1967: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (formerly known as Pan American University) is established.
- 2017: Cameron County experiences significant damage from Hurricane Harvey, leading to large-scale recovery efforts.