Historical Marker

Saint John's Episcopal Church

Historical marker location:
915 Travis Street, Columbus, Texas
( 915 Travis St., Columbus)
Marker installed: 1990
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The earliest Episcopal worship service known to have been held in Columbus occurred in 1848. At that time services were held infrequently, conducted by clergy traveling through the area. The Rev. Hannibal Pratt came to Columbus in 1855, and Saint John's Parish was officially organized and admitted to the Diocese of Texas on April 14, 1856.

Worship services for Saint John's parishioners were held in a variety of locations, including the large castle-like home of Robert Robson, the County Courthouse, and the Methodist church. A lot on Milam Street was purchased in 1871 and a church building was constructed by 1874. It was later sold to the Church of Christ.

Property at this site was purchased in 1906 with proceeds from the will of Mrs. Fannie Darden and money raised by the Ladies Guild. A house located here was used first as a rectory and later as a parish house. A new brick church, built with funds willed to the congregation by Mrs. Nannie Thatcher Andrus, was consecrated in 1942 by Bishop Clinton S. Quin.

Charter members of Saint John's included citizens of the Republic of Texas, veterans of the Texas Revolution, local civic leaders, and state officials

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.

women women's history topics churches Episcopal denomination
The city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
Texas random facts
Colorado County, located in southeastern Texas, has a rich and varied history that stretches back to its establishment in 1836 as part of the Republic of Texas. The county was named after the Colorado River, which flows through it. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American groups, including the Karankawa and the Coahuiltecan tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1820s, and by the 1830s, the region had become a hub for Anglo-American colonization.

During the Republic of Texas era, Colorado County saw rapid growth and development. The county seat, Columbus, was established in 1839 and quickly became a major commercial center. The town served as an important stop on the Old San Felipe Road, a major transportation route connecting East and Central Texas. The discovery of oil and gas in the region in the early 20th century further fueled the county's growth and economic prosperity.

Colorado County played an important role during the Civil War. Many residents of German descent who settled in the county were Union sympathizers, while others supported the Confederacy. The county witnessed several skirmishes and military actions, including the Battle of Columbus in 1862, when Confederate forces repelled a Union raid. After the war, the county slowly rebuilt its economy and infrastructure.

In the 20th century, Colorado County diversified its economy beyond agriculture. The discovery of oil and gas led to the development of a thriving energy industry, and manufacturing and services sectors also grew. Today, Colorado County is a mix of suburban and rural areas, with agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism forming the pillars of its economy. The county continues to preserve its historical sites and celebrate its diverse heritage, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Colorado County, Texas.

  • 1821: The area that would become Colorado County, TX is included in Austin's Colony, established by the Mexican government.
  • 1835: The area plays a role in the Texas Revolution as volunteers from Colorado County participate in the Battle of Gonzales.
  • 1837: Colorado County is officially established as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1838: Columbus is selected as the county seat.
  • 1846: Colorado County is incorporated into the state of Texas as it becomes part of the United States.
  • 1850s: The county experiences rapid growth as more settlers move into the area, establishing farms and ranches.
  • 1861: With the outbreak of the Civil War, many residents of Colorado County actively support the Confederacy.
  • 1870s: The county's economy starts to diversify with the discovery of oil, leading to the establishment of oil wells and refineries.
  • 1935: The Lower Colorado River Authority is established, and dams are constructed in the area for flood control and water supply.
  • 1970s: Colorado County experiences an agricultural decline as farming becomes less profitable.
  • 1997: The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center for the Performing Arts is opened in Austin, providing a cultural center for the region.