Aubrey First United Methodist Church
Historical marker location:IN 1858, DR. GEORGE T. KEY AND HIS FAMILY, ORIGINALLY FROM MISSOURI, MOVED TO DENTON COUNTY AND SETTLED NEAR THE PRESENT TOWN OF AUBREY. THERE THEY BUILT LOG CABINS, ONE OF WHICH WAS USED FOR A SCHOOL AND CHURCH. THE BUILDING, KNOWN AS THE KEY SCHOOL HOUSE, WAS THE HOME OF ONE OF THE FIRST METHODIST CHURCHES ESTABLISHED IN DENTON COUNTY, LATER RENAMED AUBREY METHODIST CHURCH. FOR YEARS, THE CONGREGATION OF THE AUBREY METHODIST CHURCH MET AT THE KEY SCHOOL AND IN MEMBERS’ HOMES UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF REVEREND F.V. EVANS. IN 1885, L.N. EDWARDS MADE AN ADDITION TO THE ORIGINAL TOWN PLAT OF AUBREY AND OFFERED A FREE LOT TO EACH CHURCH. THE AUBREY METHODIST CHURCH ACCEPTED THE LOTS ON THE CORNER OF PLUM AND MAPLE STREETS. ED F. BATES, A PIONEER CITIZEN OF THE COUNTY, DONATED FUNDS TO BUILD A CHURCH BUILDING AS CHURCH FUNDS WERE EXTREMELY SCARCE.
CONSTRUCTION ON A WOOD-FRAME BUILDING WAS COMPLETED IN 1886. ON APRIL 14, 1918, A DEVASTATING TORNADO SWEPT THROUGH AUBREY AND DESTROYED THE CHURCH. A NEW, ONE-STORY BRICK VENEER BUILDING WAS COMPLETED IN FEBRUARY 1919. THE EXQUISITE PRE-RAPHAEL STYLE STAINED GLASS WINDOWS DEPICT STORIES OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH AND ALLOW VIBRANT COLORS TO FILL THE SANCTUARY. IN 1968, THE CHURCH WAS RENAMED AUBREY FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH WHEN THE EVANGELICAL UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH AND THE METHODIST CHURCH COMBINED. THE CHURCH INCORPORATED AND BUILT AN ADJACENT FELLOWSHIP HALL IN 1986. FROM MEETING IN A LOG CABIN TO ENDURING A CYCLONE, THE AUBREY FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OVERCAME MANY OBSTACLES AND CONTINUES TO SERVE THE 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.
Denton County was officially established in 1846 and named after John B. Denton, a prominent figure in Texas history. The county played a significant role in the early days of Texas statehood and witnessed the challenges and triumphs of westward expansion.
Throughout the 19th century, Denton County thrived due to the expansion of railroads and the arrival of new settlers. Agriculture, particularly the production of cotton, became a key economic driver. Educational institutions, such as the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, were founded in Denton County during this period, establishing a legacy of academic excellence.
In the 20th century, Denton County continued to evolve. The discovery of oil in the area brought new economic opportunities, and the county experienced further growth and urbanization. Today, Denton County is a dynamic and thriving region with a diverse economy that includes sectors such as education, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.
Denton County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Denton County, Texas.
Native American Inhabitation: Before European settlement, Denton County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Wichita and Tonkawa.
Anglo-American Settlement: In the mid-1800s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive, drawn by the fertile land and prospects for farming and ranching. The Peters Colony, a land grant company, played a significant role in attracting these settlers.
County Formation: Denton County was officially established in 1846, named after John B. Denton, a prominent preacher and soldier who died during the Texas Revolution.
Growth and Development: The county's growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, leading to the establishment of towns such as Denton, Lewisville, and Frisco. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a key economic driver in the region.
Education: Denton County became an educational hub with the founding of the University of North Texas (formerly known as North Texas Normal College) in 1890. The university has since grown into a major educational institution.
Modernization and Urbanization: In the 20th century, Denton County experienced suburban growth and industrial development, especially with the expansion of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The county's population has steadily increased, and it is now one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas.