Squaw Creek Primitive Baptist Church
Historical marker location:Squaw Creek Primitive Baptist Church
Ten charter members constituted Squaw Creek Primitive Baptist Church in 1901, and elder S. N. Redford served as pastor from 1901 until 1907. Services were held in homes and in the Squaw Creek School until 1911, when members began meeting in the Bethel Missionary Baptist Church building, which they purchased in 1924. New facilities were constructed over time to meet the congregation's needs. A brush arbor at the rear of the property sheltered meetings of the Friendship Association of Primitive Baptists. Annual and, later, triennial camp meetings began in 1963 on the third weekend in July. The Squaw Creek Church continues to serve the Doss
Valley and Primitive Baptists across the state.
(2002)
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.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
The pioneer settlers of Gillespie County were mostly of German descent, seeking a new life and economic opportunities. They developed a thriving agricultural community, growing crops like cotton, corn, and wheat. The early settlers also established successful farms and ranches, making Gillespie County one of the leading agricultural regions in Texas.
During the Civil War, Gillespie County experienced some conflict and tensions due to the differing loyalties of its residents. However, after the war, the county experienced a period of growth and prosperity as the railroad reached Fredericksburg, the county seat, in 1913. This opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to economic development and population growth.
In recent years, Gillespie County has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich history, charming small towns, and beautiful natural surroundings. Today, the county is known for its wineries, historic sites, and festivals that celebrate its German heritage. It continues to thrive as a center of agriculture, tourism, and cultural preservation in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
Gillespie County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Gillespie County, Texas.
- 1848 - Gillespie County is established and named after Robert Addison Gillespie
- 1849 - The county seat is established in Fredericksburg
- 1850s - German immigrants begin settling in the area, shaping the county's culture and economy
- 1861-1865 - Gillespie County residents participate in the American Civil War
- 1880s - The county experiences growth with the arrival of the railroad and expansion of agriculture
- 1900s - Gillespie County faces challenges such as the 1900 storm and the Great Depression
- 1940s - Fort Mason is established as a training center during World War II
- 1970s - Tourism becomes an important industry, boosting the county's economy
- 1990s - Fredericksburg becomes a popular tourist destination with its historic downtown and wineries