Historical Marker

First United Methodist Church of Van Alstyne

Historical marker location:
Van Alstyne, Texas
( Fulton and Preston St.)
Marker installed: 1972
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Outgrowth of Liberty Class, formed 1847 for Bible study and worship, in log cabin of Jim Creager (1.25 mi. S) by the Rev. Joab Biggs, of the Dallas Methodist circuit, and M. F. Cole. In 1855, after a rainstorm that detained quarterly conference delegates to listen to an all-night sermon, the Rev. Y. S. McKinney preached for three weeks and had 60 conversions. The enlarged class moved to Mantua, where it built a frame chapel on the town square and was renamed Mt. Zion Methodist Church. At founding of Van Alstyne on Houston & Texas Central Railroad in 1873, Mt. Zion moved its building into town, to a site now in Van Alstyne Cemetery. By 1890 membership exceeded 400. The congregation in 1893 moved again, erecting a larger building at Waco and Jefferson streets, and changing name to First Methodist Church. In this sanctuary in 1894 there was organized the first district Epworth League of the Southern Methodist Church. Here in 1912 ex-president Theodore Roosevelt gave an address, and in 1917 one of Texas' earliest Boy Scout troops was formed.

Present sanctuary was completed and dedicated in 1917, with dedicatory sermon given by the Rev. Sam R. Hay. The present name was given after a national ecumenical accord was reached in 1968.

Incise on back: This historical marker given to the glory of God by Mr. and Mrs. Rea A. Nunnallee

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
Texas is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
Texas random facts
Grayson County, Texas has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area that is now Grayson County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Tonkawa, and Shawnee. However, European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1800s, leading to conflicts and the eventual displacement of the Native American populations.

The county itself was established in 1846 and named after Peter Wagener Grayson, a lawyer who served in the Texas legislature. Grayson County quickly grew as settlers moved into the region, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The county's economy flourished with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, which facilitated transportation of goods and boosted trade in the area.

During the Civil War, Grayson County largely supported the Confederacy, and many residents volunteered to serve in the Southern army. After the war, the county faced challenges as it struggled to rebuild and recover from the economic and social impacts of the conflict. However, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of prosperity to Grayson County. Oil fields were developed, attracting workers and boosting the local economy.

Today, Grayson County continues to thrive as a vibrant and growing community. It is home to several cities, including Sherman, the county seat, and Denison. The county is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Texoma, which is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Grayson County also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, museums, and festivals that celebrate its unique history and traditions.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Grayson County, Texas.

  • 1836 - The Republic of Texas is established, including the area now known as Grayson County.
  • 1846 - Grayson County is officially organized and named after Peter W. Grayson, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
  • 1850 - The first courthouse is built in Sherman, becoming the county seat.
  • 1871 - The arrival of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad sparks growth in the county.
  • 1872 - Sherman is incorporated as a city.
  • 1896 - The Red River Bridge, connecting Grayson County to the Oklahoma Territory, is completed.
  • 1900 - The population of Grayson County reaches over 40,000 residents.
  • 1930s - Grayson County is affected by the Great Depression, but starts recovering through federal programs.
  • 1960s - Lake Texoma is created by the Army Corps of Engineers, providing recreational opportunities.
  • 1990s - Grayson County experiences rapid growth due to its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
  • 2006 - The Grayson County Courthouse, built in 1910, undergoes major renovations.