Historical Marker

Lynn Grove United Methodist Church

Marker installed: 2013
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

THIS HISTORIC CHURCH DATES BACK TO THE LATE 1880s. IN 1888, ZACHARIAH SHELTON WEAVER, JOHN LANE SHINE AND CHARLES G. VICKERS, RESIDENTS OF THE COMMUNITY OF LYNN GROVE, FELT THE NEED FOR A PLACE OF WORSHIP FOR THEIR FAMILIES AND OTHERS LIVING IN THE AREA. JAMES H. MULDROW AGREED TO SELL ACREAGE FOR A CHURCH IN 1889. THE FIRST CHURCH SERVICES FOR THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH, WERE HELD UNDER A BRUSH ARBOR AND WERE CONDUCTED BY TRAVELING CIRCUIT RIDERS. A SIMPLE WOOD CHURCH BUILDING WAS COMPLETED IN 1893. THE PEWS, LECTERN, COMMUNION TABLE AND ALTAR RAILS WERE CONSTRUCTED BY THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH. PASTOR ROBERT W. ADAMS FROM THE COURTNEY-PLANTERSVILLE CIRCUIT GAVE THE FIRST SERMON.

THE CHURCH CONTINUED TO PROSPER AS A PLACE OF WORSHIP AND FELLOWSHIP FOR THE COMMUNITY OF FARMERS TO COME TOGETHER. THE ORIGINAL BUILDING WAS USED FOR OVER FIFTY YEARS UNTIL THE DECISION WAS MADE TO BUILD A NEW CHURCH. THE OLD BUILDING WAS DISMANTLED IN 1947 AND THE MATERIALS WERE USED TO BUILD THE NEW STONE AND WOOD CHURCH. DURING CONSTRUCTION, THE CONGREGATION MET AT THE LYNN GROVE SCHOOL. IN 1948, THE BUILDING WAS COMPLETE WITH THE FIRST SERVICES HELD ON MOTHER’S DAY. MANY OF THE ORIGINAL PIECES FROM THE OLD CHURCH ARE STILL USED IN THE SANCTUARY, INCLUDING THE COMMUNION TABLE AND LECTERN.

THE NAME OF THE CHURCH CHANGED IN 1939 TO THE METHODIST CHURCH AND IN 1968, IT CHANGED TO LYNN GROVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH. OVER THE YEARS, THE CHURCH MADE IMPROVEMENTS TO THE BUILDING AND THE CONGREGATION CONTINUED TO HELP EACH OTHER AND THOSE IN NEED

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
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Grimes County, located in southeastern Texas, has a rich and vibrant history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county's origins can be traced back to the establishment of the Stephen F. Austin Colony in the early 1820s. It was named in honor of Jesse Grimes, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. The county was officially formed in 1846 when it was separated from Montgomery County.

In its early years, Grimes County played a significant role in the development of the Republic of Texas. It served as an important transportation hub due to its location on the Old San Antonio Road, which connected the different regions of Texas. The construction of the Houston and Texas Central Railroad in the 1850s further enhanced the county's connectivity and promoted economic growth.

The county was not immune to the impact of the American Civil War, which deeply affected Texas as a whole. Grimes County saw its fair share of battles and skirmishes, and many local men enlisted in the Confederate Army. Following the war, the county experienced a period of recovery and reintegration into the post-war society.

Throughout the 20th century, Grimes County has evolved into an important agricultural and industrial center. The growth of the timber industry and the discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the area brought economic prosperity to the county. Today, Grimes County continues to thrive as a vibrant community, drawing visitors with its beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, and diverse cultural heritage.

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

  • 1821: Grimes County, Texas, was established as a part of Mexico's Coahuila y Tejas province.
  • 1830: The population of Grimes County experienced significant growth due to the influx of American settlers.
  • 1836: Texas declared independence from Mexico, leading to the Texas Revolution.
  • 1837: Grimes County was officially formed and named after Jesse Grimes, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence.
  • 1850: The advent of railroads in Grimes County resulted in increased trade and economic development.
  • 1861: Texas seceded from the United States and joined the Confederate States of America at the start of the Civil War.
  • 1867: Reconstruction efforts began after the end of the Civil War, aiming to rebuild the county's economy and infrastructure.
  • 1873: Navasota became the county seat, replacing Anderson.
  • 1881: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reached the town of Plantersville, further boosting the area's growth.
  • 1900: The Galveston hurricane of 1900 caused significant devastation in Grimes County and the surrounding region.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression had a major impact on Grimes County, leading to economic hardships and agricultural decline.
  • 1942: The U.S. Army established Camp Hearne in Grimes County during World War II as a prisoner of war camp.
  • Present: Grimes County continues to be a rural area with agriculture as a significant part of its economy.