Pine Ridge Baptist Church
Historical marker location:The founders of the Pine Ridge community came here to settle during the 1840s, soon after Texas was admitted to statehood. The Rev. David M. Jordan and his family moved to Pine Ridge probably during the late 1860s. A Baptist minister ordained in Alabama in 1852, Jordan had first come to Hardin County in 1858 and organized the Providence Baptist Church near the present town of Kountze.
Rev. Jordan organized the Pine Ridge Baptist Church in 1874. Joining him as charter members were Mary, Susan T., George B., W. J., and Sultana L. Jordan; Jessie and Missouri Jordan Daniels; The Rev. J. W. "Billy" and Miley Jordan Teel; Mandy Shaw Cotton, Jane Teel, Thomas Laird, and Aletha Laird Herrington. Rev. Jordan donated land for a church and cemetery. During the early years, baptisms were held in Little Pine Island Bayou.
Upon the death of the Rev. D. M. Jordan in 1906, his son-in-law, the Rev. J. W. Teel, became the church's second pastor. Over the years, the congregation has been served by many able pastors, and several ministers have been licensed to preach from the church's membership.
With a history of service and leadership to the community, Pine Ridge Baptist Church continues to uphold the ideals and traditions of its founders
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.
During the early 19th century, the region was part of Mexico. However, after Texas became an independent republic in 1836, Hardin County was officially established in 1858 and named after the leader of the Battle of New Orleans, William Hardin.
The county experienced significant growth and development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the most important events in Hardin County's history was the discovery of oil in 1902, leading to an economic boom. Oil wells were drilled, refineries were established, and the local economy flourished.
Hardin County also played a role in World War II, as the area was home to Camp Hardin, a military training camp. The county's population surged during this time, as soldiers and their families moved into the area.
Today, Hardin County continues to be an important part of Texas' history and economy. It offers a mix of rural and suburban areas, with agriculture and oil production remaining vital industries. The county is proud of its heritage, with several historical landmarks and museums, preserving its past for future generations.
Hardin County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hardin County, Texas.