Historical Marker

Woodlawn Baptist Church

Historical marker location:
Woodlawn, Texas
( on US 59, 1 mi. S. of Woodlawn, about 6.5 mi. N of Marshall)
Marker installed: 1974
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Organized as Bethesda Baptist Church on July 21, 1850, with 13 charter members, most of whom had come from Mississippi or Alabama. Bethesda church building, erected in 1850, was moved in 1877 to a site donated by Capt. Henry L. Berry. For 95 years, until 1945, services were held only on the fourth Sunday of each month, sometimes furnishing an occasion for "dinner on the ground." In 1958, the congregation adopted its present name and completed this modern building on a site given by Mr. and Mrs. George C. Ives

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.

Baptist denomination churches religion
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Harrison County, located in northeastern Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. In 1839, the Republic of Texas incorporated Harrison County, naming it after Jonas Harrison, a lawyer and Texas revolutionary. The county quickly became an important center for commerce and government.

During the mid-19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the development of Texas. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in 1930 brought prosperity and growth to the county. This led to the establishment of several oil companies, driving economic development and creating job opportunities for local residents.

Harrison County was also deeply impacted by slavery and the Civil War. Prior to the war, the county was home to numerous large plantations that relied on enslaved labor for agricultural production. The war left a lasting impact on the county, which continued to struggle with racial tensions and inequality in the years following the war.

Today, Harrison County remains an important part of Texas history and boasts a diverse and vibrant community. The county is home to a number of historic sites, including the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot and the W.C. Dewberry Home and Museum, which showcase the area's rich cultural heritage. With its blend of history and modern progress, Harrison County continues to be a significant contributor to the growth and development of Texas.

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

  • 1839 - Harrison County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
  • 1840 - Marshall becomes the county seat of Harrison County
  • 1861-1865 - Harrison County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War
  • 1873 - Great Fire of Marshall destroys much of the city
  • 1881 - First telephone exchange established in Marshall
  • 1902 - Texas and Pacific Railway brings economic growth to the county
  • 1930s - Oil discovery leads to an economic boom in Harrison County
  • 1979 - East Texas Oil Museum opens in Kilgore, showcasing the region's oil industry
  • 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county
  • 2020 - Present day