Historical Marker

Morning Chapel Missionary Baptist Church

Historical marker location:
208 Fuller St., Sulphur Springs, Texas
( Sulphur Springs, 208 Fuller Street)
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 18" x 28"

IN 1868, AFRICAN-AMERICAN RESIDENTS BEGAN MEETING FOR WORSHIP IN THE OLD TARRANT SETTLEMENT. UNDER THE REV. MIKE WIGGINS, THEY ESTABLISHED OLD TARRANT BAPTIST CHURCH. IN 1876, THE CONGREGATION MOVED TO THE INTERSECTION OF FRONT AND FULLER STREETS IN THE NEWLY DESIGNATED HOPKINS COUNTY SEAT OF SULPHUR SPRINGS. MEMBERS HAVE REACHED OUT TO THE COMMUNITY SINCE THEN. A 1974 FIRE DESTROYED THE CHURCH; THE BUILDING WAS REPLACED LARGELY THROUGH FUNDS RAISED BY OTHER CHURCHES AND BY LOCAL BUSINESSES. TODAY, MORNING CHAPEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH CONTINUES TO BE A SPIRITUAL AND SOCIAL LEADER IN SULPHUR SPRINGS AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

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.

churches Baptist denomination
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Texas random facts
Hopkins County, located in northeast Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, until European settlers began arriving in the early 1800s. In 1841, the Texas Congress established Hopkins County and named it after Samuel Hopkins, a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto.

The county's development was greatly influenced by the arrival of the railroad in the late 1870s. The construction of the St. Louis Southwestern Railway, also known as the Cotton Belt Route, opened up new opportunities for trade and agriculture in the area. This led to an increase in population and the establishment of several communities, including Sulphur Springs, the county seat.

Agriculture played a significant role in the county's economy. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for growing crops such as cotton, corn, and wheat. The introduction of new farming techniques and machinery further improved productivity. In addition to agriculture, the county also had thriving industries such as dairy farming, timber harvesting, and oil and gas production.

Over the years, Hopkins County has maintained its agricultural heritage while embracing modern developments. Today, the county is known for its annual Hopkins County Fall Festival, which celebrates the community's history and culture. It also boasts numerous parks, recreational areas, and historic sites, attracting visitors from near and far. Hopkins County continues to be a vibrant and evolving community, combining its rich history with a focus on progress and growth.

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

  • 1846 - Hopkins County is formed from portions of Lamar and Nacogdoches counties.
  • 1849 - The county's first settlement, Tarrant, is established.
  • 1870 - The city of Sulphur Springs is founded as the county seat.
  • 1872 - The Texas and Pacific Railway is built through the county, boosting economic development.
  • 1884 - The county courthouse, known as the "Old White Courthouse," is constructed in Sulphur Springs.
  • 1961 - Lake Fork Reservoir is completed, providing a new recreational attraction for the county.
  • 1985 - The city of Sulphur Springs is designated as the "World Champion Hopkins County Stew Capital."
  • 2000 - The Hopkins County Veterans Memorial is dedicated to honor local veterans.