King Star Baptist Church
Early religious activities for African Americans in this area, many of whom arrived as employees of railroad companies, were conducted at a mission station, reportedly located under a mesquite tree, the Rev. William Green, a missionary for the Mount Zion Baptist Association, made frequent visits to deliver sermons at the site. In 1908, trustees for the Mount Zion Baptist Association purchased a plot of land for $265.00 and a building was erected to house services.
On Easter Sunday, April 17, 1910, nine charter members officially formed the King Star Missionary Baptist Church, the first church for African Americans in Kingsville. The Rev. J. W. Brice, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Kingsville, gave the morning's sermon. The Rev. R. B. Shiner was called as first pastor.
The church building was used as a school facility for the first African American children's classes in the Kingsville Independent School District. After 1912, at the request of church representatives, the school district began to pay rent of $5.oo per month for use of the building until a new facility was designated.
Throughouth the 20th Century the King Star Baptist Church served the religious community of Kingsville in the 1950s church members participated in a program wherein both black and white congregations exchanged members once each month to further relations between local churches. The King Baptist Church continues to celebrate its dedication to worship and service to the community. (1998)
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.
The county's namesake, Robert Justus Kleberg, played a significant role in its development. Kleberg, a German immigrant, moved to Texas in the 1830s and became involved in politics and land acquisition. In the late 19th century, he purchased a large tract of land in the area, which eventually became the basis for the founding of Kleberg County.
The county witnessed significant growth and development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, due in part to the arrival of the railroad. The St. Louis, Brownsville, and Mexico Railway played a crucial role in connecting Kleberg County to the rest of Texas and facilitating economic growth through the transportation of goods and people.
Another major contributor to the county's history is the King Ranch, one of the largest ranches in the United States. Established in the 1850s by Richard King and Captain Mifflin Kenedy, the King Ranch played a vital role in Kleberg County's economy and development. Today, it remains an integral part of the county and a symbol of its rich ranching heritage.
In recent years, Kleberg County has seen further growth, particularly in the field of oil and gas production. The county's natural resources have led to the establishment of various industries, providing employment opportunities and contributing to its overall economic prosperity. With a blend of historical significance and modern growth, Kleberg County continues to evolve and thrive while honoring its past.
Kleberg County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Kleberg County, Texas.
- 1854 - Kleberg County was established from territory previously part of Nueces County.
- 1858 - Captain Richard King and Gideon K. Lewis established the King and Lewis Ranch along the Santa Gertrudis Creek.
- 1875 - King acquired the entirety of Lewis' interest in the ranch.
- 1903 - A post office named Kleberg was established.
- 1913 - Kleberg County was officially organized, and the town of Kleberg became the county seat.
- 1918 - The county seat was moved to the newly formed town of Kingsville.
- 1925 - The Texas Legislature formed the Kleberg County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 to oversee irrigation and drainage in the area.
- 1933 - The Naval Air Station Kingsville was established.
- 1940 - Kenedy County was formed from parts of Kleberg County.
- 1954 - Hurricane Alice struck Kleberg County, causing significant damage.
- 1980s - The King Ranch remained a significant economic and cultural influence in the county.