Historical Marker

Follett United Methodist Church and Church Bell

Historical marker location:
E. Ivanhoe St., Follett, Texas
( E. Ivanhoe Street, Follett)
Marker installed: 1977
Marker size: 18" x 28"

The Rev. Grant. L. Hayes, first Methodist circuit rider in this area, founded the Ivanhoe, Oklahoma, church 3 miles to the north in 1902; the Stillwater Church, 6 miles east, in Texas in 1904. After Follett originated on the Santa Fe Railroad in 1917, the two congregations merged here. The Old Ivanhoe church bell, cast in Ohio in 1907, was relocated at the Follett building site in 1919, installed in first church tower in 1924, and brought as a link from the historic past to the modern church (built 1961) in 1976.

(1977)

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
Texas is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
Texas random facts
Lipscomb County, located in the northernmost part of Texas, has a rich history that reflects the struggles and successes of early settlers in the area. The county was officially established in 1887 and was named after A.S. Lipscomb, a judge and legislator in the Republic of Texas. Prior to its establishment, the land was mainly inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Kiowa, Comanche, and Cheyenne.

The county's early settlers faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, limited resources, and conflicts with Native American tribes. Many early pioneers were drawn to the area for its fertile soil and opportunities for cattle ranching. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought further growth and development to the county.

During the early 20th century, Lipscomb County experienced a boom in agriculture, with cotton and wheat becoming the primary crops. The discovery of oil in the area in the 1920s brought a new wave of prosperity and economic growth. The county saw an increase in population and the establishment of new businesses.

Today, Lipscomb County remains largely rural, with agriculture and oil production continuing to be significant industries. The county's rich history is celebrated through various historical sites and museums, which preserve the stories and heritage of the early settlers who shaped the area.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lipscomb County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Lipscomb County was established on August 21, becoming the last of the 254 counties in Texas.
  • 1887 - The town of Lipscomb, which would later become the county seat, was founded.
  • 1902 - The Northeast Texas Panhandle was opened up for settlement, leading to an influx of farmers and ranchers into Lipscomb County.
  • 1907 - The Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway established a line through Lipscomb County, boosting transportation and economic development in the area.
  • 1911 - Lipscomb County's first courthouse was built in Lipscomb.
  • 1920s - The oil boom hit the Lipscomb County area, bringing prosperity and economic growth.
  • 1926 - The town of Lipscomb was incorporated.
  • 1940s - The oil industry continued to thrive, and agriculture remained a significant part of the county's economy.
  • 1969 - The Lipscomb County Courthouse, which served as the county seat, was destroyed in a fire.
  • 1970 - The current courthouse in Lipscomb was built, serving as the county seat.