Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church
Following Emancipation in 1865, freedmen and women established the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church near Caney Creek in 1866. Instrumental in the church formation were the Reverend Dennis Grey (1814-1879), secretary John Alexander Sidney (1842-1928) and many charter members. The first church building was erected on land from the A.C. Buckner League purchased by the Reverend Mr. Gray and donated to the church. The building also served as a community school with an enrollment of about 100 pupils. A cemetery was established in the 1870s near the church and contains the graves of church and community members. A storm in 1909 destroyed the original church building, and a second church was constructed. A bell dating from 1856 given to the church by the community was hung in the belfry of the new church. In 1970 a new sanctuary was constructed on land donated by the Van Vleck School district. Auxiliary facilities were added as the congregation grew. Continuing a long history of service and community outreach, the church was a site of refuge during Hurricane Carla in 1961. The church remains an integral part of the area as it has for more than 130 years.
(1997)
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.
The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
In the 1820s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive in Matagorda County, attracted by the fertile land and natural resources. The Mexican government granted land grants to individuals, and the population grew rapidly. The county played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with the Battle of Matagorda taking place in 1832. The victory of Texan forces led to the expulsion of Mexican troops from the area.
The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of economic growth to Matagorda County. This led to the establishment of oil refineries and other industries, transforming the region's economy. However, the boom was followed by a period of decline due to the Great Depression and changes in the oil industry. The county experienced a resurgence in the late 20th century with the growth of tourism and recreational activities along the Gulf Coast.
Today, Matagorda County is known for its beautiful beaches and wetlands, attracting visitors from all over. It continues to be an important center for fishing, agriculture, and petrochemical industries. The county's history is preserved through museums and historical sites, providing a glimpse into its vibrant past.
Matagorda County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Matagorda County, Texas.
- 1825 - Stephen F. Austin established a colony around Matagorda Bay.
- 1832 - Matagorda County was officially created and named after the Matagorda Bay.
- 1834 - The town of Matagorda became the county seat.
- 1836 - Texas gained independence from Mexico.
- 1846 - Matagorda County became part of the state of Texas when it was admitted to the United States.
- 1856 - The town of Bay City was established as a trade center.
- 1875 - The county courthouse in Matagorda was destroyed by fire.
- 1882 - Bay City became the new county seat.
- 1942 - The Matagorda Island National Wildlife Refuge was established.
- 1998 - Hurricane Frances caused significant damage to Matagorda County.