Historical Marker

Brookeland United Methodist Church

Historical marker location:
Old TX-8 N, Old TX-96, Brookeland, Texas
( Old TX-8 N, 0.1 mi N of intersection with Old TX-96)
Marker installed: 2006
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Present Brookeland is located in an area served by pioneer Methodist preachers beginning in the 1840s. During that era, circuit riding preachers conducted worship services in local homes. Thomas Jefferson Jacks was one of the earliest to minister to settlers in this part of Sabine County. What is now Brookeland was then on the Bear Creek circuit.

In 1876, Mary L. White Hamilton conveyed three acres of land for the establishment of a church, school and cemetery. The Methodist Episcopal Church, South, that organized as a result of her donation later became Brookeland United Methodist Church. Members held early services in the community schoolhouse.

In 1907, during the pastorate of the Rev. John C. Campbell, the parishioners began construction on a new church building at this site purchased by the trustees. Over the ensuing years, church facilities here have expanded to meet the needs and programs of the growing congregation.

For more than 100 years, Brookeland United Methodist Church has been a vital part of the surrounding area. In addition to being a spiritual leader, the church has also functioned as an institution of stability, continuing services through the many decades, even during times of population decline and years of the Great Depression. Today, the Brookeland United Methodist congregation, with its historic ties to pioneer settlement in Sabine County, continues to have a strong influence on the community it serves. (2006)

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
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Sabine County, located in the eastern region of Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Atakapa tribes, who relied on the fertile land and abundant water sources for sustenance. European exploration of the region began in the 16th century when Spanish expeditions led by Alonso Álvarez de Pineda explored the Gulf Coast, including the Sabine River.

In the early 19th century, Sabine County became a part of the newly established Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. The area attracted American settlers who were lured by the fertile soil for farming and the potential for trade along the Sabine River. One influential settler, James Gaines, established the city of Milam in 1835, which would later become the county seat of Sabine County.

The history of Sabine County is closely intertwined with the struggle for independence and the establishment of the Republic of Texas. During the Texas Revolution, the area witnessed several significant events, such as the Battle of Nacogdoches in 1832 and the Battle of Gaines' Ferry in 1836. After Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836, Sabine County became a part of the newly formed Republic of Texas.

As the years went by, Sabine County experienced various economic booms and downturns, primarily driven by industries such as timber and oil. The timber industry played a vital role in the county's early development, with sawmills and logging camps becoming prominent features of the local economy. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil led to a short-lived but significant oil boom in the area, attracting numerous companies and workers.

Today, Sabine County remains a vibrant and diverse community, with a mix of rural and urban areas. Its rich history is celebrated through various cultural events and landmarks, showcasing its role as an integral part of Texas's heritage.

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

  • 1836: Sabine County is established and organized as a county of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1843: The town of Hemphill is established as the county seat of Sabine County.
  • 1854: The Sabine Pass Lighthouse is constructed on the Sabine Pass.
  • 1861: Sabine County residents vote overwhelmingly in favor of secession from the Union.
  • 1881: The Texas State Penitentiary is established in Sabine County.
  • 1936: Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, is completed along the Sabine River.
  • 1957: The Sabine River Authority of Texas is created to manage the water resources of the Sabine River Basin.
  • 1976: The Sabine County Historical Commission is established to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 1990: The Sabine County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.