Historical Marker

First Baptist Church, Sabinal

Historical marker location:
607 N. San Antonio St., Sabinal, Texas
( Sabinal, 607 N. San Antonio St.)
Marker installed: 2007
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Since 1899, First Baptist Church has served the community of Sabinal. It began as Sabinal Missionary Baptist Church with eight charter members: William J.F. and Mary Lou Millikin; C. Manco and Martha E. Cullins; Mae Holme; Monroe and Sarah V. Dunlap; and Bessie Dunlap. Led by the Rev. Winter Green, the congregation worshipped once a month in its early years, meeting in the Progressive Campbellite Building and later the Wilson Theatrical Hall. Members completed construction of the first church facility at Tyler and Austin Streets in 1905. Membership grew steadily in the early years, and in 1927 the church moved to a new structure on U.S. Highway 90 (at present FM 127). First Baptist Church has a rich tradition of charitable service to others. Since its inception, members have focused on programs for children and the needy, also giving aid in times of crisis and supporting both foreign and home mission efforts. The congregation supported a local Spanish-speaking mission in the 1930s and in 1984 established a mission in nearby Concan that later developed as a separate church. The First Baptist Church of Sabinal has also been active in interdenominational activities in the community. In 1977, the First Baptist Church moved again, completing work on the current sanctuary. Today, it continues to provide vital leadership, emphasizing mission work on the international level while still serving locally to adress spiritual needs for residents of the Sabinal 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.

Baptist denomination churches religion
Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
Texas random facts
Uvalde County, located in southwest Texas, has a rich and varied history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches, who hunted and camped along the rivers and springs of the region. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries began to settle in the area and establish missions, bringing with them a growing Hispanic population.

In the mid-19th century, Uvalde County experienced significant settlement and development fueled by the expansion of the cattle industry. Many ranchers and cowboys moved to the area, attracted by the abundant water sources and fertile grazing land. The establishment of the Great Western Cattle Trail in the late 1860s further reinforced Uvalde County's importance as a hub for the cattle industry.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Uvalde County played a significant role in various historical events. It was the birthplace of John Nance "Cactus Jack" Garner, who served as the Vice President of the United States under Franklin D. Roosevelt. The area was also a center of political activism during the Mexican Revolution, attracting prominent figures such as Francisco Madero and Pancho Villa.

In more recent years, Uvalde County has continued to evolve and grow. The development of oil and gas industries in the mid-20th century brought economic prosperity to the region. Today, Uvalde County is a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, ranching, and recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and nature tourism, that continue to attract visitors from around the world.

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

  • 1850: Uvalde County established as a county of the Republic of Texas
  • 1855: First permanent settlers arrive in the area
  • 1866: Fort Inge established as a military outpost
  • 1881: Railroad reaches Uvalde, spurring growth and development
  • 1883: City of Uvalde officially incorporated
  • 1891: The Uvalde Asphalt Paving Company is founded
  • 1900: Uvalde becomes a center for farming and ranching
  • 1914: Uvalde County Courthouse is completed
  • 1940: Garner Field established as a training facility during World War II
  • 1981: John Nance Garner Museum opens in Uvalde
  • 1998: Winter Garden Region becomes a major grape-growing area
  • 2010: Population of Uvalde County reaches over 26,000