Historical Marker

Macedonia United Methodist Church

Historical marker location:
.4 miles south from the intersection of CR 726 and Macedonia Road, Jefferson, Texas
( From the intersection of Hwy 49 and Hwy 59 in Jefferson, take Hwy 49 West for 3.2 miles. Turn left on Co. Rd. 729. Proceed 3.4 miles and turn left on Co. Rd. 726. Proceed 4.9 miles over the Ferrell Bridge Dam to the stop sign. Turn right and proceed .2 miles on Co. Rd. 726 .2 mile to Macedonia Road and turn left. Proceed .4 miles and the church is on the right side of the road.)
Marker installed: 2013
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

Following the Civil War and emancipation, freed slaves began to see the need for a place to collectively worship and gather. As a result, newly freed slaves in Western Marion County decided to organize a church under the leadership of Henry Smith. The first meeting place was located on a plot of land called “the Leigh High Hill” owned by Leigh High, a white settler in the area. According to local testimonials, the church was officially organized in April 1872. The group named themselves Macedonia Methodist Episcopal Church. Henry Smith was the first pastor. In 1874, Paul Mathis, a member of the church, decided to organize a school within the church. After two years, the school, named Macedonia, relocated to the private residence of John and Mahala Hall. By 1910, the school was again relocated to the church campus.

In 1891, the membership erected their first building on the Halls’ land, a few hundred feet south of the present location. Several years later, this building was destroyed by fire. In 1908, the church purchased two acres of land from W.B. Ward and a new building was erected. Additional land was purchased in 1920 and the church building was rebuilt in 1940 to accommodate increasing membership. As a result of the depression and World War II, membership began to decline. In 1968, Lodwick and Smyrna Methodist Churches merged with Macedonia and attendance rose. The church was renamed Macedonia United Methodist Church. Along with building improvements, a fellowship hall was added for dinners, meetings and events. Macedonia United Methodist Church continues to have a strong presence in the community

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.

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The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Texas random facts
Marion County, located in the eastern part of Texas, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1860. The county was named after Francis Marion, a Revolutionary War hero known as the "Swamp Fox."

The early settlement in Marion County was primarily driven by the sawmill industry, as many settlers arrived to exploit the vast pine forests in the area. Lumber became a major source of economic growth, leading to the establishment of several sawmills and the development of a thriving logging community. However, the decline of the timber industry in the early 20th century had a significant impact on the county's economy.

During the Civil War, Marion County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others supporting the Union. The county saw several skirmishes between Confederate and Union forces, with the town of Jefferson acting as an important Confederate supply depot. After the war, many of the county's plantations were abandoned, and former slaves faced economic and social challenges.

In the 20th century, Marion County experienced a revival in its economy through the tourism industry. The historic town of Jefferson, with its well-preserved architecture and rich history, became a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience the charm of the Old South. Today, Marion County boasts a thriving tourism sector, attracting visitors with its historic sites, museums, festivals, and recreational activities in its beautiful natural surroundings.

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

  • 1837: Marion County is established by the Republic of Texas.
  • 1841: Jefferson is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1845: Texas becomes a state.
  • 1861-1865: Marion County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1867: Marion County votes against secession from the United States.
  • 1873: Texas and Pacific Railway completes a railroad line through the county.
  • 1905: A new courthouse is built in Jefferson.
  • 1937: The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county.
  • 1969: The Texas Historical Commission designates Jefferson as a National Historic Landmark.
  • 1984: Jefferson is named the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas."