Uvalde Methodist Church
Historical marker location:The Rev. Thomas Myers organized this congregation in 1856, soon after the town of Uvalde was founded. At that time, this was the Western limit of the Methodist Ministry in Texas. Early members of the Uvalde congregation included the Dillard, Pulliam, Nunn, Burchfield, Robinson, and Griner Families. H.W. Griner served as first Sunday school Superintendent. The church held services in the courthouse, the school building, and the park until a sanctuary was built about 1859-60 on Garden Street on land deeded by Reading Black, founder of Uvalde. Another sanctuary was built on Getty Street about 1882 at a site conveyed by the G.T. Nunn Family. Construction of the present sanctuary in 1907-08 was overseen by Building Committee members D.W. Barnhill, Harry Hornby,Sr., and J.G. Smyth. The 1909 and 1916 sessions of the West Texas Annual Conference were held here. The early congregation brought stability, leadership, and spiritual values to an unsettled frontier. Through the years the members have continued to seek those goals and enlarge their scope of service.
1985
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 Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
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.
Uvalde County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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