National Register Listing

Texana Presbyterian Church

Apollo Dr. and Country Club Lane, Edna, TX

One of the last remaining structures from a once flourishing commercial center, the Texana Presbyterian Church bears significance in its association with the town of Texana, its representation as a fine example of the Texas Greek Revival style, and its reflection of changes in settlement patterns influenced by advancements in transportation technology which occurred throughout the United States in the 19th century. Constructed in Texana in 1859-60 and moved to nearby Edna in 1884, the church is a rare and excellent example of Greek Revival expression within the vernacular building constraints on the mid-19th century Texas frontier. The unusual evolution of the church reflects not only the changing needs of the congregation but also the community.

Texana, originally known as Santa Anna, was founded in 1832 in Jackson County near the confluence of the Navidad and Lavaca Rivers. In 1837 the town, then known as Texana, was named as county seat. The public sale of lots and establishment of a military post nearby encouraged settlers into the area, many of whom were part of Stephen F. Austin's Fifth or Coastal Colony. Although the Texas Revolution slowed the town's steady growth, its ideal location for commerce ensured an economic comeback that lasted throughout the mid-19th century. Lots were actively traded and Texana emerged as a political, religious, and commercial center for the surrounding area. The church was erected at the height of Texana's commercial prosperity. Its imposing size and classic Greek Revival details indicated the congregation's faith that the town would continue to thrive and that their church would continue to play a prominent role in the community. While at that time Texana was a bustling county seat, its economic prominence was abruptly halted with the completion of the New York, Texas, and Mexican Railway in 1882, which passed seven miles northwest of Texana. Texas, like other areas of the country, experienced a shift from reliance on inland and coastal waterways to dependence on the more efficient railroads. Overnight the town of Edna was formed on the railroad. In 1883 the county seat was moved from Texana to Edna, followed by a majority of the businesses and residents. The Presbyterians were the first congregation to organize in Edna. In a meeting held on February 11, 1884, the congregation decided to move the abandoned Texana Presbyterian Church to a town lot in Edna. Under the direction of Reverend W.E. Caldwell, the move to the corner of Hanover and Church Streets was accomplished in November 1884. In its new location, the church continued to serve the congregation as it grew and prospered. By 1908 however, the church could no longer meet the needs of the congregation, and a new church was constructed; the original structure was sold and moved. Plans are currently underway to move the original church back onto church property and accurately restore it.

Although the church presently bears little resemblance to its initial appearance, a historic structures report has been prepared including detailed drawings for the restoration of it. Historic photographs, as well as information gathered at the site, were used in the development of the restoration plans, produced by a well-respected Austin architect who specializes in restorations. The congregation has submitted a grant application for the restoration. The fact that the structure will be moved should not be considered to detract from its significance, considering the church's history of being moved.

Local significance of the building:
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.