Historical Marker

First Baptist Church of Elkhart

Historical marker location:
424 West Parker, Elkhart, Texas
( In front of the church building currently located at 424 West Parker)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 27" x 42"

AFTER THE CIVIL WAR, THE CROMWELL FAMILY MOVED TO ELKHART IN ANDERSON COUNTY. FINDING NO ORGANIZED BAPTIST CHURCH IN THE COMMUNITY, J.W. CROMWELL DECIDED TO ORGANIZE A BAPTIST CHURCH. IN APRIL OF 1886, CROMWELL AND SIX OTHER CHARTER MEMBERS FOUNDED THE BAPTIST CHURCH OF ELKHART AND CALLED ON REVEREND JULIUS BURK TO SERVE AS THE FIRST PASTOR. A CHURCH HOME WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1876 ON THE QUARLES PLANTATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF A SCHOOL AND CHURCH, KNOWN AT THAT TIME AS THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH. IN 1897, LAND WAS SOLD TO THE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH AND A WOODEN STRUCTURE WAS ERECTED. THE CHURCH MOVED A THIRD TIME WHEN THE WOODEN STRUCTURE BURNED IN 1943. SADLY, ALL OF THE CHURCH RECORDS WERE LOST. THE CHURCH THEN MOVED TO THE OLD MERCANTILE BUILDING BUT IT ALSO BURNED IN 1963. AFTER BRIEFLY USING THE ELKHART HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM, THE CHURCH PURCHASED LAND FROM THE FUNDERBURK FAMILY AND BUILT A NEW STRUCTURE. THE NEW CHURCH BUILDING WAS DEDICATED ON JUNE 21, 1964.

THIRTY-FOUR PASTORS HAVE SERVED THE CONGREGATION AND THE CHURCH IS ONE OF THE OLDEST TO BE ESTABLISHED INSIDE THE CITY. FROM 1886 TO 1890, THE CHURCH BELONGED TO THE NECHES RIVER ASSOCIATION AND FROM 1891 TO THE PRESENT, IT HAS HELD MEMBERSHIP IN THE ANDERSON COUNTY BAPTIST ASSOCIATION, LATER RENAMED SALINE BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. THE CHURCH’S HISTORY IS MARKED BY NUMEROUS CHURCH ACTIVITIES AND COMMUNITY EVENTS INCLUDING SUMMER REVIVALS, WEDDINGS, FUNERALS, EASTER AND CHRISTMAS SERVICES, VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS AND AN ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FOOD DRIVE. FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY, THE CHURCH HAS BEEN A BEACON OF LIGHT IN THE COMMUNITY.

(2012)

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
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
Texas random facts
Anderson County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was established in 1846 and was named after Kenneth L. Anderson, a veteran of the Texas Revolution. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee, before European settlers arrived.

The county's economy flourished with the arrival of immigrants from the United States and Europe, who established plantations and worked in the timber industry. The town of Palestine, the county seat, developed as a vibrant agricultural center, known for its cotton production. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economic growth. However, Anderson County also had its share of challenges.

Like many other areas of Texas, it witnessed tensions and conflicts during the American Civil War, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Reconstruction was a difficult period for the county, as it endured economic decline and political instability.
In the 20th century, Anderson County experienced significant changes and modernization. The discovery of oil reserves in the early 1930s brought economic prosperity to the region. The establishment of the Texas Department of Corrections in the county in 1849 also played a major role in shaping the county's history, as it became home to several state prisons and correctional facilities. Today, Anderson County is known for its diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

The region's rich history is evident in its numerous historic sites and landmarks, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Texas history and culture.

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

  • 1836: Anderson County is established on March 24, 1836, as one of the original counties of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1838: The town of Palestine is established as the county seat of Anderson County.
  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, the county's economy is severely affected, and many locals serve in the Confederate Army.
  • Late 1800s: The arrival of the railroad in Palestine brings growth and development to Anderson County, making it an important transportation hub.
  • Early 1900s: The discovery of oil in the area leads to an economic boom, with various oil fields and refineries being established.
  • 1930-1940: The Great Depression and the drought of the 1930s bring significant challenges to Anderson County, leading to decreased economic activity and population decrease.
  • Late 20th century: Anderson County experiences shifts in its economy with the decline of the oil industry. Agriculture becomes an important sector, with the county known for its timber, poultry, and cattle production.
  • 2000s: Anderson County continues to strive for economic growth and development, focusing on diversified industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.