Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School
503 N. Queen St., Palestine, TXSacred Heart Catholic Church of Palestine is an excellent example of the High Victorian Gothic Revival style. Intricate details executed in local brick attest the capabilities of architect Nicholas J. Clayton. Having served the Palestine area for more than eighty five years, the structure is the only remaining example of Clayton's Victorian Gothic design in east Texas.
The church stands on a lot originally deeded to the Bishop of the Houston-Galveston Diocese in 1873 by the International and Great Northern Railroad for construction of a Catholic Church. Completed that same year, the original thirteen by sixty foot structure was called St. Joseph's. In May, 1890, the church, along with all church records and possessions, was destroyed by fire.
Plans were made immediately for the construction of a new church; original architectural drawings, still in possession of the church, are dated August, 1890. The Palestine firm of Burkitt and Palmer was engaged to construct the building which was funded with insurance money from the destroyed property, proceeds from a parish bazaar, donations from the parishioners, and the salary of the pastor, Father C. M. Thion.
The contributions of Nicholas Clayton, Texas' first professional architect, are primarily centered around the Galveston area, with isolated works appearing in Houston, Austin, and other cities. Works designed by Clayton already recognized by the National Register include the Ashbel Smith Building ("old Red") at the University of Texas Medical Branch, (listed 1969); the Bishop's Palace, (1970); the Ursuline Convent, (1972); the Garten Verein Dancing Pavilion, (1977); and several commercial buildings in the East End Historic District, (1975); all in Galveston. Other listed buildings include the Church of the Annunciation in Houston, (1975); and St. Edward's University, (1973). An interesting contrast may be noted between Sacred Heart Church and St. Mary's Cathedral in Austin, (listed 1973). While a similar vocabulary was employed in the Gothic detailing of these two works, textural contrast is evident as a result of construction materials. Unlike Sacred Heart, constructed with brick molded and fired on the site, St. Mary's is executed in irregularly patterned ashlar masonry, common to Austin.
Today the church is distinguished for its size as a Catholic institution in east Texas. The foresight of Clayton in designing the structure allows it to house the congregation which numbers more than one thousand. The church, along with St. Mary's Academy, a two-storied brick building constructed in 1901 that reflects the Gothic detailing of the church, forms the core of a vital Catholic complex located in the heart of overwhelmingly Protestant east Texas.
Local significance of the building:
The church stands on a lot originally deeded to the Bishop of the Houston-Galveston Diocese in 1873 by the International and Great Northern Railroad for construction of a Catholic Church. Completed that same year, the original thirteen by sixty foot structure was called St. Joseph's. In May, 1890, the church, along with all church records and possessions, was destroyed by fire.
Plans were made immediately for the construction of a new church; original architectural drawings, still in possession of the church, are dated August, 1890. The Palestine firm of Burkitt and Palmer was engaged to construct the building which was funded with insurance money from the destroyed property, proceeds from a parish bazaar, donations from the parishioners, and the salary of the pastor, Father C. M. Thion.
The contributions of Nicholas Clayton, Texas' first professional architect, are primarily centered around the Galveston area, with isolated works appearing in Houston, Austin, and other cities. Works designed by Clayton already recognized by the National Register include the Ashbel Smith Building ("old Red") at the University of Texas Medical Branch, (listed 1969); the Bishop's Palace, (1970); the Ursuline Convent, (1972); the Garten Verein Dancing Pavilion, (1977); and several commercial buildings in the East End Historic District, (1975); all in Galveston. Other listed buildings include the Church of the Annunciation in Houston, (1975); and St. Edward's University, (1973). An interesting contrast may be noted between Sacred Heart Church and St. Mary's Cathedral in Austin, (listed 1973). While a similar vocabulary was employed in the Gothic detailing of these two works, textural contrast is evident as a result of construction materials. Unlike Sacred Heart, constructed with brick molded and fired on the site, St. Mary's is executed in irregularly patterned ashlar masonry, common to Austin.
Today the church is distinguished for its size as a Catholic institution in east Texas. The foresight of Clayton in designing the structure allows it to house the congregation which numbers more than one thousand. The church, along with St. Mary's Academy, a two-storied brick building constructed in 1901 that reflects the Gothic detailing of the church, forms the core of a vital Catholic complex located in the heart of overwhelmingly Protestant east Texas.
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
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About Anderson County
Anderson County Timeline
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.
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.
Anderson County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.