Historical Marker

First Baptist Church of Jourdanton

Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 27" x 42"

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF JOURDANTON

IN OCTOBER 1909, JUST ONE MONTH AFTER THE FOUNDING OF JOURDANTON, SEVEN RESIDENTS GATHERED TO ORGANIZE A BAPTIST CHURCH UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE REV. W.G. GILSTRAP. MEMBERS FIRST MET IN THE COMMUNITY SCHOOLHOUSE FOR WORSHIP SERVICES AND WERE LED BY THE REV. A.P. SMITH; FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH WAS HIS FIRST PASTORATE. BY THE END OF 1910, THE CONGREGATION CONSTRUCTED THEIR FIRST BUILDING, A WOOD FRAME STRUCTURE AT THE CORNER OF CANTRELL AVENUE AND POPLAR STREET.

IN 1911, THE WOMEN OF THE CHURCH FORMED A WOMEN’S MISSIONARY UNION TO COLLECT FUNDS FOR MISSIONS AND TO AID THE CHURCH IN PROJECTS. FIRST BAPTIST HAS MADE HOME AND FOREIGN MISSION WORK A FOCUS THROUGHOUT ITS HISTORY, DONATING FUNDS TO THE BUCKNER ORPHANS HOME AND OTHER TEXAS ORGANIZATIONS. THE CONGREGATION ALSO WORKED WITH CHILDREN AND YOUTH; THE CHURCH’S ANNUAL VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL BEGAN IN 1938. DURING WORLD WAR II, MEMBERS PURCHASED WAR BONDS AND THE CHURCH CONDUCTED SPECIAL SERVICES FOR FAMILIES. OTHER AUXILIARIES INCLUDED THE BROTHERHOOD ORGANIZATION, ESTABLISHED IN 1939.

IN 1946, A NEW CHURCH BUILDING WAS CONSTRUCTED. MEMBERS MET AT JOURDANTON HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM UNTIL THE FIRST SERVICES WERE HELD AT THE NEW STRUCTURE IN DECEMBER OF THAT YEAR. THAT SANCTUARY WAS REPLACED IN 1977, AND A LARGE WORSHIP CENTER WAS COMPLETED AND DEDICATED IN 2003. TODAY, HAVING EXISTED ALMOST AS LONG AS THE COMMUNITY, FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF JOURDANTON REMAINS A VITAL PART OF THE CITY’S PAST AND PRESENT.

(2010)

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.

churches Baptist denomination
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
Texas random facts
Atascosa County, located in south-central Texas, has a rich and diverse history spanning hundreds of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache. Spanish explorers arrived in the 18th century, with the area eventually becoming part of the San Antonio de Béxar (San Antonio) Spanish colonial outpost.

In the early 19th century, the region experienced a migration of American settlers. Atascosa County, named after the Atascosa River that flows through it, was officially established in 1856. The county played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with several battles fought in the area. The region's fertile land attracted farmers and ranchers, leading to the growth of the agricultural industry. Cattle ranching soon became a dominant economic activity, and the county became known for its large cattle drives and sprawling ranches.

During the Civil War, Atascosa County sided with the Confederacy, and the conflict brought some challenges to the area. However, after the war, the county experienced a period of growth and development. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to larger markets, and the establishment of towns and communities brought further prosperity.

In the 20th century, Atascosa County continued to thrive economically, primarily due to agriculture, particularly cotton and corn farming. Oil and gas exploration also became significant industries in the region. The growth of cities such as Pleasanton and Jourdanton brought increased infrastructure and amenities to the area. Today, Atascosa County is an important part of the South Texas economy, contributing to agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism. Its history and heritage are celebrated through various cultural events and historical landmarks.

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

  • 1856 - Atascosa County is officially established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1872 - The county's first courthouse is built in Pleasanton.
  • 1881 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway is completed, bringing a significant boost to the county's economy.
  • 1890 - Tornadoes cause extensive damage in the county, leading to rebuilding efforts.
  • 1898 - The county's second courthouse is constructed, replacing the original one.
  • 1908 - The discovery of oil in the county leads to an oil boom, bringing economic prosperity.
  • 1920s - Atascosa County experiences a decline in agriculture due to the boll weevil infestation.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in the county.
  • 1940s - World War II brings changes to the county, including the establishment of a military training base.
  • 1960s - Construction of Interstate 37 brings improved transportation infrastructure to the county.
  • 1970s - Atascosa County's population starts to grow significantly, leading to increased development.
  • 1990s - The county experiences further population growth and urbanization.
  • 2005 - Hurricane Emily causes widespread damage in the county.
  • Present - Atascosa County continues to be a mix of rural and urban communities, with a diverse economy.