Historical Marker

Pleasanton Church of Christ

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

Records show that a Church of Christ congregation has existed in Atascosa County since at least 1858, when a congregation met at the head of Lucas Creek. A group of Pleasanton women, led by Texana (Holder) Brite, began holding Church of Christ services in their homes around 1910. As church membership increased, services were held on the grounds of the former Atascosa County Courthouse, vacated when the county seat moved from Pleasanton to Jourdanton. In 1914, Martha Jane (Price) Hines, Mahalia Elizabeth (Duck) Morris and Victor Hilton Tumlinson purchased land for a church as trustees of the Pleasanton congregation. The property was located at Lot No. 12 in Block No. 1 in the Franklin Place Addition; a small frame church building was constructed on the lot in 1924. Although the women of the congregation were its driving force, they were not allowed to preach, so men from San Antonio came to town on Sundays to do so. Until the 1930s, baptisms were held in Martin's Swimming Pool, on a hill at the west end of Franklin Street. Three long-time Sunday School teachers within the congregation were Nanny Mauldin, Mrs. Morris Pruett and Iris Andrews. The church's first full-time preacher, John Lee Norris, was hired in 1935. Community and missionary outreach have been important parts of the church's activities throughout the years. A radio ministry was broadcast by the church 1952-1959. Missionaries to Guatemala were sponsored by the church beginning in 1959. A jail ministry and Vacation Bible School have also been established. Today, Pleasanton Church of Christ continues as a spiritual and community leader. (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.

chuches Church of Christ denomination
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.