Historical Marker

Holy Cross Lutheran Church

Historical marker location:
Yoakum, Texas
( US 77A and SH 111, Yoakum)
Marker installed: 1991
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Lutheran missionaries began serving settlers in the Yoakum area about 1888. The Rev. Cornelius Ziesmer and about ten families organized Holy Cross Lutheran Church on January 27, 1891. Early worship services were held in homes, the city hall, the old community opera house, and the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

The first Lutheran sanctuary, completed in October 1893 at the corner of Hochheim and Schwab Streets, was destroyed by a tornado the following month. The members worked together to build a new structure on the same site, and it was completed in January 1894. The Rev. W. C. Wolfsdorf became the congregation's first resident pastor that same year.

Serving a predominantly German membership, the church grew quickly. Its activities have included worship, civic, and missionary endeavors. The congregation purchased property at this site in 1948, and a new sanctuary was built in 1951-52 to serve the growing membership.

An important part of local history for generations, Holy Cross Lutheran Church continues to be an integral part of the Yoakum community, still counting among its members descendants of its founding families

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.

Lutheran denomination churches German immigrants immigration
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DeWitt County, located in Texas, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back to early Native American civilizations. The area was home to various indigenous tribes, including the Karankawa and Tonkawa, who utilized the region's natural resources for sustenance and trade.

In 1827, the area that is now DeWitt County was incorporated into the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. Shortly after, American settlement began in the region, with empresarios such as Green DeWitt and Martín de León playing significant roles. DeWitt, for whom the county is named, received a land grant in 1825 and played a vital part in bringing Anglo-American colonizers to the area.

DeWitt County saw significant growth during the Texas Revolution in the 1830s. The Battle of Gonzales, the first engagement of the revolution, occurred just outside the county's boundaries. The county itself became a site of conflict during the revolution, with the Battle of Ethel's Woods and the Battle of Gonzales River Bridge taking place within its borders.

After Texas gained independence from Mexico, DeWitt County was officially established in 1846. The county seat was initially Gonzales, but it was moved to Cuero in 1876. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, DeWitt County experienced economic growth due to industries such as ranching, oil, and agriculture.

Present-day DeWitt County continues to thrive as a center for agriculture, oil and gas production, and tourism. The county is known for its rich historical sites, including the Gonzales Memorial Museum, which houses artifacts from the Texas Revolution, and numerous ranches that showcase the area's strong cattle industry. DeWitt County's history is a testament to the resilience and determination of its early settlers and remains an essential part of Texas's broader historical narrative.

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

  • 1827: DeWitt County is established as a part of DeWitt's Colony in Mexican Texas.
  • 1840: The Battle of Plum Creek takes place in DeWitt County during the Texan Revolution.
  • 1846: DeWitt County becomes a part of the newly formed Republic of Texas.
  • 1848: Texas becomes a state of the United States, and DeWitt County remains a part of it.
  • 1850: Population growth leads to the establishment of the county seat, Cuero.
  • 1870: The Gulf, Western Texas and Pacific Railway reaches Cuero, increasing trade and transportation opportunities.
  • 1874: Cuero is officially incorporated as a city.
  • 1893: Oil is discovered in DeWitt County, leading to economic growth and development.
  • 1923: A disastrous fire destroys much of downtown Cuero.
  • 1941-1945: DeWitt County contributes to the war effort during World War II.
  • 1960s-1970s: DeWitt County experiences a decline in population and economic activity.
  • 1990s-present: DeWitt County experiences a resurgence in oil and gas production, leading to economic growth.