First Christian Church
Historical marker location:First Christian Church organized in Eastland in 1878 under the Rev. Cyrus Scarborough. There were a number of important Eastland leaders, including city founders, among the church’s early membership. In 1886, the congregation moved from the county courthouse, where it had been holding services, into new facilities. In 1907, it moved again, constructing a building on this site.
The church has a history of ecumenical programs, working in partnership with local Presbyterian and Methodist churches. The congregations have held combined summer evening worship services, as well as vacation bible schools and youth group events.
The church has played an active role in the community it serves. The Men’s Fellowship Bible Class, also interdenominational, has been a vital part of Eastland. Members have developed many service projects, including construction of a park in an African American community during the era of segregation and the collection and delivery of items for Thanksgiving and Christmas drives. The church has focused on outreach through missions and local service, as members established a food pantry for senior citizens, a jail ministry and children’s mission fund to distribute supplies to needy students. The church has also opened its doors to local organizations and activities, including blood drives.
After more than 100 years of service, First Christian Church of Eastland continues to be a spiritual, education and community leader for the area.
(2006)
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.
Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
The county's official establishment came in 1858, when Texas Legislature recognized it as a separate entity. The county was named after William M. Eastland, who fought in the Texan Revolution and served as a Texas Ranger. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Eastland County experienced significant growth and development thanks to the arrival of railroads, making it a crucial transportation hub for the surrounding regions.
The discovery of oil in the early 20th century also brought prosperity to Eastland County. The oil boom led to a population increase, as well as the growth of industrial and commercial sectors. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s had a devastating impact on the county, leading to a decline in population and economic activity.
In recent decades, Eastland County has worked to revive its economy and preserve its rich heritage. Today, the county is known for its thriving agricultural sector, including cattle farming and crop cultivation. The county also attracts tourists with its natural beauty, offering outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, and camping. Eastland County continues to embrace its history while looking towards a promising future.
Eastland County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Eastland County, Texas.
- 1850 - Eastland County is established as a county in Texas.
- 1854 - The town of Palo Pinto is designated as the county seat.
- 1858 - Palo Pinto is abandoned, and the county seat is moved to Merriman.
- 1875 - Merriman loses the county seat status to Eastland.
- 1890 - The Texas Central Railroad arrives in Eastland, fueling growth and economic development.
- 1907 - The first oil well in Eastland County is drilled, leading to the rise of the oil industry in the area.
- 1920 - The Eastland City Dam is built, creating Lake Leon and providing a water source for the region.
- 1930 - The population of Eastland County reaches its peak, with over 30,000 residents.
- 1938 - Eastland County is severely affected by the devastating tornado outbreak known as the "Wichita Falls–East Texas Tornado Outbreak."
- 1950s - The decline of the oil industry and changes in agriculture lead to a population decrease in Eastland County.
- Today, Eastland County is a rural area with a diverse economy, including agriculture, oil and gas production, and tourism.