First United Methodist Church of Marlin

Marker installed: 1981
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Missionary preachers served Methodists in this area even before the establishment of Falls County or the city of Marlin. First sent was the Rev. John W. DeVilbiss in 1842. He was followed by other circuit riders until the Rev. Charles Brown was appointed full-time pastor for the Marlin congregation in 1874.

In 1851 the Methodists selected a lot on which to build a church in the new town of Marlin. Adjoining lots were added to the property at Fannin and Williams streets in 1879 and 1881. In 1909, under the pastorate of the Rev. I. F. Betts, the church purchased this site. The building, still in use today, was completed in 1910. Bricks made from Brazos River bottom red clay were used, while the painted and stained glass windows were imported from Italy. The church bell was at one time used on a southern plantation.

The congregation has established a long tradition of Christian service. The church held its first revival on record in 1865 and has twice been host for the Texas Annual Conference of Methodist Churches. Its women's groups have actively supported mission work at home and abroad. One member, Miss Maggie Rogers, served as a missionary in China from 1904 to 1943. Five of the church's members have entered the ministry

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.

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The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Falls County is located in the central part of Texas, named after the beautiful 17-foot-high waterfalls that span the Brazos River. The area was originally home to several Native American tribes, including Appaches and Caddo Indians, who lived off hunting and gathering. The Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, claiming the land for Spain and establishing missions in the region. However, the native tribes fiercely resisted colonization efforts, resulting in tensions and conflicts.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in Falls County, drawn by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources. The county was officially established in 1850, and the town of Marlin was designated as the county seat. The development of railroads during this period further spurred the growth of the region, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people.

During the Civil War, Falls County, like many other parts of Texas, heavily supported the Confederacy. The economy revolved around agriculture, especially cotton plantations, which relied on enslaved labor. However, the war brought multiple challenges to the county, including shortages of supplies and soldiers, as well as occasional conflicts with Union forces.

In the post-war era, Falls County faced a period of rebuilding and diversification. The reliance on cotton continued, but other industries such as livestock ranching and oil extraction began to play a significant role in the county's economy. Over the years, Falls County has gone through various changes and challenges, but it remains a vibrant community with a rich history tied to the land and its people.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Falls County, Texas.

  • 1837 - Falls County is established by the Republic of Texas
  • 1838 - The county seat is established in Perryville
  • 1850 - Marlin becomes the new county seat
  • 1861-1865 - Falls County residents serve in the Civil War
  • 1873 - The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Marlin
  • 1886 - The town of Lott is incorporated
  • 1896 - The Marlin Female Institute is established
  • 1910 - A serious cotton boll weevil infestation hits the county
  • 1921 - The infamous Klan trials take place in Marlin
  • 1953 - Falls County dedicates a new courthouse
  • 1975 - Marlin State Hospital is designated a National Historic Landmark
  • 1996 - The Marlin Democrat newspaper celebrates its 125th anniversary
  • 2018 - Falls County celebrates its 180th anniversary