Historical Marker

First Baptist Church of Longview

Historical marker location:
Longview, Texas
( 200 block S. freedonia at Cotton St.)
Marker installed: 1989
Marker size: 27" x 42"

This congregation has been in continuous existence since 1871, when fifteen people led by the Rev. D. S. Snodgrass gathered together to form a new church. In 1874 the Texas and Pacific Railway Company deeded two town lots to the Baptist church at the corner of Fredonia and South streets. The first sanctuary, a small frame building, was erected late that year. Also in 1874, the congregation called its first full-time pastor, the Rev. dr. A. Eagan Clemmons.

Over the years, the church purchased additional property adjacent to its original two lots. As the congregation grew, more church buildings were erected and later replaced with larger structures. A red brick sanctuary which replaced the original frame structure in 1901 was in turn replaced by a larger building in 1914. continued expansion led to further building programs over the years.

In addition to serving its own members, the First Baptist Church has been instrumental in establishing new congregations in the community, including Northside Baptist Church, Valley View Baptist Church, Moberly Avenue Baptist Church, and Oakland Heights Baptist Church. It continues to serve the community with a variety of religious and educational programs

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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Gregg County, Texas, located in the eastern part of the state, has a vibrant history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee nations. Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, but it wasn't until the early 19th century that European settlement began in the area.

In 1839, Gregg County was established as part of the Republic of Texas, named after Texas Confederate States Army General John Gregg. The county grew slowly over the next few decades, with agriculture and cattle ranching being the primary industries. The discovery of oil in East Texas in the early 20th century brought significant economic growth to Gregg County. The prolific East Texas Oilfield attracted oil companies and workers from across the country, leading to a population boom.

During World War II, Gregg County played a crucial role in the war effort. The county's industrial base expanded rapidly as several defense plants were established in the area. The influx of workers and industries contributed to the county's postwar growth and prosperity.

Since then, Gregg County has continued to develop and diversify its economy. It is known for its agriculture, oil and gas production, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. The county is home to the city of Longview, which serves as the county seat and is a major cultural and economic hub in East Texas. Today, Gregg County boasts a rich history, a thriving community, and a promising future.

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

  • 1841 – The Texas Congress establishes Gregg County as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1846 – Gregg County becomes a part of the United States as part of the state of Texas.
  • 1849 – The city of Longview is established as the county seat of Gregg County.
  • 1861-1865 – Gregg County residents participate in the American Civil War, with many men serving in the Confederate Army.
  • 1872 – The Longview and Pacific Railroad is completed, connecting Gregg County to the national railway system.
  • 1873 – The first public school in Gregg County opens in Longview.
  • 1930s – The discovery of the East Texas Oil Field leads to an economic boom in Gregg County.
  • 1936 – The East Texas State Teachers College (now known as Texas A&M University-Commerce) opens a branch in Longview.
  • 1980 – The Longview Mall, the first enclosed shopping mall in East Texas, opens in Longview.
  • 2006 – The East Texas Oil Museum, showcasing the history of the oil industry in the region, opens in Kilgore.