Historical Marker

First Baptist Church of Hale Center

Marker installed: 1991
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Organized religion in Hale County can be traced to 1883, when Methodist minister Horatio Graves and his family became the first permanent settlers of the area. Their home became a community gathering place, school, and Union church. A post office was established under the name Epworth in 1884. A second community, Hale City, was established two miles away, and in 1893 the two settlements combined to form Hale Center.

In 1891 twelve people gathered together to form Hale City Missionary Baptist Church. They called the Rev. I.B. Kimbrough as their first pastor. Early worship serviced were held in the Epworth and Hale City schoolhouses, and in 1893 the congregation moved to Hale Center. Services were held in the schoolhouse and in the Methodist church until the First Baptist sanctuary was completed in 1908. Continued growth over the years led to subsequent building programs.

Throughout its history, the First Baptist Church has played an active role in its community. The congregation has consistently maintained an interest in both foreign and domestic missionary endeavors. It continues to serve the community with a variety of worship, educational, and outreach programs. (1991)

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 state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
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Hale County, Texas, located in the Panhandle region, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Apaches, before European settlement. In the 1870s, the first pioneers arrived in the region and established several ranches, harnessing the potential of the vast grasslands and natural resources.

The county was officially organized in 1888 and named after Lt. John C. Hale, a hero of the Battle of San Jacinto during the Texas Revolution. Agriculture played a crucial role in the early development of Hale County, with farming and ranching becoming the primary economic activities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further facilitated trade and growth in the region.

One significant event in Hale County's history was the discovery of oil in the early 20th century. Oil fields were found near the city of Plainview, leading to an economic boom and population growth. The discovery of oil allowed for the establishment of refineries and related industries, transforming Hale County into an important oil-producing area in Texas.

In recent decades, the economy of Hale County has diversified, with the advent of new industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and education. The county continues to be a major agricultural producer, specializing in cotton, sorghum, and cattle ranching. Hale County is also known for its strong community spirit and has maintained its rural charm while embracing progress and modernization.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hale County, Texas.

  • 1876: Hale County is founded as a part of the Texas Panhandle.
  • 1881: The first permanent settlement, Plainview, is established.
  • 1888: The Santa Fe Railroad reaches Plainview, boosting the town's growth.
  • 1891: Hale County is officially organized.
  • 1892: The first courthouse is constructed in Plainview.
  • 1907: The Discovery Oil Well is drilled, leading to an oil boom in the county.
  • 1920: The town of Hale Center is incorporated.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression hits Hale County, causing significant economic hardship.
  • 1941: United States enters World War II, causing Hale County to experience an increase in agricultural production.
  • 1950s: The introduction of irrigation systems revolutionizes agriculture in the county.
  • 1980: Hale County experiences an economic downturn due to a decline in the oil industry.
  • 1990s: The establishment of wind farms begins to diversify the county's energy sources.
  • 2008: Hale County suffers from a severe drought, affecting agricultural production.
  • 2010s: Renewed focus on economic development and tourism to boost the county's economy.