Trinity Episcopal Church
Historical marker location:One of the oldest Episcopal churches in Texas. An outgrowth of 1840s work in Caddo Lake area by the Rev. William Steel of Louisiana, and of appeals for priests made by Frances Cox Henderson (wife of the diplomat, Governor, U.S. Senator, J. Pinckney Henderson) to the church in the United States. Trinity parish was founded Jan. 4, 1851, with 22 members, by the Rev. Henry Sansom (1821-1903), who was rector 1851-55.
Original membership included E. G. Benners, later a priest; also the Key family, who remain in parish a century later. Communicants have included Confederate Generals Benjamin Huger and Louis T. Wigfall, and 20th century jurist T. Whitfield Davidson.
The Rev. Edwin A. Wagner (rector intermittently, 1859-75), the Rev. C. C. Kramer (1909-14), the Rev. C. S. Sargent (1914-21) and others built spiritual strength of the parish and advocated a permanent church edifice to replace successive early structures. Present church was built in 1926-26, when the Rev. Charles S. Monroe was rector. It was dedicated by Bishop Clinton S. Quin, July 25, 1926. Architect was J. W. Northrup, Jr., Houston.
The Rev. Henry F. Selcer (1930-56) achieved record for longest service as rector. Parish in 1972 had 508 members. Its day school renders community service
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 is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
During the mid-19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the development of Texas. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in 1930 brought prosperity and growth to the county. This led to the establishment of several oil companies, driving economic development and creating job opportunities for local residents.
Harrison County was also deeply impacted by slavery and the Civil War. Prior to the war, the county was home to numerous large plantations that relied on enslaved labor for agricultural production. The war left a lasting impact on the county, which continued to struggle with racial tensions and inequality in the years following the war.
Today, Harrison County remains an important part of Texas history and boasts a diverse and vibrant community. The county is home to a number of historic sites, including the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot and the W.C. Dewberry Home and Museum, which showcase the area's rich cultural heritage. With its blend of history and modern progress, Harrison County continues to be a significant contributor to the growth and development of Texas.
Harrison County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Harrison County, Texas.
- 1839 - Harrison County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- 1840 - Marshall becomes the county seat of Harrison County
- 1861-1865 - Harrison County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War
- 1873 - Great Fire of Marshall destroys much of the city
- 1881 - First telephone exchange established in Marshall
- 1902 - Texas and Pacific Railway brings economic growth to the county
- 1930s - Oil discovery leads to an economic boom in Harrison County
- 1979 - East Texas Oil Museum opens in Kilgore, showcasing the region's oil industry
- 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county
- 2020 - Present day