First Baptist Church
Organized Sept. 1858 in local Masonic Hall by Baptist missionary John R. Briscoe and Elder W. M. Pickett with 19 charter members: Lewis W., Rebecca, Susan C., and Martha Matilda (Tillie) Moore; Nancy Moore Hines; Andrew and Mary McDonald; Ellen D. Langford; Mary Reneau; Margaret Moody; Julia Cole; John, D. H., Margaret, and Sarah Miller; Louise and J. C. Moses; Wiley A. and Sarah Mattox. Briscoe served temporarily as pastor. The first convert was Eliza Stevens, a slave.
During the Civil War the congregation moved to Center Point (3 miles SE), and later returned to Greenville, meeting in the courthouse, shared by all faiths. First church building was a small frame house on a lot(1 block SE) donated by A. D. Robey and W. M. Arnold in 1873. The house burned in 1886, and a large frame structure was erected in 1887 on this block.
In 1895, the church sponsored the establishment of Burleson College, a local private school, which was transferred to the State Baptist Convention in 1899.
The cornerstone of a brick edifice, constructed on this site in 1905, is displayed here. Eight other local Baptist churches have spawned from this congregation. The present sanctuary was dedicated Dec. 10, 1967, and serves over 2,000 members
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.
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and proximity to the Trinity River. The county was officially established in 1846 and was named after Memucan Hunt, who played a significant role in the Republic of Texas. The county seat, Greenville, was named after Thomas J. Green, a prominent lawyer and politician.
In its early years, Hunt County thrived on agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The county's economy boomed with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, which facilitated transportation and boosted trade and commerce.
Over the years, Hunt County experienced growth and development, and the economy diversified. In the 20th century, industries such as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare emerged, contributing to the county's economic stability. The county also saw an increase in population, with Greenville becoming the largest city in the area.
Today, Hunt County is known for its vibrant community, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It continues to be a hub for agricultural production, while also offering residents and visitors a wide range of recreational activities, historical sites, and local attractions.
Hunt County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hunt County, Texas.
- 1839 - Hunt County is established on April 11, named after Memucan Hunt Jr., the first Republic of Texas Secretary of the Navy.
- 1846 - Bonham is selected as the county seat.
- 1850 - Hunt County's population reaches 1,914.
- 1858 - Greenville becomes the new county seat.
- 1861-1865 - Hunt County residents participate in the Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate military.
- 1872 - The Texas and Pacific Railway arrives in Greenville, bringing economic growth to the area.
- 1895 - A devastating fire destroys the Hunt County Courthouse in Greenville.
- Early 1900s - Cotton and cottonseed oil continue as major industries in the county.
- 1940s-1950s - Oil discoveries and production boom in Hunt County.
- 1980s-present - Hunt County experiences continued economic growth, diversifying its industries and expanding its population.