Historical Marker

Center Point Christian Church

Historical marker location:
100 Church St., Center Point, Texas
( 100 Church St., Center Point TX, on China St. side.)
Marker installed: 2015
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

The Center Point Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has been a part of the community and surrounding area for more than 135 years. The church was founded by traveling Kentucky Minister Green L. Surber in 1879. His parents, Adam and Jemima Surber, had moved to Center Point and both died here, giving a probable reason for Green to come. He also felt the need to preach and strengthen the faith of the growing community as part of a campaign to revive Texas spirituality. He preached, conducted weddings, and represented the area in the 1883 southwestern Christian Association in San Antonio. The first church building burned down in 1888 but was rebuilt at its present site in 1892. Funds came from the community and materials came from San Antonio and Kerrville. Many succeeding pastors served in both Center Point and Kerrville.

In the 1920s, the congregation under Pastor Perry Hawkins joined several citizens to establish the Southwest Texas Christian Church encampment, also known as “Camp Christian.” Situated on the Guadalupe River, the camp also leased out its facilities to camp young Judaea, a Jewish summer camp program, in the 1950s and 1960s, and to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in the 1970s. The property was sold in 1988.

since its establishment the church has had more than twenty pastors. The church has served as a place for the local congregation to meet and provide community outreach and revival meetings. As the town of Center Point has grown and changed, the church and its members have continued to serve their neighbors and their community

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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Texas random facts
Kerr County, located in the hill country of Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche, who utilized the region's abundant resources for hunting and gathering. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, primarily from Germany, and established the first permanent settlements.

In 1845, Texas became the 28th state of the United States, and Kerr County was officially formed in 1856. It was named after James Kerr, a major in the Texas Revolution and a member of the Republic of Texas Congress. The county's early economy was centered around agriculture, with ranching, farming, and timber production being the main industries.

During the Civil War, Kerr County, like many other parts of Texas, was divided in allegiance between the Union and the Confederacy. The area experienced occasional raids and skirmishes, but overall remained relatively peaceful during the conflict. After the war, the county began to recover and flourish economically, with the arrival of the railroad in 1887, which improved transportation and access to markets.

The 20th century brought further growth and development to Kerr County. The discovery of oil in the nearby counties stimulated the economy, and Kerrville, the county seat, became a regional hub for commerce and services. The establishment of Schreiner Institute, now Schreiner University, in 1923, brought higher education opportunities to the area. Today, Kerr County continues to attract residents and visitors with its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant community life.

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

  • 1856 - Kerr County is officially established on January 26.
  • 1857 - The first county government is organized in October.
  • 1870 - The city of Kerrville is founded as a trade center for the surrounding area.
  • 1876 - Kerrville becomes the county seat of Kerr County.
  • 1888 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway reaches Kerrville, stimulating growth in the area.
  • 1890 - Kerrville is incorporated as a city.
  • 1930 - The Camp Meeting Association of the Methodist Episcopal Church South establishes a permanent site for summer encampments in Kerrville, which later becomes the Mo-Ranch conference center.
  • 1962 - The Kerrville Folk Festival is first held, becoming one of the longest continuously running music festivals in the United States.
  • 1998 - The Kerrville-Schreiner State Park is opened to the public.