Knobbs Springs Baptist Church
Historical marker location:Knobbs Springs Baptist Church has served this area since the mid-1800s. Settlers first came here in the 1850s, establishing the community of Knobbs Springs, and in May 1860, 16 charter members formed a church. The congregation’s first building was located across the road from Jeffries Cemetery and was also used as a school. In 1861, Knobbs Springs joined the Little River Baptist Association. In 1882, after the association’s end, the congregation joined the Western Branch Association, which organized at the church.
The church moved to a lot near the Lower Knobbs Cemetery and then in 1897 near Meeks Cemetery. By 1911, members started construction on a new sanctuary. In the 1930s, membership began to decline as residents moved to larger cities and towns to find employment, and in 1947, the church tore down their old building and erected a new, smaller one. The congregation persisted, and in 1972 held a revival which helped spur membership growth. To meet the needs of the growing congregation, the Texas Baptist Men retirees, under the leadership of Olen Miles, who played a significant role in the development of the church, constructed a new sanctuary; it was dedicated in 1979. The group later built an educational building, dedicated in 1988.
Knobbs Springs Baptist Church has historically been a hub for the surrounding community. The congregation has also been involved in area baptist organizations and in missions on state, national and international levels. Today, the Knobbs Springs Baptist Church congregation continues to be a spiritual leader, reaching out to the local area and the world at large
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 Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
During its early years, Lee County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s opened up new opportunities for trade and transportation. The county became known for its cotton production, and many rural communities emerged to support the farming industry. The county seat, Giddings, became a thriving commercial center, with businesses and institutions establishing themselves to meet the needs of the growing population.
The 20th century brought both challenges and progress to Lee County. The devastating effects of the Great Depression hit the agricultural sector hard, leading to a decline in cotton farming. However, the county adapted and diversified its economy, venturing into cattle ranching and the production of other crops. In the mid-20th century, the discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the area brought a new wave of economic growth.
Lee County has also played a significant role in Texas history. It is home to the Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Sites, which commemorate the fallen soldiers of the Dawson Massacre and the Texas Revolution. Today, Lee County continues to be a rural and historically significant part of Texas, with a strong sense of community and a blend of diverse cultural influences.
Lee County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Lee County, Texas.
- 1874: Lee County is established on February 11, named after Robert E. Lee.
- 1878: The town of Giddings is established as the county seat.
- 1881: The Texas and New Orleans Railroad is completed, leading to increased economic growth in the county.
- 1907: Lee County Courthouse is built, replacing the original courthouse constructed in 1878.
- 1920s: Cotton becomes a major crop for the county, leading to prosperous years for local farmers.
- 1960s: The decline of cotton production begins, and farmers shift to other crops and livestock.
- 1996: The Lee County Youth Center is opened to provide juvenile offenders with rehabilitative services.
- 2011: The county is severely affected by drought and wildfires, causing significant damage to agricultural lands.
- Present: Lee County continues to be primarily an agricultural area, with a growing emphasis on diversifying the local economy.