United Methodist Church of Lexington
Historical marker location:
The Lexington Methodist Episcopal Church, South, appears in the records of the East Texas Conference as early as 1850, with the Rev. Jefferson Shook assigned as pastor. Its history, however, can be traced through the histories of four other Lee County churches.
The Liberty Methodist Episcopal Church, South, met west of Lexington, and the two congregations shared the same pastor. When the church disbanded in the 1930s, some of the members joined this congregation.
Tanglewood Methodist Episcopal Church, South, served the Tanglewood community (5 mi. N) During the 1930s the congregation sold its land and church building and forwarded the proceeds to the Lexington Church, and the few remaining members came into this congregation.
The Early Chapel congregation met in the northern part of the county as early as 1850. Members of the dwindling fellowship voted to move their memberships to the Lexington Church in 1927.
The German Methodist Church in Lexington was founded in 1882 with the Rev. Jacob Ott as first pastor. In 1939 the two Lexington Methodist congregations merged.
With its membership additions over the years, the United Methodist Church of Lexington has grown to provide significant service and leadership to the 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.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
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.