First Christian Church of McGregor (Disciples of Christ)
Four families formed a Christian church in nearby Comanche Springs in the 1870s, with the Rev. W. L. Harrison as first pastor. In 1883 members moved to the new railroad town of McGregor and built a church on Main Street in 1884. There were 80 members in 1897 when the Christian church split over basic principles; one group retained the property and became the First Christian Church of McGregor in 1899. A new structure was erected on the Main Street site in 1907. The church employed its first female pastor in 1990. The church remains active in missionary work, community service, and worship, rooted in the traditions of the founders. (1998)
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 first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
The county was officially established in 1850, named after Neil McLennan, a Scottish settler who played a significant role in the colonization of the region. The county's initial economy was primarily agricultural, with cotton, corn, and livestock becoming major industries. In 1870, the completion of the Waco Suspension Bridge, one of the first bridges to span the Brazos River, bolstered the county's growth and connected it to the expanding railroad network.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, McLennan County experienced periods of rapid growth and development. The city of Waco, the county seat, became a prosperous center for commerce, education, and culture. With the establishment of Baylor University in 1845 and the creation of the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum in 1968, Waco gained a reputation as an educational and historical hub. The county also played a significant role in the development of the Texas oil industry, as numerous oil fields were discovered and exploited in the early 20th century.
Despite its prosperous history, McLennan County faced challenges as well. It witnessed racial tensions and violence, particularly during the Civil Rights era. One of the county's most infamous events occurred in 1993 when an armed standoff between federal agents and the Branch Davidians religious sect resulted in a tragic fire at their compound near Waco, leaving many dead. However, the county has shown resilience, with ongoing efforts to address social issues and promote economic development, making it a vibrant and evolving community.
McLennan County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of McLennan County, Texas.
- 1837 - McLennan County is established as a county of the Republic of Texas
- 1849 - Waco, the county seat, is founded
- 1860s - McLennan County experiences rapid growth with the expansion of the cattle industry and arrival of the railroad
- 1874 - Baylor University is relocated to Waco
- 1886 - The Texas Cotton Palace Exposition is held in Waco to showcase the county's cotton industry
- 1916 - A tornado devastates downtown Waco, causing significant damage and loss of life
- 1930s - McLennan County suffers during the Great Depression, but also sees some economic improvements through New Deal programs
- 1951 - The Waco VA Hospital is established, providing medical care for veterans
- 1993 - The Branch Davidian standoff occurs in Waco, resulting in a tragic fire and loss of life
- 2015 - McLennan County celebrates its 150th anniversary