Historical Marker

Yancey United Methodist Church

Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Completed in 1925, this church building resulted from the combination of two neighboring Methodist congregations. Circuit-riding Methodist preacher A. J. Potter began holding services in a log schoolhouse south of Yancey in 1875. That congregation eventually came to be known as Wilson Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church, South, before it moved into the town of Yancey and was renamed Yancey Methodist Church. North of town, the Yancey Ebenezer Methodist Church, South, was founded in 1903-1904, with the Rev. W. D. Wiemers as first preacher, to serve the German population that lived in the area. In 1921, the two congregations were combined, with the Rev. F. W. Radetzky as first pastor. The church building features classic Gothic detailing, such as the pointed arches in the windows and the entryway. Gothic Revival was a popular style for church designs at the time this building was constructed. When detailed in wood rather than masonry, the style is known as Carpenter Gothic. The square bell tower and gabled roof are other prominent features of the building. An open-air tabernacle on the property, once used for dinners on the ground, worship and outdoor classes, was replaced with an education building in 1948. With its history reaching back to the earliest evidence of Methodism in the area, the Yancey United Methodist Church has played a strong role in the cultural and religious history of the community. It continues to serve the area with a variety of service and outreach ministries. The historic church building remains a significant part of Yancey's architectural heritage. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2001

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.

Methodist denomination churches religion
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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.
Texas random facts
Medina County, Texas, located in the southern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache, who lived off the land and traded with neighboring tribes.

In the 17th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the region, claiming the land for Spain. The Spanish established missions in the area to convert the Native Americans to Christianity and to further their control over the territory. One of the most notable missions was Mission San Francisco de la Espada, which still stands today and is a popular tourist attraction.

During the 19th century, the area that is now Medina County became a part of the Republic of Texas after it gained independence from Mexico. As more settlers moved into the area, the town of Castroville was founded in 1844 by colonists led by Henri Castro. The town became a major hub for German immigrants, and their influence can still be seen today in the town's architecture and cultural heritage.

Over the years, Medina County has experienced significant economic growth and development. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century led to an oil boom in the area, and agriculture has also played a significant role in the county's economy, with cattle ranching and crop farming being major industries.

Today, Medina County is a thriving community that celebrates its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the area's historical sites, such as the missions and historic downtown areas, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.

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

  • 1841 - Medina County is established as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1842 - Castroville, the county seat, is founded by Henri Castro.
  • 1846 - Medina County becomes part of the United States after the annexation of Texas.
  • 1850 - D'Hanis, another town within Medina County, is settled.
  • 1856 - Hondo is founded and becomes the new county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - During the Civil War, Medina County supports the Confederacy.
  • 1881 - The International-Great Northern Railroad is completed, boosting economic development.
  • 1917-1918 - Many Medina County residents serve in World War I.
  • 1920s-1930s - The Great Depression causes economic hardship in the county.
  • 1942-1945 - World War II leads to changes in the local economy and military service.
  • 1953 - Medina Lake is created with the construction of Medina Dam.
  • 1998 - The historic Medina County Courthouse is restored after a fire severely damages it.