Historical Marker

Francis Wilson

Historical marker location:
Bon Wier, Texas
( 6 mi. S of Bon Wier on FM 1416, CHC reported marker missing since 2017)
Marker installed: 1983
Marker size: 27" x 42"

(1790-1867) A central figure in the early days of Texas Methodism, Virginia native Francis Wilson was the son of a Scot-Irish immigrant and a native Marylander. After a brief period of military service in the War of 1812, he became a Methodist minister, preaching his first sermon on Dec. 25, 1815. He rode the circuits in West Virginia and Ohio until 1839, when he moved to the Republic of Texas over the objections of family, friends, and his bishop.

Stationed first at Shelbyville and then at San Augustine, Wilson traveled over all of East Texas, holding camp meetings and organizing churches. Noted for his lectures and stirring sermons, he was respected throughout the area. In 1846 Wilson was appointed as a delegate to the first convention of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. He was instrumental in the establishment of Wesleyan Male and Female College in San Augustine. In 1847 Wilson and wife Elizabeth settled near Belgrade on the Sabine River.

Francis Wilson's last official service was in 1851 as a missionary to the black communities on the Austin circuit. Shortly after, he retired in poor health to his home in Newton County, but continued to preach locally until 1864. He died three years later and is buried in the Old Belgrade Cemetery (2 mi. SE)

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 (Methodist Episcopal and United Methodist) denomination religious leaders
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.
Texas random facts
Newton County, located in eastern Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapans and the Caddo people. The arrival of European settlers in the early 19th century led to conflicts between the Native Americans and the newcomers.

In 1836, Newton County was officially established and named after John Newton, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The county's geographical location, with its fertile land and proximity to major waterways, attracted many settlers, particularly from Southern states. The region's economy was largely based on agriculture, with cotton and timber being major industries.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the discovery of oil and gas brought prosperity to Newton County. The oil boom transformed the county, attracting numerous oil companies, creating jobs, and boosting the local economy. However, the boom eventually declined, leading to a shift back to agriculture and timber as the primary sources of income.

Throughout its history, Newton County has been shaped by both natural and man-made disasters. The county has been prone to hurricanes and floods, with devastating effects on the community. In recent years, efforts have been made to implement flood control measures and improve disaster preparedness.

Today, Newton County remains a rural area with a population that values its rich history and natural beauty. It continues to be a place of agriculture, timber, and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors with its scenic landscapes and wildlife. The county's history and resilience serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by its residents and the strength of the community.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Newton County, Texas.

  • 1846 - Newton County is established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1870s - The county experiences growth due to the expansion of the lumber industry.
  • 1904 - A devastating fire destroys a significant portion of the town of Newton.
  • 1907 - Bon Wier is established as a sawmill town.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county.
  • 1940 - The Toledo Bend Reservoir is constructed, resulting in the flooding of parts of Newton County.
  • 1960s - The construction of the Toledo Bend Dam leads to increased tourism and recreational activities in the county.
  • 1990s - Newton County experiences population growth due to its proximity to the Toledo Bend Reservoir.
  • 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county.