Historical Marker

Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church

Historical marker location:
Burkeville vicinity, Texas
( 8.1 miles north of Burkeville on SH 87, then 4.1 miles west on FM 255, then 3.3 miles northwest on CR 1005, then 5.3 miles west on CR 1106 and 0.3 miles south on CR 1113)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 18" x 28"

This rural area of northwest Newton County has been known as "Scrappin' Valley" since the early 1900s. In 1907, one year after the Gilmer Lumber Company came to the region, community members founded the Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Early church leaders were Tom and Emma Frisby Lowe, Man Lowe, and Levi and Ethel Williams Hopson, with J.C. Brooks as the first preacher on record. Pine Grove was admitted to the Bethlehem Baptist Association in 1911. In 1950, after the closing of the Hickory Hill School District, the church was given this land and the former schoolhouse as a place of worship. Here they continue their traditions of worship, Bible classes, community reunions and revivals. (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.

Baptist denomination churches religion
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
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 concise overview of the key events in the history 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.