Historical Marker

First United Methodist Church of Robstown

Historical marker location:
107 N. 4th, Robstown, Texas
( Robstown, 107 N. 4th)
Marker installed: 2002
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Formed at the start of the 20th century, Robstown grew around the intersection of the Texas Mexican Railway and the St. Louis, Brownsville & Mexico Railroad. At the time, Methodist circuit riders were active in the area, and a Methodist church, like other local congregations, began in the upstairs of the George H. Paul Building, a meeting place for church groups and Sunday Schools. The first Methodist minister to preach there was the Rev. C.W. Perkins, in early 1909. Later that year, the Methodist congregation organized with ten charter members. The Rev. A.T. White was the first appointed minister. In 1911, under the leadership of the Rev. W.M. McKinney, the congregation built its first sanctuary at this site. In the 1920s, the American Methodist Church was focusing on education and liturgy, emphasizing Sunday School and ordered worship. In response to this, church architects began designing sanctuaries in a more classical tradition. The Robstown church's second structure, erected in 1924, is a good example of that trend. Architectural firm Morris and Noonan of San Antonio designed a red brick Greek Revival building, which featured a large front portico with pedimented entry, Ionic columns, pilasters, a distinct entablature, relief panels and stained glass windows. The sanctuary, based on the Akron Plan, has curved pews and theatre-style balcony seating. Since its first meetings, the Methodist congregation at Robstown has had a strong influence on its community and county as a mother church for other Methodist congregations. It continues to serve through worship and education, and to honor the efforts of its early members through the preservation of its building, which stands as a fine example of American ecclesiastical architecture. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2002

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 domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
Texas random facts
Nueces County, located in southern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area first saw human habitation thousands of years ago, with Native American tribes such as the Karankawa and Coahuiltecan peoples inhabiting the region. European exploration of the area began in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers claiming the land for the Spanish crown. However, it wasn't until the early 18th century that the first permanent settlements were established.

In 1828, the Mexican government granted land to Colonel Henry Lawrence Kinney, an American entrepreneur, who founded the trading post of Kinney's Trading Post near the Nueces River. This marked the beginning of Anglo settlement in the area. Nueces County was officially established in 1846, following the Texas Revolution and subsequent annexation of Texas by the United States.

Throughout the 19th century, Nueces County played a significant role in Texas' development. The town of Corpus Christi, which served as the county seat, became an important regional trade center due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The county flourished as a shipping hub for livestock, cotton, and other agricultural goods.

The county's history was greatly influenced by its participation in several military conflicts. During the American Civil War, Corpus Christi served as a center for Confederate forces, and the county witnessed both Union and Confederate occupation. Additionally, the county played an important role during World War II, with Corpus Christi becoming a major training center for Navy pilots.

In recent times, Nueces County has continued to grow and evolve. The county's economy has diversified, with tourism, oil and gas, and the military being major contributors. The region boasts numerous attractions, including beautiful coastal beaches, cultural sites, and a vibrant culinary scene. Today, Nueces County remains an important and thriving part of Texas' history and economy.

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

  • 1836 - Nueces County is established as one of the original counties in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1845 - Texas becomes a state of the United States, and Nueces County remains part of the state.
  • 1848 - The county seat is established in Corpus Christi.
  • 1850 - The population of Nueces County reaches 756 residents.
  • 1852 - The Corpus Christi Cathedral is constructed, becoming a significant landmark in the county.
  • 1872 - The railroad reaches Nueces County, leading to increased economic development and population growth.
  • 1875 - The Nueces County Courthouse, built in the Renaissance Revival style, is completed.
  • 1900 - A devastating hurricane strikes the county, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1914 - The Port of Corpus Christi is established, becoming a major hub for trade and industry.
  • 1931 - The Nueces County Courthouse is expanded and remodeled to its current appearance.
  • 1940 - Nueces County experiences a population boom, with the county's residents totaling over 101,000.
  • 1987 - Hurricane Gilbert causes widespread destruction in Nueces County and the surrounding areas.
  • Present - Nueces County continues to be a thriving center for commerce, industry, and tourism.