Historical Marker

First United Methodist Church of Orange

Marker installed: 1978
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The first recorded Methodist activity in Orange was in 1859, when the Rev. Valerious C. Canon was sent here from the Woodville District. By 1871, Orange was on a circuit which included Hardin, Jefferson, and Orange counties. According to legend, one of the first circuit riders, the Rev. Daniel Morse, supplemented his preaching income by hunting alligators in nearby swamps and marshes and selling the hides. For that reason, this became known as the "Alligator Circuit."

The first Methodist church was organized in 1873 with 44 charter members. The congregation erected a small frame church on College Street and shared their building with other denominations. A Sunday School was established in 1879. Initially classified as a mission, this fellowship became self-supporting in 1884. The Rev. W. H. Crawford served as the first full-time pastor.

Fire destroyed the original church building in 1886. The Ladies Aid Society helped raise funds for a new frame church situated at the corner of Border and Henderson streets. Completed in 1892, it was moved to this location in 1912 and replaced by the present sanctuary in 1921. By 1978, this congregation had grown to over 1500 members

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.

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Orange County, Texas has a rich history that dates back thousands of years to when it was inhabited by various Native American tribes. The earliest recorded human activity in the region can be traced back to the Coastal Coles Creek culture, which thrived from around 700 to 1200 AD. The area was later settled by the Atakapa Indians, who occupied the region until European explorers arrived in the 16th century.

Spanish explorers first arrived in the area in the 16th century, and French explorers followed shortly after. However, it was not until the early 19th century that permanent European settlement began in the present-day Orange County. The region became a part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, and during the mid-1800s, the area attracted an influx of immigrants, primarily from the southern United States, seeking fertile land for farming.

The establishment of a port on the Sabine River in the mid-19th century greatly contributed to the growth and development of Orange County. The town of Orange was founded in 1836, and the advent of steamboats allowed for increased trade and transportation. The region's economy prospered with the lumber industry becoming a major player. Sawmills and logging camps emerged, and Orange County became a leading producer of timber.

In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil and the subsequent establishment of oil refineries provided an economic boost to Orange County. The region attracted oil companies and their employees, leading to rapid growth and increased prosperity. Today, Orange County continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes industries such as petrochemicals, shipbuilding, agriculture, and tourism, while still preserving its historical roots and cultural heritage.

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

  • 1690 - The area now known as Orange County was explored by Spanish explorers.
  • 1821 - Mexico gains independence from Spain, and the region becomes part of Mexico.
  • 1836 - Texas declares independence from Mexico, and Orange County becomes a part of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1852 - Orange County is officially established as a county in the state of Texas.
  • 1861-1865 - Orange County, like the rest of Texas, is a part of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War.
  • 1895 - The city of Orange is incorporated.
  • 1901 - The Spindletop oil field is discovered near Orange, leading to an economic boom in the area.
  • 1903 - The City of Orange Heights is incorporated.
  • 1938 - The American Bridge Company opens a shipyard in Orange, contributing to the area's growth.
  • 1951 - The Mauriceville education system is consolidated into the Little Cypress Consolidated Independent School District.
  • 1973 - The City of West Orange is incorporated.