Historical Marker

Dennis Methodist Church

Historical marker location:
US 377, N of Cresson, Cresson, Texas
( Pate Museum of Transportation, from Cresson take US 377 3.5 miles north.)
Marker installed: 1980
Marker size: 27" x 42"

N.M. Dennis moved to Parker County from Boston, Massachusetts, in the 1890s and established Dennis Community on the Brazos River (12 miles southwest). This sanctuary, originally located on land he donated to members of the Dennis Methodist Church, was constructed there in 1907.

Church activities were important events in the community. Revivals were conducted each summer in a tabernacle adjacent to the chapel. A "dinner on the grounds" and an afternoon of singing and fellowship often followed Sunday services.

The congregation welcomed new pastors and their families with a party in their honor. Called, "poundings" because members brought gifts of food, usually in one pound amounts, the celebrations were held at the church parsonage in Weatherford.

The population of Dennis started to decline in the 1960s. As people moved from the area, church membership also dropped and the congregation was disbanded in June 1970.

The Texas Refinery Corporation of Fort Worth bought the building in 1976 and moved it to this site. It was renamed Founder's Chapel in honor of A.M. Pate, Sr. and Carl Wollner, organizers of the company.

(1980)

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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Parker County, TX has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Comanche, before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 1850s, Texas became embroiled in conflicts with the Native American tribes, leading to the establishment of Fort Parker in what is now present-day Parker County. This fort served as protection for early settlers from Native American attacks.

In 1855, Parker County was officially established and named after Fort Parker. The county quickly grew as more settlers flocked to the region attracted by fertile land and an abundance of water sources. The advent of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century further spurred growth and development in the county.

Parker County played a significant role in the cattle industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The county's open prairies became an ideal location for cattle ranching, and the development of railroads allowed ranchers to transport their livestock to markets more efficiently. This led to prosperity and economic growth in the county, with many cattle ranches operating successfully.

Over the years, Parker County has seen its fair share of challenges and triumphs. It has weathered economic downturns, faced natural disasters like the devastating tornado outbreak in 1957, and experienced growth in population and urbanization. Today, Parker County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a rich history, welcoming residents, and picturesque landscapes that highlight its enduring legacy as an important part of Texas' past and present.

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

  • 1855: Parker County officially established on December 12.
  • 1856: Fort Worth becomes the county seat.
  • 1872: Weatherford becomes the county seat.
  • 1877: Santa Fe Railroad arrives in Weatherford.
  • 1885: The first oil well is drilled in the county.
  • 1919: Parker County experiences the deadliest tornado in Texas history, resulting in 114 fatalities.
  • 1956: The first major shopping center, Town & Country Shopping Center, opens in Weatherford.
  • 1974: Weatherford College is established.
  • 1993: Lake Weatherford Dam fails, causing significant flooding in the area.
  • 2010: Parker County celebrates its 155th anniversary.