Historical Marker

Bald Prairie Church of Christ

Historical marker location:
Bald Prairie, Texas
( FM 979 and FM 2096)
Marker installed: 1976
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Organized in 1847, this fellowship worshiped with members of the Baptist church until the groups separated in 1849. A log structure served the 15 charter members of this congregation as a church and school. Elijah Rains (1813-1889) donated land for the church and community cemetery. The present building, erected during the 1880s, doubled as a school for over 20 years. It also served as a funeral chapel and social and cultural center for the community. The classrooms were added in 1940. Descendants of early members still worship here

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.

churches Christian (Disciples of Christ) denomination
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
Texas random facts
Robertson County, Texas, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was named after Sterling C. Robertson, a prominent empresario, or land agent, who played a significant role in the colonization of the region. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and the Bidai, prior to European settlement.

In 1837, the Texas Congress officially established Robertson County as one of the original counties of the Republic of Texas. During this time, the county experienced rapid growth with the influx of settlers from the United States, particularly from southern states such as Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama. These settlers primarily relied on agriculture, with cotton becoming a major cash crop in the region.

The county also played a significant role in the Texas Revolution and the subsequent formation of the Republic of Texas. The Battle of San Jacinto, a decisive battle that secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place just outside the county's borders in April 1836. Several notable figures from Texas history, including Sam Houston, were also closely tied to Robertson County.

Over the years, Robertson County has continued to thrive, with the economy diversifying beyond agriculture. While farming and ranching still remain important industries, the county has also seen growth in manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism sectors. Today, Robertson County is known for its small towns, rural beauty, and historical sites, attracting visitors and residents alike with its charming Southern atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Robertson County, Texas.

  • 1837: Robertson County is established from Milam County.
  • 1846: The first county seat, Springfield, is established.
  • 1854: The county seat is moved to Owensville.
  • 1870: The town of Calvert becomes the county seat.
  • 1873: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Calvert.
  • 1890: The St. Louis Southwestern Railway reaches Hearne.
  • 1925: A portion of Robertson County is used to create Falls County.
  • 1942: Camp Hearne, a World War II prisoner-of-war camp, is established.
  • 1987: The Hearne Southern Pacific depot is added to the National Register of Historic Places.