London Baptist Church
Historical marker location:London Baptist Church traces its history to 1856. By 1857 church members shared meeting facilities with the Odd Fellows Lodge in a jointly owned building located on the stagecoach route from Henderson to Waco. The structure was destroyed by fire in 1877. In 1897 a new building was constructed near the same location. When oil was discovered in the area in 1930, London became a boom town and the church prospered, as well. Throughout its history, London Baptist Church has served the community with a variety of worship, educational, and outreach programs
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.
In the early 19th century, American pioneers began to settle in what is now Rusk County. The county was named after Thomas Jefferson Rusk, a prominent Texas statesman and military leader. Rusk County played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with several local residents participating in the Battle of San Jacinto, which ultimately led to Texas gaining independence from Mexico in 1836.
The discovery of oil in Rusk County in the early 20th century brought a wave of economic development and prosperity to the area. The East Texas Oil Boom transformed Rusk County into one of the largest oil-producing regions in the United States, attracting thousands of workers and businesses to the county. The oil industry continues to be a major economic driver in Rusk County today.
In addition to its oil heritage, Rusk County is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city of Henderson, the county seat, boasts a historic downtown district with many well-preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The county is also home to numerous historical sites, museums, and events that celebrate its history, including the Rusk County Historical Commission and the Depot Museum in Henderson.
Rusk County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rusk County, Texas.
- 1843 - Rusk County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- 1858 - The town of Henderson becomes the county seat
- 1861-1865 - Rusk County residents participate in the American Civil War
- 1901 - The first oil well is drilled in Rusk County, leading to the East Texas Oil Boom
- 1937 - Rusk County experiences a devastating flood, causing significant damage
- 1964 - Martin Luther King Jr. delivers a speech in Henderson during the Civil Rights Movement
- 1989 - The Texas Legislature designates Rusk County as the "Antique Capital of East Texas"
- 2020 - Rusk County celebrates its 177th anniversary