Historical Marker

New Hope-Bethel Baptist Church

Historical marker location:
Milam, Texas
( north of Milam via SH 87 about 4.5 mi., then east on New Hope Baptist Rd.)
Marker installed: 1974
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In the early 19th century, Bethel Baptist Mission was established one mile east of this marker, on a lane that is now Farm Road 276. About 1818, Elder William Cook (d. 1829), having emigrated from North Carolina to southwestern Louisiana, began preaching both east and west of the Sabine. A log cabin under a catawba tree on property of Henry Chambers and his son Allen was site of Bethel Mission services. Elder Cook's work here and elsewhere is described by heirs of the pioneers and by a 1910 Louisiana history, "Footsteps of the Flock," by Ivan M. Wise.

Bethel Baptist Church was constituted on Feb. 7, 1841, as a congregation of the Pilgrim Church of Regular Baptist Faith and Order. At that time a frame meetinghouse was built. Bethel broke off its fellowship with the Pilgrim Order in 1849, joining the Central Missionary Baptist Association. The name "Bethel" was changed about 1870 to "New Hope." This church joined the Southern Baptist Convention in 1927. It also belongs to the Sabine Valley Baptist Association. W. T. Love has been pastor since 1937.

New Hope-Bethel Church stands on land which was donated by J. G. Mason. The present brick sanctuary was erected in 1970

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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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
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Sabine County, located in the eastern region of Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Atakapa tribes, who relied on the fertile land and abundant water sources for sustenance. European exploration of the region began in the 16th century when Spanish expeditions led by Alonso Álvarez de Pineda explored the Gulf Coast, including the Sabine River.

In the early 19th century, Sabine County became a part of the newly established Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. The area attracted American settlers who were lured by the fertile soil for farming and the potential for trade along the Sabine River. One influential settler, James Gaines, established the city of Milam in 1835, which would later become the county seat of Sabine County.

The history of Sabine County is closely intertwined with the struggle for independence and the establishment of the Republic of Texas. During the Texas Revolution, the area witnessed several significant events, such as the Battle of Nacogdoches in 1832 and the Battle of Gaines' Ferry in 1836. After Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836, Sabine County became a part of the newly formed Republic of Texas.

As the years went by, Sabine County experienced various economic booms and downturns, primarily driven by industries such as timber and oil. The timber industry played a vital role in the county's early development, with sawmills and logging camps becoming prominent features of the local economy. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil led to a short-lived but significant oil boom in the area, attracting numerous companies and workers.

Today, Sabine County remains a vibrant and diverse community, with a mix of rural and urban areas. Its rich history is celebrated through various cultural events and landmarks, showcasing its role as an integral part of Texas's heritage.

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

  • 1836: Sabine County is established and organized as a county of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1843: The town of Hemphill is established as the county seat of Sabine County.
  • 1854: The Sabine Pass Lighthouse is constructed on the Sabine Pass.
  • 1861: Sabine County residents vote overwhelmingly in favor of secession from the Union.
  • 1881: The Texas State Penitentiary is established in Sabine County.
  • 1936: Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, is completed along the Sabine River.
  • 1957: The Sabine River Authority of Texas is created to manage the water resources of the Sabine River Basin.
  • 1976: The Sabine County Historical Commission is established to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 1990: The Sabine County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.