First Presbyterian Church of Taft
Historical marker location:First Presbyterian Church of Taft
In the early 20th century, area Presbyterians met with other denominations in a tent, with various pastors holding morning and evening services. In 1909, the Coleman-Fulton Pasture Co. built a school and assembly hall, where local Presbyterians and Methodists took turns holding services. In 1918, they began meeting in the school building.
Two years later, in 1920, the first Presbyterian church of Taft was officially organized with 28 charter members. The Rev. C.S. Long became the church's first minister. That same year, the Taft Presbyterian and Methodist congregations built a sanctuary together on this site, which was provided by the Coleman-Fulton Pasture Co. In 1922, the congregation purchased and moved a house from Rockport to serve as the Presbyterian manse and placed it on a lot adjacent to the sanctuary. The following year, the church purchased the interest of the sanctuary owned by the Methodists, and in 1924, the membership of Presbyterians from Gregory transferred to the Taft congregation.
During the next several decades, members added facilities to their church property and also formed various organizations, including a women's auxiliary and men's and youth groups. The church supported regional efforts during World War II and sponsored other area churches, a Presbyterian girls' school and Vacation Bible School for children from their own congregation, as well as from the Rising Star Baptist Church. Church members also held a live nativity scene each Christmas, from 1957 to 1991, later donating the costumes and equipment to the First Baptist Church. Although the membership, along with the city population, declined in the late 20th century, the congregation continues to serve its community.
(2004)
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.
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
By the early 19th century, Mexican settlers began to populate the area, leading to the establishment of San Patricio de Hibernia, a small community near the Nueces River. This settlement grew, becoming the county seat and a major center of commerce. However, as tensions grew between Mexico and the United States, San Patricio County became a focal point of conflict during the Texas Revolution. In 1836, local residents joined forces with Texan rebels to fight against Mexican forces in the Battle of Nueces.
After Texas gained independence from Mexico, San Patricio County continued to grow and develop. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought prosperity to the area and attracted new industries. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, also played a significant role in the county's economy. Over time, the county's population diversified, with immigrants from Ireland, Germany, and other parts of Europe contributing to its cultural heritage.
In recent decades, San Patricio County has continued to thrive, with the expansion of industrial and manufacturing sectors. The county is home to major refineries, chemical plants, and a naval air station. It has also become a popular tourist destination, with its coastal location offering beautiful beaches, recreational opportunities, and attractions such as the Copano Bay State Fishing Pier and the historic town of Sinton. Today, San Patricio County remains a vibrant community, embracing its rich history while looking toward a bright future.
San Patricio County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of San Patricio County, Texas.
- 1828 - The Mexican government grants land to Irish empresarios James Power and James Hewetson, leading to the settlement of Irish immigrants in the area that would become San Patricio County.
- 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico, and San Patricio County is officially established as a county of the Republic of Texas.
- 1870 - Railroads, including the Texas-Mexican Railway, begin operating in San Patricio County, boosting trade and transportation in the region.
- 1886 - The discovery of oil in neighboring Nueces County leads to the development of the petroleum industry in San Patricio County.
- 1927 - The town of Taft is incorporated, becoming an important center for the oil and gas industry in the county.
- 1941 - The Naval Air Station Corpus Christi is established southwest of Portland, becoming a major training base during World War II.
- 1961 - The construction of the Port of Corpus Christi's Ingleside Marine Terminal begins, further boosting the county's economic growth.
- 1970 - The completion of the Interstate Highway 37 connects San Patricio County to major transportation routes.
- 2017 - Hurricane Harvey makes landfall in San Patricio County, causing significant damage to the area.