First Baptist Church of Whitehouse
Anglo settlement of this area began in the 1840s. The community of Whitehouse, which grew up around a white painted schoolhouse, began in the early 1850s.
A church congregation, called New Hope Church of Christ, Baptist, was organized in September 1869 by Elders J. A. Kindle and W. G. Caperton and about twenty-five charter members. Early worship services were held once a month.
In 1887 a plot of land was purchased by New Hope Baptist Church and a one-room sanctuary, nestled in a pine grove, was built by the congregation.
After the railroad came through Whitehouse in the 1870s and a central business district began to grow, the church was relocated to the new townsite. A white frame building was erected in 1901, and the name was changed to Whitehouse Baptist Church.
In 1923 the church was relocated once again, to a site on East Main Street. At that time it was also renamed First Baptist Church. A new church facility was erected in 1959, and continued growth led to the construction of the present sanctuary in 1980.
A part of Smith County history for more than a century, the First
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 first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
During the turbulent times of the American Civil War, Smith County experienced significant unrest. Many residents in the county owned slaves, and tensions ran high between Union and Confederate sympathizers. The Battle of Blackjack Grove took place in August 1864, and although it was a minor skirmish, it reflected the deep divisions and struggles faced by the county during the war.
Following the war, Smith County experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy and population. During this period, the town of Tyler established itself as a principal commercial center, attracting businesses and settlers from surrounding areas.
In the 20th century, Smith County continued to thrive with the growth of agriculture, oil, and manufacturing industries. Tyler became known as the "Rose Capital of the World" due to its substantial rose-growing industry. The county has also been a center for education, with the establishment of schools and universities.
Today, Smith County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of Texas. Its rich history, from its Native American roots to its role in the Civil War and beyond, provides a fascinating backdrop to its current achievements and endeavors.
Smith County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Smith County, Texas.
- 1846 - Smith County is established by the Texas legislature.
- 1847 - The county seat is designated at Tyler.
- 1850 - The population of Smith County reaches 1,726.
- 1861-1865 - The Civil War impacts the county, with many residents serving in the Confederate Army.
- 1877 - The Texas and Pacific Railway reaches Tyler, boosting the local economy.
- 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardships to Smith County.
- 1932 - The East Texas Oil Field is discovered, leading to an oil boom in the area.
- 1950s - The construction of highways and infrastructure brings further growth and development to the county.
- 1995 - The Smith County Historical Society is formed to preserve the county's history.
- Present - Smith County continues to thrive as a regional economic and cultural hub in East Texas.