First Baptist Church of Claytonville
Historical marker location:Organized as New Hope Baptist Church of Christ in 1891, this congregation changed its name in 1912 to Whitfield Baptist Church. It acquired a good church plant, a parsonage, and a cabin site at Plains Baptist Assembly Grounds. Steps began in 1960 to relocate on the paved highway in this new business community growing up around the cotton gin built in the 1950s by M. C. Clayton (1899-1963). The new church building -- first in the town -- was erected in 1962-63. The present name was adopted in 1964. Peak membership for the congregation has been 206. (1975)
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.
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.