Historical Marker

First United Methodist Church

Historical marker location:
800 West 5th, Fort Worth, Texas
( 800 West 5th St., Fort Worth)
Marker installed: 2011
Marker size: 27" x 42"

IN 1853, ITINERANT PASTOR JOHN WESLEY CHALK RODE HORSEBACK THROUGHOUT TARRANT COUNTY, PREACHING IN HOUSES AND PUBLIC SPACES. THE FORT WORTH CIRCUIT’S MEMBERSHIP HAD GROWN TO MORE THAN 450 PEOPLE BY 1873, AND A LOT WAS PURCHASED AT 4TH AND JONES STREETS FOR THE FIRST METHODIST CHURCH BUILDING IN FORT WORTH. CONSTRUCTION ON THE FRAME STRUCTURE KNOWN AS FOURTH STREET METHODIST BEGAN ON MAY 15, 1874. MEMBERSHIP OUTGREW THE BUILDING, AND IN 1887, IT WAS REPLACED BY A SINGLE-STORY BRICK EDIFICE. IN 1908, THE CONGREGATION, WHO BY THIS TIME WAS KNOWN AS FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH, MOVED INTO A LARGER BUILDING ON 7TH AND TAYLOR STREETS, HOLDING ITS FORMAL OPENING ON MAR. 8, 1908 IN ONE OF THE MOST IMPRESSIVE CHURCH BUILDINGS IN NORTH TEXAS. THE PROPERTY WAS SOLD IN 1928 AND LAND WAS SUBSEQUENTLY PURCHASED AT 800 WEST 5TH STREET. PLANS FOR THE BUILDING WERE DRAWN BY W.G. CLARKSON AND COMPANY, ARCHITECTS, AND ON OCT. 29, 1929, THE DAY OF THE WORST STOCK MARKET CRASH IN U.S. HISTORY, GROUND WAS OFFICIALLY BROKEN FOR THE NEW CHURCH. ON OCT. 30, 1930, MEMBERS LOCKED THE DOORS OF THE OLD CHURCH AND WALKED TOGETHER TO THE NEW BUILDING.

THE CHURCH IS A GOTHIC REVIVAL BUILDING, INSPIRED BY THE NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL IN PARIS, FRANCE, WITH A TRIPLE PORTAL ENTRANCE, PIER BUTTRESSES ON THE UNEVEN CORNER TOWERS, TALL STAINED GLASS LANCET WINDOWS, MARBLE-FILLED ARCHES ON THE FRONT FAÇADE, AND A THREE-STORY ARRANGEMENT. THE CHURCH’S MISSION TO BE GOD’S PEOPLE IN THE WORLD IS EXEMPLIFIED IN ITS NUMEROUS PROGRAMS INCLUDING OUTREACH TO THE CITY’S HOMELESS CITIZENS SINCE THE EARLY 1950s AND THE FUMC TELEVISION MINISTRY WHICH BEGAN WEEKLY BROADCASTS IN MARCH 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.

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The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
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Tarrant County, Texas, has a significant place in the history of the Lone Star State. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes before European exploration and settlement. In the mid-19th century, the region became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico.

Tarrant County was established in 1849 and named after Edward H. Tarrant, a military leader during the Texas Revolution. The county experienced significant growth and development throughout the 19th century, fueled by factors such as the expansion of railroads, cattle ranching, and the discovery of oil.

During the 20th century, Tarrant County continued to flourish and adapt to changing times. It became an important hub for transportation, commerce, and industry. The county's largest city, Fort Worth, emerged as a major center for cattle trading and eventually diversified into a vibrant economic and cultural hub.

Today, Tarrant County is one of the most populous counties in Texas, encompassing Fort Worth and several other cities and communities. It boasts a diverse economy, encompassing sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Tarrant County is also home to renowned educational institutions, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities, making it a dynamic and thriving region within the state.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Tarrant County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The area was inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Wichita and Comanche, before European settlement.

  • 1849: Tarrant County was officially established and named after Edward H. Tarrant, a military leader in the Republic of Texas.

  • 1850s: Fort Worth, the county seat, began as a military outpost on the Trinity River, providing protection for settlers and serving as a stop on the Chisholm Trail cattle drive route.

  • Late 19th Century: The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s spurred economic growth in Fort Worth and the county. The city became a center for the cattle industry, agriculture, and trade.

  • 20th Century: Tarrant County experienced significant urbanization and diversification. Fort Worth became a major hub for the oil and gas industry, aviation, and defense with the establishment of military bases.

  • Civil Rights Era: Tarrant County, like many regions in the United States, faced challenges and changes during the civil rights movement, with efforts to achieve racial equality and social progress.

  • Modern Times: Tarrant County continues to thrive as a major economic and cultural center in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and industries such as healthcare, finance, technology, and education.