Decatur First United Methodist Church
Historical marker location:Organized in 1862, this congregation is the oldest in Decatur. The Reverend J. R. Bellamy conducted the first services in a vacant store on the south side of the town square. Other churches were not started in the community until after the Civil War.
Instrumental leaders in the development of the young church were charter members Stephen M. Gose and his wife Mary. A blacksmith and farmer, Gose had migrated to this area from Missouri. Their home and pump organ were used for many of the early services.
The first sanctuary was constructed at this site in 1881. Property for the congregation was deeded by the county government. Built during the pastorate of the Reverend E. D. Dejernet, the edifice was destroyed by fire in the early 1890s.
A second church structure for the fellowship was soon built at this location. It served the growing membership until the present brick sanctuary was completed. Constructed under the leadership of the Reverend A. R. Nash, it was dedicated at Easter services in 1914. An educational wing was added in 1940.
(1980)
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 is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
In the early years, Wise County was primarily used for ranching and farming due to its fertile soil and abundant water supply. The arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver Railway in the late 1800s brought increased opportunities for trade and commerce, spurring economic growth in the region.
During the Civil War, Wise County remained divided between Unionists and Confederates, leading to some conflict within the county. After the war, the discovery of coal deposits in the area led to the establishment of coal mining towns, including Newark and Rhome. These towns ushered in a new era of industrialization and attracted more settlers to the county in search of employment.
In the early 20th century, Wise County experienced a decline in coal mining due to competition from other energy sources. However, the discovery of oil in the 1920s sparked a new economic boom. Today, Wise County remains a hub for oil and gas production, contributing significantly to the local economy. It also boasts a diverse agricultural industry and has become a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking.
Wise County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Wise County, Texas.
- 1856 - Wise County is established and named after Virginia Governor Henry A. Wise.
- 1860 - The first post office, called Taylorsville, is established in the county.
- 1867 - The county's first courthouse is built in Decatur, the county seat.
- 1873 - The Wise County Old Settlers Association is founded to preserve the county's history.
- 1882 - The Wise County Messenger, the county's oldest newspaper, is established.
- 1883 - The Fort Worth and Denver City Railway is completed, connecting Wise County to major cities.
- 1905 - The county's second courthouse, a grand Neoclassical building, is completed.
- 1920 - The oil boom hits Wise County, leading to increased drilling and economic growth.
- 1927 - The county's third courthouse, a Modern Classical structure, is completed.
- 1969 - Lake Bridgeport, a reservoir, is completed, providing water recreation opportunities.
- 2000 - The population of Wise County reaches over 48,000 people.
- 2015 - The Wise County Heritage Museum is established to showcase the county's history.