Barnett Chapel Methodist Church
Kerrville, Kerr County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This is the oldest African American church in Kerr county. In 1896, Jim and Josephine Barnett were instrumental in organizing the first religious services for African Americans in Kerrville. The congregation was named Barnett Chapel in their honor. On March 8, 1898, John T. Page sold, to trustees Josephine Barnett, Levi Butler, Z. T. Wilson and James Askey, property which remains the congregation’s home today. Circuit-riding ministers came from Bandera, Uvalde and Fredericksburg before the Rev. W.M. Mosby became the first full-time minister in 1902. Through worship, evangelism, outreach, emergency relief, Juneteenth and heritage celebrations, youth programs, music, and mission work, the congregation has made a significant impact on the community. (2017)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Barnett Chapel is the oldest African American church in Kerr County, tracing to 1896 when Jim and Josephine Barnett helped organize Kerrville's first religious services for Black residents. Named in the couple's honor, the congregation secured its lasting home in 1898 and was served by circuit-riding ministers from surrounding towns until the Rev. W.M. Mosby became its first full-time pastor in 1902. Through worship, outreach, youth work, and Juneteenth celebrations it has remained a pillar of the community.
Why it matters
As the county's first Black congregation, it shows how churches became the organizing heart of African American life in the segregation-era South.
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Related people
- · Jim Barnett
- · Josephine Barnett
- · W.M. Mosby
Themes & tags
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