Central Christian Church of Waco
Waco, McLennan County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Eighteen members of the disciples of Christ denomination in Waco began worshipping together in homes as early as 1867. In 1870 they became charter members of a congregation organized under the leadership of the Rev. B.F. Hall, who came to Waco from Grayson County at the request of Phoebe Moore and Sallie Skidmore. The congregation held baptism services in the Brazos River. A Sunday school was organized in 1874, and a church building was erected in 1875. The congregation continues to be active in missionary and community programs.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
As early as 1867 a handful of Disciples of Christ believers in Waco met to worship in one another's homes, and in 1870 they formally organized a congregation under Rev. B.F. Hall — who came at the invitation of Phoebe Moore and Sallie Skidmore. Early converts were baptized in the Brazos River, a Sunday school followed in 1874, and a church building rose the next year.
Why it matters
The congregation's founding, prompted by two determined women, shows how ordinary members — and especially women — anchored the religious and social life of a growing post-war Texas town.
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Related people
- · B.F. Hall
- · Phoebe Moore
- · Sallie Skidmore
Themes & tags
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