Ebenezer United Methodist Church
Carthage, Panola County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This congregation was organized at Old Macedonia (3 mi. E) in 1843, three years before the formation of Panola County. It is believed the church was formed through the missionary efforts of the Rev. Littleton Fowler, one of the earliest Protestant ministers in the Republic of Texas. In 1872 John Henry Ross deeded land at this site for the church and a school and cemetery. Known for a short time as Walton Church, Ebenezer United Methodist Church has served as a focal point for the surrounding rural community for well over a century. (1983)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
This congregation gathered in 1843 at Old Macedonia, three years before Panola County existed and while Texas was still an independent republic. It likely grew from the circuit-riding labors of the Rev. Littleton Fowler, one of the earliest Protestant ministers in the Republic of Texas. In 1872 a gift of land from John Henry Ross brought church, school, and cemetery together at this site, where the congregation has anchored rural life for well over a century.
Why it matters
It shows how itinerant preachers planted lasting institutions on the Republic-era Texas frontier.
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Related people
- · Littleton Fowler
- · John Henry Ross
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
Isaac R. Youngblood
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Born about 1793, Isaac R. Youngblood moved from Georgia to Texas before 1846 and became a Panola County pioneer, helping lay out local roads as an overseer. In 1858 he deeded two acres here for a school and church, granting use of a nearby spring as well. Tradition holds that he died after falling into his 90-foot well and was buried in an unmarked grave.
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