First Christian Church of Orange
Orange, Orange County, Texas
Marker Inscription
The First Christian Church of Orange began in 1885 when a group of residents started meeting for worship services. Some of these charter members were baptized in the Sabine River. The church officially organized under the Rev. J.C. Mason in 1894, and members built a sanctuary by 1895. After spending several years raising money for a new structure, the congregation moved here in 1954. Over the years, membership has grown, and the congregation has been active in community and charitable efforts. Members have also supported many ecumenical and educational programs. After more than 100 years, the church continues to be an important influence on the community it serves. (2006)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
The First Christian Church of Orange traces its roots to 1885, when a handful of residents began gathering for worship and some charter members were baptized in the waters of the Sabine River. The congregation formally organized under the Rev. J.C. Mason in 1894 and built its first sanctuary the next year. After decades of growth it relocated to its present site in 1954, remaining active in charitable and ecumenical work.
Why it matters
It reflects the frontier river-baptism roots of Protestant community life along the Texas–Louisiana border and its steady evolution into a modern civic institution.
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Related people
- · J.C. Mason
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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