First Methodist Church of Grand Saline
Grand Saline, Van Zandt County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Methodists living in Grand Saline during the early years of its settlement traveled to Creagleville (3 mi. W) to attend worship services. In 1889, after Grand Saline experienced a period of growth due to industrial and business expansion, a Methodist congregation was organized by the Rev. Samuel N. Allen and a small group of worshipers. Grand Saline became a circuit in the denominational district, and was served by circuit-riding ministers. Early pastors, in addition to the Rev. Mr. Allen, included the Rev. John C. Burgamy and the Rev. Edgar R. Large. Early worship services were held in private homes and in the community schoolhouse at the southwest corner of Frank and Green streets. The congregation purchased land on the southwest corner of O'Hara and Richardson (now Hiram) streets in 1894, and their first house of worship was completed in 1896. The church moved to a new building at Main and O'Hara streets in 1904, and has remained at this site in a variety of structures. The First Methodist Church has grown with the city of Grand Saline. Throughout its history, the church has served the community with a variety of worship, educational, and outreach programs. (1991)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Before Grand Saline had a Methodist congregation of its own, the faithful traveled three miles west to Creagleville for worship. As the town grew through industrial and business expansion tied to its famous salt deposits, the Rev. Samuel N. Allen organized a congregation in 1889, served at first by circuit-riding ministers. The church moved through a series of buildings as it grew alongside the town.
Why it matters
The congregation's growth mirrors the industrial development of a distinctive East Texas salt town, showing how faith communities took root as extractive industry drew settlers.
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Related people
- · Samuel N. Allen
- · John C. Burgamy
- · Edgar R. Large
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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