First Methodist Church of Richland
Richland, Navarro County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Founded 1847 on remote frontier, by efforts of the Rev. J. E. Ferguson and the Rev. J. G. Hardin. In 1966 the American Association of Methodist Historical Societies honored Richland as the oldest continuing congregation in Central Texas Annual Conference.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Founded in 1847 on what was then remote Texas frontier through the labors of the Rev. J. E. Ferguson and the Rev. J. G. Hardin, this Methodist congregation has worshipped continuously ever since. In 1966 the American Association of Methodist Historical Societies recognized Richland as the oldest continuing congregation in the Central Texas Annual Conference. Its long survival testifies to the endurance of frontier faith communities.
Why it matters
The earliest frontier congregations were often a settlement's first institution, and those that survived became living links to the first years of Anglo settlement in Texas.
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Related people
- · J. E. Ferguson
- · J. G. Hardin
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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