First Methodist Church of Stephenville
Stephenville, Erath County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This congregation, organized in 1855 with ten charter members, traces its history to the founding of Stephenville. Early worship services were held in the Masonic lodge building on the town square. A sanctuary erected in the 1890s was replaced by this Beaux Arts style building in 1917. Featuring giant order Corinthian columns and art glass windows, it remains an important local landmark as the church continues to serve the community. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1988
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Organized in 1855 with ten charter members, this Methodist congregation grew up alongside the frontier town of Stephenville, first meeting in the Masonic lodge on the town square. An 1890s sanctuary gave way in 1917 to the present Beaux Arts building, with its giant Corinthian columns and art-glass windows.
Why it matters
The church reflects the central place of frontier congregations in binding together new Texas communities.
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Themes & tags
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