First Methodist Church
Corsicana, Navarro County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Founded 1851; sanctuary built 1871 was not yet consecrated when State Democratic Convention met here 1872 and laid plans to free Texas from Reconstruction rule. First missionary society west of the Mississippi organized here, 1880. H. A. Boaz, ordained here, later became president of Polytechnic College, S. M. U., and a bishop. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1967
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Founded in 1851 on the Texas frontier, this Methodist congregation built its sanctuary in 1871, and the following year hosted the State Democratic Convention that laid plans to end Reconstruction rule in Texas. The church also organized what it claims as the first missionary society west of the Mississippi in 1880, and ordained H. A. Boaz, who rose to lead Polytechnic College and SMU before becoming a bishop. Its story weaves together frontier religion, Reconstruction-era politics, and the growth of Methodist education.
Why it matters
Frontier churches were often the first civic institutions in a new region, and this one became a stage for the political maneuvering that ended Reconstruction in Texas.
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Related people
- · H. A. Boaz
Related events
- · 1872 Texas State Democratic Convention
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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