Lee Tabernacle Methodist Church
Navasota, Grimes County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This Methodist congregation was founded in 1860, and worshipped with the Baptist church in shared facilities in Navasota. A church building was erected in 1866 in what was called "Freeman's Town." The Methodist group was formally organized in 1876, and built a separate facility a few years later. This church building was erected in 1896. During construction, services were held in the basement until the sanctuary was finished. When the structure was completed, the congregation changed its name to honor the pastor at that time, The Rev. Edward Lee, becoming the Lee Tabernacle Methodist Church. Interior modifications have occurred over the years, including the restoration of the stained glass windows, the addition of a choir room, and general remodeling, but the exterior remains essentially intact. A parsonage was added to accommodate the pastor. This church structure is a fine example of a Gothic revival design, featuring arched windows, a tower entry, stained glass windows, double wood paneled doors, and a gabled roof. The Lee Tabernacle Methodist Church continues to serve its dedicated members as it has for over 130 years in the Navasota community.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
This African-American Methodist congregation traces to 1860 and, after the Civil War, built a church in 1866 in a Navasota neighborhood called 'Freeman's Town.' Formally organized in 1876, the group raised its present Gothic Revival sanctuary in 1896 — worshipping in the basement until the building was finished — and renamed itself to honor its pastor, the Rev. Edward Lee. With its arched and stained-glass windows and tower entry, the church has served its members for well over a century.
Why it matters
Founded in a Freedmen's community, Lee Tabernacle embodies how emancipated African Americans built enduring institutions of faith and self-governance in the Reconstruction South, anchoring Black community life in Navasota for generations.
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Related people
- · Rev. Edward Lee
Themes & tags
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