Methodism in Panhandle
Panhandle, Carson County, Texas
Marker Inscription
The town of Panhandle became an important stronghold for Methodism in this part of Texas in the late 19th century. The county's first congregation was the Northern Methodist, established in 1889. It was attended by residents of all faiths. A Southern Methodist congregation was organized in 1903, and both churches served as community gathering places. The two congregations merged in 1919 and eventually became the First United Methodist Church of Panhandle. Methodists in Panhandle have maintained a strong community involvement.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
As settlers pushed onto the Texas Panhandle in the late 1800s, the town of Panhandle became a stronghold of Methodism, its first congregation—Northern Methodist, founded in 1889—drawing worshippers of every faith. A Southern Methodist congregation followed in 1903, and both served as gathering places on the open plains. The two rival branches reconciled and merged in 1919, eventually forming the First United Methodist Church of Panhandle.
Why it matters
The story reflects how frontier faith communities took root on the newly settled Panhandle and how a national Methodist reunion played out in one small Texas town.
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Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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Temple Lea Houston (August 12, 1860-August 15, 1905)
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Finch-Lord-Nelson and the Founding of Panhandle City
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