Saint John United Church of Christ
Robinson, McLennan County, Texas
Marker Inscription
German native Herman Staas, who settled here in 1882, was instrumental in persuading other Germans to migrate to the Robinson area. In 1884 the pioneers established this congregation under the leadership of the Rev. Christian Schaer of Waco. Services were held in homes and in the Presbyterian Sanctuary until the first building was completed in 1890. The first resident Pastor here was the Rev. John Strauss, who served from 1900 to 1940. Although the last German service was conducted in 1959, the church continues to reflect the ideals and traditions of its founders.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
German immigrant Herman Staas, who settled near Robinson in 1882, drew other Germans to the area, and in 1884 they organized this congregation under the Rev. Christian Schaer of Waco. Worship met in homes and a Presbyterian sanctuary until the first church building rose in 1890, and the Rev. John Strauss served as its first resident pastor for forty years. The last German-language service was held in 1959.
Why it matters
The church records the story of German immigrants who carried their faith and language to central Texas, sustaining a distinct Old World identity for generations before gradually joining the American mainstream.
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Related people
- · Herman Staas
- · Christian Schaer
- · John Strauss
Themes & tags
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