Texas Historical Marker #10995
First Methodist Church of Overton. This church dates to 1873 when many members of the nearby Jamestown church became pioneer members of this congregation. A small frame building was built that year on this site with lumber hauled by wagon. A new sanctuary was built here in 1932, and a two-story education building was added in 1937. As membership grew a new church was completed here in 1969, using the stained glass windows from the previous structure. The church sponsors traditional programs for the congregation, and continues to serve the community as it has for more than 120 years. #10995
213 E. Henderson St., Overton, TX, United States
Texas Historical Marker #13022
El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. Local tradition holds that the Rev. J.D. James arrived in this area circa 1840, bringing with him his family, household goods and about 300 slaves. The community that grew around his plantation became known as Jamestown. James led a local church where white residents worshiped in the morning and black slaves worshiped later in the day. Initially meeting under a brush arbor, the congregation became known as El Bethel, and from it several other area congregations formed, including two Missionary Baptist churches also called El Bethel. The first of these was formed following the Civil War. Members of El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church No. 1 built their first sanctuary at this site circa 1872. Although its first ministers were white, early African American pastors included the Revs. Jessie Rowe, Reuben Wright, Dr. S.S. Stephens, S.L. Thomas, A.H. Whitfield, T.W. Hickman and R.B. Brantley. The church continued to grow, building new facilities and adding new programs over the years. Auxiliary groups have included the Usher Board, Benevolent Fund, Junior and Senior Choirs, Ruth Circle and Branch Sunday at Douglas School. The Jamestown population began to decline in the 1870s when the I&GN Railroad went through nearby Overton. In the 1940s, during World War II, numerous area residents left to serve in wartime industries and the Armed Forces. Over the years, many dedicated deacons and other staff have strengthened the church, which has inspired many members to become ministers and continues to support area residents in worship and services. (2005) #13022
23871 CR 244, Overton, TX, United States