Victoria in Victoria County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)

Webster Chapel United Methodist Church

Photographed by James Hulse, February 17, 2022

1. Webster Chapel United Methodist Church Marker

Inscription. This fellowship was organized shortly after the Civil War to serve the newly freed slaves of the Victoria area. Originally a Methodist Episcopal Church, it began in 1871 when church trustees George Ware, Thads Phillips, Isaac Smith, Alexander Bonds, James Maulding, John Hall, Madison Gafford, Abner James, and George Washington purchased land at this site for the construction of a sanctuary. Many of the early members had attended services of the First Methodist Church of Victoria as slaves. The Rev. N. Webster, for whom the church was later named, served as the first pastor.

The first church building, a frame sanctuary, was completed here in 1889. Later changes, which included additions to the structure and extensive interior remodeling, were a result of the church's continued growth. Many members were added in the 1930s and 1940s as residents of the surrounding area moved to Victoria in search of jobs.

Many prominent pastors and members have been associated with Webster Chapel United Methodist Church. Since the days following the Civil War, it has played a significant role in the growth and development of Victoria's Black community.

Erected 1981 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 5737.)

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans

Paid Advertisement

Click or scan to see
this page online

• Religion & Religious Structures. A significant historical year for this entry is 1871.

Location. 28° 47.691′ N, 97° 0.216′ W. Marker is in Victoria, Texas, in Victoria County. It is at the intersection of South Wheeler Street and East Convent Street, on the right when traveling south on South Wheeler Street. The marker is located north of the the front entrance to the church. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 405 South Wheeler Street, Victoria TX 77901, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in the American South

and on the Gulf Coast.

Globally, it is in North America,

a Gulf of Mexico state,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain,

the Republic of Texas,

and one of the Confederate States of America.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Regan House (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); B. F. Williams House (about 600 feet away); Palestine Missionary Baptist Church (about 700 feet away); Power Home (about 700 feet away); Pela House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Site of Victoria's First Church (approx. ¼ mile away); St. Mary's Church, Catholic (approx. ¼ mile away); Fossati's Delicatessen (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Victoria.

Another marker is no longer nearby. The "Victoria Advocate" (was approx. ¼ mile away but has been confirmed missing).

The Webster Chapel United Methodist Church Marker next to the church image. Click for full size.

Photographed by James Hulse, February 17, 2022

2. The Webster Chapel United Methodist Church Marker next to the church

The view of the Webster Chapel United Methodist Church and Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed by James Hulse, February 17, 2022

3. The view of the Webster Chapel United Methodist Church and Marker

(the marker is on the far right in the photo)

Credits. This page was last revised on February 22, 2022. It was originally submitted on February 22, 2022, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 526 times since then and 36 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on February 22, 2022, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.