Marlin in Falls County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
The Rev. Nelson T. Denson and Marlin Missionary Baptist Church
On Nov. 8, 1868, the Rev. Denson started Marlin Missionary Baptist Church, the earliest black congregation in the county. Assisting him in the organizational meeting was the pioneer Baptist preacher, the Rev. Z.N. Morrell.
The Rev. Denson was active in the establishment of several black schools including one sponsored by the Marlin Missionary Baptist Church in 1877. Through his efforts, the opportunity for a formal education became a reality for area blacks by the mid-1880s.
In 1882 the Rev. Denson became the first elected black official in the county when he was chosen commissioner of Precinct One. Trusted and respected by all races, he continued to play a significant role in the community until his death at the age of 93. Today the church he founded in 1868 carries on the tradition of his enthusiasm and his service for others.
Erected 1981 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 1206.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Churches & Religion • War, US Civil. A significant historical date for this entry is October 8, 1868.
Location. 31° 18.064′ N, 96° 53.782′ W. Marker is in Marlin, Texas, in Falls County. Marker is at the intersection of Bennett Street and George Street, on the right when traveling south on Bennett Street. The marker is located on the north side of the front entrance to the church. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 507 Bennett Street, Marlin TX 76661, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Greater Providence Missionary Baptist Church (approx. ¼ mile away); Falls County Courthouse (approx. 0.4 miles away); Falls County World War II Memorial (approx. 0.4 miles away); Early Hilton Hotel (approx. 0.4 miles away); Hot Mineral Water (approx. half a mile away); Marlin (approx. half a mile away); First Baptist Church of Marlin (approx. half a mile away); First United Methodist Church (approx. half a mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Marlin.
Credits. This page was last revised on October 28, 2022. It was originally submitted on October 28, 2022, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 243 times since then and 39 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 28, 2022, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.