Athens in Henderson County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
First United Presbyterian Church of Athens
The Rev. Hodge organized "The Cumberland Presbyterian Church" in 1855 with nine charter members. He selected Athens for its central location in the county. The fellowship met first in the log courthouse on the south side of the square. The Masonic Lodge, 319 South Palestine served as a meeting place. The Baptist Church, 301 S. Prairieville, was also used for worship. The first structure owned by the congregation was at 305 E. Corsicana. John M. McDonald in 1881 donated the church house. The first church bell was given by the merchants of New Orleans, Louisiana; and St. Louis, Missouri, merchants donated the first organ. In 1907 the congregation united with the northern church and the name changed to "The First Presbyterian Church".
The present structure was completed in 1910 and in 1948 the educational facility was dedicated. The Pilcher pipe organ and chimes and the carillon were memorial gifts. After another merger in 1958, the name became "First United Presbyterian Church".
Erected 1979 by Texas Historical Commission . (Marker Number 14848.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Churches & Religion. A significant historical year for this entry is 1850.
Location. 32° 12.316′ N, 95° 51.095′ W. Marker is in Athens, Texas, in Henderson County. Marker is at the intersection of East Tyler Street and South Carrol Street, on the right when traveling east on East Tyler Street. The marker is located at the front of the church. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 306 E Tyler St, Athens TX 75751, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. First Baptist Church of Athens (about 700 feet away, measured in a direct line); 1925 Henderson County Jail (about 700 feet away); Jess Sweeten (about 700 feet away); J.W. Brownlow (approx. 0.2 miles away); Henderson County Courthouse (approx. 0.2 miles away); Courts Under the Oaks (approx. 0.2 miles away); Faulk-Gauntt Building (approx. 0.2 miles away); First National Bank (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Athens.
Credits. This page was last revised on May 24, 2024. It was originally submitted on May 24, 2024, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 58 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 24, 2024, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.