Paradise in Wise County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
First Christian Church of Paradise
Photographed by Jeff Leichsenring, August 30, 2026
1. First Christian Church of Paradise Marker
During the late 1880s, members of this church held home worship services in Old Town, the original Paradise townsite (1.5 miles southwest). The arrival of the Rock Island Railroad sent residents to this location, which was nearer to the rail line. Sometime after the move, the First Christian Church of Paradise was chartered.
During the early 1900s, three of the twenty-nine charter members became the original trustees. Merchant M. D. Cansler, school superintendent S. L. Atkins, and land owner and cotton farmer Fred Harms were responsible for purchasing the land and constructing a building for the church. This Gothic revival structure was built about 1905 by local contractor Will Plymell. The steeple houses the original church bell. At one time, the number of attending members dwindled to as few as three, yet worship services have continued to be held throughout the church's history.
Over the years the First Christian Church of Paradise has reflected the determination and ideals of its founders. With historic ties to the old and new Paradise townsites, it is a significant part of the area's heritage.
Erected 1984
this page online
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Religion & Religious Structures. A significant historical year for this entry is 1905.
Location. 33° 9.007′ N, 97° 41.296′ W. Marker is in Paradise, Texas, in Wise County. It is at the intersection of West 4th Avenue and Main Street, on the left when traveling west on West 4th Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 104 W 4th St, Paradise TX 76073, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the Prairies & Lakes Region and in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area. 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 5 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: George Lafayette Ramsdale (approx. half a mile away); Dr. M. W. Matthews (approx. half a mile away); Trimble Cemetery (approx. 4.2 miles
Photographed by Jeff Leichsenring, August 30, 2026
2. First Christian Church of Paradise and marker
Credits. This page was last revised on August 31, 2026. It was originally submitted on August 30, 2026, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. This page has been viewed 9 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 30, 2026, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. • James Hulse was the editor who published this page.
