Stephenville in Erath County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
First Christian Church
Photographed by Jeff Leichsenring, September 6, 2026
1. First Christian Church Marker
After a late 1890s split in the Church of Christ over using organs in church services, progressive members of the church, supporting the use of instruments, established Stephenville Christian Church in 1897. The congregation, especially women members, raised funds for a new building. In 1898, trustees purchased half an acre and began to build their church. In November 1899, the congregation held its first service in the new building. Elders Addison Clark (1905-07) and Randolph Clark (1911-22), brothers and founders of Texas Christian University, served as pastors. Many town founders and other important citizens attended the church. Still active, First Christian Church continues to serve the Stephenville Community.
Erected 2018 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 20008.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Religion & Religious Structures. A significant historical month for this entry is November 1899.
Location. 32° 13.263′ N, 98° 12.369′ W. Marker is in Stephenville, Texas, in Erath County. It is at the intersection of West Tarleton Street and N Race, on the left when traveling
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in the Prairies & Lakes Region. 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 Comanchería, 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: In Memory of George Bernhard Erath (about 800 feet away, measured in a direct line); Erath Arches (about 800 feet away); First Methodist Church of Stephenville (approx. 0.2 miles away); Stephenville Drug Stores (approx. 0.2 miles away); Crow Opera House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Lest We Forget (approx. 0.2 miles away); Stephenville Masonic Lodge No. 267 (approx. ¼ mile away); Erath County War Memorial (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Stephenville.
Photographed by Jeff Leichsenring, September 6, 2026
2. First Christian Church and marker
Credits. This page was last revised on September 7, 2026. It was originally submitted on September 6, 2026, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. This page has been viewed 7 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 6, 2026, by Jeff Leichsenring of Garland, Texas. • James Hulse was the editor who published this page.
