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 United Methodist Church of Athens
N 32° 11.932 W 095° 50.407
15S E 232268 N 3566015
Texas Historical Marker at the First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Lane, Athens, TX, providing some background on the church's establishment, history, and community service.
Waymark Code: WMZTPN
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 01/04/2019
Views: 5
Marker Number: 15157
Marker Text:
Henderson County Methodists were first organized in 1852 by the Rev. Hezekiah Mitcham. Worshipers met in homes and brush arbors around the county. In 1854, the Rev. W.M. Sansom was assigned to this circuit, and in 1859 he formally organized 12 churches. The church at Athens, with 45 members, was the largest. Mrs. Dulcinea (Thompson) Avriett (1835-1920) was the last surviving founder with continuous membership.
In 1884, after meeting in the sanctuaries of the Athens Baptist and Presbyterian Churches, a lot on West Tyler Street was acquired and a frame church building was constructed. In 1904, a new stone and brick sanctuary was completed after property on the southeast corner of the public square was purchased by the Ladies Aid Society. An educational building was completed in 1931 and was later dedicated to Henderson County pioneers Judge and Mrs. J.J. Faulk. The sanctuary on the square served the congregation for sixty years.
With its emphasis on Christian education and community service, the United Methodist Church of Athens has continued to uphold the ideals and traditions of its founders. The congregation has worshiped at this site since 1964.
Texas Sesquicentennial 1836-1986
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