First United Methodist Church

The Reverend Littleton Fowler, one of the first Methodist missionaries sent to Texas, arrived in San Augustine on October 19, 1837.

In two weeks trustees had been appointed, a lot had been donated, $3,525 had been subscribed, and a construction contract was made.

This was the first time a cornerstone was laid for a church through the foreign missions of the Methodist church of the United States.

Laying the cornerstone on January 17, 1838, was a grand event, supervised by the Masonic Lodge.

Speakers included General Thomas J. Rusk and Rev. Fowler, who described the occasion as "one of moral grandeur, calculated to excite deep and strong feelings in the bosom of every patriot and Christian."

Located across the street from the present location, the original church was built by Augustus Phelps and completed by May 22, 1841. That building served the congregation for the rest of the century.

In 1897, Columbus Cartwright gave the entire block on the south side of the street to the Church with the provision that a "place for hitching horses, and standing room for buggies and other vehicles" be provided. That was the beginning of the building program for the current building, completed by 1909.

The first building was built under the guidance of Rev. Fowler. The building currently in use was completed while his son, the Reverend Littleton Morris Fowler, was minister.

Of special interest are the beautiful stained glass windows in the sanctuary which were restored prior to 1960. And, yes - there is a hitching post where you can hitch your horse and plenty of room to park your buggy.

First United Methodist Church is still used for services, and visitors are welcome. The church is located at 205 S. Liberty, on the corner of South Liberty and Main.
936-275-2246