churches; Methodist (Methodist Episcopal and United Methodist) denomination
Marker Year
1968
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
Yes
Marker Location
Private Property
No
Marker Condition
In Situ
Marker Size
18" x 28"
Marker Text
First church in Smith County. Organized 1848 by the Revs. Sam Box and Alexander Douglas. Had all-faiths services at first in log cabin on Courthouse Square, later in Adams blacksmith shop, south of Square. In 1852 built across street from this site, a 2-story church and lodge hall in cooperation with Masons. Present church, erected 1890 (now Tyler's oldest church), was named in 1891 to honor Bishop Enoch Mather Marvin (1823-1877), C. S. A. Chaplain, famed in Missouri and Texas for powerful sermons. Building was expanded 1923, 1942, 1952. Church has had 45 pastors. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1968
