Historical Marker

Antioch Baptist Church

Historical marker location:
455 Pink Hill Rd., Bells, Texas
( corner of Pink Hill and Antioch Rd.)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Formally organized in 1861 as Antioch Baptist Church of Christ, this congregation first worshiped in a log cabin approximately 2.5 miles south of this site. S. J. Wright, R. T. Gardner and J. D. Thomas comprised the organizing presbytery. In 1872, the congregation moved to the Pink Hill community where it shared a building and land at this site with the Pink Hill school. Baptisms took place in Choctaw Creek and in nearby stock tanks. As a charter member of the Grayson County Baptist Association, Antioch became known simply as Antioch Baptist Church after 1886. The 1890s saw much growth, resulting in the dedication of a new building in 1890 and the establishment of a Sunday school in 1893. In the early 1900s, Antioch Baptist Church became active in foreign and home mission work, a tradition it has continued into the 21st century. A growing membership required the completion of larger worship spaces in 1919 and again in 1974. In the latter half of the 20th century, the congregation secured its first full-time pastor, enhanced its mission work in the community and abroad, and provided a number of programs for young people. As an integral part of the Pink Hill community, Antioch Baptist Church has played an important role in the lives of those who worship here. It continues to uphold the ideals and traditions of its founders as it moves forward in service to others.

(2001)

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

Baptist denomination churches religion
The Texans could and did bury Santa Ana out of sight and in plain view, in circumstances that show the men who did it knew their trade
Stephen Vincent Benét in John Brown's Body
Gray County, located in the Texas Panhandle, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The earliest known inhabitants of the area were the Plains Indians, including the Comanche and Kiowa tribes, who roamed the grasslands and utilized the region's abundant wildlife for sustenance.

European settlement in Gray County began in the late 19th century, driven by the expansion of railroads and the cattle industry. The area became a popular destination for cattle ranchers, with the establishment of large ranches and the construction of stockyards and rail lines. The growth of the cattle industry played a significant role in shaping the county's early economy and attracting settlers to the region.

In 1876, Gray County was officially organized and named after Peter W. Gray, a prominent Texas lawyer and judge. The county seat, Pampa, was established in 1892 and experienced rapid growth due to the discovery of oil in the early 20th century. The oil boom created a surge in population and economic activity, bringing prosperity to the region.

Throughout the 20th century, Gray County continued to thrive due to its diverse economy, including agriculture, oil and gas, and manufacturing industries. The area's agricultural sector remained strong, with crops like wheat, sorghum, and cotton being cultivated. Additionally, manufacturing companies set up operations in the county, further contributing to its economic stability.

Today, Gray County is a thriving community with a mix of rural and urban areas. It continues to be a center for agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The county's rich history is celebrated through various cultural events and museums, providing visitors with a glimpse into the area's past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Gray County, Texas.

  • 1876: Gray County was officially organized and named after Peter W. Gray, a Texas lawyer.
  • 1887: The first post office in Gray County was established.
  • 1889: The town of Pampa was founded and became the county seat of Gray County.
  • 1902: The first railroad, Southern Kansas Railway, reached Pampa, leading to significant growth and development.
  • 1924: A significant oil discovery, the White Deer Oil Field, sparked an oil boom in Gray County.
  • 1934: The county experienced severe damage and loss of life due to a devastating tornado.
  • 1952: The Pantex Ordnance Plant, a major nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, was established in Gray County.
  • 1965: Lake McClellan, a reservoir on the Red River, was completed and became a popular recreational area.
  • 1995: The historic Gray County Courthouse, built in 1929, was restored and designated as a Texas Historic Landmark.