Historical Marker

Waples Memorial United Methodist Church

Historical marker location:
830 W. Main Street, Denison, Texas
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In March 1873, after a survey of the newly-established town of Denison enumerated 40 citizens of the Methodist denomination, Reverend Alexander Jamison was sent to the town to organize a Methodist congregation. A new church was soon established as a mission church of the North Texas conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church south, and Reverend Z. Parker served as the first pastor. The church’s first structure was a one-room frame building located at 430 W. Skiddy street. The church was granted an official charter in 1881.

Around 1887, Mr. and Mrs. E.B. Waples, for whom the church was named, became members of the young congregation after moving from Sherman to Denison. In 1888-1889, Waples released the trustees of the church from a 1,692.76 note for the amount of one dollar, relieving the church’s debt. Shortly before E.B. Waples’ death in 1898, he gave the first monetary gift to the church for the construction of a new, larger building to be erected at 830 W. Main street. Upon the completion of the new church, the congregation decided on the name Waples Memorial Methodist Church, South, to honor the faith and effort of Mr. and Mrs. Waples. A later church edifice was erected on the same property in 1965.

The congregation established a Sunday school in 1910, and soon thereafter an Epworth League was formed. In 1936, the church began sponsorship of Boy Scout troup 605, which has continued since that time. Today, Waples Memorial United Methodist Church, the oldest existing Methodist Congregation in Denison, continues to serve its community

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.

Methodist denomination churches religion
Texas is a great place to be rich and a terrible place to be poor.
Richard Parker in The Nation
Grayson County, Texas has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area that is now Grayson County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Tonkawa, and Shawnee. However, European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1800s, leading to conflicts and the eventual displacement of the Native American populations.

The county itself was established in 1846 and named after Peter Wagener Grayson, a lawyer who served in the Texas legislature. Grayson County quickly grew as settlers moved into the region, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The county's economy flourished with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, which facilitated transportation of goods and boosted trade in the area.

During the Civil War, Grayson County largely supported the Confederacy, and many residents volunteered to serve in the Southern army. After the war, the county faced challenges as it struggled to rebuild and recover from the economic and social impacts of the conflict. However, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of prosperity to Grayson County. Oil fields were developed, attracting workers and boosting the local economy.

Today, Grayson County continues to thrive as a vibrant and growing community. It is home to several cities, including Sherman, the county seat, and Denison. The county is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Texoma, which is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Grayson County also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, museums, and festivals that celebrate its unique history and traditions.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Grayson County, Texas.

  • 1836 - The Republic of Texas is established, including the area now known as Grayson County.
  • 1846 - Grayson County is officially organized and named after Peter W. Grayson, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
  • 1850 - The first courthouse is built in Sherman, becoming the county seat.
  • 1871 - The arrival of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad sparks growth in the county.
  • 1872 - Sherman is incorporated as a city.
  • 1896 - The Red River Bridge, connecting Grayson County to the Oklahoma Territory, is completed.
  • 1900 - The population of Grayson County reaches over 40,000 residents.
  • 1930s - Grayson County is affected by the Great Depression, but starts recovering through federal programs.
  • 1960s - Lake Texoma is created by the Army Corps of Engineers, providing recreational opportunities.
  • 1990s - Grayson County experiences rapid growth due to its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
  • 2006 - The Grayson County Courthouse, built in 1910, undergoes major renovations.