Early History of Churches in Freeport
The Early Beginnings
The Presbyterian Church in Brazoria County has roots tracing back to the aftermath of Texas gaining its independence. Among the county’s significant landmarks was the Bethel Presbyterian Church, built in 1838 by Mrs. Josiah Bell along the Brazos River in East Columbia. Reaching the church was a commitment, often requiring attendees to undertake a riverboat journey lasting two days and one night. This dedication underscores the central role the church played in the spiritual and social life of the early settlers.
Expansion and Resilience
Over the years, other Presbyterian churches emerged in the area, reflecting the community’s growth and evolving needs. The Perry family constructed the Gulf Prairie Presbyterian Church in 1879. Around the same period, Quintana—a thriving town with 1500 to 2000 residents—established its own church. Quintana’s economy was driven by industries like cotton exportation, crude sugar production, cowhide processing, and salt trade. However, the devastating storm of 1900 destroyed the Quintana church, a reminder of the challenges faced by these early communities.
Over the years, other Presbyterian churches emerged in the area, reflecting the community’s growth and evolving needs. The Perry family constructed the Gulf Prairie Presbyterian Church in 1879. Around the same period, Quintana—a thriving town with 1500 to 2000 residents—established its own church. Quintana’s economy was driven by industries like cotton exportation, crude sugar production, cowhide processing, and salt trade. However, the devastating storm of 1900 destroyed the Quintana church, a reminder of the challenges faced by these early communities.
Foundations of Freeport’s Churches
The Presbyterian Church in Brazoria County has roots tracing back to the aftermath of Texas gaining its indepBy late 1913, J.H. Ross, a Presbyterian, took a pivotal step by initiating a Union Sunday School in Freeport. The first meetings were held in a small building at Broad and Cherry Streets, generously donated by the Freeport Sulphur Company. Shortly after, the Sunday school relocated to a newly constructed Methodist-owned building at West Second and Maple Streets. This Union Sunday School became the cornerstone for the establishment of nearly all the churches in Freeport today, marking the beginning of a rich spiritual legacy.endence. Among the county’s significant landmarks was the Bethel Presbyterian Church, built in 1838 by Mrs. Josiah Bell along the Brazos River in East Columbia. Reaching the church was a commitment, often requiring attendees to undertake a riverboat journey lasting two days and one night. This dedication underscores the central role the church played in the spiritual and social life of the early settlers.