First Baptist Church in Richmond.
A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY | By Joan Frances | Photos from First Baptist Church in Richmond –
The progress of Fort Bend County settlers began with small steps. People gathered with the same goal in mind: create a community to sustain life and thrive in harmony. When towns were formed, residents quickly built a post office, mercantile and bank. The railroad provided transportation for farmers and ranchers to deliver crops and livestock to other cities. So much emphasis was made for success on the farms, but spiritually, organized religion developed slowly in Fort Bend.
Roman Catholic Spanish missionaries first brought Christianity to Texas. Their goal was to convert the natives and to build missions comprised of several buildings, including a chapel, workshop and classroom to teach the Native Americans to be productive Spanish citizens. Many of these missions were unsuccessful but set the movement for advancing the practice of religion.
As time progressed, different religions emerged and became influential in many aspects of community life. By the late 1800s, evangelical Protestants dominated much of the state, and Baptists, Methodists and Catholics were the primary practices. Churches were built for religious people to gather every week to provide a degree of stability in an ever-evolving society.
As religion emerged, so did educational responsibilities. The Mexican government failed to provide facilities, and after independence, the Republic of Texas had no money. Education was limited to private and religious groups. The churches trained ministers and priests and provided general education with tuition to those who could afford to pay.
First Baptist Church of Richmond’s first building built in 1889.
Public schools were below standards and lacked credible teachers and housing. Private school students were taught in rooms in the church, and teachers were paid by the tuition. In addition to academics, church sponsored family events emerged to unite the community in relaxing and enjoyable entertainment. Picnics and concerts were organized as a way to encourage church attendance and patronage. The study of religion developed friendships that brought towns together. Women’s groups were formed for quilt making and Bible reading. A children’s choir and theater was orchestrated, and recreational sports such as baseball began.
One of the oldest churches in the area is First Baptist Church in Richmond, located on the corner of Fifth Street and Houston Street. In 1885, Lottie Dyer Moore and John M. Moore, Sr. opened their home to the church. They donated the land across the street and built the first church sanctuary in 1889. Many significant families were patrons to the church. Mamie Davis, daughter of J.H. and Elizabeth Davis, married Albert P. George in the church in 1896. They lived in Richmond and made George Ranch one of the most successful ranches in the area.
In 1900, the original church building was destroyed by a hurricane. It was replaced in 1902 by a wooden structure, and in 1930, architect Alfred Fin designed a new worship center full of dark wood and beauty. For 60 years, it was appreciated and praised. Tragically, on September 1, 1990, an electrical fire destroyed the building. Once again rebuilt and dedicated in 1993, the church seats 400 people and continues to encourage fellowship and unity that focuses on community involvement and spiritual fulfillment.
Today, Fort Bend County is home to over 160 religious congregations. With such a culturally diversified area, churches accommodate any religion of choice. Fort Bend County continues to meet the challenge to encourage religious multiplicity, unity, morality and devotion.