Church History

The Christian Church was organized in 1868, by Elder B.F. Hall. The church held services in the oldcourt house and private homes, until a lot for the first church building was purchased on February20, 1880. The first church building, valued around $200 was erected on West Wardville Street. Infront of the first frame building was a small separate tower with a bell which was rung at meetingtime. This same bell was later hung in the belfry of the second church building, finally beingtransferred to the present church.

The congregation drew up a charter of incorporation, filed on January 3, 1900, with the Secretary of State in Austin. Here the name First Christian Church was listed officially. At that time the church property was valued at $1,500.00 for the house and lot, and $250.00 for fixtures and furniture. Acorner lot on South Walnut and West Wardville streets was purchased May 10, 1902 for $500.00. A building was constructed in the same year, and on the same lot, a new building was constructed in1941.

The first organ with Degan chimes was purchased in 1946; a new organ was purchased in 1986,after the congregation moved into the current building. The glass windows from the second church were placed in the new building and were later moved to the present building.

Alma Kennon was the first woman elder, elected by the congregation January 1980.Construction of the current buildings on Nolan River road was started in 1985 and the first worship service was held on Mother's Day, May 11, 1986.
1880 First Christian Church of Cleburne


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