History: Century Mark for Blackwell Methodist Church - Coke County, TX Contributed by Jo Collier 7 September 2003 Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm *********************************************************************** All documents placed in the USGenWeb Archives remain the property of the contributors, who retain publication rights in accordance with US Copyright Laws and Regulations. In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the Internet, these documents may be used by anyone for their personal research. They may be used by non-commercial entities so long as all notices and submitter information is included. These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit. Any other use, including copying files to other sites, requires permission from the contributors PRIOR to uploading to the other sites. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. *********************************************************************** The Observer/Enterprise, Robert Lee, Coke County, TX - June 20, 2003 Blackwell Methodiest Church In pioneer Times the country between Robert Lee and Sweetwater was sparsely settled. Circuit preachers rode horseback from house to house to bring the gospel to people. This area is known for hospitality and they were usually very welcome to eat and stay the night. In those days there were no forms of communication or advertising such as telephones, radios, television or e-mails. According to 'old-timers', when the circuit rider arrived and needed to summon the pioneers to a gospel meeting, he built a fire on one of the taller mountains called 'Church Peak' for everyone to see and come enjoy singing and the gospel service at the foot of the mountain. This was near the old 'Butterfield' Trail' (which is now Highway 277) a few miles from what is presently historical 'Fort Chadbourne'. The only way this country received any mail was by horse and buggy over the Robert Lee-Sweetwater line. The first mail stop was at the house of Judge J. Q. Hanna and his wife, Mary. The mail stop was named "Olga" after their greanddaughter. The Olga Methodist Church was organized May 3, 1903, with 16 charter members, under the united leadership of several Reverends who had been coming to bring the gospel to this small group. In 1907, the town of Blackwell was established. These were days of bad roads, no automobiles or airplanes. In 1907, the railroad arrived bringing a welcome link to the world and new opportunities for the rural population. The new building site for the church was purchased in 1909 and a small white frame building was constructed in 1911. This was used by all denominations at that time. There is a photo of the church being built as Martha Carlisle viewed it from the window of her home. In 1914, the Methodists bought out the others and the church became Methodist Church South. In 1919, A. D. Jamison became the church's first full time pastor. There have now been 58 pastors. Blackwell's population grew. Many people received Jesus as their Savior as a result of different types of events: services at brush arbors, outdoor prayer meetings and revivals at the tabernacle (used by all denominations), bible studies, camp meetings, youth rallies, Vacation bible School, and Sunday School, and good old Christian witness. The church has had the great joy of baptizing new Christians into the family of God in three ways: immersion, sprinkling or pouring water on. It has been done in different places such as dirt ponds, creeks, rivers, lakes and sprinkling with water from the Jordan River. On Easter Sunday 1945, just before completion of a 24x44 rock annex, the church was completely destroyed by fire. Almost before the fire was over, men began to make contributions for a new church. It was rebuilt in 1946 with a lot of prayer and trust in the Lord and many hours of hard work donated. Soldiers, home from World War II, along with the entire community, helped. No one was too young or too old to contribute to the rebuilding. This is the building that is still used today and a fellowship hall has been added to the property, which is used for fellowhip, community group meetings, bridal and baby showers, diners, etc. Blackwell Methodist Church has a special love and support for Camp Butman, which was given by the Shep Methodist Church in 1985, when they became members of the congregation. Many young people have had lsting Christian experiences there and the chapel services have been a special blessing to everyone. The official emblem for the United Methodist Church is the cross and flame symbolizing the Holy Spirit. These are ancient symbols of the church dating back to the days of Christ and Pentecost. Each invokes images of sacrifice, witness and service. They remind us of both the opportunities and obligations of discipleship. Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can. John Wesley The Church family is quick to help in times of need and supports missions and orphanages such as Methodist Children's Home in Waco which has been providing care for God's children since 190-. The church people reach out in emergencies proving meals, clothing and transportation, caring and making positive contributions in the community. The church recently received a note with the statement, 'It fills us full of joy to be a part of such a caring church family.' The church body and Pastor Charles Casey feel that they are blessed with love and the grace of God and hope the same for all. (The celebration will be held in Blackwell Methodist Church..... Friday.....Saturday.....Sunday, June 27-29,2003.) Permission granted by The Observer/Enterprise for publication in the Coke County TXGenWeb Archives.