East Texas and the Piney Woods region are home to some of the state’s most striking historic churches—sanctuaries that embody the diverse faith traditions of settlers who arrived here during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Ranging from Gothic Revival masterpieces to modest wooden chapels, these churches not only served as spiritual centers but also became anchors for community life, education, and cultural identity.
From Tyler’s red-brick Methodist landmark to Paris’s Romanesque-inspired sanctuaries, and from Nacogdoches’s frontier-era congregations to Wharton’s early Methodist meeting house, each offers a window into the religious and architectural history of the region. Many are still active, blending historic preservation with vibrant worship life, and welcome visitors for tours, special events, or Sunday services.
Marvin Methodist Episcopal Church, South — Tyler
300 W Erwin St, Tyler, TX 75702
Founded in 1848, Marvin Methodist Episcopal Church, South is one of Tyler’s oldest congregations. The current Gothic Revival sanctuary, completed in 1890, features pointed-arch stained-glass windows and a graceful steeple that dominates the skyline. The church’s deep-red brick contrasts with limestone trim, and the interior showcases an impressive wooden hammerbeam ceiling. Weekly worship continues here, and the church participates in local outreach programs that connect it to the broader Tyler community.
First United Methodist Church — Crockett
701 E Goliad Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
Organized in 1839, this is among the earliest Methodist congregations in Texas. The present Classical Revival building, completed in 1923, boasts a monumental portico supported by Ionic columns and a sanctuary flooded with light from tall arched windows. Inside, the original pews and chancel furnishings remain, offering a sense of continuity with the congregation’s earliest days. Services are held every Sunday, and the church often opens for heritage tours.
First Church of Christ, Scientist — Paris
251 1st St SE, Paris, TX 75460
Built in 1922, this understated yet elegant Classical Revival structure is clad in light-colored brick and framed by a modest pedimented entrance. The design reflects the Christian Science movement’s preference for serene, unornamented worship spaces. Today, it remains in use for services and as a local landmark in Paris’s historic district.
First Presbyterian Church — Paris
410 W Kaufman St, Paris, TX 75460
This 1892 Romanesque Revival church features heavy stone walls, rounded arches, and an imposing corner tower. Its stained-glass windows depict biblical scenes in rich jewel tones, casting a warm glow over the carved wood interior. First Presbyterian has played a central role in community service for over a century and remains an active parish.
First Methodist Church — Marshall
300 E Houston St, Marshall, TX 75670
Founded in the 1840s, the current sanctuary—completed in 1890—exemplifies Late Victorian Gothic Revival with its pointed arches, intricate tracery, and soaring spire. The interior boasts fine woodwork and a large pipe organ that has accompanied services and concerts for generations. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the church continues to host regular worship and community events.
Methodist Church Concord (Woods M.E.) — Panola County
County Road 325, near Carthage, TX
This modest frame building, dating to 1876, is a rare survivor of rural Methodist churches in the Piney Woods. Painted white and capped with a simple gable roof, it preserves its original pews and altar rail. Though no longer used for weekly worship, it is maintained for special services and heritage events.
Mount Vernon African Methodist Episcopal Church — Palestine
913 E Kolstad St, Palestine, TX 75801
Founded in 1873 by formerly enslaved African Americans, Mount Vernon A.M.E. has been a pillar of the Black community in Palestine for over 150 years. The 1921 brick sanctuary features pointed-arch windows and a modest steeple. The congregation remains active, hosting not only worship but also educational and cultural programs.
Old First Methodist Episcopal Church South — Wharton
1717 Pioneer Ave, Wharton, TX 77488
Dating to 1891, this wooden Gothic Revival church is a prime example of small-town Methodist architecture from the late 19th century. Its lancet windows, steeply pitched roof, and modest scale speak to the frontier spirit. While a new church now serves the congregation, the historic building is preserved as a community landmark.
First Baptist Church — Stamford
214 N Swenson St, Stamford, TX 79553
Established in 1904, First Baptist’s 1920 sanctuary reflects a blend of Classical and Gothic elements, with a red-brick exterior, arched windows, and a central tower. The church remains an active congregation and often participates in citywide events.
Visiting Tips
- Confirm service and tour times on church websites before visiting.
- Dress respectfully—many of these are active congregations.
- Bring a camera, but ask before photographing interiors.
- Attend local festivals—some churches host annual events tied to their heritage.
- Explore nearby historic districts for a fuller cultural experience.
Preservation Notes
- Many of these churches have received Recorded Texas Historic Landmark designation, helping secure funding for repairs.
- Volunteer groups often lead restoration of stained glass and woodwork, as in Paris and Nacogdoches.
- In rural areas, historical societies maintain unused buildings for special services and heritage tours.
- Ongoing community involvement ensures these architectural treasures remain vibrant parts of East Texas life.
