Blackland TX · Historical markers

Blooming Grove United Methodist Church

In Blooming Grove · Directions →

Texas Historical Marker · 1974 · Marker 8279

The marker

In 1869, Richard and Susan Gowan gave land on Rush Creek (1 mile southeast) for a Methodist Church and cemetery. Gowan, his neighbors, and others built a white frame chapel for church and school. That building was moved to Blooming Grove in 1887. Second sanctuary was built in 1893 on the present site. The Methodist denomination operated (1899-1913) Central Texas College in Blooming Grove, increasing work of this church. Dr. Clovis Chappell (1882-1972) and Dr. E. B. Hawk (1881-1963), pastors who later won national renown, led in building (1913) the present edifice. The congregation has given 22 men to the ministry. (1974)

Where it stands

Kerr and Third Street, Blooming Grove

Kerr & Third St.

Source: Texas Historical Commission, Texas Historic Sites Atlas, record 5349008279, read 17 September 2026.