Simpson United Methodist Church

This congregation grew from an early Sunday School class directed by Annas Brown, Richard Dukes and Mrs. Vina Harris Forehand, members of Wesley Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church, for residents of the far eastern section of Austin. In December 1880, the group organized as the Simpson Mission Methodist Episcopal Church. The congregational name was chosen to honor Bishop Matthew Simpson (d. 1884), a pioneer Methodist leader who was also an active political negotiator, an abolitionist and a noted orator. Worship services were first held in a community schoolhouse. A frame sanctuary, constructed at the corner of Concho and Gregory Streets in May 1881, was used until the congregation moved to this site in 1922. New facilities were later added here to accommodate the church's continued growth. Known as Simpson United Methodist Church since 1970, this fellowship has played a significant role in the development of Austin's black community for over a century. Church programs, including mission work, service projects and revivals, have reflected the congregation's strong sense of community pride and involvement, pastors and members here have included many prominent Methodist leaders. (1982)

Simpson United Methodist Church is a historical marker in Austin, Travis County, dedicated in 1982. It is one of 336 historical markers documented in Travis County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 641 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 30.2734, -97.7218 near Austin. The nearest cataloged historic site is James L. Farmer, Jr. (historical marker), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Southgate-Lewis House, Moonlight Towers, and Site of Old Anderson High School_Kealing Junior High School.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5507014406. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.