Beech Creek Baptist Church

Georgia native James G. Collier moved his extended family to this area in 1852. Collier settled in the Beech Creek community and established the area's first sawmill. this church was organized in Collier's home by 8 charter members on September 24, 1855. The congregation accepted both Anglos and African Americans into its membership. African American Henry Gainer was ordained as minister by the church in 1867. Early worship services were held in a local school building and baptism services were conducted in nearby Mill and Beech creeks. The church grew with the area and in 1892 the congregation erected its first sanctuary here on three acres donated by James Collier for church and cemetery purposes. Church membership continued to expand, and in 1905 a Sunday School was organized. An additional two acres of land were purchased in 1955, and in 1969 a new building was erected to house growing educational and recreational programs. The church called its first full-time pastor in 1995. Beech Creek Baptist Church has historically supported local and regional ministries and continues to serve the community with various programs and activities. Sesquicentennial of Texas Statehood 1845-1995

Beech Creek Baptist Church is a historical marker in Beech Creek, Tyler County, dedicated in 1994. It is one of 29 historical markers documented in Tyler County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 138 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 30.6949, -94.2254 near Beech Creek. The nearest cataloged historic site is Beech Creek (cemetery), about 0.2 miles away. Others within a short drive include Chapman, Odom Gravesite, and East Chapel.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5457011357. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.