Imagine cotton fields surrounding Pflugerville. Those fields set the stage for the story of St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church Plaque. This plaque commemorates a church born from segregation and resilience.
In the early 20th century, African American workers faced injustice. They toiled in Pflugerville’s cotton industry but could not buy property in town. La Rue Noton, a farmer, offered hope. He sold lots to these workers for fifty dollars each. This area became known as Pflugerville’s colored addition.
The story of St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church begins in 1909. Reverend Square Roberts held church services. These services took place under a brush arbor on the Fritz Pfluger Farm. Later, they moved to the schoolhouse. In January 1910, the church was officially organized. Luella Henry suggested the name St. Mary Baptist Church.
Many pastors guided the congregation in the early years. In 1914, the church purchased land. Construction of the first church building took place from 1914 to 1916. During Reverend Nelson’s time, in the late 1930s and early 1940s, the church building was moved to the front of the lot.
Increased attendance led to remodeling and expansion. St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church established an active Sunday school program. They also organized the Baptist training union. The church built ties with other area churches through a diversity fellowship.
From humble beginnings with twenty members, St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church grew. It became a beacon of light in the community for over a century. Today, the St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church Plaque stands as a testament. It honors faith, community, and perseverance. The plaque ensures this story is never forgotten.