Visit
2240 McMahans Chapel Rd Spur 35San Augustine, TX 75972Gathering: 1st, 3rd, 5th Sunday 1:30 PM (Worship Service)
When to go
Worship and gatherings
- 1st, 3rd, 5th Sunday1:30 PM · Worship Service
- 2nd Sunday1:30 PM · Worship Service
About
Summary
McMahan Chapel United Methodist Church, located in Bronson, Texas, is the oldest Protestant church with a continuous history in Texas. Founded in 1837, it is a historic landmark with beautiful stained glass windows and a rich legacy of Methodism. Services are held on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays of each month at 1:30 PM, with lunch served beforehand at 12:30 PM. The church also features a museum, event center, and serene grounds, making it a cherished community and historical site. [Services](https://mcmahanchapel.c
Details
McMahan Chapel United Methodist Church is a historic congregation located in Bronson, Texas, and is recognized as the oldest Protestant church with a continuous history in the state. Founded in 1837 by Methodist missionary Reverend Littleton Fowler, the chapel has served as a spiritual and historical landmark for over 180 years. The current chapel building was completed in 1949, and the site includes a museum with artifacts, an event center with kitchen and restrooms, a cemetery, and a park with a prayer garden. The church is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and welcoming community. Services are held on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays of each month at 1:30 PM, with lunch served at 12:30 PM. The congregation participates in community events such as Sale on the Trail and hosts an annual McMahan Chapel Day. The church is led by Pastor Alberto Williams, who delivers passionate sermons, and the members are known for their kindness and hospitality. The grounds are meticulously maintained by on-site caretakers, Larry and Janet, who ensure the area remains peaceful and well-kept. [Services](https://mcmahanchapel.c
From Faith Near Me
Nestled in Bronson, Texas, McMahan Chapel United Methodist Church stands as a historic beacon since 1837, offering a serene blend of spiritual heritage and community warmth. First-time visitors will notice the meticulously maintained grounds, vibrant stained glass, and welcoming atmosphere fostered by kind members and Pastor Alberto Williams’ passionate leadership. Regular events like the annual Chapel Day and Sale on the Trail reflect a congregation deeply rooted in tradition yet actively engaged with its community.
Pros
- Oldest continuous Protestant church in Texas with rich historical significance
- Services held on 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays with welcoming communal lunches
- Beautiful stained glass, museum, and peaceful prayer garden enhance the worship experience
- Active community events including annual Chapel Day and Sale on the Trail participation
- Well-maintained facilities and grounds managed by dedicated caretakers
- Clear service times and accessible contact information for visitors
Cons
- Services occur only on non-consecutive Sundays (1st, 3rd, 5th), which may not align with weekly worship expectations
Reviews from around the web
Public comments we collected from listing sources. Not written on Faith Near Me.
- David Leea month ago
Amazing to be there again to honor my ancestor's contribution to Christianity in Texas! James P. Stevenson!!! I visited this Chapel with my dad when I was 8 years old. Also visited my Uncle Jim Stevenson, Sheriff of St. Augustine, Texas. On my recent trip we also visited the old city of Nacadoches where my grandfather, Charles Solomon Stevenson built the brick streets.
- Tiffany8 years ago
Beautiful and historical church. It is the oldest Protestant church in Texas. The church is very beautiful with amazing stained glass inside. The park across the street is amazing as well. It is free and worth the trip to see. You can also rent the convention hall. I also suggest going down the dirt road because the forest around it is stunningly beautiful and serene to say the least. It is well kept up and maintained. The area is quiet and peaceful. You can learn a bit of history there. There is a small museum with some neat artifacts. I would say both adults and kids would have a nice time there.
- kat5 years ago
Just over the border from Louisiana stands McMahan Chapel, the oldest Protestant church with a continuous history in Texas. They participate in numerous city happenings such as Sale on the Trail and Chapel Day. The people are so nice and the church is beautiful. Make a stop here if you’re touring Texas for history purposes!
- D BS4 years ago
Had the opportunity to get a personalized tour of this beautiful chapel and it's amazing history when visiting a dear friend in East TX. There is a gathering space, full kitchen and restrooms for church luncheons, weddings, and the like. The members are so kind, passionate about their faith and welcoming. Their Pastor Alberto embraces the word and the Holy Spirit fills each and every sermon. I loved this church and it's family.
- Judy Urbin5 years ago
Been attending regularly for over 30 years, friendly spirit filled worship. Spend time in the museum learning about the rich history. The grounds are immaculately kept by on sight caretakers (Larry and Janet) that go above and beyond even cleaning headstones in the cemetery . Services twice a month lunch served 12:30 by Sharron and Cindy, with a fine sermon from Alberto Williams starting at 1:30. Hope to see you soon. Judy N John Urbin 🙏
- Dk Bridges7 years ago
My uncle is buried here. It is a beautiful little chapel and the grounds are serene and peaceful.
- Texas Tornado (The Campus)4 years ago
Visited annual Auto Show - great turnout.
- Chris Williams3 years ago
Can't say,went there to cut a big dead oak tree
- Theresia Hambrick7 years ago
Lovely church. Great pastors.
- MrsJWadeRussell2 years ago
A beautiful, peaceful piece of history.
Services and facilities
Services
- Lunch Prior To Services
- Holy Communion (1st Sunday Of The Month)
- Bible Studies
- Community Outreach (E.G., Salvation Army Food Donations)
- Weddings And Events
- Personalized Tours
- Auto Shows
Facilities
- Sanctuary
- Museum
- Event Center With Kitchen And Restrooms
- Cemetery
- Park And Prayer Garden
- Gathering Space With Full Kitchen And Restrooms
Events and programs
McMahan Chapel Day
October 11th annually
Annual event celebrating the church's history and community.
Sale on the Trail
Annual
Community event participation.
Auto Show
Annual
Annual event with a great turnout.
Connect
- cgomez529@yahoo.com
- Contact page
- Open contact page
Social