First Baptist Church of Rice

On Feb. 21, 18575, three years after a rail line was built to the area, a group of local residents met to organize this congregation. Early worship services were conducted in the community schoolhouse. In 1894 a sanctuary was constructed at this site on land acquired from rice institute. A Houston organization founded by railroad man William Marsh Rice, for whom this town was named. For over a century, the First Baptist Church has led in the development of the area. Its role in the community continues to reflect the ideals if its pioneer founders. (1983)

Location: Rice Baptist Church, 201 South Dallas St, Rice, TX

Photo by Jane Bell Smith