Saving our history

Evans Springs is a small rural community in East Texas with deep historical significance to the African American community following the end of slavery.  Located in Northeastern Anderson County, the community was established by formerly enslaved people and their families, who built institutions that provided places for worship, fellowship, and mutual support.

At the heart of the community is Evans Springs Baptist Church, established in 1866, shortly after the end of the Civil War and emancipation. The church became a vital center for the local Black community and, for generations, served as much more than a place of worship. It hosted Sunday services, community gatherings and meals, christenings, weddings, funerals, and other social and civic activities. Through these functions, the church helped preserve the traditions, relationships, and stories of African American families in rural East Texas.

Located on Texas FM 19 in the community of Evans Springs, the church has a history extending back more than 150 years. Its first deed was recorded on August 27, 1875, on land donated by the family of a formerly enslaved person. In 1899, the church relocated to its current location. The present church building was constructed in 1928 and remains standing today and is one of the few remaining structures left as a testimony to the many African American communities that existed in rural east Texas after 1865.

The Evans Springs Historical Society was established to restore and preserve the historic church building and surrounding property and cemetery while documenting and sharing the history of the Evans Springs community. The Society's mission includes safeguarding the community's collective memory, collecting historical materials and artifacts, creating archival space, and making the history of Evans Springs accessible to descendants, researchers, and visitors.

Through the preservation and restoration of Evans Springs Baptist Church, the Historical Society seeks to ensure that this important chapter of African American and East Texas history remains visible and accessible for future generations.