175 Years of Enduring Faith
For 175 years, Trinity Episcopal Church has stood at the heart of Marshall as a community gathered in worship, service, and hope. Our story is one of enduring faith — shaped by frontier beginnings, seasons of growth, moments of rebuilding, and a steadfast commitment to God’s mission. The timeline below highlights key moments in that journey, celebrating the people and events that helped form the parish we know and love today.
The Church Building
Initially gathering in the Masonic Lodge, the congregation built its first church, a brick structure that unfortunately collapsed in 1868, nearly bringing the parish to its knees. Yet, resilience prevailed, and in 1874, under Rev. Edwin A. Wagner, a new church was built on the current site, marking a new chapter in Trinity’s history.
When Rev. C.C. Kramer became Rector in 1909, he envisioned a more enduring space for worship. Plans for a new church were delayed by World War I but resumed with vigor in 1920. By 1925, the wooden church was relocated, and a Service of Dedication for the newly completed building was held on July 25, 1926, led by Rt. Rev. Clinton S. Quin, Bishop of Texas.
In the following decades, the church continued to grow. The late 1950s and early 1960s saw the addition of All Saints’ Hall, which now houses administrative offices and the parish hall, enhancing Trinity’s ability to serve its community.
Our Parish
The story of Trinity Episcopal Church is deeply intertwined with the people who call it home.
Fry Hall and Recent Growth
In 1928, the original wooden church was replaced by Fry Hall, a space dedicated to education and fellowship. By 2007, it was time to expand again. Plans were approved to renovate Fry Hall and add new facilities, including a nursery and youth center. A successful capital campaign launched in 2008 funded these updates, and work began on both Fry Hall and the sanctuary’s interior.
Construction was completed in 2009, with the addition of Selcer Hall, a new complex that doubled the church’s education space. The project also included the creation of the beautiful Chapel of the Holy Family.
In 2025, Trinity Episcopal Church began a series of renovations as part of the 175th anniversary initiatives to preserve the buildings and grounds. Renovations have included updates to All Saints’ Hall, with additional renovations coming for Fry Hall and the church grounds.
Throughout the Years
December 25, 1850 – Episcopalians first gather for worship in the frontier town of Marshall, led by Rev. Henry Sansom on Christmas Day.
1851 – Trinity Episcopal Church is formally organized with 22 charter members worshipping in a rented room.
1856–1857 – Frances Cox Henderson, wife of Texas Governor and U.S. Senator J. Pinckney Henderson, led fundraising efforts for a permanent church building. Trinity purchases the property on North Grove Street where the church still stands today.
1874 – After the original church building collapses, the parish rebuilds and begins worship in a second church home.
1925–1928 – Trinity enters a major season of growth, constructing the present church building and Fry Hall through the dedication and generosity of parishioners.
1930–1957 – Rev. Henry F. Selcer serves as rector for 27 years, becoming the longest-serving rector in Trinity’s history.
1954 – Trinity establishes a kindergarten ministry that later grows into Trinity Episcopal School.
1991 – Trinity begins its annual Thanksgiving meal ministry, serving hundreds in the Marshall community each year.
2005 – 2019 -The Rev. John M. Himes becomes rector and serves until his retirement in January 2019, thus becoming the second longest serving rector in Trinity’s history.
2020 – 2023 – Trinity experiences a significant season of challenge and renewal during and after the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing its ministry as an Episcopal parish in Marshall.
July 2025 – The Reverend Dana M. Jean becomes priest in charge at Trinity.
January 2026 – Trinity celebrates 175 years of worship, service, and community.
Trinity Episcopal School
In 1954, Trinity Episcopal School was founded. The school originally met in the present Fry Hall. The school grew to over 250 students and occupied two campuses, one for preschool and one for K through 8th grade.
Trinity Episcopal Church 