December 21, 2016 by: Ben Heimsath

This little church stands on a hill at the intersection of Ross Prairie Church Road and Kramr Road about 2 miles south of Fayetteville, Texas. This also happens to be a landmark for me personally since the old Heimsath home was just a bit farther down Kramr Road. And as I noted during my visit to the Mt. Pilgrim Church, I realized I have never been inside this lovely wood-frame church!

 Fayetteville Brethren Church.jpg

I was delighted to see the Fayetteville Brethren Church complete a major renovation and upgrade several years ago. The work included an extension for expanded meeting space. Also, a new decorative top was added to the steeple. The shape appears to be a recreation of the original based on a photo credited to the church’s website.

 Fayetteville Brethren Side Elevation.jpg

Though there have been major renovations over the years, the cornerstone notes that the original structure was constructed in 1875. The very first worship service of Czech Protestants was held in this area in 1855. Land was donated by Thomas and Katerina Jecmenek in 1874 for the church, a parish house, a school, and a cemetery. The historic church survives, and so does the historic cemetery.

 View of church from cemetery.jpg

The congregation has beautifully maintained the bucolic cemetery. Broad views of surrounding fields and trees add to the serenity. I spent some reflective moments in the cemetery remembering my childhood and younger years. Many of the family names on the headstones were familiar. And I also was trying to recall whether I had ever been inside the church. Sadly, I have no memory of such a visit. So I’ll be sure to stop by again soon, and this time, to finally see the inside.

 Fayetteville Brethren front facade.jpg

Fayetteville Brethren Church, 1022 Kramr Rd, Fayetteville, Texas

Worship Space/ Sacred Architecture/ Historic Preservation