This Week in Texas Methodist History March 19

Homer Thrall Asks for Historic Materials March 21, 1860

The most prominent historian of Texas Methodism in the 19th century was the Rev. Homer S. Thrall, a recruit from Ohio who arrived in Texas in 1842. His appointments in Brazoria and later in Austin brought him into contact with many of the prominent political, social, and military leaders from the the Mexican and Revolutionary period of Texas history. He eventually published five books about Texas history including the famous History of Methodism in Texas (1872) and Brief History of Methodism in Texas (1889). His books were informed by personal experience, discussion with participants, and his collection of source materials. The following letter shows that he was collecting materials years before he published them. John Woolam had lived with Littleton Fowler and had married Fowler's widow.


Rutersville, Mar. 21 60


Dear Bro. Wollam (sic),
Can you not furnish me some items for a history of Texas Methodism especially some details about the lamented Fowler. I am very anxious to collect all the available materials. Please furnish me with as much as you can command.

Yours truly H. S. Thrall