Bonham, Texas -- In 1872, the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened in New York City, Yellowstone National Park was established as the world's first national park, and First Presbyterian Church in Bonham held its first worship service. This was only 27 years after Texas became the 28th state and the church's 14 charter members watched the congregation grow to 122 members by the turn of the century.

The original building, located two blocks south of the church's present location, was purchased in 1885 for $1,300. The building was moved to its present location in 1897 and the congregation began making a series of improvements to its church home.

Fast-forward to 1994 when the Williams Education Building, dedicated to the loving memory of Dr. Thel and Nickie Williams, significantly expanded Sunday school and choir rooms. A spacious fellowship area and a large kitchen offered new possibilities for the historic church.

In 2011, the Common Ground Prayer Garden was built with a grant from the Presbytery and a gazebo was a gift from Price and Margaret Bradshaw.

Common Ground Prayer Garden and gazebo

The sanctuary, with its stunning stained-glass windows, was remodeled under the watchful eye of Tommy Eskue beginning in 2012 and dedicated April 21, 2013.

On Sunday, August 21, 2022, the beloved sanctuary was filled for a special service to celebrate 150 years of ministry at First Presbyterian Church in Bonham. The congregation gathered afterward in the fellowship hall for a catered lunch to mark the occasion.

In the days leading up to the First Presbyterian Church Sesquicentennial Service, Fannin County Commissioners Court and Bonham City Council presented proclamations to First Presbyterian Church of Bonham to celebrate the remarkable milestone of 150 years of ministry.