Our History
A New Beginning
During the second half of the nineteenth century, a large number of migrants from Europe, many from Germany, entered the state of Texas. Several of those families, who had a Lutheran background, settled near the future town of Bowie in north central Texas. They obtained land and began to build their homes and farms in the area that later became known as the Salona and Lindale communities of Montague County. These Lutheran settlers wanted to be served by a Lutheran Pastor. In 1893, Rev. John C. Schulenberg came from Fort Worth and conducted the first Lutheran Service for these people. In 1894 the congregation of St. Peter was organized.
The First Churches
Soon after the organization of the congregation, the first church building was constructed 5 miles east of Bowie. In 1919, as the church attendance continued to grow, a new church building was erected. In 1949, this building was moved to the corner of Houston and Lindsay (Highway 59) in Bowie.
Expansions and Remodels
Between 1954 and 1967 The building was transformed with the addition of a parish hall, kitchen, and Sunday School Wing. In 1980, a complete remodeling of the Sanctuary was begun. At this time both the church and educational wing were bricked. In 1994 the Fellowship Hall was constructed. Also that year, St. Peter and the Montague County Historical Commission dedicated an official Texas Historical marker, recognizing 100 years of service.
Our Current Sanctuary
Construction on the current church building began in 2011, following a complete leveling of the old church and Sunday School wing. The current edifice was constructed and dedicated in 2012.