Home»Photo Albums»Places»Historic Churches & Cemeteries»Painted Churches of Fayette County

Starting in the late 1840's, large numbers of Czechs and Germans, attracted by cheap, fertile farm land and a mild climate, immigrated to Fayette County. The tree-covered, hilly landscape reminded these immigrants of home. Among their contributions are the painted churches found in the area from Houston to San Antonio and in particular in Fayette County.

The term "Painted" comes from the elaborate faux-finished interiors which were painted by itinerant artists. Gold-leafed, stone and polished marble columns and ceilings are (upon closer examination) actually finely-fitted woodwork. The paint - mixed on site - is still vibrant and bright - even after all these years.