In 1881, fifteen area residents organized the Mesquite Presbyterian Church, and the charter members first worshipped in a home where the Rev. George L. Blewett, a noted circuit riding preacher, held services. The congregation completed its first church building in 1885 near the corner of Ebrite and Davis Streets, then in 1918 built a new sanctuary on the same site to replace the first structure as the church grew. In 1927, it became First Presbyterian Church of Mesquite. From its early years, the congregation has been active in the community, and a number of members served as community leaders. Founder Joseph Columbus (J.C.) Rugel, a school teacher, became a representative to the State Legislature in 1886 and served one term as Mayor of Mesquite from 1900 to 1904. He and farmer John L. Hanby were former members for whom local elementary schools were named. Another member, Robert Snead (R.S.) Kimbrough, also served as a representative in the State Legislature and started The Little Mesquiter, a local newspaper later known as The Mesquite News. Kimbrough's wife, Jennie (Curtis), was also active in the community and church. The congregation also worked with individuals outside the area, placing a priority on supporting worldwide missions work. In 1958, it moved to a new building on Belt Line Road, and membership has continued to grow as it has maintained a leading role for the Christian faith in Mesquite.