Landa Park
Historical marker location:Joseph Landa purchased the land that now encompasses this park in 1859. The Comal Springs, the largest group of springs in the American Southwest, are the focus of the park. Landa used the Comal River to power gristmills, cotton and woolen factories, an ice plant and a brewery. During the Civil War, a saltpeter processing plant was also located on the site. Joseph's son Harry Landa opened Landa's Park as a tourist site in 1898, when the International and Great Northern Railroad built a spur to the site. By 1900, both the I&GN and the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (Katy) railroads ran weekend excursion trains to the park, where visitors enjoyed picnics, dancing and steamboat excursions on Landa Lake. Landa later sold the park to a San Antonio investment group, who operated it until financial problems caused the park's closure in 1933. In 1936, concerned citizens led by Erhard P. Nowotny petitioned the City of New Braunfels to purchase the park, and city residents voted three to one in favor of the move. The park has remained open to the public since that time. Throughout the years the park has grown in acreage, and many improvements have been made. In the 1930s, Works Progress Adminstration (WPA) employees built concession stands, restrooms, parking areas, and retaining walls. Later improvements have included a miniature golf course, playgrounds and nature trails. Wurstfest, an annual celebration of food and music, has been held in the park each November since the early 1960s. Today, Landa Park continues to serve the public as a leisure destination both for the citizens of New Braunfels and for area travelers. (2009)
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
In the early 19th century, German immigrants began to arrive, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for a better life. These settlers established small farming communities and brought with them their language, traditions, and expertise in agriculture and craftsmanship. The town of New Braunfels was founded in 1845 by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, becoming the first German colony in Texas.
The mid-19th century saw significant growth and development in Comal County, with the construction of schools, churches, and businesses. The area became known for its thriving agricultural industry, with farmers cultivating crops such as cotton and corn. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred economic growth and provided easier access to markets.
Throughout the 20th century, Comal County continued to evolve and adapt to changing times. The county's strong German heritage remained at the forefront, celebrated through events like Wurstfest, a German sausage festival. The tourism industry also grew, with visitors flocking to the county's natural attractions, such as the iconic Guadalupe River and historic Gruene Hall, Texas' oldest continually operating dance hall.
Today, Comal County is a vibrant and thriving community, blending its rich history with modern amenities and a strong sense of pride in its cultural heritage. With its beautiful landscapes, strong economy, and warm Southern hospitality, Comal County continues to be a desirable place to live and visit.
Comal County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Comal County, Texas.
- 1846 - Comal County established as one of the original 23 counties in the state of Texas
- 1847 - Settlement begins in the area with the founding of New Braunfels
- 1850 - Comal County's population reaches 2,013
- 1861-1865 - County residents actively involved in the American Civil War
- 1870 - Completion of the first railroad through Comal County
- 1885 - Jacob's Well, a natural artesian spring, becomes a popular tourist attraction
- 1920s - Economic growth in Comal County, driven by agriculture and manufacturing industries
- 1941-1945 - County residents contribute to the war effort during World War II
- 1968 - Canyon Lake, a reservoir on the Guadalupe River, is completed
- 1990s - Rapid population growth and urban development in Comal County
- 2007 - Construction begins on the controversial Trans-Texas Corridor project