Comal County Courthouse
N. Sequin Ave., New Braunfels, TXThe Comal County Courthouse is noteworthy for its beauty, style, and association with one of the most talented nineteenth-century architects to practice in Texas. A work of limestone, handsome proportions, and details distinguish this temple of justice. In addition, it is an outstanding example of the Romanesque Revival Style that was prominent nationally, yet the materials of construction reflect the region--it unifies with other limestone buildings in the community.
A German settlement founded in 1845 by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, New Braunfels was laid out around a public square which was reserved for a marketplace rather than a public building, as was the Anglo-American custom. Named for the Comal River, the county was organized the following year and three years later a frame courthouse was contracted. In 1857, through a competition, plans for a new stone courthouse were selected and a new courthouse was built.
The German tradition of incorporating a markt platz into the town plan was responsible for locating the courthouses, including the present building, off the square. Although many citizens advocated placement of the present courthouse on the square, German custom prevailed and it was sited on a corner site across from the public space. Today only a bandstand and landscaping occupy the square.
Late in 1897, because their courthouse was in a "very dilapidated condition; and considered unsafe by many citizens," the commissioners' court deemed it their duty to provide a new safe, and substantial building. Subsequently, Albert F. Beckmann of San Antonio was invited to meet with county commissioners but J. Riely Gordon, also from San Antonio, wrote the commissioners and requested the opportunity for an interview. Both architects submitted designs. Following a visit to the Gonzales County Courthouse, also the work of Gordon, and after considering competition drawings--although both architects advised the court not to sponsor a competition-- by a vote of three to one Gordon was awarded the commission for a 5% fee.
Local significance of the building:
A German settlement founded in 1845 by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, New Braunfels was laid out around a public square which was reserved for a marketplace rather than a public building, as was the Anglo-American custom. Named for the Comal River, the county was organized the following year and three years later a frame courthouse was contracted. In 1857, through a competition, plans for a new stone courthouse were selected and a new courthouse was built.
The German tradition of incorporating a markt platz into the town plan was responsible for locating the courthouses, including the present building, off the square. Although many citizens advocated placement of the present courthouse on the square, German custom prevailed and it was sited on a corner site across from the public space. Today only a bandstand and landscaping occupy the square.
Late in 1897, because their courthouse was in a "very dilapidated condition; and considered unsafe by many citizens," the commissioners' court deemed it their duty to provide a new safe, and substantial building. Subsequently, Albert F. Beckmann of San Antonio was invited to meet with county commissioners but J. Riely Gordon, also from San Antonio, wrote the commissioners and requested the opportunity for an interview. Both architects submitted designs. Following a visit to the Gonzales County Courthouse, also the work of Gordon, and after considering competition drawings--although both architects advised the court not to sponsor a competition-- by a vote of three to one Gordon was awarded the commission for a 5% fee.
Politics/government; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
About Comal County
Comal County Timeline
Comal County, located in the heart of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Lipan Apache, who relied on the land's abundant natural resources for survival. Spanish explorers arrived in the region in the 1700s, establishing missions and settlements.
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.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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