Historical Marker

Comal County Courthouse

Historical marker location:
150 N. Seguin, New Braunfels, Texas
( 150 N Seguin, New Braunfels)
Marker installed: 1993
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1846 Comal County held its first court session in the home of its county clerk, Conrad Seabaugh. Courthouse facilities acquired in 1849 proved inadequate and were replaced with a 2-story building at the southeast corner of the city plaza in 1860. The building fell into disrepair and in 1898 the county chose famous Texas courthouse architect J. Riley Gordon to design a new courthouse. Gordon's original design, incorporating four entrances compatible with the building's proposed location at the center of the plaza, was nevertheless retained when this corner lot site was chosen instead . Austin contractors Fischer and Lamie used stone quarried 10 miles north of New Braunfels on land owned by Texas/U.S.statesman Edward Mandell House to build this courthouse in 1898. The 3 1/2 story Romanesque-style structure features rounded pavilion entrances often employed by Gordon and includes dramatic massing and superb detail in its stone work. A 1929-31 large stone jail addition was designed by Jeremiah Schmidt of New Braunfels. The courthouse underwent considerable interior and minor exterior renovations in 1966-67 and 1987. The courthouse reflects New Braunfel's German heritage and the spirit of Comal County at the turn of the twentieth century.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1993

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.

law courthouses buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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.
Texas random facts
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.

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