New Braunfels Academy
The first German settlers here in the 1840s were assured by their sponsor--The Society for the Protection of German Immigrants to Texas--that schools would be provided in their colony. The society hired its first teacher in 1845, and classes began that August.
State legislation in 1845 authorized the creation of county school districts, and the city of New Braunfels became Comal County School District One. But in 1856 the legislature retracted school laws supporting local districts and special school taxes.
In response, the city persuaded the legislature to create the New Braunfels Academy in 1858 and to grant authority for a city property tax and tuition to fund the school, thus making the academy one of the first tax-funded schools in Texas. Public school property and equipment were transferred to the academy, including the 1856 schoolhouse on this site and textbooks in German and English.
The academy provided education and examined students and teachers alike through 1871. That year the state finally established an education system, and a public school occupied the building here. The academy trustees fulfilled their debts by renting the school building to the state before their charter expired in 1879
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 Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
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 concise overview of the key events in 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