Engel Family
Historical marker location:The Rev. August Engel (1818-1904), a circuit riding Methodist preacher and teacher, immigrated to Texas in 1846 from Germany. In 1859 he married Katharina Ernst (1837-1920). They had six children.
August Engel served as postmaster for five years in Blanco County, and for 32 years at Cranes Mill in Comal County. He was succeeded as postmaster by his son August Engel, Jr., in 1904, who purchased six acres in 1885 in Gillespie County from Carl a. Luckenbach. A post office was established in Engel's home in 1886 with August Engel, Jr., serving as postmaster. His sister Minna was asked to name the new post office. Married to C. A. Luckenbach, Minna chose the name of Luckenbach. A general merchandise store with a post office area, blacksmith shop, cotton gin, saloon and warehouses were added to the property. A dance hall (tanz halle) also located there was a center for local gatherings.
William Engel replaced his brother August Engel, Jr., as postmaster of Luckenbach in 1890. William's son, Benno W. Engel, Sr., was appointed postmaster in 1935, and served in that capacity for 36 years. The Luckenbach Post Office was discontinued in 1971 after 85 years of continuous service to Gillespie County and to the community
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 discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
The pioneer settlers of Gillespie County were mostly of German descent, seeking a new life and economic opportunities. They developed a thriving agricultural community, growing crops like cotton, corn, and wheat. The early settlers also established successful farms and ranches, making Gillespie County one of the leading agricultural regions in Texas.
During the Civil War, Gillespie County experienced some conflict and tensions due to the differing loyalties of its residents. However, after the war, the county experienced a period of growth and prosperity as the railroad reached Fredericksburg, the county seat, in 1913. This opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to economic development and population growth.
In recent years, Gillespie County has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich history, charming small towns, and beautiful natural surroundings. Today, the county is known for its wineries, historic sites, and festivals that celebrate its German heritage. It continues to thrive as a center of agriculture, tourism, and cultural preservation in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
Gillespie County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Gillespie County, Texas.
- 1848 - Gillespie County is established and named after Robert Addison Gillespie
- 1849 - The county seat is established in Fredericksburg
- 1850s - German immigrants begin settling in the area, shaping the county's culture and economy
- 1861-1865 - Gillespie County residents participate in the American Civil War
- 1880s - The county experiences growth with the arrival of the railroad and expansion of agriculture
- 1900s - Gillespie County faces challenges such as the 1900 storm and the Great Depression
- 1940s - Fort Mason is established as a training center during World War II
- 1970s - Tourism becomes an important industry, boosting the county's economy
- 1990s - Fredericksburg becomes a popular tourist destination with its historic downtown and wineries