Historical Marker

The Burrer Home

Historical marker location:
Lower Crabapple Road, Fredericksburg, Texas
( take Lower Crabapple Rd. northeast 4 mi. to Baj Lane, then east on Baj Lane .3 mi.)
Marker installed: 1981
Marker size: Medallion & Plate

Marker
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German native Gottlieb Burrer (1830-1916) migrated to this area in 1854. Here he married Katharina (Zammert) (1843-1931), the daughter of a pioneer Fredericksburg family. they built this two-story stone residence in the 1860s. the interior originally included an undivided sleeping area on the second floor and was heated by woodburning stoves. One of the nine Burrer children, Otto, later lived here. Additions to the home were made during the 1950s.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1980

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.

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Gillespie County, TX has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its founding in 1848. It was named after Robert Addison Gillespie, a soldier who fought in the Mexican-American War. The county was originally part of the Fisher-Miller Land Grant, but settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1840s.

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.

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