Comfort School
Historical marker location:Comfort was founded by a group of German immigrants in 1854. By 1856, there were enough children in the area to warrant a public school and a one-room log cabin was built on Michael Lindner’s lot no. 258 with some classes held in homes. The school had dirt floors and children sat on backless benches along the walls. Following the Civil War, the Comfort Schulverein (Comfort School Association) was established to oversee education in the area. In 1866, a second building was erected on the west end of Comfort Park. Mr. Carl Herbst taught continuously from 1866 to 1887, and Mr. Fritz Fischer served from 1870 to 1881 and again from 1887 to 1895. Both men received training from universities in Germany and brought success to the comfort school. Enrollment increased and soon the need for a larger school was evident.
Between 1892 and 1893, the first permanent schoolhouse was built at the corner of 3rd and High streets. The three-room limestone building was constructed by Christian Lindemann and included a bell tower. The adjoining lots served as a playground for the school children. Around this time, the influx of non-German settlers created a need for language and curriculum changes. In 1904, a fourth classroom and hallway were added and, in 1922, a second story was constructed for the expanding school district. When major repairs were made to the roof in 1974, the eighty-year-old bell was removed. A replica was constructed in 1987 and is housed on the school grounds. This historic structure is a testament to the enduring service of comfort’s first permanent school
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 state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
The early settlers of Kendall County were primarily farmers and ranchers, taking advantage of the region's favorable climate and ample natural resources. They developed a thriving agricultural industry, cultivating crops such as cotton, corn, and wheat, as well as raising livestock such as cattle and sheep. The county's first city, Boerne, was founded in 1852 and quickly became a hub of commerce and trade.
In the late 1800s, Kendall County experienced a period of growth and prosperity, with the arrival of the railroad in 1887 spurring further development. The railroad brought new opportunities for transportation and trade, connecting Kendall County to larger cities and markets. This led to an expansion of industries such as ranching, farming, and mining, as well as the establishment of new businesses and services.
Over the years, Kendall County has preserved its historical heritage through the preservation of historic buildings and landmarks. Many historic sites, such as the Kendall County Courthouse and the Agricultural Heritage Museum, offer visitors a glimpse into the county's past. Today, Kendall County continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty, diverse outdoor activities, and a rich cultural heritage.
Kendall County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Kendall County, Texas.
- 1856: Kendall County established from parts of Blanco, Comal, and Kerr counties.
- 1857: The county seat is designated as Boerne.
- 1861-1865: Kendall County residents serve in the Civil War.
- 1870: First public school is established in Boerne.
- 1872: The Boerne Village Band, the oldest continuously active German band in the world, is formed.
- 1881: The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway extends to Boerne.
- 1890: Electric lights are installed in Boerne.
- 1930s: The Great Depression affects the county's agriculture-dependent economy.
- 1987: The Cibolo Nature Center is established in Boerne.
- 2007: Kendall County celebrates its sesquicentennial anniversary.