Oertli Dairy
Historical marker location:The Oertli family owned and operated dairy farms in Travis county for 78 years, from 1923-2001. Fridolin ‘Fritz’ Oertli was born in Ennenda, Switzerland and immigrated to Travis County in 1904 with his wife, Margaretha Schwendeler, and their first child. Fritz purchased his own farm at Lytton Springs near Lockhart and Buda where he was involved in the cattle business.
Around 1923, Fritz began operating a dairy on 700 acres of property on Shoal Creek. The dairy moved to Cameron Road at Buttermilk Creek where Fritz and his wife lived the rest of their lives, Margaretha making Swiss Cheese and Fritz yodeling for guests. Three of Fritz’s children, Fritz Jr., Kaster, and Margaret, continued the dairy business after the death of their father.
Fritz Jr. And Kaster stopped home delivery that had been practiced since the 1920s and sold their milk to superior dairies in Austin in 1950. In 1956, the Buttermilk Creek property was sold to developers, so Fritz Jr. and Kaster decided to split into individual dairies. Fritz Jr. Bought land east of Round Rock and operated his dairy until 1976. Kaster and his wife, Meta, moved to 12422 Dessau Road in North Austin where his son, Jerry Oertli, operated the dairy after kKaster’s death in 1962.
The Oertli Dairy was Travis County’s last dairy farm, closing its doors in 2001. The Holstein cattle were sold because of declining milk prices, difficulty finding affordable labor and competition from large commercial dairies. The dairy property land was dedicated to the City of Austin as Oertli Park. The history of the Oertli family and dairy farm are a reminder of the once-prevalent dairy farms of central Texas
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 Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
European exploration of the region began in the 17th century when Spanish explorers ventured into what is now Travis County. However, it was not until the early 19th century that permanent settlements were established. In 1835, the area became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico, and the county was officially created in 1840.
Travis County was named after William Barret Travis, a Texas Revolution hero who commanded the Texan forces during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Throughout the 19th century, the county experienced significant growth and development, driven by factors such as the arrival of immigrants, the expansion of the railroad, and the establishment of institutions like the University of Texas at Austin in 1883.
During the 20th century, Travis County continued to evolve and modernize. Austin, the county seat and state capital, grew into a vibrant and culturally diverse city, known for its live music scene, technological innovations, and progressive policies. The county became a center for government, education, and business, attracting a wide range of industries and residents.
Today, Travis County is one of the most populous and economically vibrant counties in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and a wide range of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. The county's history, coupled with its present-day dynamism, contributes to its unique character and makes it a significant region in the Lone Star State.
Travis County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Travis County, Texas.
- Pre-19th Century: The area that would become Travis County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache.
1691: Spanish explorers, including Domingo Terán de los Ríos and Alonso de León, explored the region.
1835: Texas Revolution against Mexico begins, and the area becomes part of the Republic of Texas.
1839: Waterloo, a small village settled near the Colorado River, is selected as the site for the new capital of the Republic of Texas.
1840: Travis County is officially established and named after William Barret Travis, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
1842: The capital is officially named Austin after Stephen F. Austin, "The Father of Texas."
1871: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Austin, facilitating transportation and spurring growth.
1883: The University of Texas at Austin is founded.
1891: The Texas State Capitol building, an iconic landmark, is completed.
1930s-1940s: The construction of dams, including Mansfield Dam and Tom Miller Dam, on the Colorado River provides flood control and creates Lake Travis and Lake Austin, respectively.
1970s-1990s: Austin experiences significant growth and becomes known for its live music scene, technology industry, and progressive culture.
2000s-Present: Travis County continues to grow in population and economic significance, with Austin being recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.