Hirshfeld, Henry, House and Cottage
303 and 305 W. 9th St., Austin, TXHenry Hirschfeld came to the United States from Germany when he was only 15, going first to join two uncles in Mobile, Alabama, where he helped as a "country peddler." After the Civil War, Hirschfeld came to Georgetown, Texas, and then to Austin. He started a drygoods store on the corner of 6th and Congress and eventually became a successful merchant. In 1868, Hirschfeld married Jenny Melasky, daughter of Mr. B. Melasky, who had a clothing store on Congress Avenue between 6th and 7th streets.
The first home that Hirschfeld built for his family was a small, charming stone cottage in 1876. In later years, after the family had moved, this home at 305 West 9th was often called "Honeymoon Cottage" because so many young couples began "housekeeping" there.
The Hirschfeld family lived in the cottage ten years before building the 12 room, two-story mansion next door. In fact, the family didn't move for a year after it was completed, for Mrs. Hirschfeld could not bear to leave the cottage. Rather than moving any furniture from the cottage, Mr. Hirschfeld bought all new furnishings from a local salesman, Charles A. Dahlich. The furniture, ranging from early to late Victorian, is still in use there.
Hirschfeld was one of the founders of the Austin National Bank in 1890 and served as one of the vice-presidents until his death in 1911. His son, Morris, was with the Austin National Bank for 58 years, into the clothing business. Two other sons, Sam and Jake, went None of the sons ever married. The house is now the home of Mrs. Max (Leila Hirschfeld) Bernheim, the only living member of the family of four sons and four daughters. Mrs. Bernheim's daughter and son-in-law. Dr. and Mrs. Ralph Hanna, lived in the cottage after World War II until they could build a house.
Bibliography
Interview with Mrs. Lelia Bernheim and Miss Laura Hirschfeld by Katherine Hart, February 28, 1958. "Henry Hirschfeld" file, Travis County Collection, Austin Public Library.
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Texas is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
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.