Austin County: A Legacy of Texas History

Austin County is steeped in history and rich in tradition, named after Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas.” As the central site of Austin’s colony—the first Anglo-American settlement in Texas, established in 1823—Austin County remains a cornerstone of Texas heritage.

A County of Firsts

Austin County, one of the oldest in Texas, was officially organized in 1837 during the Republic of Texas. It spans 663 square miles and has been home to many significant Texas milestones:

• San Felipe was the first capital of Texas and remains a key historical landmark.
• The first Texas newspaper, The Gazette, was printed here in 1829.
• The first book published in Texas was also printed in San Felipe.
• Home to Texas’ first postal system and first organized police force, which later evolved into the legendary Texas Rangers.
• The first flag of Texas independence was raised here.
• The first Sunday School and first English-speaking school in Texas were founded in 1829.sites in Sealy TX, best BBQ in Sealy, Sealy TX shopping, best parks in Sealy Texas, where to stay in Sealy TX

Bellville

Nestled at the crossroads of Texas Highway 36 and FM 159, Bellville is the heart of Austin County and has been the county seat since 1846. With a deep-rooted history dating back to the early Texas colonists, Bellville offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and rich cultural heritage.

A Town Built on Tradition

Bellville was founded in 1848, when brothers Thomas and James Bell, some of Stephen F. Austin’s earliest settlers, donated 145 acres to establish a town. Originally settled by Anglo-Americans, Bellville soon became home to a thriving German immigrant community that shaped much of its culture and architecture.

The arrival of the Gulf Coast & Santa Fe Railroad in 1879 fueled economic growth, transforming Bellville into a bustling commercial hub. By the 1880s, German-language newspapers like the Wochenblatt flourished, and cultural institutions such as the Turnverein (Gymnastics & Social Club) brought the community together.

Historic Landmarks & Attractions

The Pavilion & Turnverein (Hwy. 529 & Amthor St.)

• Built in 1897 by the German Gut Heil Turnverein, this 12-sided pavilion was designed by architect Eugene Heiner and crafted by local artisan Joachim Hintz.
• The Turnverein promoted music, theater, dance, and gymnastics, serving as a social and cultural hub.
• Received a Recorded Texas Landmark designation in 1997.

Concordia Hall (1030 Tesch St.)

• Established in 1850 by the Piney Concordia Gesang-Verein, a German singing society.
• Survived destruction in the 1900 hurricane and was rebuilt just outside Bellville.
• Later became part of the Bellville Lions Club and remains in use today.

Austin County Jail Museum (36 S. Bell St.)

• Built in 1896, this three-story jail operated until 1982.
• The only execution on the jail’s gallows occurred in 1901.
• Now a museum open on Saturdays from 11 AM to 3 PM, featuring exhibits on local law enforcement history.

Bellville Masonic Lodge (15 N. Masonic St.)

• Established in 1858, serving as a school, church, and meeting hall.
• The current structure, built in 1886, was restored in 1985 and now holds a National Register of Historic Places designation.

Stephen F. Austin Bust & City Square

• A giant bust of Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas,” stands at the intersection of Hwy 36 & Hwy 159, dedicated in 2013.
• The historic town square features beautifully restored turn-of-the-century buildings, housing boutique shops, antique stores, art galleries, and restaurants.

Modern-Day Bellville: A Perfect Weekend Getaway

Events & Activities

• First Saturday Market Days – Local vendors, crafts, and live entertainment.
• Annual Festivals & Events – Enjoy seasonal celebrations throughout the year.

Unique Attractions

Newman’s Castle (Just North of Bellville)

• A true medieval-style castle, complete with a moat, drawbridge, turrets, and dungeon.
• Built by Mike Newman, the castle is available for tours and special events.
• Tours available six days a week from Newman’s Bakery (reservations required). Call (979) 865-9804.

Bellville Meat Market (36 S. Front St.)

• A local favorite since 1981, known for award-winning meats, smoked sausages, and Texas BBQ.
• Still family-owned and operated, the market is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Call (979) 865-5972.

Frydek

Nestled along Farm Road 1458 on the west bank of the Brazos River, Frydek is a historic Czech community just three miles east of Sealy and three miles south of San Felipe.

A Historic Czech Settlement

• Early 1820s: Members of the Austin Colony patented land near the future site of Frydek.
• 1895: Frydek was founded by Czech immigrants on land originally granted to Stephen F. Austin in 1831.
• Named after: The Moravian city of Frýdek-Místek, the town soon became a market center for local farmers and ranchers.
• 1883: A visiting priest celebrated Mass in homes.
• 1890: A cemetery was established, receiving a Texas State Historical Marker in 1991.

Frydek Through the Years

• 1901-1906: The town had a post office.
• 1918: The local school had 36 students.
• 1931: The town had four businesses.
• 1933: Population: 25 residents
• 1939: Population grew to 75
• 1964-2000: Steady at 150 residents

St. Mary’s Catholic Church & Grotto

Founded around 1908, St. Mary’s Catholic Church remains an active congregation today.

A Unique Community Landmark

The St. Mary’s Catholic Church Grotto (10471 Grotto Rd.) was built to honor 67 Frydek residents who served in WWII— all of whom returned home safely.

• Outdoor altar open to the public
• Annual Grotto Celebration: Last Sunday in April
• For event details: Call (979) 225-3131

Experience Local Texas Culture

A trip to Frydek wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Ermis’s Double E Grocery (10108 FM 1458).

• A favorite gathering spot for politicians, church ladies, bikers, ranchers, and cowboys
• Enjoy cold drinks, great food, and Texas hospitality
• For more info: Call (979) 885-6556

Industry

Nestled in the rolling hills of western Austin County, Industry is the oldest German town in Texas, founded in 1831 by Friedrich Ernst. His letter to Germany praising Texas sparked German immigration, earning him the title “Father of German Immigration to Texas.”

Historic Landmarks & Attractions

Ernst Memorial Park (Schroeder Rd.)

• Original town center of Industry
• Features Texas State Historical Markers
• Picnic area, pavilion, restrooms & playground

Fisches Park (Hwy 159)

• Once part of Ernst’s original land grant
• Established in 1939, now a community park

Industry Recreation Park (725 Main St.)

• Site of one of Austin County’s earliest cotton gins (1857)
• Home to Industry City Hall and the Gin Museum
• Features a picnic pavilion, playground & walking track

Museums & Historic Buildings

• Gin Museum (725 Main St.) – Restored equipment & history of the last functioning cotton gin in Austin County.
• Lindemann Store Museum (2227 Main St.) – Established in 1884, showcasing Industry’s oldest business.
• Lindemann-Ott Museum (2207 Main St.) – A historic 1870 German bakery-turned-home with original furnishings.
• Knolle Doctor’s Office Museum (9021 Hwy 109 N.) – Preserves the office of Dr. B.E. Knolle (1886-1936).
• Welcome Hall (9021 Hwy 109 N.) – Built in 1899, once home to the Welcome German Singing Society.
• Industry Methodist Church (1914 Main St.) – Established 1867, still an active place of worship.

With its rich German heritage, historic landmarks, and scenic beauty, Industry offers a charming glimpse into Texas history.

Kenney

Located eight miles north of Bellville, Kenney was founded in 1880 as a railroad station between Bellville and Brenham. Settlers arrived in the 1820s, with German immigrants following in the 1830s. Originally named Thompson, it was renamed Kenneyville in 1884 to honor Rev. John Wesley Kenney, a pioneer Methodist minister. The name was shortened to Kenney in 1892.

Historic Highlights

• John Wesley Kenney Historical Marker – Honors one of Texas’ earliest Methodist ministers, who organized a Methodist Conference in 1835, supported by William B. Travis.
• Kenney Agricultural Society Hall (est. 1902) – Built for community events, it was rebuilt after a 1950 storm and still serves as a gathering place.
• Schuetzenverein (Sportsmen’s Club) – A German tradition of competitive target shooting, once a key social activity in Kenney.

The Kenney Store – Music, Food & Fun

• Live music almost every night – Featuring local talent, rising stars, and surprise performances by well-known artists.
• Great food & full bar – Enjoy home cooking, ice-cold beer, specialty wines & signature drinks.
• Classic Texas vibes – Play dominoes with the locals, watch the freight train roll by, and dance under neon lights.

For authentic Texas charm, rich history, and great music, Kenney is a must-visit!

Millheim

Founded in 1845, Millheim is located eight miles south of Bellville in Austin County. The town was established by German immigrants who moved through Mill Creek Valley from Cat Spring. It was named Muelheim by Wilhelm Schneider, later anglicized to Millheim.

Early Growth & Development

• 1850s – First school established by E.G. Maetze, taught in German.
• 1856 – A singing society was formed, reflecting German cultural traditions.
• 1878 – A post office was opened.
• 1885 – Millheim had 100 residents, a brewery, gin, mills, and stores.
• Late 1800s – Growth slowed when the railroad bypassed the town.

Millheim in the 20th Century

• 1915 – Population at 150, but the post office closed in favor of rural mail delivery.
• 1948 – The town had a church, school, and three businesses, with 100 residents.
• 2000 – Population rebounded to 150.

Today, Millheim remains a proud part of Texas’ German heritage, with its history rooted in early industry, education, and community traditions.

Nelsonville

Located at the junction of Highway 159 and FM 2502, nine miles west of Bellville, Nelsonville was first settled in the 1850s by Edward Daughtry and others.

Early Growth & Development

• Post-Civil War – The town was named after D. D. Nelson, who opened a store after the war, followed by Isaac Lewis who established a saw mill, grist mill, and cotton gin.
• Anglo-American plantation owners were joined by Germans and immigrants from Bohemia and Moravia, making the community tri-lingual with English, German, and Czech.

Late 1800s & Early 1900s

• 1872 – A post office opened, with R. W. Thompson, the first physician, as postmaster.
• 1885 – Nelsonville had 100 residents, a church, school, and three mills and gins.
• 1893 – The Czech Moravian Brethren Church was founded, and its current building was constructed in 1947.
• 1900 – Population rose to 158.

Decline & Modern Day

• 1909 – The post office closed, and by the 1930s, the population dropped back to 100.
• 1990s – The community was primarily farming, with a population of 110.
• 2000 – The population remained at 110.

Nelsonville remains a small farming community with a rich cultural heritage rooted in Anglo-American, German, and Czech traditions.

New Ulm

• 1830s–1840s – The area now known as New Ulm was originally called Duff’s Settlement, after James C. Duff, who acquired the land in 1841.
• 1845 – German-speaking settlers from nearby areas like Industry, Shelby, and Nassau Farm spurred the community’s growth.

The Rise of New Ulm

• 1852 – A post office opened, and the town was renamed New Ulm in honor of the German city of Ulm.
• 1850s – The community grew rapidly, with six general merchandise stores, five blacksmith shops, three breweries, three cabinetry shops, and even a cigar factory.

Late 1800s – A Changing Economy

• 1892 – The arrival of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railway line spurred economic growth, enabling the shipment of cotton, poultry, eggs, and butter to nearby markets. The entire town was relocated one mile south of its original location.
• 1898 – New Ulm had a population of 225.
• 1910s – The town had a bank, an English-language newspaper (New Ulm Enterprise), and a fire department (New Ulm Volunteer Fire Department).

20th Century Changes

• 1913 – St. John Lutheran Church was built and continues to serve the community.
• 1930 – Population grew to 500.
• 1950 – Population declined to 390.
• 1960s – Growth resumed, with the population reaching 600 by 1968.

Modern Day New Ulm

• 1990 – The population was estimated at 650.
• Today, the town boasts many restored 19th-century buildings, including antique shops and a unique commercial cottage garden. Visitors can explore historic structures and browse for one-of-a-kind gifts in a picturesque setting.

New Ulm remains a charming place with a deep German heritage, a mix of historic preservation, and a thriving small-town community.

New Wehdem

• Late 1800s – New Wehdem was established as a stage route connecting Nelsonville and Bleiblerville to Brenham.
• 1883 – The area was named New Wehdem, reflecting the origin of many settlers from Wehdem, Germany.

Religious & Educational Foundations

• 1869 – The Lutheran Church, originally named St. Jacobi, was organized, and a sanctuary was dedicated in 1871. The current church structure dates back to 1928.
• 1925 – The school building was established, later repurposed as the church education building in 1965.

Modern Developments

• Post-WWII – By the early 1930s, many residents from Wehdem had settled in the area, and New Wehdem began appearing on maps.

Today, New Wehdem remains a small but historically rich community with deep roots in German heritage and Lutheran tradition.

San Felipe

• 1823 – Founded as the headquarters of Stephen F. Austin’s Colony, San Felipe de Austin is one of the oldest towns in Texas, located near the Brazos River.
• Served as a critical Brazos River crossing point for Native Americans and early travelers.
• San Felipe was the political center of colonial Texas until it was razed during the Texas Revolution in 1836.

Historical Significance

• 2005 – Recognized by the State of Texas as both the Official Colonial Capital of Texas and the Official Birthplace of the Texas Rangers.
• In 1835, the first iteration of the Texas Rangers, called the “Ranging Company of Riflemen,” was approved at San Felipe.

Key Events & Figures

• 1828 – The first constitutional election in Anglo-American Texas took place in San Felipe.
• Hosted the Convention of 1832 and 1833, and the Consultation of 1835, all critical to the onset of the Texas Revolution.
• Home to notable Texians including Stephen F. Austin, William Barret Travis, Jane Long, and David G. Burnet.
• The first capital city of the Texas Revolution from Nov. 15, 1835 to March 1, 1836.

Modern Day San Felipe de Austin

• The San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site, located off FM 1458 by the Brazos River, includes the San Felipe de Austin Museum, which opened in 2018.
• The museum shares stories of early settlers and the pivotal role San Felipe played in Texas history.

Historic Landmarks & Attractions

• The original historic site on the west side of FM 1458 includes remnants of the 1830s town, such as a hand-dug well and historical buildings like the J.J. Josey Store and replica dogtrot cabin.
• Historic locations include:
  • Old San Felipe Church (1824)
  • San Felipe de Austin Cemetery (1824)
  • San Felipe Town Hall (1842)
• Stephen F. Austin State Park, a 600+ acre recreational area, provides camping, hiking, birding, fishing, and more.

San Felipe de Austin remains a vital part of Texas’ early history and continues to preserve its role in shaping the state’s cultural heritage.

Sealy

• 1830s – The area that would become Sealy, Texas was first settled by Anglo-Americans and Germans, with the region serving as a key stop along the Brazos River.
• 1850 – Originally known as Sealy’s Prairie, the area was named after George Sealy, a prominent landowner and businessman who played a crucial role in the development of the community.

The Rise of Sealy

• 1879 – Sealy was officially established as a town when the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway arrived, helping to spur the town’s growth by connecting it to major trade routes and markets.
• Sealy quickly became an agricultural hub with an emphasis on cotton farming, benefiting from its location along the fertile Brazos River.

Economic Development & Industry

• The Sealy Mattress Company, founded in 1881, became one of the most influential businesses in the area, boosting Sealy’s reputation and economy. The company became a major producer of mattresses and later expanded its manufacturing into a global brand.
• In addition to agriculture and industry, Sealy continued to develop as a center of commerce, with general stores, churches, schools, and businesses supporting the growing population.

Modern-Day Sealy

• Today, Sealy is a vibrant community that retains its small-town charm while offering modern conveniences. The city celebrates its agricultural roots and historical significance while continuing to grow as a residential and commercial center in Austin County.
• With a population of about 7,000, Sealy offers family-friendly amenities, schools, parks, and a range of recreational activities, including the Sealy Golf Course and Stephen F. Austin State Park, which is just a short drive away.

Cultural Significance & Community

• Sealy hosts a variety of annual events such as Sealybration, a popular festival that celebrates the city’s history and brings together residents and visitors for a weekend of music, food, and fun.
• Historic landmarks such as the Sealy Depot, San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site, and the Austin County Courthouse showcase the town’s rich past.

Sealy continues to thrive as a community that balances its historical heritage with modern growth, offering a welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.

Shelby

Shelby, located at the intersection of Highway 389 and FM 1457 in northwest Austin County, was originally settled in 1840 by Otto von Röder, who built a water-powered mill on Skull Creek. The settlement was first called Roedersmuehle but later renamed Shelby after David Shelby, who acquired land here in 1831.

Cultural Influence

German immigrants brought their traditions, including a Gesangverein (singing society) in 1852 and the Harmonie Verein in 1875. Harmonie Hall, built in 1883, remains a hub for community events.

Religious Life

The Shelby Lutheran Church, founded in 1876, became St. Paul Lutheran Church in 1903. The original church now serves as a community museum.

Historic Landmarks

The Witte-Schmid Haus, a National Register of Historic Places property built in 1857, is a rare example of German Fachwerk architecture and is now a museum.

Shelby, with its rich German heritage, remains a peaceful community preserving its cultural history and traditions.

Wallis

Located at the southeastern edge of Austin County, just across the Fort Bend County line on Highway 36, Wallis originated as a railroad town. First known as Bovine Bend, the town’s name changed to Wallis Station in 1886 and later to Wallis in 1911. It was named after J.E. Wallis, vice president of the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railroad.

Cultural & Religious Landmarks

• Guardian Angel Catholic Church, founded around 1915, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and known for its elaborate Texas painted church tradition.
• Wallis Methodist Church, founded in 1893, is the oldest church in town and remains an active community center.
• Wallis Cemetery, established in 1895, serves as the final resting place of local pioneers, including William and Lydia Guyler, and veterans from four wars.

Today’s Wallis

Officially incorporated in 1973, Wallis is a vibrant community with deep historical significance, proudly celebrating its rich cultural heritage.

Welsey

Wesley Brethren Church

• Located on the Austin-Washington County line, Wesley, TX
  The historic church, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a museum and symbolic seat of Czech-Moravian Brethren Faith in Texas.

Historical Information

• Wesley was first populated in the 1840s by Scottish immigrants who settled the area in 1852. They farmed plantation-style on a 4,428-acre land grant, bringing relatives from the Carmichaels, McCloeds, McLeans, McGregors, and Campbells families. After the Civil War, the land was subdivided and sold to Germans, Czechs, and Anglo-Americans.

• Wesley was originally known as “Veseli” (meaning joyous or happy) before being anglicized to its current name.

• Wesley Brethren Church, organized in 1864, was the first Protestant Czech-Moravian Brethren Church in Texas. A historic wooden structure was built in 1866, and in 1888-89, the interior was painted by the untrained artist and pastor, B. Emil Lacjak. His two-dimensional folk art remains a significant feature of the church.

The church now serves as a museum and holds symbolic importance for Czech-Moravian Brethren faith in Texas.

Austin County Government Contacts

• Austin County Courthouse
  1 E. Main St., Bellville, TX 77413
  (979) 865-5911
  www.austincounty.com
• Sealy Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center
  309 Main St., Sealy, TX 77474
  (979) 885-3222
  www.sealychamber.com

City of Bellville Contacts

• City of Bellville
  30 S. Holland St., Bellville, TX 77418
  (979) 865-5911
  www.cityofbellville.com

City of Brazos Country

• City of Brazos Country
  316 Pecan Grove, Sealy, TX 77474
  (979) 885-7264
  www.brazoscountrytx.com

City of Industry Contacts

• City of Industry
  P.O. Box 190, Industry, TX 78944
  (979) 357-2190
  www.industrytx.com

City of New Ulm Contacts

• New Ulm Chamber of Commerce
  P.O. Box 55, New Ulm, TX 78950
  (979) 885-7264
  www.newulmtexas.com

City of San Felipe Contacts

• City of San Felipe
  927 6th St., P.O. Box 129, San Felipe, TX 77473
  (979) 885-7035
  www.townofsanfelipe.net

City of Sealy Contacts

• City of Sealy
  415 Main St., P.O. Box 517, Sealy, TX 77474
  (979) 885-3511
  www.ci.sealy.tx.us

• Sealy Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center
  309 Main St., Sealy, TX 77474
  (979) 885-3222
  www.sealychamber.com

City of Wallis Contacts

• City of Wallis
  6810 Guyler St., Bldg. B, P.O. Box 190, Wallis, TX 77485
  (979) 885-3511
  www.wallistexas.org

Emergency Contacts

• Austin County Emergency 9-1-1
  Call 9-1-1

• Austin Non-Emergency – EMS
  (979) 865-5911 – Ext. 2263

• Austin County Sheriff’s Department
  (979) 865-3111

• Bellville Police Department
  (979) 865-3122

• Sealy Police Department
  (979) 885-2913

• Wallis Police Department
  (979) 478-7111

• CHI St. Joseph Health Bellville Hospital
  (979) 413-7400

Utilities & Services

• Austin County Public Library
  (979) 865-6761
  www.austincountytexas.gov

• Sealy Gas & Electric Utility
  (979) 885-3564
  www.sealytexas.com

• CenterPoint Energy (Gas)
  (800) 332-5119

• AT&T Customer Service
  (800) 288-2020

Community & Recreation

• Stephen F. Austin State Park
  (979) 885-3613
  www.texasstateparks.gov

• Sealy Recreation Center
  (979) 885-1155
  www.ci.sealy.tx.us

Sealy Visitor’s Center

309 Main Street  |  Sealy TX 77474  |  979.885.3222

Open Mon-Thursday 9-4 & Friday 9-12

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