History

---

The history of the City of New Braunfels is based on the migration of German merchants, tradesman, and farmers moving to the area under the direction and leadership of Prince Solms.  They came searching for economic opportunities, the opportunity to own land, and more personal freedom.  Problems in Germany, including employment and political insecurity, made the hazards of traveling to a new land not quite so daunting.  Other migrants came from other parts of the Eastern U.S.

The location of New Braunfels was actually not intentional.  Land further north and west was identified for the new settlement, but a "way station" was needed to rest and resupply.  This area at the junction of the Comal and Guadalupe River, which was half way from the port of Indianola, came to be known as the City of New Braunfels.

Learn more through the link to the dissertation of Judith Dykes-Hoffman, a Planning and Zoning Commissioner.  Her dissertation provides information between the years of 1845-1880, which were the formative years of the city. 

Chapter 1    The Setting
Chapter 2    Gone to Texas
Chapter 3    Homelands Old and New
Chapter 4    Town Building Along the Escarpment
Chapter 5    Shaping an Economic Culture
Chapter 6    Conclusion