Gateway to the Texas Hill Country Fall 2014

Gateway to the

Texas Hill Country

A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Fall 2014 • Compliments of The Boerne Star

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Fall 2014

WELCOME TO BOERNE!

A great place to live and work, Boerne offers gourmet restaurants, fabulous shops, great entertainment and excellent schools, as well as beautiful neighborhoods and some of the finest real estate in the Texas Hill Country.

If a move to Boerne is in your future or if you are thinking about a second home in the Hill Country, visit our website or call or drop by our friendly office (a short walk from Main Plaza).

Since 1989, we have proudly offered the finest homes in the very best neighborhoods throughout South Texas, including may exclusive properties you won’t find listed anywhere else.

We’d be happy to show you around!

210 E. Blanco, Boerne, Texas 78006 | 830-331-9898 | www.phyllisbrowning.com

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

20 Guthrie Road | Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 229-5090 | www.KendallPlantation.com

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Fall 2014

The Texas Hill Country: More than a state of mind

W

elcome to the heart of the Hill Country!

Boerne is both literally and figuratively an entryway into one of Texas’ most beautiful regions, the Texas Hill Country.

While just a couple of decades or so ago, Boerne (pronounced Bur-nee) could easily have been

considered “forgotten,” today it is a town where technology and times past enjoy equal balance.

Boerne is recognized across the United States as a desirable place to live. Listed by the U.S. Census Bureau as one of the country’s fastest growing regions, the area’s rapid expansion has meant numerous new housing subdivisions as well as

an influx of industry, business and tourism.

Boerne strives to hold on to its warm, small-town origins. Oak trees still grow together in canopies above many city streets while a trip to the grocery store almost guarantees an encounter with friends and neighbors.

Continued on Page 6

Compassionate care in Boerne for over 45 years

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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Fall 2014

...it’s a unique mindset From Page 4 The surrounding countryside is lush and arid, dramatic and pastoral.

Streams and rivers soften the sharpedged limestone topography. Roosters and goats, still raised within city limits by a few old timers, may wander about under cell phone towers that have risen within the last few years.

Established by a young group of Germans who considered themselves classical philosophers - or Free Thinkers - Boerne originally didn’t allow churches inside the city limits. Today, however, the town is home to numerous religious congregations.

Also enormously important within the ranks of the city’s population is its volunteerism; citizens selflessly donate countless hours not only to religious matters, but to social, educational, environmental, political, and historical causes as well.

The crown jewel of Boerne’s history is its quaint Main Street. Also called Hauptstrasse, it is lined by

many of the buildings that formed the vibrant core of the county’s “city life.”

These structures, although admired by tourists, are still thought of as home by the town’s octogenarians. “That’s the house where I grew up,” one might point out, or “there’s the hospital where I was born,” or “the dry goods store that sold us fabric for our dresses.”

And it’s not only long-timers and newcomers who are drawn to Boerne’s old structures apparently.

Ghosts, it seems, are drawn to the buildings as well. For example, the lovely, ornate Joseph Dienger building on Main Plaza has an officially certified other-worldly occupant believed to be the building’s original owner, Joseph Dienger himself.

Whether it’s shopping, visiting the area’s beautiful caves, explor-

Experience

Menger Springs

ing the local nature center, enjoying historically-authentic exhibits, birding, cycling, hunting, or hiking, Boerne provides the ideal blend of the urban and the rural. At one close hand is an international airport, the Alamo, the San Antonio Riverwalk, Seaworld of Texas, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, the San Antonio Zoo and numerous concert and museum venues. At the other close hand is the unique and sought-after beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

O

ur preferred builders design homes that draw inspiration from Boerne’s historic heritage, reflected in Craftsman, German traditional and Mission architecture.

Located on a tree-covered plateau and covering approximately 500 acres, Menger Springs is within 5 minutes of downtown Boerne and offers a breathtaking backdrop for both estate and garden homes.

Final phase now open The final phase of development of large-acreage, estate homesites is in the process of being completed.

Breathtaking views. Ideal location.

Exceptional homesites.

For a personal tour, call Michael Velasco at 210-416-5328.

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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Cavender Chevrolet

in Boerne is Here for You!

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We will honor your Chevrolet warranty, and we also accept extended service warranties.

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Fall 2014

Excellence in oral and maxillofacial services Alamo Maxillofacial Surgical Associates, PA

Published and copyrighted by

The Boerne Star

941 N. School St. • Boerne, TX 78006 830.249.2441 • 830.249.4607 fax www.boernestar.com

Wendell A. Edgin, DDS*

B.D. Tiner, DDS, MD*

Steven B. Buckley, DDS, MD*

• Dental Implants • Wisdom Teeth Removal • Reconstructive Jaw Surgery • Dental Extractions • Facial Trauma • Oral, Head and Neck Pathology • Esthetic and Functional Eyelid, Forehead and Nasal Surgery • Obstructive Sleep Apnea • In Office IV Sedation

From left to right: Robert P. Johnson, DDS, MSD, B.D. Tiner, DDS, MD, Wendell A. Edgin, DDS James W. Rominger, DDS, MD Steven B. Buckley, DDS, MD James E. Franco, DDS, MD

Demographics: City of Boerne; U.S. Census, Texas Comptroller’s Office Photography: Boerne Star Staff: Elena Tucker, Frank Shubert, JT Maroney, Carline Schwartz, Candace Velvin, Bruce S. Vay; Boerne Area Historical Preservation Society Historical Information: Boerne Area Historical Preservation Society, Col. Bettie Edmonds Community Information: Boerne Convention & Visitors Bureau

INDEX THINGS TO SEE & DO Agricultural Museum.................................34 Attractions.................................................23 Calendar of Events.........................10, 12, 35 Cibolo Nature Center & Farm.....................22 Comfort.........................................32, 32, 33 Dickens on Main........................................14 Historic District..........................................16 Main Plaza.................................................18 The Hill Country Mile........................28, 29 HISTORIC INTEREST Namesakes..................................................19 Two Courthouses.................................20, 21 SELF-GUIDED TOURS, MAPS Downtown walking tour.....................38, 39 Kendall County driving tour...............36, 37

Appointments available: Monday - Friday, 8a.m. - 5p.m.

Methodist Boerne Medical Center 134 Menger Springs Road, Suite 1200 Boerne, Texas 78006

830-816-2480

www.alamoOMS.com *Now accepting patients in our Boerne office.

ABOUT BOERNE, KENDALL COUNTY Facts & Figures..........................................25 Helpful Telephone Numbers.....................24 Boerne rated top place to live........26, 27, 30

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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Fall 2014

Enjoy fall, winter events in Boerne!

November

Boerne Market Days Saturday, November 8 - 10:00am to 5:00pm Main Plaza, 100 North Main, Boerne.

Contact phone: (210) 844-8193 Cost: Free Since 1850, Main Plaza has been a center point of trade for the people of Boerne. In the present day, on the second weekend of every month, Main Plaza is home to a magical outdoor market that blends the traditions of the Texas Hill Country with the creations of today’s culture.

Dickens on Main Friday, November 28 - 10:00am to 10:30pm Saturday, November 29 - 10:00am to 10:30pm Downtown Boerne Contact phone: (830) 249-7277 Cost: Free Celebrate Christmas Hill Country Style! Picture yourself in merry ole history with horse drawn carriages, carolers, street performers, Santa and much more, and you’re at Dickens on Main! www.dickensonmain.com

December

Oma’s Christmas Craft Fair

Saturday, December 6 - 9:00am to 4:00pm Sunday, December 7 - 10:00am to 3:00pm Kendall County Fairgrounds 1307 River Road, Boerne.

Contact phone: (830) 249-2839 You will find all your Christmas shopping easy to handle with every type of unique gift available at Oma’s.

Weihnachts Parade Saturday, December 6 - 6:00pm to 10:00pm Dowtown Boerne Contact phone: (830) 249-7277 Cost: No Charge The Weihnacht Parade is a long standing Boerne Christmas tradition. Up to 100 lit entries travel Main Street. The parade is always on the first Saturday of December and starts at 6:00pm.

Boerne Market Days Saturday, December 13 - 10:00am to 5:00pm Sunday, December 14 - 10:00am to 5:00pm Main Plaza 100 North Main, Boerne.

Contact phone: (210) 844-8193 Cost: Free Since 1850, Main Plaza has been a center point of Continued on Page 12

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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From Page 10 trade for the people of Boerne. In the present day, on the second weekend of every month, Main Plaza is home to a magical outdoor market that blends the traditions of the Texas Hill Country with the creations of today’s culture.

Boerne Concert Band Christmas Concert Sunday, December 14 - 4:00pm to 6:00pm Boerne High Auditorium 1 Greyhound Lane, Boerne.

Contact phone: (830) 249-7502 Cost: Free The Boerne Concert Band performs live musical concerts for audiences in the Boerne, Texas area. The concerts are always free to the public. This group of volunteer musicians is proud to present a wide variety of music to entertain audiences of all ages.

Cowboy Christmas at Enchanted Springs Ranch Saturday, December 20 - 10:00am to 5:00pm Sunday, December 21 - 10:00am to 5:00pm 242 State Highway 46 W, Boerne.

Contact phone: (830) 249-8222 Cost: Adults: $14, Military/Seniors: $12, Children (Ages 3-12): $7, Kids under 3: Free The Authentic Old West Town and Movie Set will become a Christmas “Western Wonderland” with lots of kids’ activities, wild animal park, wagon rides, kids playground, arrest-a-guest, puppet shows and cowboy skits.

January

Fall 2014

Boerne Market Days Saturday, January 10 - 10:00am to 5:00pm Sunday, January 11 - 10:00am to 5:00pm Main Plaza 100 North Main, Boerne.

Contact phone: (210) 844-8193 Cost: Free Since 1850, Main Plaza has been a center point of trade for the people of Boerne. In the present day, on the second weekend of every month, Main Plaza is home to a magical outdoor market that blends the traditions of the Texas Hill Country with the creations of today’s culture.

Boerne Performing Arts - Canadian Brass Friday, January 30 - 7:30pm to 10:00pm Champion High Auditorium 201 Charger Blvd., Boerne.

Contact phone: (830) 331-9079 Five tremendous brass musicians – each a virtuoso in his own right – form the legendary Canadian Brass.

February

Boerne Chocolate Walk Saturday, February 8 - 11:00am to 5:00pm Downtown Boerne, Boerne.

Contact phone: (830) 249-9511 ext. 5 Join the Boerne community for this sweet event! The walk will take you through Boerne’s Downtown district and you will see firsthand our unique stores, galleries and restaurants.

Your $15 ticket includes a map of the participating Continued on Page 35

Don’t let them inside this winter.

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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A

t Ancira Buick GMC, please review our extensive inventory of Buick GMC cars, trucks, and SUVs. We work hard to get you into the vehicle you have always wanted. That new Buick GMC is waiting for you, and we work with a vast array of lending sources to make sure you will get the most complete and comprehensive financial package available.

Ancira Buick GMC service department strives for 100% customer satisfaction.

From general maintenance such as oil changes to major repairs, let Ancira Buick GMC service your vehicle. Our dealership is one of the premier dealerships in the country. Our commitment to customer service is second to none. We offer one of the most comprehensive parts and service department in the automotive industry.

At Ancira Buick GMC, we strive to make buying or leasing a new vehicle a pleasant and rewarding experience.

Our primary concern is the satisfaction of our customers. Our online dealership was created to enhance the buying experience for each and every one of our internet customers.

830-981-9000 • AncirA.com mon-fri: 8:30 am - 7:00 pm • open Sunday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm • cloSed Saturday

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Fall 2014

‘Tis the Season for Lights, Snow and Dickens On Main Friday, Nov. 28, 10 am-10:30 pm; Saturday, Nov. 29, 10 am-10:30 pm

T

his event officially kicks off the holiday season, spreading tidings of good cheer and merriment galore. Recently named among Family Circle Magazine’s top 10 family-friendly towns in the nation, Boerne is the perfect place to ring in the holidays.

This year’s Dickens On Main celebration is one weekend full of more holiday festivities than ever before.

From a headliner concert to a live ice sculpting show, this weekend is packed with new surprises and festivities all along the Hill Country Mile.

Whether you want to finish your holiday shopping, listen to live music, participate in a Dickens period costume contest, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of the season, Dickens On Main is the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit.

Kicking off on Friday, Nov. 28, Dickens On Main invites you to skip the Black Friday traffic in the big city and enjoy the quaint shops

along Main Street and Artisans Market which will feature unique handmade crafts and gifts. The shopping doesn’t end on Black Friday—it continues on Small Business Saturday as well! What a great way to support local, unique businesses and shops while finding those oneof-a-kind, custom holiday gifts for your loved ones. With stores staying open late, even more shopping will

be included in this year’s Dickens On Main.

Deck the Halls with Family Fun and Entertainment Unique holiday shopping isn’t all that Dickens On Main has to offer! For 15 years, Dickens On Main has delivered the best holiday entertainment and activities for children and adults alike, and this year is guaranteed to continue in

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

this storied tradition. Professional entertainers, ensembles from local schools, community carolers and local singer-songwriters will take the stage on both Friday and Saturday to share their talents in dance, music and acting, with festive performances that are sure to leave you humming along to your favorite holiday tunes.

Schedule Highlights • Holiday Lighting Ceremony • Children’s Activities • Bah Humbug: “A Christmas Carol” • Ice Sculpting Show • Lone Star Swing Orchestra Concert • Boerne Village Band • Two Tons of Steel Headliner Concert Fan favorite Bah Humbug: “A One Man Christmas Carol” returns!

With one actor playing all the roles from Scrooge to Tiny Tim in this magical retelling of the famed holiday classic, you won’t want to miss the annual performance of this crowd-pleasing rendition. Traditional Dickens - era costumes can also be seen throughout the event as people get into

character to experience the holiday season. Although not required, Dickens On Main encourages all attendees to dress in Dickens era costumes. And speaking of holiday costumes, everyone’s favorite Christmas man himself—Santa Claus—will visit Boerne for his special Christmas appearance to greet children on the sparkly lit grounds of the Little Nature Store.

People of all ages are invited to participate in the many familyfriendly activities including cookie and ornament decorating, face painting, or the petting zoo. This year’s Dickens On Main will also feature a 10-foot high, 60-foot long snow slide each evening with more than 40,000 pounds of snow! That’s right—Boerne will have a white Christmas after all! People of all ages will enjoy the snow-sledding action, with enough sleds on hand to ensure the entertainment never slows down.

What’s more, the spectacular ice sculptures will return this year in a dazzling ice sculpting show. On Main Street, the ice will fly into the sky like snowflakes as frosty perfection is created in front of your

eyes. And don’t forget to take a ride on the horse-drawn carriages—a great way to take in Boerne’s winter wonderland!

The fun doesn’t stop there… This year’s Dickens On Main is also pleased to announce the addition of concerts—free to the public—on both Friday and Saturday nights!

Friday night, the Lone Star Swing Orchestra, an 18-piece band, will play music from the “Big Band” era of the ‘30s and ‘40s and western swing music. Then on Saturday night, Dickens On Main will have its first-ever headliner concert finale! Two Tons of Steel (one of the best American rockabilly and Texas country bands around) will take the stage to perform their top hits as well as some holiday favorites to send everyone home with Christmas cheer.

We Wish You a Merry Christmas So bundle up and bring your family and friends to Boerne’s Main Street for the best holiday celebration in Texas! With entertainment and activities for the whole family, you won’t want to miss this yuletide celebration. For more information, visit www.dickensonmain.com.

Mague’s Cafe

Thank You Boerne!

Voted Best Breakfast, Best Mexican Food, Best Ice Tea & Best Service at a Restaurant 934 N. Main Street • Boerne • 830-249-9168 Sunday - Monday: 7am - 2pm Tuesday - Saturday: 7am - 8pm

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Fall 2014

The Haupstrasse

Boerne’s historic downtown district reflects Hill Country charm

T

he Hauptstrasse, Main Street, Downtown … whatever you call it, it’s where things are happening in Boerne. Several years ago, the City of Boerne, along with the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce, began what is known as the Main Street Project. Since that time the changes have been quite noticeable.

First came larger burgundy street signs bearing the name “Hauptstrasse” throughout the historical business district. The name of Main Street didn’t actually change - it just took on a German translation to accentuate the community’s heritage.

As the new street signs went up, so did a lot of other new signs. Shops began springing up in every vacant location as gift sellers, antique dealers, restaurateurs, residents and visitors began to discover the area had something special to offer. Older firms began sprucing up their faces and welcoming new customers.

Other changes included the installation of old-fashioned lamppost lighting, planting of trees and the removal of the unattractive, overhead, urban-style

streetlights. Colorful banners on each lamppost mark the season of the year, a special festival, support for the Boerne High School Greyhounds and the Champion Chargers or simply the welcome that is always extended to visitors.

Park benches have been added throughout the length of the Hauptstrasse to encourage visitors and residents to pause and enjoy the uniqueness that is Boerne.

Parking is ample on the street, on adjacent side streets and at three public parking lots.

The lots are located on the 200 block of North Main St., the 100 block of South Main St., and at Main Plaza. Modern restroom facilities are located at the South Main lot and Main Plaza.

Now Downtown Boerne has become a favorite destination for visitors from other areas who flock to town, not just on weekends, but every day.

Boerne Market Days on the second weekend of each month transforms Main Plaza into an old style “market days” shopping mecca with booths filling the plaza with antiques, collectibles, arts and crafts, food and a lot of fun for the family.

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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Fall 2014

Main Plaza: Hill Country showcase

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n the heart of Boerne is Main Plaza, the home for festivals, school pep rallies and celebrations of all kinds.

The city has committed to making the space welcoming and functional. The focal point is a large gazebo serving as a grandstand for rallies and a bandstand for concerts by various bands. The Boerne Village Band continues to perform at the plaza as it did over a century ago. New memories are made each year as young people gather there for concerts and when families shop at the monthly market days or just relax for picnic.

Providing a transition from busy Main Street to the more peaceful Main Plaza is a unique water garden adding the soothing splash of water.

In addition to being a popular gathering spot, the plaza serves as a peaceful place tempting passersby to stop and relax.

The center of the plaza is landscaped to provide open green space for the various activities that take place there, ranging from concerts and rallies to homecom-

ing pep rallies and family fun festivals – including the premier Hill Country event, Berges Fest.

At various times throughout the year, car shows sponsored by various owner groups call the plaza home, from street rods and classic Corvettes to racy “muscle” cars and VW Beatles. Corvettes, Dune Buggies, MGs and motorcycles all have their days to shine.

The annual series of Tuesday Abendkonzerte – summer musical concerts are held on the plaza.

Abendkonzerte translates simply as “evening concerts” in English, but in any language, it means fun.

The music starts at dusk and showcases the historic Boerne Village Band.

The plaza is bounded by historic structures on three sides. To the north is Ye Kendall Inn and the Joseph Dienger building – both on the registry of National Historic Landmarks. Both are also reported to be residences for ghosts and featured on a Discover Channel television series. Boerne’s first waterworks is to the west and to the south is the historic Carstanjan building.

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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Namesakes reflect unique character of area

I

n 1862, a new county was formed from parts of Bexar, Blanco and Comal counties. At the request of the residents, the Texas legislature ordered that it be named Kendall County in honor of a prominent member of the Hill Country community - George Wilkins Kendall.

Kendall (1809-1867) was born Aug. 22, 1809, at Mount Vernon, New Hampshire. While still a boy, he learned the printer’s trade with Horace Greeley and that became his means of livelihood. In January 1837, he co-founded the New Orleans Picayune.

His first sight of Texas, in 1841, began an everlasting love and admiration for what became his adopted state. In 1846, when war was declared between the U.S. and Mexico, he became the first war correspondent to send dispatches from the front by Pony Express.

Kendall developed innovations in sheep raising that are in use today. He raised fine merinos from the Rambouillet Estates in France, which he bred with his Mexican churro ewes from Texas. This produced fine-fleeced

sheep, timed carefully so that lambing would occur in April during safe weather. He invented the dipping vat, still in use today, to combat scab and other diseases, and a method of baling wool.

In Boerne, there stand two reminders of Kendall’s legacy. One is the old St. Peter Catholic Church that he had built for his wife, Adeline Suzanne de Valcourt. The other is his tombstone in the Boerne Cemetery remembering him as “eminent in all.”

Boerne is named for Ludwig Börne (1786-1837) a German writer who espoused the cause of freedom in his native land.

When he began to develop a hatred against the prohibitions of government in Germany, Börne gave up the study of medicine and turned to political science.

Anger against tyranny and bad government became the ruling passion of his life.

He became the first German journalist whose writing almost

REMIND HER

exclusively criticized the political order in Germany.

Ludwig was to inspire troves of young men to leave Germany in the late 1840s and seek a new life in the New World. At the universities of Giessen and Heidelberg, a group of students organized themselves under the leadership of Gustav Schleicher, later a U.S. Congressman from Texas, and Dr. Ferdinand von Herff into a society called “The Forty” and emigrated to Texas with the Adelsverein.

Several of the more resolute members of the society founded the town of Boerne, the anglicized spelling of Börne, at a place first called “Tusculum.” Gustav Theissen, who bought the property from them to form a new town, was a great admirer of Börne and named the site in his honor.

Boerne...it rhymes with Journey. Although Ludwig Börne’s name was spelled with just the one “E” at the end, when his name was Anglicized, the second “E” was added to equate the German pronunciation of “O” with an umlaut.

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Fall 2014

Two courthouses reflect county heritage

K

endall County recently rededicated the historic courthouse following extensive renovations, adding another jewel to the area’s historic attractions.

The Historic Kendall County Courthouse and the adjacent historic jail became Recorded Texas Historical Landmarks (RTHL) in 1970. Both were individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and designated as State Archaeological Landmarks in 1981.

After many years of research, master plan work and applying for grants, the Kendall County Historical Commission was successful in obtaining a $1.2 million historic preservation grant in 2008 when the project was accepted by the Texas Historical Commission’s Historic Courthouse Preservation Program. Construction was completed and the building rededicated in the spring of 2010.

The courthouse was built in 1870

when the county contracted with J.F. Stendebach to construct a onestory courthouse designed by Philip

original to the courthouse.

MJ Boyle Contractors of San Antonio started construction work on May 18, 2009 and the work was completed in April 2010, according to Barry Wagner of Wagner and Klein Architects & Preservation Consultants of Fredericksburg.

“In this major phase of restoration there was work on the windows, doors, roof and exterior masonry but the majority of the work was on the interior,” he said. “New mechanical, electrical and plumbing, along with a new fire alarm and sprinkler system and a new elevator. Interior finishes were restored.”

Zoeller. In 1885, a second story with Some county offices are located a gallery was added. Charles Buckel in the historic courthouse and the was the builder. In 1909, a two-story courtroom is available for use by addition designed by Alfred Giles both the courts and for other funcwas constructed by E.H. Clemens. tions. Visitors strolling through the The restoration brings the courtdowntown area may enjoy the newly house back to its 1909 appearance. To polished exterior and grounds of the go back further would mean taking old building that sits across from the the second story off since it was not “new” courthouse.

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

The spacious limestone building in downtown Boerne serves as the official seat of county government.

It was built in a style to reflect the classic Hill Country look embodied

by the historic courthouse across the street that still remains in use on a daily basis.

Inside the new courthouse are most county offices, such as the county clerk, county attorney, county auditor and county tax assessor-collector, as well as the district courtroom, district

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offices and the district clerk.

Also located on courthouse square in the center of downtown Boerne are the old jail and the old commissary building. Old and new coexist in harmony in the county seat of Kendall County.

Looking for a perfect venue to make your special event shine?

What clients are saying:

“I would recommend the Cana Ballroom in a heartbeat with no reservation. In fact, I already have!�

With its floor to ceiling windows and spacious outdoor verandas overlooking the beautiful Hill Country, The Cana Ballroom just may be your answer.

Nestled atop a hill in the heart of downtown Historic Boerne, The Cana Ballroom is the newest addition to the St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church grounds. Offering a variety of options for space, it is ideal for any type of event, from a baby or bridal shower of 30, to a corporate meeting of 50, to more extravagant occasions like a wedding reception of 450 seated.

The venue includes a large elegantly furnished foyer entrance, as well as a full commercial kitchen with flexible catering options. It also offers individualized layouts with six-foot round tables and mahogany chivari chairs, a state-of-the-art audiovisual system, a custom dance floor and more.

For more information or to make a reservation, call (830) 816-5630, or visit our website, www.canaballroom. com. The Cana Ballroom is located at 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, TX 78006.

-22- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Fall 2014

Protecting heritage, conserving nature

T

he Cibolo Nature Center & Farm in Boerne is located on 162 acres of natural lands at Boerne City Park off Highway 46 just west of the Kendall County Fairgrounds.

The Cibolo Nature Center’s mission is conservation of natural resources through education and stewardship.

Thousands of volunteer hours have made the Cibolo Nature Center a prime example of community caring and an excellent model of a local community’s efforts to preserve its natural heritage.

Open to the public since Earth Day 1990, the Cibolo Nature Center provides education, research, entertainment and outdoor activities for more than 100,000 visitors a year, while promoting sound stewardship of land, water and wildlife.

Across Cibolo Creek from the nature center lays a true gem - one in need of some polishing, and luckily a crew of enthused working groups has risen to the occasion to plan the restoration and renewal of the Herff Farm.

The 62-acre green space includes a

Cibolo Nature Center & Farm farmhouse, barn and other structures built by some of the area’s original German immigrants. In December 2009, it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The house also figured prominently in the early settlement of Boerne, was confiscated during the Civil War for a Confederate Prisoner of War camp and served as the site of one of the last Native American-settler conflicts.

It was the summer home of Dr. Ferdinand Ludwig Herff, a medical

pioneer in San Antonio and the great-great-grandfather of Carolyn Chipman Evans, the Cibolo Nature Center’s founding director.

Its location at the confluence of Cibolo and Menger creeks makes it a key habitat area within the larger Cibolo Conservation Corridor.

In 2007, the Friends of the Cibolo Wilderness, with help from supporters and foundations across Texas, purchased the property in order to preserve its resources for current and future generations.

Local community members have embraced the potential of this valuable place and are hard at work planning its future. Among the goals is for the farm to function as a sustainable living center, demonstrating home gardening, rainwater catchment and conservation, sustainable energy practices, backyard chicken coops, composting and has partnered with the community to create a community garden and farmer’s market, complementing a farm and garden education program for children and adults. Learn more at www.cibolo.org.

We’re Reaching Out to Your Heart

A

t South Texas Cardiovascular Consultants, you have access to a comprehensive range of advanced cardiac services - from consultation and diagnosis to treatment and disease management - provided by board certified physicians.

• Accepting New Patients Daily • Accepting all major insurance plans to include: Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield • Our services include: ❤Cardiac Catheterization ❤Echocardiology ❤Electrophysiology ❤Nuclear Imaging ❤Pacemakers ❤Peripheral Vascular Disease ❤Prevention Diagnosis ❤Vein Clinic ❤Cardia PET Perfusion Imaging ❤Transcranial Doppler ❤EECP (Enhanced External Counter Pulsation)

South texaS CardiovaSCular ConSultantS, PllC

Javier Roman-Gonzalez, M.D. Eugene P. Haddock, M.D. A. Charles Rabinowitz, M.D. David H. White, M.D. Jose A. Perez, M.D. In Boerne services are provided daily (M-F) by staff who are residents of Boerne at: STCC Hill Country Cardiology Office 109 Falls Court, Suite 300 For additional information, please contact our Boerne office at (830) 249-1700 or at www.heartdoctors.net.

Serving the communities of Boerne • Fredericksburg • Kerrville • San Antonio

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Attractions Hill Country

Cave tours in Kendall County The vast stretches of limestone that honeycomb the Texas Hill Country and in many places form aquifers that serve as the primary source of water in the region, also contain some of the most unique geologic formations in living caves.

Cascade Caverns, 226 Cascade Caverns Road Exit 543 off I-10, gets its name from it’s 100 foot waterfall – the grand finale of a one hour guided tour.

Tours are available year round. Call 830-7558080 or visit www.cascadecaverns.com.

Cave Without A Name , 325 Kreutzberg Road, Boerne, is also a showcase of fabulous formations and educational exhibits. Tours are available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day. 10am-5pm after Labor Day until Memorial Day. Call 830-537-4212 or visit www.cavewithoutaname.com.

Old Tunnel WMA, The smallest Wildlife Management Area in Texas at 16.1 acres. The

abandoned railroad tunnel is home to up to three million Brazilian free-tailed bats from May to October. Visitors watch the bats emerge from the tunnel each night, and nightly educational programs are available. Take IH-10 to Comfort, exit at Hwy. 27, west to the blinking light in town and veer right on Hwy. 87. Turn right on FM 473 and go east for 5 miles. Take Old # 9 Hwy. for 8 miles to the site.

OLD WEST TOWN Enchanted Springs Ranch, 242 Hwy. 46 West, Boerne, is an old west theme park, rated

by Oprah as one of the best “Family Attractions“.

The ranch is also an active movie set, featured

by True West Magazine as one of the “Preferred Western Movie Sets”. It features an old western town right out of the 1800’s, a magical place of rugged, natural beauty with a collection of exotic animals. Call 800-640-5917 or 830-249-8222 or visit enchantedspringsranch.com for information on park hours and pricing.

Activities in Adjacent Counties Fredericksburg, founded by German settlers in 1846, is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Activities include museums, a historic district, a wildflower farm, vineyards and wineries, an herb farm, peach orchards, brew pub, living history farmstead, art galleries, live music, lavender farms, scenic drives,

-23-

golf and more.

Specific attractions include: the National Museum of the Pacific War, the Pioneer Museum Complex, Wildseed Farms, Fredericksburg Herb Farm, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Luckenbach, Rockbox Theater and other unique sites. Fredericksburg has over 70 restaurants and bakeries and over 150 shops.

For more information about activities, visit the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce website, www.fredericksburg-texas.com, or call 830-997-6523.

Also near Fredericksburg is the LBJ State Park & Historic Site, Hwy. 290 East, 199 State Park Road 52, Stonewall, TX 78671. More information about the Texas Parks and Wildlife facility is available at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/lbj or by calling 830-644-2252 .

Kerrville, located just 30 miles northwest of Boerne on I-10, also has a busy schedule of events.

Headquarters for learning about all there is to do there is the Visitors Center, 2108 Sidney Baker Dr., open seven days a week, or visit www.kerrvilletexascvb.com.

For information about more events and attractions, such as the headquarter of James Avery Craftsman and historic downtown Kerrville, visit www.kerrvilletexascvb.com.

That’s my granddaughter in the picture “Anna Katherine” ...the next generation… and she thinks Boerne’s just one big happy party.

Come join us in all that Boerne has to offer!

THIS HOUSE ROCKS!

-24- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Fall 2014

Helpful Telephone Numbers Emergency.........................................911 Crime Stoppers ..............1-800-348-LEAD Boerne: City Offices.......................... 830-249-9511 Boerne Police (non-emerg). 830-249-8645 Public Library .................... 830-249-3053 Swimming Pool . ................ 830-249-3969 Civic Center ........................ 830-249-2811 Visitors Bureau ................... 830-249-7277 Boerne ISD: Administration . .................. 830-357-2000 Boerne High School ......... 830-357-2200 Champion High School ..... 830-357-2600 Middle School North . ........ 830-357-3100 Middle School South ......... 830-357-3300 Curington Elementary ....... 830-357-4000 Fabra Elementary ............... 830-357-4200 Fair Oaks Ranch Elem ....... 830-357-4800 Kendall Elementary ........... 830-357-4600 Cibolo Creek Elementary.... 830-357-4400 Comfort ISD: Administration . ................... 830-995-6400 Comfort High School .......... 830-995-6430 Middle School . ................... 830-995-6420 Elementary School ............. 830-995-6410 Fair Oaks Ranch: City Offices......................... 210-698-0900 Police Department ............. 210-698-0990 Kendall County: County offices ................... 830-249-9343 Sheriff office ...................... 830-249-9721 EMS Office ........................ 830-249-3721 Extension Agent ................ 830-249-9343 Justice of the Peace offices: Precinct 1 .......................... 830-249-9343 Precinct 2 ........................... 830-249-8404 Precinct 3 .......................... 830-249-2820 Precinct 4 (Comfort) ........... 830-995-2031 Drivers’ License office ........ 830-249-6335 Utilities: Bandera Electric Coop ...... 866-226-3372 Boerne (elec, gas, water)... 830-249-9511 Central Texas Coop ............ 830-997-2126 Lone Star Gas ................... 830-997-2177 Pedernales Electric Coop . . 830-868-7155 SA City Public Service ...... 210-353-2222 Other: The Boerne Star ................. 830-249-2441 Chamber of Commerce ..... 830-249-8000 Hill Country Family Srvs . ... 830-249-8643 Bus Station ......................... 830-249-3233 Post Office ......................... 830-249-2414 Kendall Appraisal District..... 830-249-8012 Boerne Methodist ER.......... 830-331-3000

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

-25-

Kendall County by the numbers:

Stay informed: Attend meetings

• Population, 2013 estimate - 37,766 • Housing units, 2013 - 14,671 • Persons per household - 2.60 • Median value occupied housing units - $272,800 • Median household income 2008-2012 - $71,553 • Mean travel time to work (minutes) - 26.7 • Land area in square miles - 662.5 • Mean elevation - 1500 feet • Boerne population, 2013 estimate - 12,384 • Boerne households - 4,498

• Boerne City Council

Source: United States Census Bureau

State, federal representation:

• 21st U.S. Congressional District • 25th Texas Senatorial District • 73rd Texas House District • 216th Judicial District

7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays, Municipal Courtroom, 124 Old San Antonio Road

• Kendall County Commissioners 9 a.m. second and fourth Mon­day, Kendall County Courthouse, 204 E. San Antonio, Boerne • BOERNE ISD TRUSTEES

6:30 p.m. third Monday, BISD boardroom, 123 W. Johns Road, Boerne

• COMFORT ISD TRUSTEES 7 p.m. second Monday in the board offices 327 High St., Comfort • COW CREEK GROUNDWATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT second Monday at the Kendall County Courthouse, 204 E. San Antonio, Boerne

Messiah Lutheran Church The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS)

We invite you to join us for Worship celebrating God’s faithfulness.

Sunday Worship 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Adult and Children’s Bible Studies 9:15 a.m.

Monday Worship Mondays at 7:00 p.m. following the 2nd and 4th Sundays “Messiah Kids” Preschool Secure, Christian, learning environment for children aged 2 1/2 years old thru 5 years old. Pre-K with degreed teachers, planned curriculum, low ratios and state licensed.

Associate Pastor Aaron Goeke

Pastor Richard Pfaff

9401 Dietz Elkhorn, Boerne, Tx 78015 (Near IH 10 & Fair Oaks) (830) 755-4300 • (830) 981-8034 • www.messiahboerne.org

-26- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Fall 2014

Boerne welcomes new residents, tourists

B

oerne is a unique city located where South Texas meets the Texas Hill Country - the ‘Gateway to the Hills.’ The city is nestled in the Hill Country approximately 22 miles northwest of San Antonio, Texas and can be accessed from Interstate 10 West using exits 543, 542, 541, or 540.

Tourists visit Boerne year-round, the residential population continues to grow, and business development is expanding. Visitors and residents alike are inspired by the natural surroundings. Meander through charming downtown Boerne and visit the gazebo and water feature at Main Plaza. Enjoy shopping and dining throughout our historic district, spend the day golfing at area golf resorts or hiking our hike and bike trail.

Boerne, the county seat and largest community of Kendall County, was incorporated in 1909. The city government, headed by a mayor, five city councilmen and a city manager, is forward thinking, yet fiscally conservative. Citizens benefit from a low tax rate and full utility services provided by city-owned systems.

Boerne was one of the first cities in South Texas to provide curbside recycling for all of its residents. To maintain the historical beauty of the community, the

city has enacted landscape ordinances and has defined a downtown historical district to maintain the architectural heritage of the area.

Fire protection is provided by a fire department, which, is highly trained and equipped with state-of-the-art fire-fighting equipment.

Emergency medical services are provided by the Kendall County EMS, another group of highly qualified personnel. The city police department has full-time officers who pride themselves on knowing the citizens, while welcoming visitors.

The city maintains a parks system that is unique and citizen-oriented, ranging from sports facilities and a city lake to small plazas and a hike and bike trail network. The city also offers year-round recreational programs. Leagues are offered on an annual basis. Additionally, youth activities such as swim lessons, swim team, Punt, Pass and Kick competition, track and field team, tennis camps, tennis lessons and tournaments are annual programs. A Civic Center offers amenities for meetings large and small with a centrally located, spacious two-story facility with ample parking.

More information is available at www.ci.boerne. tx.us.

Residential & Commercial

Residential & Commercial Roofing NEW ROOFS  RE-ROOFS • Shingle, Metal, Tile, Wood Shake, Single-Ply • Standing Seam Roof Specialists • Lifetime Transferable Warranty on Standing Seam Roofs • Insured for your Protection • Manufacturer and Workmanship Warranties • Free Estimates • Insurance Claims Welcome

Quality Roofing has been installing roofs in the San Antonio and Hill Country areas since 1991 and is owned and operated by the original owner and family.

Residential & Commercial Roofing 830-816-8230 Toll Free 888-816-8230 NEWCibolo ROOFS  RE-ROOFS 5 Upper Creek Road, Boerne www.qualityroofingtx.com

• Shingle, Metal, Tile, Wood Shake, Single-Ply • Standing Seam Roof Specialists • Lifetime Transferable Warranty on Standing Seam Roofs • Insured for your Protection • Manufacturer and Workmanship Warranties • Free Estimates • Insurance Claims Welcome

Quality Roofing has been installing roofs in the San Antonio and Hill Country areas since 1991 and is owned and operated by the original owner and family.

830-816-8230

Toll Free 888-816-8230 5 Upper Cibolo Creek Road, Boerne www.qualityroofingtx.com

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

-27-

Boerne rated top place to live

I

n the past year, Family Circle Magazine rated Boerne as one of the top 10 family-friendly towns in the nation.

As if that weren’t complimentary recognition enough, Livability. com — which explores what makes small to mid-sized cities great places to live, work and visit, examined issues related to livability such cultural amenities, transportation, urban planning, sustainability and walking distance within the town — named Boerne in its top-10 list out of a pool of over 500 contenders.

Parks and trails While visitors to Boerne justifiably find their attention focused on Main Street and all of the town’s many fun and interesting central activities, Kendall County also has much to offer those who wish to enjoy the benefits of many outdoor activities.

More centrally convenient is the City’s new trail system. These trails connect the town’s compass points, encouraging walking and bike riding throughout much of the area’s core.

The most prominent of these paths is the Cibolo Trail which meanders through Boerne’s city center tracing the route of Cibolo Creek. While periodic civic celebrations and events

River Road Park are held along the Cibolo Trail, each day one will find families enjoying picnics, taking pictures and feeding ducks. Fishermen can frequently be seen along the waterway’s banks as well, trying their luck at a catch or two.

City Parks and Trails Extending to the northwest from Boerne’s established city park where the town’s soccer fields, tennis courts and public swimming pool are located — is the historic Old No. 9 Trail — the route once traced by train tracks that brought tourists to area to enjoy healthful air and waters of the Hill Country. Curry Creek Trail provides a walking pathway on the city’s north where the Northside Neighborhood Park and the Northside Community Park and Skate Park are located.

The Boerne Skate Park is a facility dedicated to the town’s many boarding aficionados.

Surrounded by beautiful fields and quiet tree groves, this park enjoys enthusiastic use by kids of all ages as a one of a kind streetscape plaza style park.

In a prominent location alongside Interstate 10, Boerne has ample space for baseball enthusiasts as well. Northrup Park is a complex of 11 playing fields that sprawl across Continued on Page 30

At the foothills of the Texas Hill Country, the newest community in Fair Oaks Ranch.

Front Gate, the perfect setting for your family is a gated community of 173 acres conveniently located off IH-10.

Filled with amenities, it feels as much like a resort as a city and includes access to golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, walking and biking trails, a country club and numerous nearby shops and restaurants. Four builders were carefully chosen to participate in Front Gate. With homes ranging from the low $300s to the $500s, they share a desire to ensure families enjoy all of Front Gate for years to come.

Where your history begins Model Homes now open. FrontGateFairOaksRanch.com

A II R O A K S FA A TT F A

RANC H H

-28- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Fall 2014

Boerne’s Hill Country Mile

Y

ou will be delighted when you stroll along this mile-long stretch of historic Main Street in Boerne. Put on your walking shoes and delight in the meandering paths along the banks of the Cibolo Creek in River Road Park, meticulously maintained historic properties, pocket parks, notable restaurants, and shopping as sophisticated as you can find in any big city.

The Texas-sized “Mile”, measuring 1.1 mile, is not just a measure of distance, it’s an evolving place and process to make and keep Boerne an extraordinary destination that both the community and visitors will think is the best place to be!

Downtown Historic District Boerne now has every kind of shop one could fancy-from high end boutiques to cool funky resale shops. There are galleries, jewelry,

leather, home decor, vintage items, clothing, accessories, gifts and so much more!

And then there’s the cuisine- we have great downtown restaurants!

South central Texas is a melting pot of cultures so you’ll find the tastiest of cuisines along the Hill Country Mile! From Tex-Mex to German, to Hill Country contemporary and Southern BBQ! Don’t miss the hometown bakery!

Downtown Boerne and the Hill Country Mile also hosts some of Boerne’s most exciting events of the year! Fall brings Key to the Hill Rod Run, Pre 49 Street Rods fill Main Street and Main Plaza for the biggest event of the year! Christmas is everyone’s favorite with Dickens on Main where costumed shopkeepers and horse drawn carriages bring old world Christmas alive! The Weihnachts Parade is the finale of this grand event!

River South Arts District South of

the Cibolo is where you will find a quieter Boerne, but some great places to shop, eat and relax just the same. South Boerne is home to some of the city’s most stunning historic buildings; St. Peter’s Catholic Church, built from limestone it was modeled after San Antonio’s Mission de la Purisma(1730) and measures 38 x 85 feet, 21 feet high with twin towers that rise 65 feet in the air, and sits upon a high hill that overlooks the city.

The Phillip Manor next door has seen many uses during its long history, but has been restored into a boutique hotel, pub and event center. And across the street with its two story triple columns and arched windows is the Victorian style Carstanjen House, or Mansion House. Veteran’s Park is also nearby along with the famous Kronkosky Tower - the best view in Boerne!

The Boerne Star...

Your Gateway to the Hill Country!

Subscribe Today!

941 N. School Street • 830-249-2441 Or order online at boernestar.com

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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From Page 27 more than 100 acres. For those who have other interests, the facility includes volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a covered basketball court and eating facilities.

Just a few moments drive further to the northwest is Boerne City Lake Park, where one of the city’s primary water sources flows, offering more than 100 acres of beautiful liquid refreshment and recreation. Out of the water, the large park area provides Frisbee golf, bird watching areas, a fishing pier, volleyball and a food pavilion.

County Parks Three county parks lie within just a few miles of Boerne’s central Main Street area.

The Joshua Springs Park & Preserve is the first of the county’s large and beautiful nature areas and a place where walkers and hikers can enjoy an extensive trail system as a way to experience the Hill Country in a peaceful, up-close-and-personal way. Birders are provided with many opportunities for sightings, including areas that are specifically dedicated to chimney swifts and bluebirds, while fishermen are welcome at the park’s ponds and waterways. The most developed of the county’s three parks, Joshua Springs offers pavilion and playground facilities, among many other amenities.

Just around the bend from Comfort, the James Kiehl River Bend is a 25-acre area of exceptional beauty and peace dedicated to a local veteran who died in Iraq.

Almost 2,000 feet of riverfront land allow visitors swimming, paddling and fishing access to the exceptional beauty of the Hill Country’s celebrated Guadalupe River.

Another lovely and quiet spot is the Kreutzberg Canyon Natural Area - more than 100 more acres of rolling • New • Pre-Owned • Refurbished • Gas/Electric • Golf • Hunting • Beach • Neighborhood Parts / Accessories for All Major Brands Full Service Department Authorized Club Car Dealer!

Fall 2014

countryside adjoining the Guadalupe. Left largely undeveloped, three miles of paths trace the river’s banks, while wildlife observation blinds allow visitors to stop and observe the natural world around them.

Guadalupe River State Park East of Boerne, just past the quaint hamlet of Bergheim, is the Guadalupe River State Park. Horse lovers have access to several miles of an equestrian trail system, and campers can pitch their tents on any of the multiple camping sites. Miles of water access allows enthusiasts to fish, paddle, swim and float, while a new Children’s Discovery Center allows children hands-on access to exhibits, themed discovery boxes and a backpack of tools that make exploring the park fun.

Cibolo Nature Center & Farm One of Boerne’s true natural gems, the Cibolo Nature Center was borne of the dreams of local citizens who wished to see natural habitat not only restored, but preserved in perpetuity. Since the 1980s, the CNC has continued to develop and grow both in size and in learning opportunities, celebrating the Hill Country land and natural resources as an important legacy.

With conservation as its primary focus, the CNC’s library and exhibits allow for learning, while its many trails allow visitors to explore a variety of ecosystems within a small area through which a beautiful, cypressbordered stretch of the Cibolo Creek runs.

One of Boerne’s most historic and beautiful structures, the Herff farmhouse and its surrounding property, was purchased recently as an extension of the Cibolo Nature Center. Something of a neighborhood gathering place, the Herff Farm land is the location of a community garden, a weekly farmers market and occasional, but exciting vintage baseball games that are played to the oompah sounds of the Boerne Village Band.

Our Family Welcomes You and Your Family!

First Baptist Church of Boerne

With friendly people, Christ-centered answers to life’s problems, and ministries for all ages, you will feel right at home.

Please come and worship with us!

Sunday Mornings

Blended Worship Service at 8:30 a.m.

Bible Studies for all ages at 9:50 a.m.

Contemporary Worship Service at 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Evenings High Point Worship 6:15 p.m.

Wednesday Evenings During the School Year Family Dinner at 5:00 p.m.

AWANA for Children at 6:30 p.m.

Bible Studies for parents at 6:30 p.m.

Ignite for Youth at 7:15 p.m.

22340 IH 35 (Exit 178) New Braunfels, Texas 78132

830-609-7600

Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:30pm • Sat 9am-1pm

golfcartsetc.com

*Tax, delivery and additional accessories not included

For more information on these and many other activities and ministries, please contact us at 830-249-2527 or online at www.fbcboerne.org Senior Pastor Mike Harkrider First Baptist Church • 631 South School Street • Boerne, Texas 78006

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

AT

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get-away steeped in history

The past reflected in a window of the Comfort Historical Museum, housed in a 1908 bank building

he survey laying out 301 town lots completed by Ernst Altgelt on Sept. 3, 1854 continues to outline the unique community of Comfort, nestled in a pastoral Hill Country valley just minutes from Boerne, Kerrville, Fredericksburg and San Antonio.

It’s a popular get-away with many top-quality bed and breakfast inns, RV parks, wineries, restaurants, antique and specialty shops and other attractions.

When Kerr County was separated from Bexar County in 1856, Comfort was the county seat. When Kendall County was formed in 1862 from parts of Kerr and Blanco Counties in answer to a petition from residents of Boerne and Sisterdale, Boerne became the Continued on Page 32

info@guarantytitleboerne.com

-32- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

From Page 31 county seat and Comfort remained part of Kendall county.

The town grew but it was never incorporated. Many of the original homes built by the pioneer settlers are still occupied by their descendants. Some are featured on the Heritage Foundation’s Tour of Homes.

Most of Comfort’s early settlers migrated from Germany during the German Revolution of 1848.

Comfort became a thriving center for trade and commerce, education and “Freethinkers,” followers of the “Freethinking Philosophy,” an antireligious movement generated by religious oppression in Germany. It was to be about 50 years before a church was established in Comfort.

The Comfort School District was the first formed in Kendall County. The first school building was constructed in 1856. As the community has grown, the Comfort ISD now

has enrollment of about 1,200 students in pre-kindergarten through high school. The school campuses have expanded and a new high school on Hwy. 87 near the football stadium serves as a hub of activity for the community.

Among the attractions downtown is the Comfort Public Library, located in the historic Arno Schwethelm Memorial Building at 701 High Street.

Formed in 1956 with a collection of 3,000 books from a community-wide book drive, the library was previously housed in various locations, including Zimmerman Studio, located in the Comfort Theater; Hunter’s Casa de Cazador, now called the Gast House Inn, or Meyer Bed and Breakfast; Stieler Motors, presently Comfort Cable Building; and eventually the �Old Bank Building in 1961. In 1981, on the 25th anniversary celebration of the library, the board of trustees accepted the gift of the Arno

Fall 2014

Schwethelm Memorial Building and the challenge of renovating the building for use as a library. In 2000 the building was renovated to accommodate growth and change. Today, the library’s updated collection of books, which includes an excellent selection of local history, is supplemented with online features and access.

The annual Taste of Comfort benefit for the library supported by local restaurants is among the community’s most popular events.

Today, civic, church and chamber events keep the community buzzing with activity. The town’s Fourth of July celebration is one of the biggest and oldest in the Hill Country – it began 10 months after the community was founded and has continued for more than 150 years.

An extremely active group of businesses support and coordinate annual antique shows, downtown shopping events, cultural activities and other programs year-round.

Thank you Kendall County for Once Again Voting Us

Best of the Best We appreciate your continued confidence in our company

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Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

-33-

Comfort events you won’t want to miss November 18

Girls Night Out Merchants in Comfort are giving women throughout the area a great excuse to get their holiday shopping done early during Girls Night Out on Tuesday, November 18.

Merchants throughout the historic district and along Highway 87 and Highway 27 will welcome shoppers with special holiday ambiance from 4 to 9 PM. Merchants will serve light refreshments and offer special door prizes throughout the evening. Holiday musical entertainment also will be featured.

Comfort merchants offer a variety of gift ideas from antiques and folk art to jewelry, clothing, furniture, and Texas-themed items, as well as many one-of-a-kind, locally made items.

November 29

2014 Christmas in Comfort Christmas in Comfort, one of the area’s most popular holiday events, will draw visitors to the Texas Hill Country for holiday shopping and family fun on Saturday, November 29, the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The event, which started with a handful of local residents manning a few booths in the historic district, now offers more than 125 art and craft vendors and a full day of holiday activities from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Comfort provides the perfect setting for a small town Christmas. With a population of 2,500 and a rich history, Comfort brims with character and charm. The star of the German-pioneered Texas Hill Country, Comfort has nearly 100 pre-1910 buildings within walking distance of the town center and a large part of Comfort has been designated a National Historic District. Amid this historic setting, Comfort offers great shopping, antiques, wineries, restaurants, and unique bed and breakfasts and other types of lodging.

Christmas In Comfort Schedule Saturday, November 29, 10 am - 9 pm 10 am - 4 pm ~ Vendor booths on High Street 10 am - 9 pm ~ Vendor booths on Seventh Street 10 am - 7pm ~ Live entertainment at corner of High & Seventh 10 am - 7pm ~ Food Court 11 am - 3pm ~ Visit with Santa 7 pm - Spectacular Lighted Night Parade

Weekly in Comfort

Fridays & Saturdays Comfort Public Library’s Backdoor Bookstore is open, selling gently used books and related items. Friday 1-5 pm, Saturday 1-3 pm. The Backdoor Bookstore is located on the corner of 7th & High Streets, with the entry on 7th Street. For more information call 830-995-2398 or visit www.comfort-library.txed.net.

Live Music In Comfort!

Guenter’s Biergarten Grill Hwy 473 at 6th Street, Comfort ~ (830) 995-5370 ~ www.thecomfortchef.com

The Cocky Rooster Bar 7 Hwy 87, Comfort ~ (830) 995-5109 ~ Cocky Rooster on Facebook Bending Branch Winery 142 Lindner Branch Trail, Comfort ~ www.bendingbranchwinery.com Singing Water Vineyards 316 Mill Dam Road, Comfort ~ www.singingwatervineyards.com

Thank You Boerne 1906✯2015 Double D Resturant 1004 Front Street, Comfort - (830) 995-2001

109 Years of proudly serving Boerne & Kendall County

Voted Best Gold: Pharmacy • Gold: Electronics SilvEr: Health Food • BronzE: Pet Store

Now Hiring • 249-6195

-34- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

A

Fall 2014

gricultural Heritage shines in museum

The Agricultural Heritage Museum is located in Boerne City Park on over five acres.

From tractors to butter churns to wagons, the Museum has something for everyone.

A blacksmith shop, woodworking shop, pioneer house, wagon house, main museum building and many outdoor exhibits showcase antique farm machinery and implements.

Antique farm machinery and tools years and younger, closed in Deceminclude a thresher machine, combines, ber and January. 830-537-5509. wagons, corn shellers, fruit juicers, plows, binders, and more.

Farming and ranching history come to life in displays and programs in the Big Red Barn, on the front porch and in the Blacksmith Shop.

The museum is open on Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and by appointment.

Admission is $5; free for kids age 12

Boerne’s oldest, continuous business Family owned and operated since 1882.

132 years of Compassionate Care.

Open 7 days a week 7 miles North of Boerne on IH-10 W Welfare Exit #533 830-537-4194 • popofamilyrestaurant.com Protection tailored to you

Serving all of your funeral and cremation needs.

111 Rosewood Ave. • Boerne (830) 249-2321 • www.Ebensberger-Fisher.com

Insuring Texas for over 25 years

Farm & Ranch Retail

Family owned and operated

Commercial Personal Lines

Professional staff

1002 E. Blanco | Boerne, Tx | 830.816.6601 | YatesInsurance.com

Winter Never Looked

SO HOT! 1595 S. Main, Ste. 123 • 830.249.0904 www.boerneparadisetan.com

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

From Page 12 businesses, a bag to collect your treats in and a raffle ticket to enter once you’ve visited all the stores.

Hill Country Optimists Antique Show Saturday, February 21 - 10:00am to Sunday, February 22, 2015 - 5:00pm Kendall County Fairgrounds 1307 River Road, Boerne.

Contact phone: (830) 995-3670 Browse over 60 exhibitor booths overflowing with the finest American antiques found in the market today.

Boerne Performing Arts - New Shanghai Circus Thursday, February 26 - 7:30pm to 10:00pm Champion High Auditorium 201 Charger Blvd, Boerne.

MICHAEL GLICK

Contact phone: (830) 331-9079 Direct from China, the troupe of The New Shanghai Circus features astonishing athletes that will defy gravity and execute breathtaking feats as they stretch the limits of human ability in this spellbinding show.

March

Boerne Performing Arts - 102 Years of Broadway Sunday, March 15 - 7:30pm to 10:00pm Champion High Auditorium 201 Charger Blvd., Boerne.

Contact phone: (830) 331-9079 102 Years of Broadway recreates the greatest moments from the finest shows of the century featuring the actual stars of shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, CATS, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Jekyll & Hyde.

Residential

Insurance and Financial Services Agent

FARMERS Thanks for your support Boerne and for voting us Best of the Best.

Amy Dutton Realtor

Best Insurance Company Best Insurance Agent 116 N. Plant • Boerne 78006 Bus: 830-816-9488 • Fax: 830-249-9077 farmersagent.com/mglick

-35-

210.279.6642

1002 River Rd, Suite 300 Boerne, TX 78006 Amy.Dutton@SothebysRealty.com

-36- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Fall 2014

Take a Driving Tour in the Hills

Make Boerne your headquarters for day trips through the countryside 30.4 Boerne City Lake - Kendall County’s only lake NORTH TOUR (right). Exit at Boerne business exit, take the frontage road.

(33 MILES) Start at north end of Main St. (Hwy. 87, northbound) at traffic light. Start mileage count here.

0.3 Kendall County EMS building (right) 0.4 (Turn right onto FM 1376) 3.4 Walnut Grove Road (left) 4.7 Remains of old Walnut Grove Resort Ranch still visible, one of Texas’ better known resorts in late 1890’s (left) 5.5 Peaceful Habitations Rose Gardens, 37 Seewald Rd. 7.6 Wasp Creek 7.9 Wasp Creek School - original part still present, but converted into residence (left) 11.0 Ottmar Von Behr’s Homestead - in National Register as Historical District 11.1 Guadalupe River 11.9 Intersection of FM 473 (right) 12.1 East Sister Creek 12.2 Sisterdale - First known as Zink’s Settlement, named for Nicholas Zink who settled in 1847 12.3 Sister Creek Winery (left) 12.5 Lohrbeer House* - Built in 1897 (left) 12.6 Old Dance Hall (left) 12.7 Old school house (right) 12.9 Cemetery (right) Turn left at intersection of FM 473. Dr. Kapp’s Hydropathic Clinic (entrance 12.7 miles on right). Sisterdale. On the National Register as an Historical District. West Sister Creek 15.9 Turn left on Waring-Sisterdale Road (no signs).

18.2 Guadalupe River 20.1 Mira Sol Girl Scout Camp owned by Alamo Area Council of Girl Scouts (left).

20.5 Waring - community created in 1888. First known as Windsor, later changed to Waringford and finally Waring.

Baptist Church, general store, post office, Waring school** makeup historic town. Just outside Waring is old Windsor Stage Stop, built in 1860s to accommodate overnight stagecoach travelers.

20.6 Railroad Depot (right) 22.7 Joshua Creek 23.9 Welfare - first known as Bon Ton. Like Waring Welfare was cut off with completion of Hwy. 87 and later IH-10, bypassing these small German settlements.

24.1 Railroad Depot (right) 24.1 Old Welfare School (left) 25.3 Nicolaus Zink Home* - built in 1868. Zink selected to lead group of German immigrants overseas to establish settlements on Texas Land Grant, buried in unmarked grave on this property.

26.2 Turn left 26.5 Nelson City - named for Nelson family farmers and ranchers, who operated automotive garage, filling station and lunch stand. Po-Po Restaurant built in 1929 first as dance hall.

27.0 Turn right off of IH-I0 frontage road - go under IH-10 overpass 27.5 Enter IH-10 30.2 Site of Andrew Jackson Potter’s Home (18681883). Potter, a Methodist minister for 30 years, traveled the Texas frontier, preaching in saloons, the only public buildings in the early settlements (left)

31.0 Take Boerne exit to Hwy. 87 32.0 Ernest/Walter Pfeiffer Home - in 1974 the Pfeiffers received Texas State Family Land Heritage Award for owning and operating same agricultural land for over 100 years 32.9 Traffic Light (Main Street).

EAST TOUR (45 MILES) Turn east off Main St. at the Cibolo Creek Bridge. Start your mileage count.

0.3 Cibolo Creek Dam - site of Boerne’s first business, the Dietert Saw and Grist Mill (right).

0.9 Agricultural Heritage Center - museum of antique farm equipment - Open Wednesday afternoons 1:30 to 4:30 pm and Sundays 1 to 4 pm (right).

0.9 Boerne City Park & Cibolo Nature Center (right).

1.1 Herff Park - home to Kendall County Fair on Labor Day weekend, Hill County Antique Show, South Texas Trade Fair, Oma’s Christmas Fair (right).

6.6 Pleasant Valley School - now used for Community Center (left).

7.2 Cecil Smith’s Polo Field - home of America’s most famous polo player and training site for polo ponies (right) 10.0 Bergheim General Store* - old general store (right) which has been in the same family since 1900, and O'Briens Restaurant (left) Optional Tour Continue on Hwy. 46 to Guadalupe River State Park (3.2 miles from Bergheim), a 1,900 acre park with campgrounds, nature trails and more.

11.0 Smith Cemetery - family-owned cemetery (right) 14.7 Old Schiller Post Office and site of first Bergheim General Store - located on Cielo Ranch.

15.0 Guadalupe River - old charcoal burners were active in this area.

19.1 Curry Creek.

21.0 Rawls Creek.

21.9 Kendalia* - town first known as Bech’s Flat, but later changed. Named after George Wilkins Kendall. Many historic buildings in Kendalia including Kendall Community Church,* Old Lawhon General Store, log cabin Elbel General Store, dance hall and Kendalia Library with historical marker for George Wilkins Kendall. Turn left on FM 473 (left) 25.8 Shepard’s Creek & schoolhouse.

26.9 Dry Creek.

28.0 Curry Creek.

29.3 FM 474 intersects (left) Turn here.

36.3 Guadalupe River.

37.2 Guadalupe River Ranch (left).

38.6 Kreutzberg Road (left).

Optional Tour (approximately 10 miles) Turn left on Kreutzberg Rd. Pass Kreutzberg Shooting Club and School which dates back almost 100 years. On top of hill behind shooting club building is large cross erected by Joseph V. Phillip in 1847, used as landmark for the area. Kreutzberg (German for Cross Mountain ) (left).

Alzafar Shrine Camp (left) and Cave Without a Name, one of Texas’ most beautiful caves (right) Return and continue on FM 474 to Boerne

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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GILLESPIE COUNTY

CO

AN BL CO TY

UN

NORTH SISTERDALE

EAST

COMFORT

KENDALIA

WARING

KERR COUNTY

WELFARE

Guadalupe River

NELSON CITY

TY

JOHNS RD

WEST ND

ER

AC

BERGHEIM

SOUTH

NORTH TOUR - 33 MILES TY

N

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XA

OU

BE

NT

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CO

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A

M

CASCADE CAVERNS

TAPATIO SPRINGS

BA

UN

BOERNE

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Guadalupe River, Sisterdale, Waring, Welfare, Nelson City

EAST TOUR - 45 MILES Bergheim, Kendalia Guadalupe River,

SOUTH TOUR - 9.5 MILES Cascade Caverns

WEST TOUR - 10.5 MILES Tapatio Springs

42.2 Malakopf Monument* - monument erected in memory of Dr. Ferdinand Ludwig Von Herff, well-known doctor in late 1800s (right) 43.4 Intersection of Adler Road (turn right).

43.9 Kendall County Law Enforcement Center (right).

44.1 Boerne Area Community Center - built in 1987.

44.2 Boerne Curington Elementary School - (left). Adler Rd. (will take you back to Main St.

WEST TOUR (10.5 MILES) Turn left off Main St. onto Johns Road (westbound).

Start mileage count.

0.2 Henry Fabra Elementary School - dedicated to Henry Fabra, descendant of early settlers (left).

0.2 Boerne Middle School North originally built in 1929 and served as Boerne High School until new high school was built in 1972.

0.3 Cibolo Creek.

0.5 Tusculum - first settlement in Boerne. Located behind Schwope’s Water Well Drilling Company. Settled in 1849 by German immigrants hoping to bring higher standard of living to the United States. Only one stone building remains today. (Not visible from John’s Road).

0.9 Lex Sanitarium*- Lex family home used as sanitarium from 1919 to 1939. Owned and operated by Emilie Lex

(Mrs. Adolph). Boarding house, also for people traveling long distance to visit friends and family members who were parents. Dr. John Francis Nooe, at one time Boerne’s favorite doctor, operated and cared for parents here. Still owned

by Lex family. (left - visible only from IH-10).

1.2 IH-l0 Overpass 5.2 Tapatio Springs Golf Resort Country Club - hotel conference center, golf, tennis, restaurant. Return to Main Street by way of John’s Road

SOUTH TOUR (9.5 MILES) Start tour on S. Main St. and Hwy. 46 (Bandera Hwy., southbound) intersection and drive south. Start mileage count here.

0.9 Enter frontage road of IH-10 (left).

2.1 Turn left on Cascade Caverns Rd., follow signs to Cascade Caverns 4.7 Cascade Caverns - 10-acre park, campground and cave. Cavern named for beautiful waterfall which plunges 90 feet.

Return to Main Street by way of Cascade Caverns Rd. * Denotes Texas Historical markers.

Compiled from Kendall County Historical Commission and Boerne Area Historical Preservation Society records.

-38- Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

Fall 2014

Walk Historic Boerne

It’s the best way to see Boerne’s notable homes & buildings up close Historic Scenic Driving And Walking Tour Of Boerne * Denotes building is a Texas Historic Landmark 1. MAIN PLAZA - A famous meeting place since the early days and often the site of festivals, fun.

2. YE KENDALL INN* - 128 W. BLANCO. Built as a home in 1859.

Later expanded as a hotel and stage stop.

3. DIENGER BUILDING* (1884) - 210 N. MAIN. Has been a grocery store, residence, restaurant and office.

Now home to the Boerne Public Library.

4. ST. HELENA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH* (1881) - 410 N. MAIN. Original church built on this site by English settlers; replaced with this lovely Gothic church in 1929.

5.

HAGEMANN-McGINNIS HOUSE (1890) - 508 N. MAIN. Originally three rooms and basement.

Interesting additions enhance early theme.

6. BESELER-HARZ HOUSE* (1905) - 518 N. MAIN. Built by Max Beseler as a home with locally quarried limestone. Note lovely curved porch.

7.

A.S. TOEPPERWEINWILCOX HOME (1894) - 612 N. MAIN. A.S. was "Ring Tail Rino,” a master craftsman. Note unusual spiral turret and porch.

7.

LEESCH-HARZ HOUSE (1907) - 712 N. MAIN. 1.5 Story Victorian-style house built by Henry Clemens for Louis Leesch, a decendant of early German settlers. Large, wraparound porch with pressed tin and gingerbread trim.

7a.

HISTORIC BOERNE CEMETERY (1867) - ADVOGT & SCHOOL STREETS. Many early pioneers are buried here including George Wilkins Kendall. The first burials were of a family scalped by the Indians. Well cared for by the city and the Boerne Cemetery Foundation.

8. FOOTE-HAWKINS HOUSE (1879) - 717 N. MAIN. Built by Avery Foote, an undertaker who died of smallpox. Note unusually steep roof and the two windows at staggered height.

9.

KUHFUSS-SCHWEPPE HOUSE (1865) - 512 N. MAIN. Built

by William Kuhfuss. Used as courthouse and clerk's office in early county days.

10. LUCKENBACH HOUSE (1860) - 265 N. MAIN. Originally a log cabin expanded on two levels. Recently restored.

11a. HISTORIC KENDALL COUNTY COURTHOUSE (1870) 204 E. SAN ANTONIO. Second oldest Texas courthouse in continuous use.

The front portion, designed by Alfred Giles was added in 1909. Renovated in 1999 for county use when the new courthouse was built.

11b. NEW KENDALL COUNTY COURTHOUSE (1999) - 210 E. SAN ANTONIO. New 42,000 sq. ft. building houses official county offices with stateof-the-art facilities.

12a.

KUHLMANN-KING HISTORICAL HOUSE* (1885) - 402 E. BLANCO. Built for Wm. Kuhlmann, a German immigrant and later owned

by Salina King from England. The house and kitchen are operated by the Historical Society and open Sundays 1 to 4 pm for tours.

12b. HENRY J. GRAHAM BUILDING* (1891) - 402 E. BLANCO. Originally a bank and has been moved several time with different uses. Now is a museum and open with the Kuhlmann-King House.

13a. BOERNE CITY HALL* (1910) - 402 E. BLANCO. Originally Boerne High School, designed by Alfred Giles. Now city offices and utilities building.

13b. OLD BOERNE PUBLIC SCHOOL* (1870) - 402 E. BLANCO. The first Boerne public school. Restored, now City Hall annex. Displays of old school memorabilia.

14. PHILLIP-MASSEY HOUSE* (1900) - 116 N. PLANT. Built by Julius Phillip and has stayed in the same family for 100 years. Unusual vertical clapboard construction.

15. FABRA SMOKEHOUSE* (1887) - 200 BLOCK S. MAIN.Was part of the Fabra Grocery and Butcher Shop. Incorporated into the architecture of the big building to preserve it.

16. OLD CITIZEN'S STATE BANK (1880) - 210 N. MAIN. Note architectural columns and arches, unusual for this area. Now used for commercial businesses.

17. THEIS HOUSE* (1858) - 100 BLOCK NEWTON. One of the oldest structures in town. Of rare palisades construction. Was home to the Theis family with blacksmith shop in front.

Restored by Ruby and Edgar Bergmann.

18.

WENDLER-HOUSTON HOUSE (1860) - 303 S. MAIN. Built

by Henry Wendler, a cabinet maker and early Boerne businessman.

19. KRAUSE BLDG AND ORT'S SALOON (1900) - 259 S. MAIN. Was residence for the Frank Krause family, a store and saloon. Now a part of Olde Towne and home to the Tall Pony.

19a. OLDE TOWNE - 265 S. MAIN. A collection of old, original historic buildings, including Alte Stadt Mall, now a shopping complex with quaint one-of-a-kind shops.

◆ Boerne Chamber of commerce - 126 E. Rose­wood. Be sure to stop in for the most current information.

20. SCHRADER-HARTMAN HOUSE (1890) - 115 E. JAMES. Has been in the same family since it was built. Note unusual porch and woodwork.

21.

LUCKENBACH-ASHER HOUSE (1894) - 118 E. JAMES. This house and the next door, LUCKENBACH-MITCHELL HOUSE, are two of the oldest German pioneer limestone homes in Boerne, built by Julius Luckenbach.

22. VOGT-CLEGG CABINS* (1876) - 221 S. PLANT. The only dogtrot type construction in town, these started as one log cabin and were expanded. Restored in excellent condition.

23. ebensberger-Fisher Funeral home (1882) - 111 rosewood. Oldest continuously operating business in Boerne. One of only two Art Deco buildings in town.

24. ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH (1929) - 217 E. ROSEWOOD. Original church dates to 1829 with this and other expansions.

Unique interior.

25. PAUL HOLEKAMP HOUSE (1906) - 507 E. JAMES. Pioneer family home. Excellent example of Victorian architecture, built by Ed Clemens of cream brick, rare in area.

26. CLEMENS/HEATH HOUSE (1909) - 608 E. THEISSEN. Built by Ed Clemens with rare cream brick. Note large, rounded porch.

27. DAVIS-KIDWELL HOUSE (1910) - 228 E. THEISSEN. Was in Davis family for many years. Was moved to 324 Hickman and restored to make way for church expansion.

28. KUTZER HOUSE* (1890) 208 E. THEISSEN. Has been greatly altered with added porch and room.

Now used as Methodist parsonage.

29. GOTTLIEB WEISS HOUSE (1887) - 106 E. THEISSEN. Mr. Weiss was a German pioneer blacksmith with his shop in the back. Was in the same family for over 100 years. Now commercial.

30. JOE VOGT BUILDING (1912) - 401 S. MAIN. Originally a grocery and dry goods store. Now a bakery.

31. PEACH TREE COUNTRY KITCHEN (1900) - 448 S. MAIN. Note this is one of three Victorian house built in a row by Ed Clemens. All had picket fences, some of which have been restored.

32. VOGT-RICHTER HOUSE (1914) - 124 PECAN. Another Ed Clemens house with Victorian porch and columns. Note trees, unusual for

Fall 2014 Gateway to the Texas Hill Country A Guide for Visitors & Newcomers

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7a 8

7 6 5

9 4

14 10 2 1

3

12

13

11

24 23 22 15 ◆ 25 16 19 27 26 17 20 21 36 18 29 28 34 35 30 32 33 31 48 38 43 39 47 46 45 40 42 41 44

37a Samuel V. Champion High School

37b

the area.

33. BELL-URBAN HOUSE (1895) - 312 RIVER RD. This was moved in and little is known of origin.

Tastefully restored, it is now commercial.

34. DIETERT HOUSE (1850s) 604 RIVER RD. Early pioneer home of Wm. Dietert who had the first business in Boerne; a mill where the dam is located across the street.. Very interesting house and history. Now commercial.

35. EBENSBERGER-MURPHY HOUSE (1925) - 136 COTTONWOOD. A unique design for this area; made of hollow brick with white stucco cover.

36.

EBENSBERGERTHOMPSON HOUSE (1914) - 116 COTTONWOOD. An Ed Clemens house built for Pat Ebensberger before 136 Cottonwood was built.

37a.

AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE museum (1986) - on PARK RD. An out-growth of the 1986 Texas Sesquicentennial in Kendall County, it is a working museum that preserves examples of early farming & ranching. See blacksmith and carpentry shop, smokehouse and the pioneer house, built by volunteers on the property.

37b. CIBOLO nature center (1988) - S. CITY PARK RD. A 70-acre wilderness preserved the

way it looked to pioneers in 1840s; four distinct trails of marsh, prairie, cypress creek bottom and upland woods; gift shop and casts of Dinosaur tracks found in Boerne after flood of 1998.

38. PHILLIP MANOR (1860) 706 S. MAIN. Started as a house and grew into a hotel. Note winding staircase and antiques inside.

39. KIDWELL HOUSE (1879) 714 S. MAIN. Was originally a grocery store and renovated in 1950 as a residence. Note rough limestone exterior.

40. ST. PETER THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC CHURCHES - The little church on the right was built in 1866 by George W. Kendall for his French wife.* The 1923 church was enlarged after saving most of the original structure which was built by parishioners with rocks from their ranches; designed after Mission Concepción in San Antonio.

41. KRONKOSKY TOWER (1911) - HIGHLAND DR. Built by Albert Kronkosky as part of his estate, now the property of the Benedictine Sisters. The best view in town.

42. BENEDICTINE CONVENT (1933) - On Highland Drive property.

Served as the Mother house for many years; a school, St. Albert’s Hall is operated by nuns who have made pool facilities available to senior citizens.

43. SCHWARZ-OPPERMANN

HOUSE (1860) - 911 S. MAIN. Early family home in the “Sunday House” style with outside stairs. Has been restored and used as a bed and breakfast.

44. DAVIS PIONEER HOME (1860) - 103 KRONKOSKY. “Sunday House” restored by Harry Davis family.

45.

AMMANN-DAVISNICCUM HOUSE (1905) - 207 S. LANDA. Restored by the Niccums to its original exterior. Note unusual side door on right.

46. VETERAN’S PARK (1923) Monument erected by the Graham family to honor all local men who died in military action defending the United States. Sculpture representing the different services was later done by J Hester, local artist.

47. CARSTANJEN HOMEEL chaparrAl (1872) - 705 S. MAIN. Also known as the Hall Mansion, it was once used as an annex to Phillip Manor Hotel in the early days. Now a restaurant.

48. ROBERT E. LEE HOUSE* (1860) - 525 S. MAIN. It is said that General Lee stayed here on his way to Ft. Sam Houston from Camp Verde. It was part of the O’Grady Inn, operating before the Civil War. Compiled by Colonel Bettie Edmonds 1999

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