European Settlement in Texas

Late 19th - Early 20th Century

From New Braunfels to Bernie, a number of towns in Texas can draw their origins to 19th-century German settlers. Described as a wedge of European culture driven through the heart of Texas, these settlements, though dominated by German settlers, also attracted their Czech and Austrian neighbors. A major source of inspiration for immigration to Texas was the promise of religious freedom. In Austria-Hungary, persecution of protestants was frequent as the Empire had close ties with the Vatican. In Texas, people would be free to pursue their religious ideals with fervor. Additionally, after serving as second-class citizens and being forced to speak the language of the ruling culture and abide by its values, the Bohemian, Moravian, and Silesian immigrants to Texas found a chance to allow their culture, religion, and language to flourish. Despite their complex and interconnected history, the Central European immigrants found their cultures to be much closer to one another than to those of the Americans, Mexicans, Tejanos, and Spaniards that they would encounter. Tending to stay within close proximity of each other, they formed the backbone of many Texan communities today.