Castroville 2022 Vistors Guide

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YGUIDER to Castroville
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the Little Alsace of Texas

things to do history of the area

shopping

places to stay Castroville history restaurants
walking tour Steinbach Hus

4th of July parade

A Castroville Area Chamber of Commerce 2022 Publication 1844
Castroville Map pages 36-37

Sammy’s

Come in early for coffee & breakfast tacos made August Tschirhart bought this plot of land in hopes the
with our own flour tortillas, scratch biscuits, Tschirhart boys would start their own business here.
He lived to see his grandson, Leon, with help from
pancakes and eggs with Castroville sausage, ham brother Sammy, open a small Ice House in 1948.
or bacon. Don’t miss our hometown lunch specials After graduation in 1952, Sammy rented space
from Leon to sell hamburgers.
with vegetables. Eat light with our always-fresh
soups and salads. We’re known for our tasty In 1955 Sammy returned from two years of Army Service
enchiladas, fried shrimp, and juicy charbroiled in Korea and became a partner with Leon. (photo above)
steaks and hamburgers.
Call ahead for Food-To-Go! Sammy bought the business from Leon in 1958.
Full Bar with Beer & Cocktails available. Sammy’s offered curb service until 1969
Private rooms for large & small groups. and was always the gathering spot for the
younger generation after sports events.
202 Highway 90 East
It’s still the place to meet and eat!!
830-538-2204

www.sammysrestaurant.com

Open: Sunday-Thursday 6 am to 9 pm
Friday & Saturday 6 am to 10 pm

The Tschirhart family thanks you for your patronage.

Alsatian
Bakery

In 1940, Stanley Haby bought the bakery from The smell of fresh baked breads & pastries makes
John Gries. It was located on Fiorella St. everybody smile as they dart in for coffee & doughnuts
across from Zion Lutheran Church.
Stanley moved the bakery to its or a “take-to-the-office” breakfast box.
present location in 1959 (photo above). Favorites are Honeybuns, Apple Fritters,
Cinnamon Rolls, Stollen, Molasses Cookies,
In 1974, Sammy & Yvonne Tschirhart bought Apple Strudel, Pecan Pie, Italian Cream Cake,
the bakery from Stanley, remodeled it, French, Rye, Pumpernickel and Indian Health Bread.
and expanded the selection of items. With this selection you’ll want some for now,

The Tschirharts completed a major and some to take home for later.
expansion in 1983, which changed the
architecture to the European Alsatian style. CUSTOM WEDDING & SPECIAL OCCASION CAKES
A visit to the Bakery is a treat you will want to make a habit.

207 Highway 90 East

830-538-2118

www.habysbakery.com

Open: Monday-Saturday 5 am to 7 pm
Sundays 8 am to 3 pm

HILLSIDE TEXAS BISTRO

Nine convenient locations

Hondo (2) Castroville Lytle
Bandera LaCoste Uvalde
Blanco Leakey

Calendar of Events Clubs & Organizations 5

Please visit our website at www.castroville.com for more 4-H Clubs – Castroville, La Coste Friends of Castroville Animal Cntrl
information on these and other events. Send your email address to & Rio Medina Friends of Landmark Inn
[email protected] to sign up for weekly events and information Alsatian Dancers Friends of the Library
e-blasts. Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-anon, Friends of the Regional Park
EVERY MONTH Narc-anon Girl Scouts
• Chamber Director’s Meeting, 1st Monday American Legion 460 Go Medina: Medina County
• Chamber Member Luncheon, 1st Tues after 1st Mon Boy Scouts
• Lions Club 1st and 3rd Wednesday Cub Scouts Economic Development Foundation
• Live Music at Cora’s, Every Thursday – Spring & Summer Castro Colonies Heritage Asso. Hermann Sons School of Dance
• American Legion Dinner, 1st Friday Jan. to Oct. Castroville Area MV VFW Post 8134
• Free Community Day – fitwell every 3rd Saturday Chamber of Commerce MV Youth Baseball Association
JANUARY Castroville Area Economic MV Youth Basketball
• Chamber Banquet Development Council MV Youth Football Association
• Medina County Jr. Livestock Show Castroville Conservation Society MV Youth Soccer Association
FEBRUARY Castroville Line Dancers Medina Co. Historical Cmsn
• St. Louis School Pancake Breakfast Castroville Lions Club Medina County Quilters Guild
• Moye de-Gras, Sisters of the Divine Providence Castroville Nip & Tuck MV Moose Lodge
• Shop & Stroll in Downtown Castroville Castroville Quilters & Stitchers Steinbach Haus Committee-
MARCH Castroville Volunteer Fire Dept. Historic Tours
• St. Louis Society Wild Game Dinner Community Active Senior Srvcs St. Ann’s Society
• St. Louis Catholic School Casino Night St. Louis Society
• Chicken Run
APRIL Table of Contents
• Tour de Castroville
• CCHA-Casino Night Castroville Chamber of Commerce 6
• Alsatian Festival Castroville Profile 7
• Backyard Bluegrass Concert Things To Do / Places To Go 8
MAY Castroville Features - Castro Colonies Living History Center 10
• FCA 5K Run/Walk 4th of July Festivities 11
• St. Louis School Comet Open Shopping, Antiques & more 12
• Beer & Wine Fest Accommodations 1 8
• Schattenbol Teacher Appreciation RV Parks 18
JUNE Restaurants 22
• City Wide Yard Sale Event Locations 25
JULY Realtors 25
• 4th of July Picnic at Castroville State Bank Castroville Sites 26
• Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration Churches 28
• Shop & Stroll in Downtown Castroville Religion in Castroville 29
• Color Run Schools/Daycares 30
AUGUST Historic Personalities 32
• St. Louis Day Celebration Map of Castroville 36-37
• New Teacher Luncheon Walking Tour 38-56
SEPTEMBER Facts & Folklore 57
• Medina County Fair Clubs & Organizations 6 0
• Shop & Stroll in Downtown Castroville Special Interest 62
• Little Comets 5K St. Louis Day 66
OCTOBER Old Fashion Christmas 66
• 4H/FFA Booster Dance/Raffle Fundraiser Alsatian Festival 67
• MV Education Foundation Bunco Fundraiser Recipes 68
• Volksmarch
• Zion Lutheran Church Ham Dinner Castroville Area Chamber of Commerce
• Bethlehem Lutheran Church Sausage Supper
• Moye Heritage Day P.O. Box 572 • 1115 Angelo Street, Castroville, TX 78009
• St. Louis School Halloween Carnival (830) 538-3142 • [email protected] • www.castroville.com
• MV Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch
NOVEMBER 2022 VISITOR GUIDE
• City Wide Yard Sale
• Veteran’s Day Services Joan Boehme Tinar, JT Advertising & Graphics:
• Turkey Trot
DECEMBER Publication/Ad Coordination & Design, Production, Layout & Design,
• Old Fashion Christmas
• Schattenbol Old Fashion Barn Dance Photography, Business Information Gathering & Cover Design
• Candlelight Open House
• Shop & Stroll in Downtown Castroville Olivia Stone and Lucinda Mata:

Chamber Coordinators & Editing Assistance
Special Thanks to Priscilla Garrett for assistance with research and
edits to the Walking Tour; to Phil and Mary King for assisting with
the Feature Story on the museum; and to anyone else who supplied

information and photographs. Thank You All!
Cover Photo Information:

From top right: Paradise Canyon, Southern Creek Boutique, LMI, Hotel
Tarde, Cora’s 471 Grill, Joseph Courand House 1850: The House of
Funky Chunky Jewels

Volume 18 printed SUMMER 2022

6 CASTROVILLE AREA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

welcomes you to Castroville

WHO WE ARE fair features over 250 booths along with great entertainment
The Castroville Area Chamber of Commerce was organized and food. The Castroville Chamber of Commerce also hosts
in 1945 to help promote the agricultural, civic, commercial the Annual Beer and Wine Fest. Don’t miss this event which
and industrial advancement of the community. The Chamber features several great wines, beers, food and live auction.
promotes and contributes to civic betterment, encouraging The 4th of July parade stirs patriotic feelings, and it’s always
new business investments and continued patronage and exciting to see who will win prizes for the best floats. These
support of local businesses. We are here to promote and help events show folks how to have a good time, Castroville style!
not only our members, but the great community of Castroville.
We also serve as a Visitor and Tourist information center. The FINANCING
friendly Chamber office staff is always ready to help with The Chamber is financed through membership dues,
information about the area, whether you call or stop in for a contributions and annual events.
visit at 1115 Angelo Street at Hwy 90. We are open Monday to
Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. MEMBER BENEFITS
By joining the Castroville Area Chamber of Commerce, you
PROMOTING TOURISM can take advantage of many marketing and networking
The Chamber promotes tourism to Castroville through events, opportunities.
the community calendar, sending out tourist information
packets and hosting the Castroville.com website. We strive •Advertising in Chamber publications such as the
to attract visitors to the Castroville area and to local lodging, Membership Directory, Castroville Visitor’s Guide, Weekly
dining and retail establishments. We post local events in areas Eblasts and several others. Please check with the chamber to
such as the San Antonio Express News, www.mysa.com, Texas find out what your advertising opportunities are.
Events Magazine and other print and online publications. •Receive a web listing on the Chamber’s official
website, www.castroville.com. This can include a link to your
BUSINESS REFERRALS AND OPPORTUNITIES personal or business website. We currently average 5000 hits
Membership puts your business on the tip of our tongues! per month to the website.
Each year, the Castroville Area Chamber of Commerce •Display your business cards, brochures or other
receives thousands of inquiries regarding various products information at the Chamber Office.
and services provided in Medina County. As a member, you •Let us help you promote your upcoming event or
receive preference to these inquiries. Industry specific lists specials through our calendar of events online, weekly email
are distributed upon request such as lodging, restaurants, blasts and our Facebook page.
physicians, etc…Only Chamber members are on these lists. •Ribbon cuttings are offered to new businesses
Each member is also entitled to a direct mailing list free of including the Red Vest Committee.
charge each year. Additional lists can be purchased for $15. •Network with other business and community
Contact the Chamber for more information. members at our monthly luncheon, mixers sponsored by
local businesses and by becoming a member of one of our
EDUCATION committees.
The Chamber feels strongly about the importance of education •The Chamber serves as an advocate for the business
so each year we work in conjunction with local businesses to community regarding local, county and state issues.
provide scholarships to high school seniors. Since 2001, we
have helped provide over $150,000 in scholarships. We also Members will be kept up to date on the latest happenings
realize that much appreciation is needed for our wonderful and events in Castroville through our weekly e-mail blasts and
teachers, so we host a New Teacher Luncheon for all new facebook page. Members can also send us information to add
teachers at Medina Valley and St. Louis Schools. Lunch is to these outlets, which are sent to individuals in the area.
provided along with a shirt and goody bag. School employees
are also recognized through the “You Make a Difference” Each year, the Chamber hosts our annual banquet in which we
award, which is sponsored by local businesses and presented recognize important individuals in the community who have
at the monthly Chamber Luncheon. shown dedicated service and commitment to Castroville.

CHAMBER SPONSORED EVENTS
Every year is a busy one for the Chamber. We sponsor the highly
successful “Old Fashion Christmas” on the first Friday and
Saturday in December, which brings together local and area
residents with visitors from near and far. This arts and crafts

CCaassttrroovviillllee PPrrooffiliele 7

Population Transportation

CITY COUNTY MAJOR HIGHWAYS
• U.S. 90 -- Four-lane divided
3284 53,750
• Farm Roads 471, 1343, 4516
SEASON Climate AVG. HIGH AIRPORTS
Spring 83 • Castroville Municipal Airport
AVG. LOW
Summer 57 96 • San Antonio International Airport - 30 miles
Fall 83
70 Taxes 1.34419
Winter 58 67 .4312¢
Rainfall: Elevation: PROPERTY .5233¢
29 inches 41 • School Assessment/$100 .0911¢
Snowfall: 0 760 ft. • County Assessment/$100 .0896¢
• City Assessment/$100
Location • FM and Lateral Road Tax .009046¢
• Emergency Services District
DISTANCE TO MAJOR TEXAS CITIES • Ground Water Conservation 1.50%
RETAIL SALES TAX .50%
San Antonio 22 miles • City
• County 6.25%
Austin 105 miles • State

Beaumont 306 miles

Corpus Christi 167 miles

Dallas 300 miles

El Paso 550 miles

Fort Worth 290 miles Housing

Houston 220 miles Average Sales Price $360,000

Mexican Border 130 miles Average Apartment Rental $1025

Community Facilities Communications

CHURCHES– Major denominations are • One Weekly Newspaper

represented with over twelve places of worship • Television - commZoom

MEDICAL • Telephone Service: AT&T & commZoom
• Doctors – 15+
• Dentists – 8 • Internet Service – commZoom, AT&T
• Optometrist – 1 VTX1, Castroville Computers
• Chiropractors - 1
Utilities
County Emergency Medical Services and Helicopter
Service are available serving all of Medina County. ELECTRIC
• City of Castroville – Inside City Limits
HOTELS – 1 – 38 rooms • City Public Service – San Antonio –
BED & BREAKFASTS – 9
PUBLIC LIBRARY - 1 Outside City Limits
WATER
Education
• City of Castroville, Source: 5 Wells
SCHOOL GRADE STUDENTS SANITATION

LEVELS 5917 • Solid Waste: Waste Management
3,500 NATURAL GAS
PUBLIC – Medina Valley ISD:
612 • City of Castroville
Elementary 655
781
-Castroville Pre K - 5th 748
656
-LaCoste Pre K - 5th Recreational Facilities
755
-Potranco Pre K - 5th 916 Parks: Regional & State 2
1925
-Luckey Ranch Pre K - 5th Playgrounds 1
200+
-Ladera Pre K - 5th Lakes 1

Middle Schools Campgrounds & RV Parks 4-5

-Medina Valley 6th - 8th Baseball/Softball Fields 8

-Loma Alta 6th - 8th Golf Courses 2 - 36 Holes

High school (1) 9th - 12th Soccer Fields 4

PRIVATE Swimming Pool 1
St. Louis Catholic 3yrs - 5th

8 THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO

Tours of Historic Castroville Cross Hill
(830) 931-2262 816 Alsace St.
Enjoy a scenic walking tour by the many historic Alsatian style It is an old European custom for a village to proclaim its faith by
homes and buildings. Minimum of 15 persons per tour. Step-on erecting a cross in a prominent place, and the Alsatians brought the
tours available on your van or bus. Please schedule your tour two tradition with them when they came to the Medina Valley. Since
weeks in advance. See ad page 9 for more details. then it has been called Cross Hill and was used by the Catholics in
earlier times for pilgrimages and prayer petitions, such as Rogation
Days. Today you can walk a path up to Cross Hill to enjoy a beautiful
Historic Homes Walking Tour see pages 38-56 panoramic view of Castroville. See page 59 for more information on

The Steinbach Hus Cross Hill.

100 Karm St. • (830) 538-9838 Dziuk’s Meat Market
Museum hours: Wed-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-3pm, 608 Hwy 90 W • (830) 538-3082 • www.dziuks.com
Dziuk’s Meat Market has been serving the city of Castroville since
subject to change 1975 with their fresh cuts, delicious dried meats and processing
Come visit the Alsatian house originally built in Wahlbach, France needs. Enjoy good old-fashioned counter-service and friendly staff.
between 1618 and 1648. The house was relocated to Castroville in Stop by and check out their specialty products and processing items!
1998 and has made history ever since! See page 63 for more details.

Landmark Inn State Historic Site See page 14 for more information and ad.

402 Florence St. • (830) 931-2133 • www.visitlandmarkinn.com Haby’s Alsatian Bakery
Hours: Mon – Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 – 5 p.m. 202 Hwy 90 E • (830) 538-2118 • www.habysbakery.com
Museum, history gift store, tours, weekly and special programming, Hours: Mon-Sat 5am-7pm • Sun 8am-3pm
fishing, picnicking, trails, overnight historic accommodations with While you’re in town don’t miss this must stop which features
breakfast, and event rental spaces. Built by Cesar and Hannah delicious treats from Castroville’s famous Alsatian Bakery. They
Monod in 1849 as a roadside stand and tavern along the Old San specialize in homemade bread, pastries, cakes, pies & cookies (see
Antonio Road, Landmark Inn reopened in 1942 to serve the families inside cover). Also, come see a piece of painted Texan-Alsatian
of airmen training at bases in Hondo and San Antonio. The site tells history on the side of the bakery. The mural was created in 2000,
the story of settlement of diverse peoples, industrial growth, and by Alsatian Artist Patrice Hoff. See ad inside cover.
the important work of preserving buildings and language. For more
information, see ad on page 19 and story on page 21. Alsatian Golf Club
1339 CR 4516 • (830) 931-3100
Hours: M-Sun 7am-7pm • Closed on Thanksgiving & Christmas
St. Louis Catholic Church www.alsatiangolfclub.com
610 Madrid St • (830) 931-2826
The third permanent church to house the ever-growing St. Louis An 18 hole championship golf course featuring distance wedge
parish community, built between 1868 and 1870 under the game range, full size driving range, practice bunkers, three-level
organization of Father Peter Richard. The first stone church still putting green, and a pre-round putting green. A fully stocked pro
stands near Moye Retreat Center. Each August, St. Louis Catholic shop with the latest golf accessories and clothing. Enjoy a delicious
Church hosts the “Granddaddy of all Church Festivals,” St. Louis Day meal at Julianna’s after your round of golf. Come out and experience
(pg 66). For more historical information on the church see story on Alsatian Golf! See ad back cover.
page 40.
The Golf Club of Texas
13600 Briggs Ranch • Hwy 90 W at Hwy 211
Castroville Regional Park (210) 677-0027 • www.golfcluboftexas.com
816 Alsace St. • (830) 931-0033
www.castroville.com/regional_park Nestled in the rolling Texas Hill Country, The Golf Club of Texas Lee
Enjoy outdoor activities along the Medina River such as camping, Trevino Signature Course offers a private, relaxing golf experience.
swimming, hiking, tennis courts, sand volleyball and covered picnic Enjoy Hill Country casual elegance at the resort that Golf Digest calls
areas as well as the outdoor Amphitheatre. Tour the “Garden of the “Best kept secret in Texas” and awarded 5 stars as one of the
Roots,” a garden geographically formed in the shape of Alsace, “Best Places to Play in San Antonio.”
France. The park also features 40 complete pull-thru RV sites. For
more details, see story on page 26. Medina County Museum
2202 18th St. • Hondo, TX.
Tours by appointment are available.
Medina CountyMedina County Museum has over 2,000 items on display portraying
life in this area from frontier beginnings to more modern times.
Included are household goods, farming and ranching equipment,
Museuma caboose and other railroad-related items, the one-room Rothe
School House, and a rare 1913 steam engine which powered the
D’Hanis Brick and Tile factory for 74 years. The museum campus
includes the Southern Pacific Railroad Depot, built in 1893, around
which the railroad-dependent agrarian community grew. In 1970
the “Hondo Depot” was obtained by the Hondo Garden Club for $1,
Founded 1970 C2om2Sfapo0rluem2txheiHne1qcrunl8ouipPdtnmaehdsceinfoSoitcn,setdhr-eTreepodeooe,tmDxtb’asHu•ciaslhdPnoiins7o.glObhomaaa8aro..nin8mmT.ucoedkesv6B..-exbceo,ta1tuadofobosib-ludaoxt4Hg4io-ongksi9gppysiei,nt..t.a8momsdnrd.icacWOuanrpeltriedMeqnnnuaeteyrskeldoieatacreray-mirtnoitsohu1nrdn9u,od8aSn0onaa.ndttMueSrbduudesnabceydayuamamaynersdehfaaor(owurfmearinspmt1oaeislrrtieieo)tos(S4.srauyItptmuf.morrmder.caemeTyrosi)vaue11nrd00ys

OPEN by appointment can be arranged. Contact the Hondo Area Chamber
SUMMER: Sunday (1 - 4 pm) Tours available by appofinCtmomenmterce at 830-426-3037. See ad this page.

Wed-Sat (10 am - 4 pm) 830-741-2105
closed Mon-Tue

WINTER: Sunday (1 - 4 pm) &
Saturday (10 am - 4 pm)
closed weekdays

Medina Lake & Dam THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO 9
Approx. 8 miles north of Castroville
Take FM 471 N to FM 1283, turn left & continue 9 mi to Medina Dam Schattenbol at DeCock Farm
Visit the Bandera County Park at Medina Lake for fishing, boating, 2374 US Hwy 90 East• www.schattenbol.com
picnicking and water sports. Water skiers love the calm waters of
Medina Lake and its many coves. Boat ramps are located near the Thurs - Sat 5 pm - 11 pm
dam and public launching is available at the State Park. See page 57 Cornhole league on Thursdays. Farmer’s market 3rd Saturday of the
& 58 for more information. month. Check our calendar for live music schedule. See ad page 23.

Paradise Canyon Shooting Star Museum
2222 Country Road 2615 • Rio Medina, Texas 78066 5445 CR 5710 • Devine, Texas 78016 • (210) 386-6038
Museum hours: Sun. 1 pm – 5 pm or by appointment.
(830) 751-9911 • www.paradisecanyon.com Take a walk-through time at the Shooting Star Museum. The museum
For more than 50 years Paradise Canyon has offered a little piece of is dedicated to the preservation, perpetuation and exhibition of
Heaven on the Medina River. Bring your whole family, relax, swim, vintage aircraft, historical aviation items, antique automobiles and
picnic, camp, fish, laugh and enjoy. They offer overnight camping early 20th century farming equipment and gasoline engines. The
and feature a lodge and several cabins for your convenience. Open museum provides an educational opportunity for visitors with fully
7 days a week mid May to August and weekends March to mid operational exhibits. Some events held throughout the year include
May and September to October. Check event calendar for concert Military Uniform Display, Aviation Art Show, Christmas Toy Show and
schedule. All other times are by reservation. See ad pg 24. Bluebonnet Walk.

Rio Medina General Store Texas Hill Country Trail
3980 FM 471 N • Rio Medina, TX • (830) 538-2441 www.txhillcountrytrail.com
Castroville is part of the 19-county area along the Texas Hill Country
Hours: M-Sat 7am - 7pm, Sun 10am – 5pm Trail. This region embraces the rich history of its forefathers who
The past lives on in the Rio Medina General Store. Since its struggled to bring their traditions and culture to a new land. As a
origination in the early 1900s, it has been in continuous operation. participant in the trail region, Castroville participates in promoting
The store still remains the center of this small community. Groceries, Texas’ historic and cultural resources. This participation helps to
fresh and dry Alsatian sausage and parisa made locally, homemade increase visitation to Castroville and the other participating counties
sandwiches, cold old-timey sodas, hardware, farm and ranch and help to teach others about Texas’s history. Follow the Hill
supplies, antiques and collectibles and a full-service post office Country Trail through some of Texas’ most beautiful countrysides
make this a one-stop shopping experience just like when your filled with lakes and rivers, canyons and hills and so much more.
grandparents were kids.
Historic Tours
Graff 7A Ranch of Castroville
911 US Hwy 90 E • Hondo, TX • (830) 741-3968

Email: [email protected]
www.southtexasmaize.com

Y’all come enjoy a family adventure with food and fun for all…in
Hondo, Texas! Home of South Texas Maize weekends in the Fall.
Watch our calendar for Spring and Summer seasonal events in the
Dance Barn, too. Just a short country drive from San Antonio in the
heart of South Texas.

Unique Architecture
A Very Special Place to Visit

702 Florence • Castroville, TX 78009

830-931-2262

Call or Write for Tour Information & Prices.
Proceeds Benefit the Steinbach Hus.

10 FEATURE: JACOB BIRY HOUSE & 4TH OF JULY FESTIVITIES IN CASTROVILLE

Castro Colonies Living History Museum

Frederick Olmsted, in his journal stated the following, one side, the archeologist will have their exhibit showing
“Upon its bank stands Castroville - a village containing their findings during their four digs conducted on the
a colony of Alsatians, who are proud to call themselves property. On the second side, displays of antique tools will
Germans, but who speak French, or a mixture of French be displayed.
and German. The cottages are scattered prettily, and there The third phase will be the construction of the
are two churches - the whole aspect being as far from museum/archives building on the back of the property.
Texan as possible. It might sit for the portrait of one of The bathrooms, which is part of this phase are already
the poorer villages of the upper Rhone Valley.” A traveler completed. At this time, money is being collected to
would come across this scene if they traveled west of San complete the remainder of this building.
Antonio in the year 1853. Today most of these cottages, The construction renovation of the Biry house and
as Olmstead referred to them, are still there. The city’s completion of phase one of the complex was completed
architecture is totally unique in the United States. This in 2016. At that time, the design and construction of
fact was substantiated when a group of architects made the interpretive displays within the Living History Home
a historical survey in the 1930’s. The houses are recorded proceeded forward and were completed soon after
in the Library of Congress under the Historical American renovations were completed. The construction of a new
Building Survey, U.S. Dept. of Interior Archives. There are Museum/Archive Building at the rear of the property
96 historic structures still standing. They are all part of the will continue with the story of the colonists. Stories of
National Registry by virtue of being within the boundaries how they were affected by the Civil War, the Indians,
of the Castroville Historic District. the drought and disease are waiting to be told. Also, the
One of these homes belonged to Jean Jacques (Jacob) stories of their churches, traditions and their work will
Biry and has been left with very little addition and changes eventually be presented in this back building. The upper
through the years and is an excellent example of the floor will be the archives, where history and letters will be
original homes that the founding colonists built. saved and preserved.
The Castro Colonies Heritage Association, with the Hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays
help of the City of Castroville, have restored, developed from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
and are maintaining the Jean Jacque Biry Historic House,
located at 309 Paris Street in Castroville. The Biry house
restoration was the first phase of the Castro Colonies
Living History Center that is intended to present the
culture and history of the Castro Colonies of Castroville,
Quihi, Vandenburg and D’Hanis which were established in
Medina County, Texas during the time period of 1844 and
1847.
The second phase is to restore the existing historic
dogtrot cabin. At this writing, the cabin is ninety-five
percent finished and exhibits are soon to be installed. On

CASTROVILLE’S

OLD FASHIONED 4TH CELEBRATION!

(Closest Saturday to the 4th of July)

PARADE 9a-11a
Houston Square
Family Fun, Entertainment, Refreshments
Info: www.castroville.com

Shop & Shop, Eat & Stroll 11a-3p

Shop or visit our stores and restaurants and
Stroll earn chances to win great prizes!
thru Castroville Info: castroville.com

Cornhole Tournament 1p
Sand Volleyball Tournament 3p

Celebrate in the Park 6p-10p

Head to Castroville Regional Park for great food, music, fireworks & fun!

Fireworks Show 9:30-10p • Info: castrovilletx.gov

12 SHOPPING Antiques, Gifts & Shops

A TWO Z GRAPHICS
(830) 538-5105 • 416 Paris St.
Open Tues - Fri 10am – 6pm, Sat. 10am – 4pm closed Sun & Mon
Apparel, jewelry, hats, personalized items

ALSATIAN GOLF CLUB PRO SHOP
1339 CR 4516 • (830) 931-3100
Open 7 days a week 7am - 7pm, except Tues open 9am - 7pm
Golf apparel, accessories & supplies

CASTROVILLE CLOCK HUS
1416 Athens • (210) 627-1298
Tues & Fri 12pm - 6 pm, Sat 12pm - 3pm
Antique/vintage American & German clocks,

watches & collectibles

We are a Unique Boutique in the CASTROVILLE POTTERY GALLERY
heart of Castroville! 1215 Fiorella St. • (830) 538-9705

Five rooms to browse through, www.castrovillepottery.com
packed with great brands, Wed – Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun 1pm – 6pm
jewelry and accessories!
Pottery, pottery classes & studio
1211 Lorenzo • 830.538.5108
CURIOUS INTERESTS ANTIQUES
515 Madrid • (210) 863-6747 • [email protected]
Tue & Wed 10am - 3pm, Thurs-Sat 10am - 5pm Closed Sun

Antiques, vintage, coin op and the unusual

133 CR 4718 THE HOUSE OF FUNKY CHUNKY JEWELS BOUTIQUE
Castroville, TX 78009 1211 Lorenzo St. • (830) 538-5108 • funkychunkyjewelstexas.com

Store: 830-538-3451 Mon-Fri 10am - 6pm, Saturday, 10am - 5pm
Clothing, jewelry, accessories, antiques
Fax: 830-538-3453
LANDMARK INN STATE HISTORIC SITE
“We Tend To Texas” 402 Florence St. • (830) 931-2133

Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm & Sun 12 - 5pm
www.visitlandmarkinn.com

History books, reproductions, cooking items, postcards,
exclusive poppy and Alsatian items

Vintage, Curious MANGOLD GRAIN CO., INC
and Unusual 16112 South Front Street, LaCoste • (830) 985-3323
Antiques
Open M-F 7:30am - 5:30pm, Sat 7:30am - noon
Grain, feed, farm and ranch supplies; lawn, garden & pet supplies

MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS
1015 Hwy 90 West • (830) 355-2118
Open Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 2pm
Cosmetics, skincare, gifts and accessories

515 Madrid Street • Castroville, Texas 78009 O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
415 Hwy 90 East • (830) 355-3015
(210) 863-6747 Open Mon-Sat 7:30am - 9pm, Sun 8am - 8pm

RHONDA J’S SHOPPE SHOPPING 13
1201 Fiorella St. • (830) 538-5101 • rhondajdesigns.com
Mon-Thurs 10am - 5pm, Fri 9am - 6pm, Sat 9am - 5pm, TELLUS
Closed Sun 133 CR 4718 • (830) 538-3451 • www.TellusEquip.com
Retail clothing and Gift Emporium, candles, CHALK PAINT® Open Mon-Fri 7:30am - 5:30pm, Sat 7:30am - 12pm
Farm and ranch supplies and equipment, toys
THE RUSTY FLAME CANDLE COMPANY
405 Hwy. 90 • (210) 845-2663 • therustyflameco.com THIRTY-ONE GIFTS
Tues-Fri 10:30am - 5:30 pm, Saturday 9:30am - 3pm, Closed Sun www.mythirtyone.com/roxanz • [email protected]
Candles, home décor, clothing, accessories
TRACTOR SUPPLY
RIO MEDINA STORE 1800 Hwy 90 E • (830) 538-9398
3980 FM 471 N, Rio Medina, TX • (830) 538-2441 Open: Mon-Sat 8am - 9pm, Sun 9am - 7pm
Open: Mon-Sat 7am - 7pm, Sun 10am - 5pm Retail clothing, toys, hardware
General store, hardware, farm supplies
UNDER THE RAINBOW ANTIQUES & FURNISHINGS
SOUTH TEXAS HARDWARE 410 Paris Street • (830) 538-2323 (New Location TBA)
706 Hwy 90 W • (830) 538-3540 Mon-Sat 11am - 5:30pm, Sun 11:30am - 5:30pm
www.facebook.com/South-Texas-Hardware Antique furniture, glassware, collectibles and more
Mon-Sat 8am - 6pm, Sun 10am - 4pm
WALMART
1151 Hwy 90 West • (210) 385-8659

SOUTHERN CREEK BOUTIQUE
505 US Hwy 90 • (830) 538-5040
www.southerncreekboutique.com
Tues-Friday 10am - 6pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm
Clothing, jewelry, accessories and more

CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES, BAGS AND MORE!

Mon-Fri 10am - 6 pm
Sat 10am - 4pm

Southern Creek Boutique 505 US 90
@southerncreekboutique 830.538.5040
WWW.SOUTHERNCREEKBOUTIQUE.COM

14 SHOPPING Specializing In:

Meat Markets... Old Fashioned Counter Service, Alsatian
Sausage, Dried Meats, Specialty Sausages,
DZIUK’S MEAT MARKET Beef Jerky, Dried Sausage, Salami, Parisa.
608 Hwy 90 W • (830) 931-3082 or (830) 538-3082
[email protected] • www.dziuks.com ORDER ONLINE @ DZIUKS.COM
Open: Mon-Sat 8am - 6pm, Sun 10am - 4pm 830-538-3082 830-931-3082
Old fashioned counter service with homemade & local
specialties: Parisa, Alsatian sausage, dry sausage, jerky, Mon-Sat 8am to 6pm Sun. 10-4
pepper bacon and more! 608 Hwy 90 West, Castroville Texas

LACOSTE MEAT MARKET M ELAATCMO SATREK E T
15810 South Front Street • Lacoste, TX • (830) 762-3231
Open: Tues-Fri 9am - 6pm, Sat 8am - 5pm Old Fashioned Jerky, Fresh & Dry Sausage,
www.lacostemeatmarket.com Deer Processing
Market specialties: sausage, parisa, jerky, specialty cuts,
deer processing & summer BBQ March - October. www.lacostemeatmarket.com

Florists... (830) 762-3231

AHR’S FLOWER SHOP [email protected]
11760 FM 2790, LaCoste, TX • (830) 762-3223
Open: Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 9am- noon 15810 S. Front St.
Family owned & operated floral & gift shop with rentals P.O. Box 117 • La Coste, TX 78039
for events for 70 years! Est. 1952
Tues - Fri 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
BLOOMS AND BLOSSOMS FLORAL SHOPPE Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Closed Sunday & Monday
1015 Hwy 90 W • (830) 423-6932
www.bloomsblossomscastroville.com EXTENDED DEER SEASON HOURS
Open: Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 12pm
Flowers for all occasions, balloons, tropical plants, fruit
baskets, gifts & delivery services.

Liquor Stores...

JENN’S BEER, WINE & SPIRITS
1210 Madrid @ Hwy 90 • (830) 538-3366
www.jennsbws.com
Open: Mon-Sat 10am - 9pm
Liquor Stores, Frozen Drink Machines

15

1210 Madrid @ Hwy 90
Castroville, Tx 78009

830-538-3366

OPEN Mon-Sat 10 am to 9 pm 806 Hwy 90 West | Castroville

www.jennsbws.com 830-346-2949

**Drive-thru window** Frozen margaritas, daiquiris
& Cocktails to go

Country Village EstatesDEER CORN SOLD HERE
Beer, wine & Tobacco
CVoSiImscnaeae/,cMCkvsiaigs&satietrosrC,fcaCcaroisdgu/tarrDsroeeisvtcBtioeellvsee,erT’r,so/WbAnaMiencEewcXo&e,AsSLctoicqdecuapootsmre,!dmC5u4onnLsoittrtsuyrcetiaobdnyySDteaUcrteiInmpcgbtJeemarn2,u0oa2JMSr1Cdryenwe2irile0ctah2aHle2hN!coerfowektmHlcssoabemhoe&sedor!eatsnrsos das

• Amazing location with the only available

CouCnotruynVtirlylagVeilElasgtaeteEsstateshomesites within the City Limits of Historic
Castroville!

• Only 28 min. to downtown San Antonio –10 min. to

Come vCisCoiotmCmaeesvtvrioissviititllCeC’assnterwoevsiltleco’ssmnnmee5uw4wnLoeittssysretat1••bd6cHLyc0yaoD4ormgoeUeecmelmsompitzsebmt(semomr2v20eu00rou20¼1n-r3naw5eci0irtit0ehtH)ysNyqeo.fwtb.mbHyoyemUesU!ppttmmoorreeHHoommeess!!
•5h•Co4AoAmnmmLseoatsazrtizutisneicngsRtgiwloeo••ilncat“PohAadrScit”inicaytoRaettnhriwsaotewtiseniniCttdtaghhiwrtMtJythNiiaetnLenhdeimtuiohwnC5taniehat4orlsyeyhHVnoLiaag2oofsovlh0lHnmaett2r$iislyls2yua4etS!rboc0aecClr0tveihiacsoaoodinonlyalssbStDrlteueaccrhtteoiinmomgnbeJesSiarttaen2rsu0twa2inr1iytghw2Sini0uth2mth2Nme! eCewirtyH2L0oi2mm2iet!s
1485 Country Lane | Castroville, TX ••COaoOsfnntlrHyloyiv2si28ltleo8m!r•HmiincEi.lilCnctCola.eosdtcuottoinrcwodtrhnvyootiowSlmlwetneon!tnsoSh•etywaoA&lnemnmsSAeStinaunsatzccointclinuneoiAdogsen–w:lto1Foic0tanharmimitnoiionht–.noht1uoews0eiCtm,hiBtiyrtnhic.Lekti,mooni1tsl6y0oa4fvHaiislatobrleic
•16L0a4rge lot•EslUe(onctdvreiecr,rg1r¼oguaingcdhreui-)tsCilpiateiesesdtrionIncvtleiulrldenie!ntg Natural Gas,
123 Country Lane, Castroville, TX •• LHaorgmeelostsiz(eosve2r0¼00a-c3re5)00+• Osqn.flyt.28 min. to downtown San Antonio –10 min. to
•• H“Ao”mReastizeeds M20e0d0-i3n5a0V0aslqle.1fty.6S0c4hools

•• PErcicleecstsictahrtoinmtheeshtyiglhes$4in0c0•lsuLdaerg:eFalormtsh(oovueser ,¼Braicckre, )Hill Country Stone & Stucco
•• “UAn” dReatregdroMuenddinautVialiltleieysSicnhcolouldsing Natural Gas, Electric, 1 gig hi-speed Internet

H• Home sizes 2000-3500 sq.ft.

H• EillcCleocutinctrhyoSmteonsety&lesStiuncccluod•e:PFraicrmehsosutsaer,tBinrictkh,Ceohuignhtr$y4V00ilslage Estates
Country Lane
123 Country Lane, Castroville, TX • Underground utilities includ•in“gAN”aRtuaratel dGaMs,edina Valley Schools

Electric, 1 gig hi-speed Internet

Contact us to build your new home today!123 CHoCoumontenryotfaLtcahnetew2u,0wCs22awtsGotS.rUAo(bB2vpAui1ltliP0emla,d)rTao6dXyre9oeo6Huf-Hr2oo5nmm2eee2wss.hcooÕmmeWCat•H•EsotlUEirellodcncClvtderaoieiBclcTulrAty,eXigncN1Nr!tKorhyguoinSgmdtheouin-stseitlpyiCt&elieheeusSsdrtcHiiunhnIncw’ccstclleuuyorddn9eien0:tgFaNramtuhroaul sGea,sB,rick,

210.696.2522 | www.UptmoreHomes.com | [email protected]

Contact us to build your new home today!

INVESTMENT CENTER

at

Castroville State Bank 

New Name, Same Folks!

“Shop local for some great deals!”

Authorized Dealer

706 Hwy 90 West | 830.538.3540 | M-S 8-6 Sun 10-4

18 ACCOMMODATIONS LANDMARK INN STATE HISTORIC SITE (see ad next page)
402 Florence St. • (830) 931-2133 • www.visitlandmarkinn.com
BARBER’S HOUSE TX (see ad this page) Eight rooms, breakfast, free wifi
1516 Lorenzo • www.airbnb.com/h/barbershousetx
Updated charming farmhouse with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath PARADISE CANYON
2220 CR 2615, Rio Medina, TX 78066 • (210) 279-1416
CASA ARROYO • https://www.airbnb.com/h/casa-arroyo [email protected] • www.paradisecanyon.com
ARROYO STUDIO • Https://www.airbnb.com/h/arroyostudio Recreation, cabins, camping, swimming

THE CASTRO HOME, A HISTORIC RETREAT BEST WESTERN HONDO INN
1109 Fiorella • www.thecastrohome.com 301 Hwy 90 E, Hondo, TX • (830) 426-4466 • www.bestwestern.com
Rental accommodations coming soon
HONDO EXECUTIVE INN
CHATEAU CLAIRE BOUTIQUE BED & BREAKFAST 101A E 19th St., Hondo, TX 78861 • (830) 426-2535
909 22nd St., Hondo, TX 78861 • (830) 741-1320 www.booking.com/hotel/us/hondo-executive-inn
www.ChateauClaire.com
RV PARKS
THE RIVER HAUS (see ad next page)
1309 San Jacinto • (210) 415-5581 ALSATIAN RV RESORT
www.airbnb.com/h/the-river-haus-castroville For information and reservations call (830) 931-9190
www.alsatianresort.com
HABY SETTLEMENT GUEST HOUSE (see ad this page) Luxury 4 Star, Golf and deluxe cottages
9676 FM 2676, Rio Medina, TX • (830) 538-3911
[email protected] • www.habysettlementhouse.weebly.com CASTROVILLE REGIONAL PARK RV PARK
816 Alsace • (830) 931-0033
HILLSIDE BOUTIQUE HOTEL [email protected] • www.castroville.com
1651 Hwy 90 W • (830) 538-3200 RV Park with 40 pull-thru sites
[email protected] • www.hillsidetexas.com
HIDDEN VIEW RV PARK
HOTEL TARDE 1235 FM 471 N • (830) 931-5950 or (830) 931-5061
1310 Fiorella • (210) 625-2364
www.hoteltarde.com • [email protected] PARADISE CANYON
2 kings, 2 queen, 2 fulls, 18 person dining table, 2 formal rooms, 2220 CR 2615, Rio Medina, TX 78066 • (210) 279-1416
Full kitchen, Large outdoor area for events, Free Wifi [email protected] • www.paradisecanyon.com
Recreation, camping, swimming
BHarobuesre's 1516 Lorenzo Street
Castroville, Texas Haby Settlement Guest House
T
Updated Historic Farmhouse
2 bedroom/1 bath
1940’s Vintage Home Visit our website
www.HabySettlementHouse.weebly.com

830.538.3911

96766 FmMile2s6n7o6rt•hRoifoCMasedtrionvail,lTe exas

A short trip into solitude minutes away from Sea World,
historic Castroville, Medina Lake, golf courses,
local venues & the Texas Hill Country.
Accommodates up to 8 people.

Centrally located in downtown Castroville
Walking distance from local shops,
restaurants and event venues

Family friendly • No smoking • No pets

For Reservations:
www.airbnb.com/h/barbershousetx

River Haus Sophia
Arroyo
Historic Home Vacation Rental
PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERT
1309 San Jacinto • Castroville, Texas
Powerful Conversations
Built in 1844 and located on the Medina River Strategic Actions
Listed on the National Historic Registry Results
Sleeps 6 adults comfortably Personal & Executive Coaching Services
Full kitchen and washer dryer 619.867.4574
No smoking or pets
[email protected]
For reservations call 210-415-5581
www.FocusToDecide.com
Owners: Maurice and Lynn Tschirhart
Larry and Judy Tschirhart

MOS-Supanetn1120--55 Exhibits and Tours
History Tours

Fish, Picnic and Walk
along the Medina River

Historic Lodging

402 Florence St.
Castroville, TX 78009

Reservations: 830-931-2133

www.visitlandmarkinn.com
www.facebook.com/visitlandmarkinn

20 Chamber members featured here. Castroville Area

Barber’s House TX

Come stay in this quaint, updated 1940’s home located

in the heart of Castroville, TX! This charming, vintage home,

which we affectionately call the “Barber’s House” was built by

the town’s barber, Howard Tschirhart, in 1943.

Centrally located in downtown Castroville, the Barber’s 1516 Lorenzo
House is only a few blocks away from nearby local shops, Reservations: www.airbnb.com/h/barbershousetx
restaurants and event venues. Come for the peace and

quiet of a small town (about 30 minutes west of nearby San

Antonio), but stay for the rich history and culture this town has to offer.

This beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 1 bath house has the charm of a mid-century small town home. You will

find that the Barber’s House TX is the perfect place to stay to experience the culture of historic Castroville.

Chateau Claire Boutique Bed and Breakfast

This home was built in 1914, in Hondo, Texas, originally 909 22nd St., Hondo TX
designed by Sears, Roebuck and Co. This home gives you a glimpse For Reservations: www.chateauclaire.com
into what existed during the 1900s. The moment you walk in, you
feel the history and essence of it’s time. (830) 741-1320

The property is filled with light. It is elegant. It is airy. It is
effervescent. More than anything, it is warm and inviting. When
you walk into the space, you are inspired to keep dreaming, to
intentionally live your life, to take a deep breath and to disconnect
from life as you know it.

Here is where you will fill your moments with rest and seek
your highest good that you so desperately need to tend to.
Between the food, the drink and all the other lux details this place
has to offer, this space will be a moment to pause, to reset and
enlighten your soul.

Haby Settlement Guest House 9676 FM 2676• Rio Medina, Texas 78066
www.habysettlementhouse.weebly.com
Located approximately seven miles north of Castroville, For Reservations: (830) 538-3911
the Haby Settlement Guest House, built in 1891, is
surrounded by the countryside known as Haby Settlement,
settled by Alsatians in 1846.

The home retains its character with wood floors and
10 foot ceilings. Comfortably furnished with country and
antique furniture, it also has central air and heat.

Downstairs are five rooms – living, dining, kitchen with
screen porch, bedroom with queen bed and bathroom.
Upstairs are two bedrooms with three full-size beds.

The yard is spacious with shaded picnic table and
barbeque pit. A second bathroom is located in a rustic out-
building. Walk along a country road or relax in lawn chairs
enjoying views of old farmsteads, sunsets, deer and other
wildlife and gaze at the night sky.

Bed & Breakfasts 21

Hotel Tarde

Hotel Tardé was constructed in 1852 with the intent to host 1310 Fiorella Street • (210) 625-2364
travelers, and that it has certainly done throughout the course of [email protected]
history. New owners Josh and Pennie Robertson have reopened www.hoteltarde.com
this iconic building to share with the public. It is their hope that
decades of new memories will be added to the long list of stories
held within these walls. With five bedrooms (two Kings, two
Queens, two Fulls), a full kitchen, grand sitting room, intimate
sitting room, 18 person dinning room and a spacious backyard with
“Stonehenge” firepit, there is something for everyone. Guests have
full access to the entire house. Special pricing for military, longer
visits and hosting your own events.

Tranquility, peace and legends from the past await you and
your loved ones.

Landmark Inn State Historic Site

Owned and Operated by the Texas Historical Commission 402 East Florence Street
For information and reservations
Originally built to serve travelers and immigrants with a tavern,
commercial kitchen, stable and dining room, John and Rowena call (830) 931-2133
Vance bought the property in February 1853. The Vances added the
second floor hotel rooms about 1873 anticipating a proposed railroad
for Castroville. The “Vance House” later served as housing for mill
workers, long term apartments and the Lawler family, 1927-1958.
Today, the hotel features tiny hotel rooms (all under 300 square feet),
warm breakfasts, common gathering spaces on the veranda, patio
and parlor.

River Haus

The River Haus was built in 1844 by one of the original Henri

Castro colonists, Jean Ulrich Zuercher. He was a farmer and baker

from Upper Alsace, France. He and his family sailed from Amsterdam

in November 1843.

As one of the first settlers he received a “donation lot” from

Henri Castro in September 1844 so he began immediately building a

house on it. The house was built of batten board with the help of the

colonists communal labor. The house was completed by March 25,

1847. 1309 San Jacinto • (210) 415-5581
The original house consisted of two rooms with a half-story loft.

The original kitchen was located outdoors near the 30-foot hand-dug

rock lined well. A unique feature of the house is the back-to-back fireplaces with the hand-carved mantels that still exist

today. An indoor kitchen was eventually added across the back with stairs to the loft above the two main rooms replacing

the outside stairs. The kitchen was built from rubble rock that was stuccoed. In addition, deep silled windows and the

original cypress-shingled roof remain today. Additional restorations were done in 1993 by previous owners.

In 2010, the final restorations were completed by a local contractor including a large family room and full bath with

limestone flooring. The beautifully restored pioneer house is listed on the National Historic Registry. The current owners,

Larry and Judy Tschirhart and Maurice and Lynn Tschirhart are descendants of the original colonists.

22 RESTAURANTS CHURCHES CHICKEN
4 WAY STOP CAFE 915 US 90 ● (830) 346-5255
2271 Hwy 90 West (new location June 2022) • (830) 346-1610 Open Daily 10:30am - 10pm
[email protected]
Sun, Tues-Thurs 7am - 3pm • Fri, Sat 7am - 8pm CORA’S 471 GRILL (see ad next page)
2204 FM 471 N • (830) 931-9799
90 PROOF BAR & GRILL [email protected] • www.coras471grill.com
11880 W. US HWY 90, Ste. #110, San Antonio, TX 78245 Wed-Thurs 5pm - 9pm, Fri 5pm - 9pm
(210) 444-9990 Sat 11am - 9pm, Sun 11pm - 8pm
Friendly, veteran-owned, neighborhood bar & grill Established since 1932
Mexican, American & the best Nachos in Texas
ACADIANA CAFE
1289 SW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78227 • (210) 674-0019 DAIRY QUEEN
Open Daily 11am - 9 pm 1202 US Hwy 90 W • (830) 538-3141
Everyday 10am - 10pm • Wheelchair accessible
ANDREA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT Ice Cream Treats, Slush’s, Hamburgers, Sandwiches, French Fries
901 US-90 ● (830) 538-5005
DOMINO’S PIZZA
BEAN & BOBA LLC 703 Hwy 90 E #106 • (830) 538-3888
609 US-Hwy 90 • (830) 355-4596 Sun-Thurs 10am - 12am, Fri-Sat 10am – 1am
Mon-Fri 6am - 7pm, Sat-Sun 9am - 3pm Carryout or Delivery Only

BILL MILLER BAR B QUE DONUT PALACE
103 FM 471 N • (830) 538-2470 1102 Hwy 90 West • (830) 538-5065 • Open every day 4am - 1pm
Mon-Fri 6am - 8pm, Sat-Sun 7am - 8pm
DORN MICHELLE’S
BILLY BOB’S HAMBURGERS 3135 FM 471 N ● (210) 788-4017
1314 US-Hwy. 90 W • (830) 538-5025 Wed - Thurs 5pm - 9pm, Fri. - Sat. 11am - 9pm
Open 7 days a week 10am - 9pm
EL PORTAL (reopening soon)
BUSH’S CHICKEN 810 Hwy 90 W • (830) 538-5045
935 Hwy 90 East • (830) 538-2800 Sun-Thur 6am-10pm, Fri & Sat 6am-11pm
Everyday 10:30am - 10pm
Happy Hour drinks 8am - 10:30am, 2pm - 5pm EL RINCON
703 Hwy 90 E • (830) 538-5066 • Daily 6am - 10pm • Daily specials
CASTROVILLE CAFÉ
309 Lafayette • (830) 538-2400 FROZEN YO’S
[email protected] • www.castrovillecafe.net 703 US 90 #107 • (830) 538-5111
Mon-Sat 11am - 3pm, Sun 11am - 4pm, Mon-Thurs 12pm - 9pm • Fri, Sat & Sun 12pm - 10pm
Dinner Fri & Sat 5pm - 9pm
Sandwiches, soups, salads and more, private parties GOLDEN CHICK
415 US 90 E • (830) 355-4600
Coffee | Teas | Sandwiches | Baked Goods | Catering Sun-Thurs 10am - 10pm, Fri-Sat 10am - 11pm
Open Mon-Sat 7am to 7 pm • 1101 Fiorella Street • 830.538.5001
HABY’S ALSATIAN BAKERY
207 Hwy 90 E • (830) 538-2118 • www.habysbakery.com
Mon-Sat 5am - 7pm • Sun 8am - 3pm
A “must stop” while you’re in Castroville! Pastries, cookies,
cakes and don’t forget the Haby’s bread!

HERMANN SONS STEAKHOUSE
577 US Hwy 90 E, Hondo, TX • (830) 426-2220
www.hermannsonssteakhouse.com
Tues-Thurs 11am - 9pm, Fri & Sat 11am - 10pm, Sun 11am - 8pm
Specializing in steaks, seafood, chicken and more. Gift shop

HILLSIDE TEXAS BISTRO RESTAURANTS 23
1651 US Hwy 90 W • (830) 931-3260
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Wed - Sat 7am - 9pm, Sun 7am - 8pm SONIC DRIVE-IN
Sunday Brunch 11am - 2pm • Barrel Room Fri & Sat 5pm - 10pm 955 Hwy 90 • (830) 931-6363
Seasonally inspired dishes, including steaks, burgers, flatbreads Mon-Th 7am - 11pm, Fri 7am - 12am, Sat 8am - 12am, Sun 8am - 11pm

JULIANNA’S SUBWAY
1339 CR 4516 • (830) 538-6302 • juliannasuniquedining.com 201 Hwy 90 E • (830) 538-2244
Tues-Thurs 10am - 9pm, Fri-Sat 10am - 10pm, Everyday 9am - 9pm • Subs, Salads, & More!
Sun-Mon 10am - 4pm
Steaks, seafood, pastas, and salads; Eclectic beer & wine selection TAQUERIA SAN JUAN
1012 Hwy 90 W • (830) 931-2355
LARRY’S C & L FOOD SERVICE Mon-Sat 6:30am - 10pm, Sun 6am - 3pm
(830) 538-2865 • Catering Daily Specials, Mexican Food

LT MESQUITE BREW CO. WHATABURGER
3096 US 90 • (830) 351-8777 813 US-Hwy 90 E • (830) 355-2050 • Open 24 hours
Mon-Wed 10am - 6pm, Thurs-Sat 10am - 9pm
FOOD TRUCK (Chamber Members listed here)
LUIGIS ITALIAN RESTAURANT
1403 Angelo St. • 830-444-0462 • Tues-Sun 11am - 9pm VIERA’S EATS FOOD TRUCK
(210) 264-4652 •
MAGNOLIA FILLING STATION (see ad pg 22) www.facebook.com/Vieras-Eats-900006936845885/
1101 Fiorella St. • (830) 538-5001 • Mon-Sat 7am - 7pm

MCDONALD’S
801 Hwy 90 W • (830) 538-2000 • www.mcdonalds.com
Daily 6am - 8pm • Play place, drive-thru

PARIS STREET PO BOYS

SCHATTENBOL1302 Fiorella St • 830-355-8720

Tues-Fri 4pm - 9pm, Sat 11am - 2pm, Closed Sun

PIZZA HUT B E E R W I N E G A R D E N
945 Hwy 90 E • (830) 931-3901 E V E N T S R E N T A L S
Sun-Thurs 11am - 10:30pm, Fri-Sat 11am - 11pm
Noon Buffet: M-F 11:30am - 1:30pm @schattenbol 830.538.8231
schattenbol.com 2374 US Hwy 90 East
POP’S TEX-MEX & TREATS Castroville, TX 78009
1007 US-Hwy 90 W • (210) 947-5633
Mon-Fri 6am - 8pm, Sat 7am - 7pm, Closed Sunday

THE RUSTY NAIL - Bar and Grill
15122 Potranco Rd., Ste 105, San Antonio, TX 78245
(210) 254-9201 • www.therustynailsa.com

SAMMY’S RESTAURANT 830.931.9799 A family dining
202 Hwy 90 E • (830) 538-2204 • www.sammysrestaurant.com tradition since 1932
Sun-Thurs 6am - 9pm, Fri-Sat 6am – 10pm (Closed Tues temporarily) THE BEST NACHOS IN TEXAS!
Anytime is right for a plate of enchiladas, one of our great
steaks, some catfish or even a char-broiled hamburger 2204 FM 471 N • Castroville
www.coras471grill.com
SCHATTENBOL (see ad this page)
2374 US 90 E • (830)538-8231
Thurs, Fri & Sat 5pm - 11pm

24 HABY REALTY

Gnocaawmnitethryutohsuet FSCapRoremmecsimai&dleierRzncitnaiianagllcihn:

MATTHEW HABY FRANCIS HABY DENA BECK
Associate Broker • REALTOR® ABR REALTOR® ABR CRB, CRS,­­GRI REALTOR® ABR
New-Home Construction Professional
[email protected] Military Relocation Professional (MRP)
[email protected]
830-931-5219 CHERI HABY [email protected]
BROKER - REALTOR®
210-362-4313
[email protected]

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CHAMBER MEMBERS THIS PAGE: EVENT LOCATIONS & RE A LTO RS 25

EVENT LOCATIONS/VENUES Residential Small Acreage Commercial Farm & Ranch

ALSATIAN GOLF CLUB (see ad back cover)
1339 CR 4516 • (830) 931-3100
[email protected] • www.alsatiangolfclub.com

AMERICAN LEGION POST #460
1305 Fiorella Street • (830) 584-8403
[email protected]
facebook.com/americanlegionpost460

HERMANN SONS STEAKHOUSE YOUR LOCAL, TRUSTED, REAL ESTATE EXPERTS
577 US Hwy 90 E, Hondo, TX • (830) 426-2220
www.hermannsonssteakhouse.com

HILLSIDE BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA (see ad pg 3) 830.931.0900
1651 Highway 90 W • (830) 538-3200 1005 Hwy 90 W
[email protected] • www.thehotelalsace.com www.galmrealestate.net

LANDMARK INN STATE HISTORIC SITE (see ad page 19) Experienced Trusted Local Committed Knowledgeable
402 Florence St. • (830) 931-2133
www.visitlandmarkinn.com

PARADISE CANYON (see ad page 24) REALTORS/PROPERTY MANAGERS
2220 CR 2615 • (830) 751-9911 FRIO CREEK REALTY, LLC
[email protected] • www.paradisecanyon.com 2439 Hwy 90 W • (210) 449-5250
friocreekrealty.com
SCHATTENBOL AT DECOCK FARMS (see ad page 23) GALM REAL ESTATE (see ad this page)
2374 HWY 90 E • (830) 538-8231 1005 Hwy 90 W • (830) 931-0900
[email protected] • www.schattenbol.com [email protected] • www.galmrealestate.com
HABY REALTY (see ad page 24)
ST. LOUIS PARISH CENTERS 1008 Country Lane • (830) 931-2800
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& Koenig Park, 1700 San Jacinto HARZHEIM PROPERTIES
Call Rectory for Information (830) 931-2826 (830) 931-6300
[email protected] [email protected] • www.hardtrealty.com
KUPER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
210-288-1971 6606 N New Braunfels, San Antonio, Tx 78209
www.shannonbeasleyrealtor.com www.bryanpersyn.com
MARK MCDONALD REDBIRD REALTY
Each office is independently RIVER REGION 345 CR 355, Hondo, TX 78861 • (830) 426-6510
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PREMIER REALTY GROUP
P.O. Box 1238 • (210) 416- 7982
SHANNON REALTY GROUP (see ad this page)
1211 Hwy 90 W. • (210) 288-1971
[email protected]
www.ShannonBeasleyRealty.com

26 CASTROVILLE SITES

Castroville Regional Park........“A Boyhood Dream”

Castroville Regional Park is a beautiful 126 acre City- the south with water from Medina Lake. This unique gravity-
owned public park located in the southwest part of historic
Castroville. flow canal winds its way through the hills above the main

The park was originally part of the “McMullen Grant, a park, adjacent to the upper Nature Trail.
parcel of land granted by the Governor of Spain in 1766
to the Indians of Mission San Jose and conveyed to John Deer, foxes and other wildlife reside in these hills, together
McMullen.” It was later deeded to Henri Castro, founder of
our city, and the Society of the Colonization of Texas. In the with a documented list of 156 different birds. Casting its
late 1800s, the land came into the possession of the Gerhard
Ihnken Family, where it remained through the 1940s. shadow over it all is historic Mont Gentilz, locally known as

In 1950 it was purchased by Joe & Gertrude Hoog from “Cross Hill.” On a clear day, the Tower of Americas, about
the estate of Louisa Ihnken for $6,155. Mr. Hoog cleared the
land and planted it for grazing cattle and horses. He built 4 22 miles east, is visible from its crest.
small dams in the hills, which saved the pecan trees during
the drought of the 1950s, the same trees that now provide Park amenities include a swimming pool, 2 sand volleyball
shade for the park’s many visitors. Sometime between 1950
and 1968, this property and the property across the river courts, a tennis and basketball court, soccer fields, picnic
became a gravel pit. A low-water crossing through the river
connected them. In 1968, he sold the land to the City of tables with BBQ pits, covered pavilions for large groups,
Castroville, at a fraction of its worth, with the stipulation
that it be turned into a park. With this transaction, Mr. playgrounds, fishing in the river and bird watching. Swimming
Hoog began to fulfill a long-held dream that this historic and
picturesque property be enjoyed, not just by one owner, but in the river is at “your own risk.” For those who like to walk
by everyone in the area for generations to come.
or jog there is a marked one-mile granite trail in the lower
A grant from the federal government,
an allocation of city funds, plus the park, as well as approximately 4 miles of Hiking/Nature Trails
support of the Castroville Chamber of
Commerce, made Mr. Hoog’s dream a in the hills above the park. A recent improvement to the park
reality. The park was built, dedicated and
opened in 1974. The flagpole at the Park is the “Friends Amphitheater”, an open-air facility capable of
Office building is dedicated to Colonel
Larry Biediger, a local hero, who was killed hosting musical festivals, concerts, movies in the park, etc.
in Vietnam in 1967.
This “gift” to the City of Castroville by the “Friends of the
In 1997, the park became home to the
“Jardin des Racines,” or “Garden of Roots,” established as a Castroville Regional Park” was dedicated on May 21, 2011.
gesture of friendship by the people of Alsace. This “garden”
is planted in the lower end of the park and is shaped like a There is also a secured RV Park with 40 pull-thru, full
map of Alsace. This unique gift enhances the natural beauty
of this tranquil place, adding even more meaning to its service hookups, a recreation hall with kitchen facilities, a
historical significance.
laundry, heated shower house, a dump station and an on-site
There is also a cemetery in the park. It is the permanent
home of several members of the Renken family. Original host. For site availability and/or fee information for RV Park
rock walls protect tombstones dating to the 1870s. In 2008,
it was certified by the THC as a “Historic Texas Cemetery.” and tent camping sites, call 830-931-0033

Just beyond the Park Info Center are 2 Memorial Gardens. between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or email devin.
The one on the left is dedicated to the Hoogs and the
one on the right is dedicated to the Founders of the Park. [email protected] or visit
Interpretative panels in each are worth taking the time to
read. www.castrovilletx.gov.

The park is bordered on one side by the cypress-shaded For information about reserving a
Medina River and
on the other by the picnic area or pavilion, call 830-931-4070,
meandering Medina
Irrigation Canal, an Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or email briana.
historic waterway
constructed in 1912 [email protected]. Except on Easter
to provide farmers in
Weekend, Memorial Day, 4th of July and

Labor Day, there is no park entrance fee,

but there are nominal fees for use of picnic tables, pavilions,

camping sites and swimming pool.

In 2012 Castroville Regional Park hosted the first Tour de

Castroville walk, run and bike event. This has become an

annual event held in April and draws in participants from

all over the country. Also check out Boo Bash, a free family

event, hosted by the Friends of the Castroville Regional Park

on the last Saturday in October prior to Halloween.

Finally, plans are underway for the construction of

a Botanical Garden Trail that will begin at the existing

Butterfly Garden at the park entrance and meander down

to the Garden of Roots at the far end of the park. There

will be planted areas along the way that will provide visual

stimulation and unique educational opportunities.

For all this and more visit the City of Castroville web

site (www.castrovilletx.gov). Also check out the Castroville

Regional Park’s Visit soon.
Facebook page, which We have
has lots of great park it all!
photos as well as news

of upcoming events

and activities.

CASTROVILLE SITES 27

Library Hours:
Mon-Wed, 10am-6pm;

Thurs 12am-7pm
Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-4pm

802 London St.
Castroville, TX 78009

830-931-4095
Fax 830-931-9050

It is the mission of the Castroville Public Library to provide and promote open and equal access to the resources and services
of the library in order to meet the informational, educational, and cultural needs of our community. The library seeks to
encourage reading and the use of current technology for lifelong learning and the enhancement of an individual’s quality of
life. Founded in 1963 by the Home Demonstration Club, the Castroville public library was the first public library in Medina
County. Through community support and the dedication of staff and volunteers, the Library continues to deliver dynamic
services and programming. In addition to an excellent collection of physical reading materials, the library offers:

-wifi hotspots for checkout -DVDs & Blu-Rays -interlibrary loans
-ebooks and digital audiobooks (Overdrive) -vinyl records (new!) -TexShare databases (research, scholarly
-Mango Languages (language learning software/app) -public computers
-LinkedIn Learning (learn software and business skills) -24/7 wifi articles, test prep, and more)
-Texana, local history, and genealogy collection -book clubs -Great Courses discussion group
-perpetual book sale (proceeds benefit the Friends of -storytime -notary public services
-summer camps -printing, scanning, copying, and faxing
the Castroville Public Library)

To support the library, register for a library card. It’s free for City of Castroville and MVISD residents. Come visit the library
today to discover, create, read, and learn. Your journey to the past, present, and future begins at the Castroville Public Library.

APARTMENTS/MOBILE HOME PARKS “Quality service from the people
you know and trust”
COUNTRY VILLA APARTMENTS
211 Meadow Drive • (830) 538-2746 • www.countryvillaapts.com 802 Hwy 90 W • Castroville, TX 78009

LITTLE ALSACE APARTMENTS 830.931.1200 • fax 830.931.1300
P.O. Box 639 • [email protected]
Michelle A. Ingracia Sonya Toalson
MANSIONS AT BRIGGS RANCH
5565 Mansions Bluffs, San Antonio, Texas 78245 • (210) 369-9041 1510 Avenue M • Ste 101• Hondo, TX 78861
[email protected]
www.mansionsbriggsranch.com 830.741.4141 • fax 830.741.4142

VALLEY MOBILE HOMES (see ad this page) Linda Thurman Michelle Camacho
17612 Hwy 90 E • (830) 741-2141 • [email protected] Destiny Camacho
Manufactured Housing Parks and Residential Rentals

VALLEY MOBILE HOME
PROPERTIES

Rent Houses & Mobile Home Parks

Owned & Operated By The Gilliam Family

Near Beautiful Castroville, Texas

830-741-2141

28 CHURCHES New Fountain United Methodist Church

Calvary Community Church 2980 FM 2676, Hondo, TX • (830) 426-4219
www.newfountainumc.org • [email protected]
2097 CR 4516 • (210) 238-4960 • www.ccchurchtx.org
Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am • Wed Bible Study 7pm Pastor Steve Payton • Services: Sunday Worship 9am
Sunday School 10:15am, Youth Group Meetings
Senior Pastor: Terry Ballard
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church
Calvary Friendship Church
15825 Bexar St, LaCoste, TX • FM 471 South from Castroville
1609 Desert Candle, San Antonio, TX 78245 • (210) 722-8682 (830) 985-3357 • www.olglacostetexas.org
www.calvaryfriendship.org • [email protected]
Services: Saturday 5:30pm Sunday 8am & 10:30am
Pastor Mitch Cobb • Sunday Service 9:30am, Thurs Bible Study 6:30pm 12 noon Every Sunday MISSION CHURCH St. John Vianney
12703 Cinco De Mayo, Meadow Wood Acres Community.
Discover Church
Priest: Rev. Leo Sanggaria, cicm
15495 Hwy 90 E • (830) 582-4100
www.mydiscover.church • [email protected] St. Francis Chapel

Pastors: Matt & Ursula Gutierrez, David Barnes Medina Lake • CR 271, Mico, Texas
Sunday Services: English 9am and 11am, Spanish 1:30pm Saturday Mass all year round 7pm

First Baptist Church of Castroville

1408 Alsace Avenue • (830) 538-3220 St. Louis Catholic Church
www.fbccastroville.com • [email protected]
St. Louis Catholic Church Rectory & Office
SERVICES: Small Group/Bible Study 9:30am 610 Madrid • Castroville, TX 78009
Sunday Service 10:30am • Wednesday Worship Service 6:30pm
(830) 931-2826 • [email protected]
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF LA COSTE Facebook: St Louis Catholic Church Castroville TX
Priest: Rev. James Patrick Fischler, cicm
11885 W. FM 2790 S, La Coste, Texas • (830) 985-3667 Parochial Vicar: Fr. Emmanuel Mandona, cicm
www.firstbaptistlacostetx.com • Email: [email protected]
WE CELEBRATE THE EUCHARIST:
Pastor Cliff Harden • Services: Sunday All Ages 9:45am, Saturday Mass: 5:30pm
Morning 11am, Evening 6pm • Wednesday: Bible Study 6:30pm Sunday Masses: 8am, 10:30am, noon

Friends of Christ Church RELIGIOUS ED:
Pre K--8th: 9am Sundays
153 PR 3733 4.6 miles from 90 on 471 North • (210) 815-8757 High School--Wed at 7pm or Sun at 6pm
www.facebook.com/Friends-of-Christ-52183812799250 RCIA Classes--Wed 7pm-9pm
Pastor Alan Deardorff • [email protected]
Sunday: Early Prayer 9am, Sunday School 9:45am, THEOLOGY ON TAP once a month
Worship 10:45am • Bible Study Wed 7pm
Quihi Bethlehem Lutheran Church
The Jesus Church
3901 FM 2676, Hondo TX • (830) 426-4636
2035 Hwy 90 W • (830) 931-3085 www.facebook.com/quihibethlehemlutheran
www.thejesuschurch.cc • [email protected]
Pastor: Jeremiah Sibley • Services: Sunday 10am & 6pm [email protected]
Tuesday Bible Study 7:30pm • Wednesday Worship 7pm Sunday Services 10am • Sunday School 9am (Adult & kids)

Friday Youth Service 7pm Vista Community Church
Passionately Pentecostal; Absolutely Apostolic!
3159 FM 471 North • (210) 831-8632
Medina Valley United Methodist Church www.vistacommunity.org

“Good Neighbor’s, Pastor James Mendoza • Sunday Worship 10:30am
Loving Gods Creation”
Zion Lutheran Church, LCMC
1108 Country Lane (behind Church’s Chicken) • (830) 931-3533
www.medinavalleyumc.org • [email protected] 1106 Fiorella • (830) 538-6335
Pastor: Kevin Portwood [email protected]
Sunday Worship Service 10:30am • Communion 1st Sunday www.zion-castroville.org
Nursery and Children’s Church
Church Worship Schedule:
Worship - Sunday 10am
Christian Education
All Ages (Sept-May) - Sun 8:45am
Holy Communion celebrated every Sunday

RELIGION IN CASTROVILLE 29

Claude Dubuis ... First Priest in Castroville

The first pastor of St. Louis next to the cemetery, following a tradition common in
Catholic Church, Claude Marie the villages of France. For more than 100 years Cross
Dubuis, was assigned to the Hill was used by the parish for pilgrimages and prayer
parish in January of 1847 by petitions, such as rogation days, to pray for successful
the first Bishop of Texas, Jean crops of the farmers. The custom was discontinued in
Marie Odin. Dubuis, a native the 1950s.
of Teche, France, was born
March 8, 1817, educated in He set about building a new house with the help of
French seminaries, and his assistant, Father Matthew Chazelle. Both priests
ordained a priest January 1, 1844 in
Lyons, France. He was recruited as a contracted typhus fever and Father Chazelle
missionary to Texas by Bishop Odin succumbed to the fever in September of
and arrived at New Orleans in 1846. 1847. Chazelle was buried first in the
After studying a short while in garden of their home, but later
Missouri, he was sent to minister his remains were transferred to
to the Catholics in South Texas. the church. Father Emmanuel
When he arrived in Castroville, Domenech was sent to help
he found a very small log church and Dubuis.
a crude hut for his use. He immediately Besides Castroville, their
set to work getting acquainted with the pastoral duties included taking
language of the Alsatians. He opened a school care of the Catholics in Quihi,
teaching some 80 youngsters within the first year. He D’Hanis, Fredericksburg and New
developed the cemetery and placed a cross on the hill Braunfels. On their travels by

Est. 1852 horseback they often encountered local native
Indians but were never harmed. Father Domenech
1106 Fiorella later published a journal of his adventures in Texas
(830) 538-6335 and Mexico.
Rev. Greg Knippa, Pastor
www.zion-castroville.org In 1849 Father Dubuis and Domenech solicited
Sunday Worship 10 a.m. the help of the men of the parish to erect a more
Christian Education Sun 8:45am permanent and larger church, a block north of the
first church. Completed on Easter Sunday of 1850,
this church was used for several years before a second
permanent church was built just west of the first stone
church. That church was used for 20 years and later
razed when the present church was finished in 1870.

Dubuis left Castroville in 1852 and was assigned to San
Antonio and appointed vicar-general by Odin. He was
consecrated the second Bishop of Texas and first Bishop
of Galveston in 1862. He was a tireless worker, building
churches and promoting the Catholic faith throughout
South Texas. He recruited many sisters and priests
from Europe to serve in Texas, including the Sisters of
Divine Providence from St. Jean-de-Bassel near Nancy,
Alsace. He assisted them in building their first convent
in Castroville, today used as a retreat center. In 1868 he
assigned a Frenchman, Father Peter Richard, as pastor
for St. Louis Church. Dubuis returned often to his first
parish and laid the cornerstone for the third church. He
was well-loved and remembered in Castroville.

Dubuis returned to France in 1881 and died there in
1895.

30 SCHOOLS

Medina Valley Independent School District

“Proud of our past, dedicated to the present, committed to the future.”

MISSION consistently places in UIL academic and athletic
Medina Valley ISD is an outstanding school district competitions. Medina Valley ISD has received an
that is a top choice for educational excellence in “A” rating from the Texas Education Agency for
the San Antonio area. The mission statement of the three consecutive years and has received the “Post-
Medina Valley Independent School District is “Medina Secondary Readiness Distinction Designation” for
Valley Independent School District will provide its three consecutive years. For the 18-19 school year,
students with a superior and diverse education that MV was the only traditional public school district
inspires excellence, promotes accountability and in Region 20 to earn both an A rating and the Post-
values, and encourages all students to achieve their Secondary Readiness designation. MVISD offers a
highest potential.” full array of curriculum offerings including Pre-AP,
AP, Dual Credit Courses, and Career and Technical
ACADEMIC & CO-CURRICULAR COURSES Education Courses. In addition, Medina Valley offers
With approximately 6,950 students on eight effective programs for special populations including
campuses, Medina Valley ISD is one of the fastest programs for Bilingual, At-Risk, and Gifted Learners.
growing school districts in Texas. The District The District has earned 18 consecutive “Superior
enjoys tremendous success academically and in Achievement” designations on the Financial Integrity
extracurricular activities. A sixth elementary school Rating System of Texas, evidence of sound financial
has been authorized by voters and is scheduled to practices and wise use of taxpayer dollars. MVISD
open in Fall of 2024. Building on a strong tradition seeks to recruit and retain certified, qualified and
of academic and co-curricular excellence, MV highly effective personnel to enhance the services
available to students, parents and the community.

CASTROVILLE COMMUNITY
VETERINARY CLINIC Although the District encompasses 296 square miles,
it has successfully become an intricate part of the
Equine & Small Animal Practice residential and business communities that surround
it, and has become a destination district for those
David B. Carter, DVM relocating to the San Antonio area. Medina Valley ISD
is an active member of the Castroville Area Chamber
(830) 538-2274 of Commerce, providing frequent District updates
for members. The Medina Valley ISD Education
1991 US Hwy 90 West Foundation works side-by-side with the District to
Castroville, TX 78009 provide student scholarships and reward teachers
with grants for innovative teaching programs that go
beyond what District finances are able to support.
These types of team efforts provide our students
with learning opportunities that build character and
encourage them to work to their highest potential.

We welcome you as a student, district team member
or volunteer. The future is exciting as MV reaches to
become the Premier District in South Texas.

Private Schools & Day Care SCHOOLS 31

St. Louis School science, social studies, handwriting, health and physical
education, fine arts, social experiences and extra-curricular
St. Louis School was originally founded by the Sisters of activities. Our 3K and 4K kindergarten preparation is one of
Divine Providence in 1868. The school prospered and grew, the best in the Archdiocese of San Antonio.
reaching a total enrollment of about 300 in the early 1950s All Christian faiths are welcome. Opportunities for
and educating up to 12th grade. The first two-story school Christian growth are provided through daily religion classes,
building still stands on the Moye property, and the currently weekly liturgies and sacramental programs.
used red brick building was built in 1925. St. Louis has the latest in technology including Smart
After being closed for 18 years, a group of parishioners Boards, and individual computers/ tablets for each student
and Father Pat Ragsdale, worked to reopen and reestablish in each classroom allowing daily practice in necessary skills
a Catholic school for pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and and enrichment. A well-equipped library and computer
primary levels. In 1986, the St. Louis Child Development lab and school wide Internet provides opportunities for
Center opened its doors to a pre-kindergarten class of 18. research, recreational reading and technology growth. The
The school thrived. A kindergarten class was added science lab inspires students to get involved with STEM
in 1988 with additional grades added each year after, up (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Students in
to 5th grade. In 1989, the school was officially recognized 4K and kindergarten through 5th grade are provided with
by the Archdiocese of San Antonio and the Texas Catholic tablets or Chromebooks to build a confident, electronically
Conference Education Department as “St. Louis Catholic competent, successful student in today’s world. SLCS
School.” St. Louis Catholic School was officially accredited in students are challenged in extra-curricular academics and
May 1993 and has been highly accredited ever since. participate in the Archdiocese of San Antonio’s Catholic
Classes are now being offered for pre-kindergarten (3 Arts and Academic Competitions (CAAC) year round. Other
and 4 year-olds) and kindergarten through 5th grades. after-school enrichment classes include Comet basketball
St. Louis Catholic School provides an environment for skills camp, Cheer for Christ, and Bricks, Bytes and Bots (B3)
each child to grow, learn and develop to his/her potential Camp Comet summer camp for K-5. SLCS offers an organized,
– spiritually, intellectually, socially and physically. Students rigorous and enjoyable academic curriculum for all students
enjoy a well-rounded education in religion, guidance, English, that prepares them for success in middle and high school.
language arts (reading, spelling and writing), mathematics, Small classes allow for greater individual attention. The
average classroom ratio of students to teachers is 15:1.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CASTROVILLE Parental involvement is encouraged in the academic success
MOTHER’S DAY OUT PROGRAM and spiritual development of the child and is fostered
through the Parent-Teacher Club (PTC).
1408 Alsace Ave • (830) 538-3220 • [email protected]
Weekday childrens’ program 12 mo. (as of Sept. 1st) to 4 SCHOOL OFFICE:
years. Class options are Mon/Wed or Tue/Thurs 9am-2pm, (830) 931-3544 • www.saintlouiscs.org
Sept-May. Curriculum is developed around Christian values Pre-K: 8 am – 3:15 pm • Grades K-5: 8 am - 3:15 pm
and traditions as well as developmentally appropriate
teaching practices. MDO Director, Emilyn Hatfield. HOT LUNCH PROGRAM
Affordable before or after school Extended Day Program
MAPLES VIEW PRIVATE ACADEMY
2097 CR 4516 • 210-968-7896 • www.mvpacademy.xyz 6:30 am - 6 pm

Located in the Castroville area. Serves K3-2nd grade GRACE DAY VILLAGE SCHOOL
1040 Country Lane • (830) 931-0808
AND 702 Hwy 90 West • (830) 346-1999

[email protected]
www.gracedayvillageschool.com
Ages 2 weeks-12 years • Hot Meals • School Pick-ups • Licensed

M-F 6:30am - 6:30pm

LITTLE SCHOOL HOUSE OF CASTROVILLE
209 Hwy 90 West • (210) 778-2325

6 Weeks – 12 Years • Before and After School Care
M-F 6am – 6:30pm

SLOYD & CROFT: AN AMERICAN SLÖJD SCHOOL
18140 CR 371, Rio Medina, TX 78066 • 830-423-9396

www.sloydandcroft.com
Faith based, hands-on Microschool for budding creatives

ages 10 to 17, who are naturally wired for innovation.

32 HISTORIC PERSONALITIES

Henri Castro “Empresario”...The Founding of Castroville

Henri Castro was born in 1786 in the department of John James, Bexar County
Landes, France, to a prominent Jewish family whose surveyor, laid out the town, and the
ancestry was Portuguese. As a young man he served in settlers drew for lots. A communal
Napoleon’s guard. He was married to Amelia Mathias shelter was built immediately to
in 1813. house supplies until the families
could build their huts. Bishop Jean
His adventurous spirit took him to America in 1827 Marie Odin arrived to visit the new
when he was appointed French consul at Providence, settlement, and on September 12
Rhode Island. He quickly learned English and reportedly he blessed the cornerstone for a
became an American citizen. He became interested in church to be built and placed the
Texas when he became acquainted with Gen. James community under the protection
Hamilton in Paris, who was attempting to negotiate a of St. Louis, King Louis IX of France.
loan for the Republic of Texas in 1841. He journeyed
back to America, arriving in Texas in January 1842. As the colony progressed, more immigrants trickled
He was successful in obtaining a land grant from the in. To entice the colonists, Castro offered them a
government--a grant that consisted of more than a town lot and 40 out-acres in addition to their original
million acres of land--if he would introduce and settle contracts. As more settlers arrived, Castro arranged to
at least 600 families and/or single men within three move them further west, and a second settlement was
years. Each colonist was to receive 640 acres (or 320 if founded at Quihi in March of 1846 and Vandenburg in
single) if they built a house, put at least 15 acres into the fall of the same year. In the spring of 1847, Castro
cultivation, and lived on the land at least three years. authorized Theodore Gentilz to lead some 29 families
to Parker Creek, 25 miles west of Castroville, where
Castro energetically recruited colonists in France they founded D’Hanis.
and had the most success in the Rhenish provinces,
especially the departments of Alsace-Lorraine. By These pioneers had many problems during the early
November 1842 he had enough colonists to charter years--facing the usual frontier dangers, enduring
a ship as 114 colonists departed from Havre, France the Texas droughts, a severe cholera epidemic and
aboard L’Ebro. Sixty-six days later they set foot at encounters with the native Indians.
Galveston then boarded the Cutter for Pt. Lavaca.
Castro’s venture drained his family financial resources,
Six more ships followed until, by the summer of and he lost the support of European investors. Court
1844, 700 colonists waited to take possession of their litigation dragged on for years, resulting in Castro
promised land grants. Castro arrived in July, scouted losing much of his land and his reputation. The colonies
his land and made preparations to depart from San struggled but eventually established homes and farms
Antonio. He led some 27 colonists 25 miles west and and prospered.
crossed the Medina River September 3, 1844, to form
a new settlement they named Castroville. In 1864, as he approached 78 years of age, Castro
decided to return to France through Mexico. In
Monterrey he became ill and died November 2, 1865.
He was buried there, but today the grave is not to be
found. His wife, Amelia, and daughter-in-law, Augustine
Castro, are the only family members buried in St. Louis
Catholic Cemetery in Castroville.

Henri Castro is credited with introducing more than
2100 immigrants to Texas, second only to Stephen
F. Austin. The Texas legislature recognized Castro by
naming one of the northern counties in his honor. In
1994 he was honored by the citizens of Castroville with
a Texas state historical marker on September Square.

“Castro-Ville and Henry Castro, Empresario” by Julia
Nott Waugh, 1931, tells the story of Castro and the
founding of Castroville and is available at the Chamber
of Commerce office.

Louis Huth HISTORIC PERSONALITIES 33

Business Agent for Castro He married Rosalie Rhin, an emigrant
from Altorf, Bas-Rhin Alsace, and they
Ferdinand Louis Huth, Jr. was born had two sons. The dreaded cholera
January 3, 1814, in Neufreystadt, Baden, epidemic claimed the life of Rosalie and
Germany. He persuaded his family one of their sons in 1849. He remarried
to assist Castro with the immigration to Sophie Kuhnen in 1851, and they
project to Texas. The Huths helped had four children. Huth was a charter
organize the emigrants’ transportation member of Zion Lutheran Church when
to Texas and furnished them with 12,000 it was founded in 1852.
francs worth of goods to sell in Texas in In 1863 he moved his family and his
hopes of profiting from Texas exports. business to San Antonio, where he
They sent Louis, Jr. to help Castro with the founded Huth & Co., a hardware and
colonization. For two years Huth was director seed company which was successfully operated by four
of the colony while Castro was back in Europe generations of his family.
recruiting additional colonists. In 1846, Huth was A Medina County historical marker was dedicated
dismissed from Castro’s employ, but Huth remained in in 1998 on Houston Square, honoring Ferdinand Louis
Castroville, developed his retail business and served in Huth for his service to the City of Castroville and County
public offices in the county. of Medina.
The Huth home still stands today on Florence St.
He was elected one of the first justice of the peace presently owned and occupied by Tom and Lyn Phillips
for the Castroville precinct of Bexar County. In 1848, (See No. 50, walking tour)
when Medina County was created, he was the first tax
assessor-collector and later served 10 years as county
clerk. In 1860 he was elected chief justice of Medina
County for one term.

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34 HISTORIC PERSONALITIES MARKERS

Theodore Gentilz Look for these special markers on homes & structures
throughout Castroville. See maps on pages 36 & 38
An educated young Frenchman, Theodore Gentilz
for more places of interest.
became acquainted with Henri Castro in Paris and

responded to the invitation to immigrate to Texas. He

was one of the original colonists who accompanied

Castro in September 1844. Gentilz, a budding

artist, served as Castro’s secretary,

draftsman and surveyor. Library of Congress Pioneer
Castroville Home
He assisted in laying out

the town of Vandenburg

(later abandoned) and

D’Hanis. In February

1847 under Castro’s

employ, Gentilz led

some 29 families to

Parker Creek, 25 miles Chamber of Commerce S.A. Conservation
Historic Designation Society Award
Theodore Gentilz west of Castroville, where

Self Portrait the town of D’Hanis was

founded. In exchange for some

of his work, Castro gave Gentilz property in town and

built a home for him. The house burned to the ground

in 1847, destroying Gentilz’s tools and paintings. Shortly

after, he returned to France where he married Marie Castroville Texas
Conservation Historical Marker
Fargeix, and they returned to San Antonio where he Society Award

pursued his career in drafting and painting.

Gentilz loved the Spanish Missions. He measured

them and painted them many times. His drawings and

paintings are held in museums and archives, prized by

many private collectors and valued for his portrayal of

life in South Texas and Mexico during the mid 1800s.

Gentilz taught art at St. Mary’s College until the school

relocated to the present Woodlawn campus of St.

Mary’s University. His wife Maria died in 1898 and he

in 1906. They had no children.

(Read Dorothy S. Kendall’s, “Gentilz, Artist of the old A sketch of Castroville by Theodore Gentilz about 1850

Southwest,” University of Texas Press, 1974.) Texas Hungarian Hawgs

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36 CITY MAP Besides helping you navigate the stree
this City Map shows the locations of o
GENEVA CT several places of historic interest. The
Historic Homes and depicts our Walking
page.

RIVER ROAD MEDINA

18

7MEXICO1900

14

WASHINGTON 8

1800

Hillside Boutique HWY 90 WEST TO BERLIN 1700 MEXICO NAPLES
4 Hotel & Spa THESE BUSINESSES: ALGIERS
ATHENS
15 Castroville Vet Clinic 46 GENEVA CONSTA14NTINOPLE 5
JACKSON
43 Restore Reproductive ALSACE VIENNA 1600
Health HOUSTON

47 Medina Regional CITY PARK
Hospital & Healthcare
System, Hondo MELEEDMINEANVTAALRLYESYCHOOL

45 Megan Favor, DDS 29 1500
Hondo, Texas 52

10 Medina Co. Museum 41 11 PET
Hondo
1200 1100 1000 900 800
!TO PETERSBURG 1400U. S. HIGHW
POST
HONDO OFFICE 27 3
L
ADVERTISERS MADRID 1300

3 A/C Technical Services 22 Magnolia Filling Station MEDINA ALGIERS 1200 1100
51 Alamo Area Vet Clinic 8 Mauldin Plumbing COUNTY
6 Alamo Hospice 10 Medina County Museum
14 Alsatian Golf Club/Julianna’s 16 Medina Eye Center OFFICE
7 Barber’s House Tx 47 Medina Health Care System
32 Broadway Bank 5 Medina Valley United Methodist Church PARIS
pg 60 Castro Colonies Heritage Asso. 45 Megan Favor, DDS 1300
20 Castroville State Bank 38 Mission Title 2
15 Castroville Veterinary Clinic 31 Paradise Canyon
pg 69 Catholic Life, Frankie Kempf 43 Restore Reproductive Health LONDON
1 Cora’s 471 Grill 21 River Haus
12 Curious Interests 50 Sammy’s Restaurant CROSS LAFAYETTE CONSTANTINOPLE 1000
23 Dziuk’s Meat Market 13 Schattenbol at DeCock Farm HILL
2 Elller’s Auto 35 Security State Bank
pg 19 Focus To Decide 29 Shannon Realty Group FLORENCE 6 900
11 Galm Real Estate 30 South Texas Hardware
25 Haby’s Alsatian Bakery 28 Southern Creek Boutique RCEAGISTORNAOLVIPLLAERK LISBON
24 Cheri Tschirhart-Haby, P.C. 52 State Farm Insurance- Hazel Russell 4
26 Haby Realty 53 Stein Insurance
48 Haby Settlement Guest House pg 9 Steinbach Hus Tours GENTILZ
26 Haby Settlement Homes, LLC 39 Stewart Title
4 Hillside Boutique Hotel & Spa 34 Tellus 13
18 Hungarian Hawgs 42 The House of Funky Chunky Jewels 47
9 JD Metal Roofing, Inc 27 The Rusty Rooster
41 Jenn’s Beer, Wine & Spirits 40 Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home 900
14 Julianna’s Restaurant 19 TXN Bank
44 LaCoste Meat Market 49 UPS Store
33 Landmark Inn 54 Uptmore Homes
46 Little Alsace Urgent Care Center 37 Valley Mobile Homes
36 Lutz’s Mini Storage 17 Zion Lutheran Church

ets of historic Castroville, MEADOW 54 = Cemeteries PLACES OF INTEREST
our advertisers as well as 5 PCH Pioneer Castroville Home
map, which designates our THM Texas Historical Marker 1 Renken Cemetery
Tour, is on the following COUNTRY LANE NHM National Historic Marker
24 MAP DETAIL SCM Special Castroville Marker 2 Amelia Castro Grave
19 26 LOC Library of Congress
SACSA San Antonio Conservation 3 Replica Castroville Home-SCM
Society Award
4 Illies House, 1876-PCH

U.S HWY 90 E. TO SAN ANTONIO 5 Wagner House, 1855-PCH

6 Joseph Wendel House, 1847–PCH

7 L.L.White House

TFOMA4I7R1PSO.RT 8 Mechler House–PCH

51 35 9 Wantz House, late 1800–PCH

RIVER 10 Wilfred Wernette House

AIRFIELD RD 34 11 F. Xavier Schmidt House, 1870–PC THM
39 20
20 AIRPORT 37 12 St. Louis Catholic School, 1924
19 21
13 St. Louis Catholic Church, 1870–PCH THM

14 2nd Parish Rectory, 1896

15 Moye Center, 1873–PCH THM

to La Coste 16 1st St. Louis Church, 1849–PCH THM

KOEPANRIGK 17 1st Catholic School, 1870–PCH
JACINTO
1 8 Philip Wernette House
SAN
LORENZO 19 Fachwerk House, 1873–SCM

ANGELO FM 471 N TO FM 471 N. TO RIO MEDINA & MEDINA LAKE 20 Mehr–SCH
THESE BUSINESSES:
AMELIA 800 21 Joseph Weber House–PCH

1 Cora’s 471 Grill 22 Haby/Jungman House

48 Haby Settlement Guest 23 Louis Ihnken House, 1844–PCH
House
42 2 4 Early Post Office, 1917

49 UPS Store, San Antonio 25 Old Planing Mill

43 31 Paradise Canyon 26 Zion Lutheran Church, 1939

27 A.E. Tondre House, old Jail Stone, 1917,PCH

28 Michel Kauffmann House, 1873

29 Cesar Monod House, 1849–PCH THM

7 ISABELLA 30 John Vance House, 1859–PCH
FIORELLA
31 Grist Mill, 1854

32 Historic Pecan Tree site

33 Julius Mueller House, 1846–PCH

TERSBURG 34 Henry Jean Rieden House, 1848

23 33 34 35 Louis Haller House, 1875–PCH THM

700 36 Original Log Cabin

12 12 37 Blasius Kiefer House, 1870–PCH

21 38 Louis Burell Ranch HQ House, 1899–PCH

HOUSTON 35 100 39 Castro Homestead–­ PCH THM
36
13 SQUARE 300 4 0 September Square

16 CHIATLYL 200 600 444321 HMRaeerpdArpoiLnVoldaIlNdAHRHoivoueusrseDe, ,a1m1886,70158–5P4CH
37 500
14 400 400
500 38 300
0 700 600 42 4 4 Nicholas Haby House, 1869–PCH
WAY 90 15 22 20 MEDINA RIVER

38 MOYE 16 24 45 44BR65IE JBDoErNeseidpehn House
MAY Meyer Homestead–PCH
LIBRARY 17 25 THM

17 26 39 4 7 Ihnken Cemetery

Chamber of ALAMO 48 Steinbach Hus
Commerce
30 28 27 6 SUMMER BREEZE
23 53 22 SUNNYLAND DR
RAIN SPRING
40 32 40 44

18 200 FM 471 N.
100
10 28 33 29 VILLAGE PATH

30 41 100 COUNTRY VILLAGE
31 32 48 BROOK
WILLOW
MEADOW
11 200 25 PROVIDENT TUMBLEWEED
9 100 DR SEE MAP
50 2 DETAIL ABOVE
KARM ST DR
700 200
SCHOTT
800 300
RIVER SCHMIDT LN 8
400 300 VAN DE WALLE LANE HWY 90 EAST TO
MEDINA THESE BUSINESSES: U. S. HWY49000E. 9
700 13 Schattenbol
3 A/C Technical Srvc TO ANTONIOSUEHS 36
L8O0W0 ER LACOSTE RD
46 SAN

500 SHARP

FM 471 S TO
LACOSTE BUSINESSES:

44 LaCoste Meat Market LACNOEUNTRY
47 Medina Healthcare Syst.

38 WALKING TOUR WALKING TOUR BEGINS HERE

You will notice that the buildings on the Walking Tour are identified with a distinctive marker--a silhouette of a typical house bearing
the name and the date of construction. You will also find them elsewhere, as the Chamber of Commerce has presented them to all
homeowners who have researched the records to verify the necessary information. Look for them as you move about the city and the
surrounding countryside. History is everywhere.
Þ 1. Jean Merian House 39. Zion Lutheran Church
Þ J 2. Claude Dubuis House 40. Henri Castro Homestead
Berlin K Vienna 20 21 WALKING TOUR MAP 3. First St. Louis Church 41. Old Blacksmith Shop
MO 4. Moye Center 42. Francois Lorentz House
19 22 27 San JacinIto 5. Houston Square 43. Old Highway Filling Station
1500Houston 18 23 6. The Shalom House 44. September Square
1600 7. St. Louis Catholic Church 45. Brauer House
24 8. Carle House & Store 46. Landmark Inn
9. Klappenbach Building 47. Joseph Burell House
25 10. The First Drugstore 48. Valentine Vollmer House
Alamo28 100 11. Dan’s Meat Market 49. Burger House
12. Joseph Courand Store 50. Louis Huth House
17 Isabella H 13. Joseph Courand House 51. A.H. Tondre House
7 Fiorella 14. Joseph Huesser Saloon 52. Joseph Louis Tondre House
29200G
Þ
Þ 43
1300L 8 HÞ9o4uSs3q5t1ouna61r5e01250 0141121621L3o3430n0d3o43n533N832343906234031173400 44 F
Þ E
1400Petersburg 6 1Þ
Madrid 45
Naples 600 Þ
Paris
700 • Start

800 U.S. Highway 90 W 60 Lorenzo 15. Jungman Haus 53. George L. Haass Log Cabin
Þ Þ900 16. Peter Jungman House 54. George L. Haass House
1100 NaplesLaFayette5958 Angelo51 48 46 17. Patterson/Renken/ 55. Nicholas Tondre House
52 47 56. Huth/Jungman House
Library 49 Bourquin/Higdon House 57. Zimmerman House
Amelia 18. Pingenot House
1000 50

Constantinople Þ 55 5453
Algiers
Mexico Florence 56900 Schmidt Lane 19. Mangold/Holzhaus House 58. Zimmerly House
57 20. Bippert-Kueck House 59. John Vollmer House
River
A

Lisbon 800 21. Charles Naegelin House 60. Joseph Bohl House
B Gentilz 22. Walter House A. Zimmerman/Bohl/Keller House
Medina 23. Anton Schneider House B. Edward Tschirhart House
LowReoradLaCoste 24. Arcadius Steinle House C. Gerhardt Ihnken House

25. Keiser/Pingenot House D. Antoine Xavier Jung House

Athens 26. Tarde Hotel E. Friedrich August Knobloch House

D 27. Johannes Kepler House F. Joseph Courand Jr. House

28. Monier House G. John Courdier House

C 29. Cordier/Tschirhart/Seal House H. Dominic Schott House

30. Vonflie House I. Jean Ulrich Zuercher House

31. Dolch-Hans Compound J. Joseph Schorp House
32. Hans Meat Market at Berlin & Lorenzo
33. St. Louis Society Building K. Joseph Naegelin House
34. Geyer-Rihn House L. Henry Vonflie House
35. Old Standby M. Augustine Hutzler Haus
36. City Hall of Castroville at Berlin & Naples
37. Kieffer/Wernette/Tondre Store N. Jacob Biry House
38. G.L. Haass Store O. The Moehring-Lamon House
north up Mexico Street, River Road

1. The Jean Merian House - 1851 1115 Angelo St. used as a convent for the Sisters of Divine Providence. In 1935
Owner: Castroville Area Chamber of Commerce the house was sold to Angelo Kaufmann who owned it until April of
1945 when it was sold to P.F. Christilles. In July of 1949, the house
The deed for this property was first recorded March 10, 1851, sold to Dr. and Mrs. M. W. Sharp. Dr. Sharp was Castroville’s first
and was owned by Amelia Mathias (Mrs. Henri Castro) and veterinarian and was a pioneer in the State of Texas with regard
Angelo Causici (adopted grandson of Henri Castro). Jean Merian, to livestock reproduction and as a Bovine Practitioner. The Sharps
a master mason and builder, purchased the property for just $25 raised their family in this house, and Mrs. Sharp continued to live
and is credited with building this house made of native limestone, in the home after her husband’s death. She sold the house and
cypress and oak. He is also noted for building the steeple on St. property to the Castroville Area Chamber of Commerce for use as
Louis Catholic Church. The original house featured four rooms, office space.
an attic, two separate outside rooms and a cellar. From 1920 to
1935, the house was owned by the St. Louis Catholic Church and This house has the PCH Marker and is listed in the Library of
Congress as an example of pioneer Texas architecture.

WALKING TOUR 39

a military school and a seminary. Since 1985, the Sisters of Divine
Providence have operated a Retreat House there. The Retreat House
was destroyed by a fire in 2017 and is newly remodeled, opening in
November 2018.

2. The Claude Dubuis House - 1847 1207 Angelo St. 4. Moye Retreat Center - 1873 600 London St.
Owner: Nancy Weber Original Convent of the Sisters of Divine Providence
Owners: Sisters of Divine Providence

This house was one of the first rock homes built in 1847 that is In 1866 Bishop Dubuis, the second bishop of Texas traveled to
still standing. The front two rooms were built by the first priest of St. Europe hoping to recruit Sisters from a non-cloistered order that could
Louis Church, Father Claude M. Dubuis, and his assistant, Father open parish schools. Sisters St. Andrew Feltin and Alphonse Boegler,
Matthew Chazelle. The other rooms, a kitchen and two bedrooms, of the CDP arrived in Castroville in 1868 and set to work immediately.
were added in 1917. Dubuis’s efforts inspired many of the early col-
onists to construct more permanent houses. In 1966 the house was By 1870, with the help of the parishioners, the 2-story, 4-room school
awarded a Texas Historical Marker and also has the PCH Marker. house located on the southeast corner of the grounds had emerged and
served as St. Louis School until 1925. Although built by the parish, the
3. First Stone St. Louis Church - 1849 two-story school house served as a free public school for many years.

Retreat House - 1871 Moye Center By St. Louis Day in 1873, the large building, their first convent
and first Motherhouse of the CDP in the United States, was nearly
State historical marker awarded 1966 completed. On February 3, 1890, Providence Academy was established
at the Motherhouse. Its curriculum included English, German, French,
This small church, facing Angelo street stands on the grounds of music, drawing, painting, bookkeeping, plain sewing and every variety
the Moye Retreat Center. It was the first stone Catholic Church built in of fancy work.
Medina County and west of San Antonio. The CDP again purchased the property and in 1938 it became Moye
Military School for boys. This school was one of the finest in the state
When the settlers arrived in 1844, they quickly began constructing and operated for 21 years. Finally, Moye came full circle and became a
a building of “earth and wood” with the help of Jean-Marie Odin, first convent and formation center for young ladies aspiring to become nuns.
bishop of Texas, who visited just nine days after the first colonists arrived The large two-story rock house next to the convent was built for
at the site to establish the town of Castroville. He celebrated Mass and priests who acted as chaplains for the convent. Since 1985, Moye has
placed the community under the patronage of St. Louis of France. The served as a retreat center which was named for Father John Martin
church was completed two years later and the formal dedication was Moye, founder of the CDP. It is still considered “an ornament to the
conducted November 9, 1846 by Bishop Odin. town.”

When Father Dubuis, the first priest of Castroville, arrived in 1847, 5. Houston Square - 1844
he urged the townspeople to build a larger and more solid church. So Intersection of Angelo, Paris, Madrid and London
in the winter of 1849 they set out to build a stone church which was
dedicated Easter of 1850 and is what now stands on the grounds of Situated in the center of the historic business district, this square has
the Moye Retreat Center. This 18 x 30 foot building served the parish had many uses since 1844. It serves the city as a restful park and is
of St. Louis for several years before a larger church was built just west used for many community and historic events. Market Trail Days are
of its location. Since then it has been used as a classroom for a school held a few times a year. On the first Friday/Saturday in December, the
and religion lessons. The building was awarded a Texas Historical Castroville Chamber of Commerce hosts “Old Fashion Christmas.”
Marker in 1966 through the efforts of the Castro Garden Club and the
congregation of the Sisters of Divine Providence. The Square has always been used for parking by St. Louis Church
and the businesses surrounding the square. Earlier days saw it used
Repairs were made at various times through the years, and following as a baseball diamond, a lighted softball field and a football field by St.
the last restoration, the little church was rededicated in a ceremony by Louis Catholic High School in 1947.
Bishop Bernard Popp on November 9, 1984.
The beautification of Houston Square was developed through
The church is now used for Mass only on special occasions, but is the efforts of the Garden Club, private contributions and the City of
open to the public with access on the Moye Retreat Center grounds. Castroville. On the west side six flag staffs were installed by the City. The
fountain, which was originally a memorial to JT Lawler, was refurbished
The Retreat House originally served as the free St. Louis public in 2018 by the City. All of the pecan trees were originally planted as
school and was taught by the Sisters of Divine Providence, who memorials to local citizens.
came to Castroville in 1868. After the school was built and moved two
blocks north on Madrid street, the building functioned as part of the Read the historic markers on the square which include a Texas State
Moye Center which served many purposes over the years including marker “Alsatians of Texas” and the county marker dedicated to Louis
Huth. Around the square are several historic buildings of interest.

6. The Shalom House Corner of Angelo & Paris
(The Original St. Louis Parish Rectory)

This priests’ residence was built in 1896 after a fire destroyed
the original rectory. The second story was added in 1908.

40 WALKING TOUR Between 1932 and 1973, 70 percent of all Medina County
residents were born at the Castroville Clinic and Hospital. Dr. Fay
7. St. Louis Catholic Church - 1870 Wurzbach and Dr. Robert Eckert were the last medical owners of
State historical marker awarded 1970 the building.

Facing Houston Square, St. Louis Catholic Current owner Jessie Frank Caseres continues to maintain the
Church dominates the historic district of the original building while renovating, remodeling and expanding the
city of Castroville. Built in 1868-1870, it was building to meet the needs of the public in the way of an assisted
the third permanent church erected by the living center.
parish
10. Castroville Drug Store -1907 1315 Lorenzo
Work began in 1868 and with the building Owner: Kevin Marmor
complete except for the spire and the floor, the
church was dedicated on August 25, 1870, the Using the stone and materials from his original office constructed
feast of St. Louis. in 1899 at Fiorella and Madrid, Dr. Jon Fitzsimon built and
Local masons and carpenters constructed the church with operated the first Castroville Drug Store at this location in 1907.
native limestone and hand-hewn cypress under the direction of The drug store became the private residence of Dr. Robert Eckert
the parish pastor, Rev. Peter Richard, a native of Loire, France. while he was the Medical Director and owner of the Castroville
150 feet long and 52 feet wide, it was one of the largest Catholic Clinic and Hospital across the street. It is currently houses a title
churches in Texas at that time. company.
In 1908, the original spire was replaced with the taller spire seen
today. Stained glass windows were also installed at that time. A
major renovation was undertaken in 1972-73 which included a
new roof, tile floors, replastered walls and central heating and
cooling. The original altars, statues and locally built pews are still
in use today.
A photo showing all three churches built by the parish is located
in the vestibule of the church. You are welcome to take some time
for quite reflection in this beautiful historic church. See pg 28.

8. Carle House & Store - 1865 515 Madrid 11. Dan’s Meat Market - 1925 1303 Lorenzo Street
Owner: Phil and Becky Stephens Owners: Old Town Revitalization Initiative

Built around 1865 by Joseph and Catherine Krust, the original This was the original site of the Ferdinand C. Kilhorn homestead
structure was a single room and cellar, now part of the rear wing. and Tin Shop built in 1882. Ferdinand C. Kilhorn settled in Castroville
In 1873 Catherine Krust sold the property to Joseph Carle for after serving at Fort Clark, an army camp near Castroville. He
$1,600. Carle agreed to build a “one room house with porch and was a true entrepreneur starting the first Castroville newspaper,
kitchen” to be rented to Catherine for $1 a year for life. Joseph Castroville Anvil, and then owning a Tin Shop from 1896 to 1917.
Carle operated a general store in the building for many years, then (See additional story page 58). The original meat market was built in
“went west” to D’Hanis. 1925 by Frank and Regina Burell. Their son Dan added the saloon
and continued the meat market business, followed by his son Jimmy,
The Belchers bought the property in 1972 and along with Sonny and his wife Mary Louis Burell, until they sold it in 1995.
Rymers were responsible for all restoration and construction of
the patio. The family operates an antique shop in the front. There
are living quarters on the second floor.

12. Joseph Courand Store - 1861 416 Paris Street
Owners: Groff Land Enterprises

9. Klappenbach Building - 1852 501 Madrid The store was built by Joseph Courand in 1861 and made larger in
Owner: Jessie Frank Caseres 1868. Courand and then his son operated the store until the 1920s.
Since then the property has had several owners who have operated
Built by August Klappenbach in 1852 on the town square, the as a grocery and general merchandise store--Ed. A. Tschirhart
building has served as a post office, mercantile shop, millinery and Son, Frank Keller Grocery and Sonny Mann’s Grocery Store.
shop, county medical clinic and hospital, an event center and most In 1975 Edith Boubel restored the building and converted it to an
recently as an assisted living center. In the mid 1930s, the National antique business. Currently, it houses retail establishments. The
Guard established the first medical clinic in Medina County with Dr. 1947 Rainbow Theater next door, also owned by the Groff family,
James Williamson serving as the chief Medical Director. is currently being restored to a working theatre.

WALKING TOUR 41

16. Peter Jungman House & Store - 1867
514 Paris St. Owners: Bill & Emilie Stege

13. Joseph Courand House c. 1850s 1211 Lorenzo St. Peter Jungman built the house on the corner in 1867. He
Owners: Groff Land Enterprises purchased and razed the first courthouse building from Medina
County officials in 1878 and used the stone to add on the store
The home was built in the 1850s and for many years was occupied building attached to the east side of the house. Restoration and
by people who operated the general store next door. Frank Keller alterations have been made to the buildings by various owners.
and his wife, Cecilia Tschirhart Keller, and their family lived in
the home from 1945 to 1995. The building is now owned by their Continue north on Angelo St.:
daughter, Patricia, and her husband Royce Groff and their family
and currently houses a retail establishment.

17. Patterson/Renken/Bourquin/Higdon House - 1849
514 Petersburg Owner: Salinas Family
14. Joseph Huesser Saloon - 1907 502 Paris Street
Owner: Castroville State Bank The property was originally sold to W.B. Patterson by Henri Castro
in 1847 and the home was built about 1849. Patterson’s widow,
The original structure was built by Joseph Huesser in 1907 Cassandra, and son Daniel sold the property “with improvements”
after he tore down his original saloon. A. H. Tondre, followed by in 1868 to Henry T. Renken for $450. In January 1908, Renken
Arthur Holzhaus, later operated the saloon. It was incorporated heirs sold the property to Mary Bendele for $500. Mrs. Anna Haby
into Castroville State Bank in 1959. Note the large mural in the Bourquin purchased the home for $1,200 in 1928. She died in the
bank lobby painted by the late Robert Quill Johnson, a prominent bedroom of the home in 1943.
local artist.
The original house had four rooms that included five fireplaces
and a warming oven. The front porch comprises stone that formed
the original foyer of St. Louis Church. The home was remodeled in
2001 to include a kitchen and indoor bathrooms. The old log wall
was brought in from the country to help form the new wing of the
house, and the back wall was built from materials taken from an
old stone home that had been torn down. The old barn behind the
home was moved from another property in Castroville, as was the
outhouse. The original well remains although it has been enhanced.
This home has been written up in Texas Highways, Texas Homes,
Antiquing in Texas and Pioneer Homes of Texas. The house has
a PCH marker.

15. Jungman Haus - circa 1860s 512 Paris St.
Owners: David and Valerie Jungman

This combined rock and lumber home on 512 Paris Street was 18. The Pingenot House - 1845 507 Petersburg
purchased by Fred W. Jungman in 1902. The original rock house Owner: Daphne and Richard Whitworth Sr.
was built with locally quarried building stone in the 1860s. Two
Victorian bedrooms and a porch were added on the east side of The Pierre Francois Pingenot house differs slightly from its Alsatian
the house in the early 1900s. David and Valerie Holzhaus Jungman neighbors. It lacks the ventilation doors or windows found near the
bought the house from a family member in 2013 and have restored
the residence to resemble pictures from the early 1900s found while
cleaning out the house. David is the grandson of Fred W. Jungman
and Rosalie Jungman. The house has been continually owned by
the Jungman family since 1902.

42 WALKING TOUR Immigrants, Henry J. and Jeseine Kueck bought the home in 1869
for $150. Using the same building materials, their addition of a hall
eaves of the roofline; it has two chimneys instead of the usual three, and two rooms with fireplaces and pine mantles greatly enlarged
and the roof is probably the steepest in town. Also unusual are the the home.
timbers--each marked with a Roman numeral by the original builder
to aid in the rebuilding should the house ever have to be dismantled Owners since 1990, Carol Romano and her late husband, Louis,
and relocated. made a necessary five year extensive restoration, taking great
care to preserve and restore the original historical architectural
Other aspects of the house are more typical of the area. There is features, as well as re-use of materials. An addition was made for
a single oak beam that extends 60 feet, the entire length of the front more modern living.
rooms from chimney to chimney. This beam supports exposed beams
running from wall to wall. The interior walls are fachwerk, a popular Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Bippert-
building method for German settlers. Kueck Home restoration was honored with a PCH Marker from
Castro Garden Club, the San Antonio Conservation Society
In addition to the difficulties of restoration, the previous owners, Preservation Award & Plaque, and a Castroville Conservation
Frank and Gloria Kennedy, were faced with a need for more space. Society Plaque. The Bippert–Kueck Home was featured in 2001 in
They solved this with the addition of a circa 1850 log house, which the Old House Journal and on the Home & Garden TV Program.
was placed over a rock-lined root cellar which is still used. Connecting
the two houses is a passageway of fachwerk, whitewashed plaster,
flagstone and a large bank of windows. The home has the PCH
Marker and a San Antonio Conservation Society Marker.

19. Mangold/Holzhaus House - 1855 413 Petersburg 21. The Charles Naegelin House - 1872 402 Houston
Owner: Corbett Holmgreen Owner: Jenna and Adam Yablonski

A deed in 1855 described this site as “a house and a rock fence.” Charles Naegelin, a Castro colonist who arrived in Texas as a
August Mangold was the fifth owner of the lot when he purchased child in 1847, began building this home in 1872 and completed
it and built the house. The house has 18 inch thick rock plastered the house just before his death in 1874. His only son Edmund,
walls, pine floors and a fireplace. The root cellar and a sleeping and wife Melanie, moved to the house from San Antonio and lived
loft were reached by outside staircases. In 1910 the sleeping loft here until their deaths. The house has 10-foot high ceilings, floors
and root cellar were enclosed. Katie Mangold and husband Arthur of red long leaf pine and the inside staircase that is found in many
Holzhaus inherited the home in 1923, and the property remained in of the early Castroville homes. In 1986 the house was purchased
the family until 1981, when purchased by present owners, Mary Lou from the estate of Melanie Naegelin by one of the previous
(deceased) and Dr. Corbett Holmgreen. They restored the house owners, Juli McCrary, who restored and furnished the home with
and furnished it with family heirlooms and early Texas furniture. The period antiques in keeping with the tradition of its designation as
house received the PCH marker. a Pioneer Castroville Home.

Continue north on Lorenzo St. one block, and left:

20. Bippert-Kueck House - c. 1847 505 Houston 22. The Alois Walter House - 1852 315 Petersburg
Owners: Gary Irish
Owner: Carole Romano

Jacob and Mary Magdalena Bippert contracted with Henri Alois Walter purchased this property for $50 in 1852 from Henri
Castro, February 26, 1846 in Antwerp, Belgium and immigrated to Castro. The Alsatian-style house of hard limestone was built shortly
Texas with their five children. after. Original architectural features that have been retained are
flooring, doors, windows, built-in bookcase, and a staircase with
On August 15, 1847, Medina County records show “for the sum bi-fold doors to the second story, all handmade of locally milled
of one dollar,” Jacob Bippert bought a lot from Henri Castro and cypress. With the exception of “closing-in” the back porch, no other
the same day, he received a lot from Father Dubuis for his work additions have been made. The concrete cistern to the left of the
on St. Louis Catholic Church. house collects rain water.

The Bipperts’ 7 1/2 ft. by 21 ft. house, c.1847, has eighteen inch The Walter family sold the property in 1868 for $600, and for the
thick limestone plastered walls, original cypress ceiling rafters next 130 years the property had various owners. Restoration was
with first cut sheathing and bark. The small house had front and completed by previous owners in 1999.
back doors, French windows and a corner fireplace. German

WALKING TOUR 43

23. The Anton & Catherine Schneider House - 1854 25. Kieser/Pingenot House - 1850 407 Madrid
Owner: Frank Francis
312 Petersburg Owners: Clay and Krista Binford
This unique house is a combination of Alsatian and Victorian
Anton Schneider and Catherine Ahr were both single when they architecture; the only one in Castroville! The Alsatian three room cottage
immigrated to Texas in 1850. They met and were married in 1852 of rock and cypress was built by Henri Castro and the colonists, and
in St. Louis Catholic Church. Shortly after, they purchased this lot purchased by Charles Kieser. Around 1905, Celestin Pingenot added
and built their home of native limestone. two rooms and the front porch with gingerbread trim.

The house has one fireplace and at one time had a staircase The Pingenots also built a small building east of the house to
leading to a loft. The exterior dimensions of the house have accommodate the post office; the stones of the foundation are still
remained the same since it was constructed. visible. Stories tell us that during this period the loud ringing of the
brass bell mounted on a post outside alerted the townspeople to the
The house remained with Schneider family heirs for many years. arrival of the mail coach.
In 1906 Rosa Haby purchased the house from Mary Biediger.
Frank Francis, the present owner, along with his late wife, Lorna,
In approximately 1912, Rosa’s niece and husband, August and purchased the property in 1982, and wherever possible has restored
Kate Kauffmann Tschirhart moved into the house where they raised the structure to its original state: cypress beams in the Alsatian side and
their family. In 1925 they purchased the house from the estate of interior beaded walls with original wood floors in the Victorian addition.
Rosa Haby. After Kate’s death in 1959, August and Kate’s daughter, The original carriage house at the rear of the lot is still standing. The
Pearlie and her husband, Oscar Biediger, moved their family into house has a PCH marker.
the home and she lived there until her death in 2004.

The house remained with descendants until sold, after Pearlie’s
death. The property has exchanged hands several times and is
now owned by Krista and Clay Binford, who completed substantial
renovations in 2019.

26. The Tarde Hotel - 1852 1310 Fiorella
Owner: Josh and Pennie Robertson

24. The Arcadius Steinle House - 1847 1416 Fiorella This charming two-story structure was built in 1852 as a hotel by Victor and
Owners: Albert & Meta Hausser Clarissa Tarde, natives of France. The Inn was highly touted by many travelers in the
mid-1800s for the fine French food and hospitality. Frederick Law Olmstead, in his
Arcadius Steinle left Hettingen, Prussia, at the age of 25 and sailed book, “A Journey Through Texas,” wrote of his arrival at Castroville in 1853: “Perhaps
aboard the ship “Norvegien” October 19, 1844 for the port of Lavaca, the most remarkable thing is the hotel by M. Tarde, a two-story house with double
Texas. His occupation was listed as a mason. galleries, and the best Inn we saw in the state. How delighted and astonished many
a traveler must have been, on arriving from the plains to this Inn.”
In 1847, Arcadius Steinle was allowed to purchase a lot from Henri
Castro according to the provisions in the colonization contract which During the 1850s, the Inn welcomed other renowned visitors destined to be
stated “Colonists receive a full title only when they have built a good key historical figures in the U. S. Civil War; among them: Robert E. Lee, purported
and comfortable cabin on it.” baseball inventor Abner Doubleday, Mary Hewitt Doubleday (Abner’s wife), tourist
Theodore Gilman, Lt. Samuel Hollibird, John Bell Hood, metal investor James
Arcadius, a mason and carpenter by trade, built an L-shaped home Huston, tourist George Ring, memorialist Horace Elisha Scudder, three term U.S.
with three large rooms on the ground floor. The walls are plastered- Rep. Gustav Schleicher, Gen. Phillip Sheridan, correspondent James Sweet, and
covered stone, the floors and windows are made of cypress and later “Rock of Chicamauga” George Thomas.
the windowsills are mesquite. Of special note is the freestanding
stairway of cypress with pine banisters leading up to a large sleeping After the death of Victor Tarde, the property and house was purchased by Hal
loft. Arcadius, his wife and six children occupied the house until Gosling, a U.S. Marshall and publisher of the local newspaper. Gosling was killed in
Arcadius’ death in 1858. After his death, his brother, Frank, arrived the line of duty by members of the Cave Robbers Gang on the train he was escorting
from Germany to care for his widow and children. They later married them from Austin to San Antonio.
and had five more children. Members of the Steinle family occupied
the house until 1946 when it sold to Ted James, a descendant of the In 1898 Dr. John FitzSimon purchased the Tarde property to reside. Many
original surveyor of Castroville. The present owners purchased the members of the FitzSimon family owned and resided in the house for 91 years. Fond
home in 1999 and have completed an extensive restoration. The memories of these family members are still shared within our community. In 1989
house has been awarded a Texas Historical Marker, a Building Award the McPhearson family purchased and began a remarkable remodel. They really
from Preservation Texas, and is listed on the National Register of enjoyed living in the home for many years. Bill Terry Tschirhart then purchased and
Historic Places. Of special interest is the native oak tree in the back resided in Hotel Tarde with his family, where they continued to care for this historic
yard known as the Castroville Oak. gem. For the next 18 years Jessie Frank Caseres purchased and continued to restore
and maintain the historic hotel to its original splendor. He resided and cared for Hotel
Tarde until he chose to sale this iconic hotel to locals Josh and Pennie Robertson in
2021. The Robertson’s have recently reopened Hotel Tarde as a short term rental for
local and visiting guests. Their hope is to share the remarkable history and preserve
the original character and nostalgic feeling of this historic hotel! The house has a
PCH marker. View more pictures or book your stay at www.hoteltarde.com.

44 WALKING TOUR

in 1906 for $360. The house was restored by granddaughter Ima
J. Tschirhart in 1976.

A blacksmith shop once stood where the garage is now and the
hand-dug well still has water in it. The home is registered as a
Texas Historical Landmark and was entered in the National Reg-
ister of Historic Places in 1970.

27. The Johannes Kepler House - 1846 307 Madrid
Owner: Kyle McVay

In doing some research, it is believed that this house was 30. The Vonflie House - 1911 304 Paris
built in 1846 and it is known to be the second oldest house in Owner: Rick Baes
Castroville. It is known that there have been ten different owners
beginning with Henri Castro. The Vonflie House was built in 1911 and while there is no
definitive documentation that states the house was built from a
Lora Mae McVay purchased the home in 1978 from Emil Sears-Roebuck “kit,” everyone accepts that it was. Sears began
Poerner, the local shoemaker and repairer, and with limited funds selling house plans through their catalogs in 1908 and by 1911
and a lot of determination, began the restoration with help from everything needed to build a house – plans, lumber, fixtures, and
her daughter and present owner, Kyle McVay. It was the second anything else the Sears catalog offered – was available in a kit.
house Lora Mae had restored in Castroville. Henry Vonflie, the son of Alsatian immigrants, married Katherine
in 1877. He made his living hauling freight in Texas and Mexico
Continue east on Madrid to Isabella, then right one block: but by 1882 the Southern Pacific had extended its line and they
sold the teams and wagons and turned to farming on Briar Branch.
28. The Monier House - 1847 213 Paris In 1911, Henry and Kate retired and returned to Castroville where
Owners: Mr. & Mrs. Tom Dawson they built their home.

A study of the St. Louis Parish Catholic Census of 1854 reveals Henry and Kate had no children of their own. They did,
that Jacques and Margaritha Monier had eleven children at that however, make their home available for nieces and nephews in
time. Obviously they needed the four-room rock house built order that they be close to the St Louis School to make their first
shortly after acquiring the corner lot from Henri Castro in 1847. communion. Kate had her gardens--both flowers and vegetables-
The house was still the only one on the block when Margaritha -and kept sheep in the barn on the property. Henry even kept a
was widowed in 1870. The Monier Family retained their interest in horse that he would race at the local tracks. Kate died in 1936 and
the property until 1898. Henry in 1944. Both are buried in the St. Louis Catholic Cemetery.
The current owner purchased the home in 2002.
Over the next 88 years, only two families owned the old place;
the Kreisles until 1921, and the Gerhardt Ihnken/Frances Tate Paris Street west will take you back to Fiorella Street,
Family. Gerhardt Ihnken added the still intact water tower, the sometimes called Main Street.
carriage house, and the porches front and back, after buying the
home in 1921.

Using scars, old markings and ghosts from the past, we
duplicated, built and installed the working cedar shutters. We were
fortunate in having done this. The hail storms in the spring of 2016
could have brought severe damage to the old windows and glass

31. Dolch-Hans Compound - 1860 1213-1215 Fiorella
Owners: Shannon and Holly DeLaune

29. The Cordier-Tschirhart House -1844 This compound reflects a continuum of Castroville’s history
from before the civil war. German immigrants Louis and Rosina
1213 Isabella St. Owner: Katy & Steve Whisenant (Niggli) Dolch built the stone house c. 1860. They stayed only a
few years, but retained ownership into the 1880’s when Rosina’s
Built of native rock between 1844 and 1847, the house was brother, Sheriff and U.S. Marshal Ferdinand Niggli, lived here.
then sold to the Biry and Ahr families. The sale price was $32 for Butcher Thomas Edmund Hans and his wife Amelia (Tschirhart)
the house and “subsidies.” Eugenia Tschirhart bought the house bought the homestead in 1907 and added the brick meat market
in 1910. An early board-and-batten barn and smokehouse, and a
well house with elevated cistern, completed the compound, which
remained in family ownership until 1969. Today, the site serves as
an architectural record of evolutionary city farmstead. Recorded
Texas Historic Landmark 2004.

32. Hans Meat Market - 1910 Corner of Fiorella & Paris WALKING TOUR 45
Owners: Shannon and Holly DeLaune
sold the property in 1904 for $2000 to Joe Grimsinger, another
The Hans Meat Market sits on a corner lot on the old Main Street saloon man. William Rihn bought the property in 1913 from Frank
of Castroville. Other original buildings on this property include the Monier, and the “Up to Date Saloon” operated until about 1920
Dolch House, a well house, smokehouse and barn. The meat when prohibition closed all the saloons in town.
market, the first brick retail building in town, was built by Ed Hans
in 1910. The saloon building and a blacksmith shop/auto repair garage of
Bill Rihn, Jr. was removed from the property sometime after 1920.
Molly Hans, his wife, was a real dynamo in Castroville and active When these buildings were torn down, pecan trees were planted.
in the Catholic parish. She was in charge of the kitchen at St. Louis The property was then used strictly as a residence of Robert Rihn
Day for many years, and in 1923 she drove her buggy throughout who acquired the property from his father about 1940. The house
the community collecting donations to build a parish hall for St. Louis is stone and stucco with a wooden addition off the back built prior
Church. After the death of her husband, Molly married Louis Schott to the 1930s. The stone house has two front rooms, each with
of Devine, and they resided on this property until their deaths. At outside doors, and a single room across the back. Two of the
present the Meat Market houses Castroville Pottery. house’s most interesting features are in the front rooms where a
chimney and flue are uniquely positioned right over a window and
the ceiling was removed exposing the original roof boards cut from
cypress trees from the Medina River.

The wooden addition contains the kitchen, which was a
screened-in porch, and a back room that was the tub room, the
privy being still outside. In the 1930s, Mr. Rihn had the screened in
porch enclosed into a narrow sunroom, although the rotten board
ends had to be patched. The back room was converted to an
inside bathroom and the tub room became a small room off both
the kitchen and sunroom. The Rihn heirs sold the land to Bill and
Sue Coates in 1984, who renovated the premises and used it as
a guest and rent house.

In 1995 the present owner bought the property and added
a large master bedroom and a small cottage to the rear of the
home. The original well, complete with water buckets, sits atop
the back porch, and there are two other historical structures on
the property. The interior is furnished with Texas antiques and
hand crafted items, including Bonnie’s handmade quilts. This
house proudly boasts three plaques on the front porch, a National
Register of Historic Places by the United State of America of
Interiors plaque, a Castroville Conservation Society plaque and a
PCH (Pioneer Castroville Home) plaque.

33. St. Louis Society Building - c. 1850s 1302 Fiorella

Owner: Betti Lee Burges Wilson

This building on the corner of Fiorella and Paris streets has 35. The Old Standby - 1857 1212 Fiorella
always served a commercial or civic purpose; it has never been Owners: Kenneth & Arlene Smith
used as a home. It is believed to have been built in the 1850s on
property originally owned by Theodore Gentilz, artist and Castro’s One of the few two story buildings in town, The Old Standby
surveyor. Some of the early St. Louis Day celebrations, when they began its colorful career as a saloon in 1857. The stucco covered
were just local affairs, were held on the grounds. stone building was built by Fredrick Huechling as a bar downstairs
with the family living quarters upstairs. It no doubt enjoyed its
During much of its history the building has been used as location across from what was then the county courthouse on the
a saloon and pool parlor. The story is told of one of the early main road from San Antonio to Del Rio. In 1880 it changed hands
barkeeps who was a one-eyed man. When he had to leave his and the name to Greenfront Saloon and attained a notorious
post he would extract his glass eye and set it on the bar near the reputation. It was the scene of at least two recounted shootings
cash drawer, with instructions to “watch things for me.” They say involving county law officers.
he never lost a dime.
In 1907 the back single-story portion of the house was added to
34. The Geyer-Rihn House - c. 1869 406 Paris include a family kitchen and a room for the grandfather. Prohibition
Owners: Bonnie Keller saw the close of the saloon, a new owner, and the opening of a
drug store and soda fountain. Both the building and business were
The original house, built about 1869 by August Geyer, was only sold in 1959. After the business moved to newer quarters in 1966,
two rooms of native limestone. Frame additions have been added The Old Standby housed several businesses. In 1977 it again
by subsequent owners. Phillip Wernette purchased this house in became the Old Standby Saloon. Fire destroyed portions of the
1899 for $250 and built a saloon on the west side of the lot. He ceiling and floor in 1979 and it was during this remodeling that the
building was converted into a single family dwelling. It has been
occupied by several owners since then. This home has the PCH
Marker and San Antonio Conservation Society Marker.

46 WALKING TOUR

36. City Hall of Castroville - 1878 1209 Fiorella 38. G.L. Haass Store
Second County Courthouse Building - c. 1850
Owner: Zion Lutheran
When Medina County was organized in 1848, Castroville was Church
designated the county seat, and it retained that status until 1892
when the results of the county election transferred the count seat This building was a general
to Hondo, 16 miles west. The first stone courthouse measuring 54’ store built by G. L. Haass, one of
x 23’ was completed in September 1854. It was used until 1878 the founders of the town and a prominent business man and county
when this building was constructed. R. Hollub was the architect official. Subsequent owners have used it as a store and in the 1930s
for the 1878 courthouse, and the general contractor was Blasius Castroville School district utilized it for additional classrooms. Zion
Kieffer. A large jail was built behind the courthouse in 1886. (The jail Lutheran Church purchased the building in 1960 and restored it. It
building was razed around the turn of the century by Alex Tondre, is now used as a youth center by the congregation. It has a PCH
who used the stone to build a home and post office on Lorenzo St., marker.
both still standing)
39. Zion Lutheran Church - 1939
The vacated courthouse was sold by the county to private owners. Fiorella & London St.
In 1915 the County Board of Education purchased the building from
Jacob & Theresa Mangold and converted it into a public school for The original stone church served this
the Castroville area. The Civilian Conservation Corps renovated the congregation from 1854 until 1939, when the
building in 1939, adding two side wings and the exterior staircase. historical landmark was demolished and the
The original exterior plaster was removed from the building, present brick church building was built on the same
exposing the limestone. spot. This new church building was dedicated
debt free.
When Medina Valley ISD was formed in 1961, the building was
again vacant. The City of Castroville purchased the property from the The first pastor’s residence was in the balcony
school district for administrative offices. The state historical marker of the old church building, but when this proved unsatisfactory, a
in front incorrectly identifies the building as the first courthouse; it home was built using leftover stone from the church building. In
is the second. 1922, the old stone parsonage was razed and replaced by a new
frame building. In 1953 additional property facing Lorenzo Street
was purchased, and the parsonage was moved there from its
original place.

In 1949, the Education Annex (attached to the sanctuary) was
dedicated. It is now the congregation’s fellowship hall. In 1960 the
building known as the “Fuos Haus” was purchased and is now used
for the offices of the pastor and office administrator, as well as for
meeting rooms.

40. Henri Castro Homestead - 1845 1109 Fiorella
Owners: Rhonda and Justin Jacobs

37. Kieffer-Wernette-Tondre Store - c. 1860s 1201 Fiorella St. As the town of Castroville was being laid out, Henri Castro, for
Owner: Old Town Revitalization Initiative whom the town was named, selected an entire block of land for his
homestead. We know that Henri Castro had a stone house built
The building was originally the Kiefer Brewery & Saloon. It was on this property in 1845 and probably another dwelling along with
purchased by Philip Wernette, who operated it as a saloon and added two stables, an outside kitchen and other buildings. Only this little
the second floor to house a dance hall in 1907. It was then rather stone house remains.
grandiosely called the Wernette Opera House. The balcony surrounding
the top floor was added some time later and gave attendees at the In 1861 Mr. & Mrs. Castro deeded the “property and the
dances an opportunity to enjoy the night air. The hall is said to have homestead” to their adopted son, Lorenzo. Eleven years later,
had the best dance floor in Medina County, and the “All-You-Can-Eat” Lorenzo sold the entire property to Emil Zinsmeyer who later sold
spreads by Philip’s wife, Mary, became legendary. After Philip’s death, the property in 20 vara frontages. The frontage on which this stone
the property was bought by Louis Tondre who, with his sons, operated house exists was sold to John Deres in 1883 and was eventually
it for many years as a grocery, lumber and dry goods store. purchased by his son-in-law, Joseph Frey, in 1907. Joseph’s heirs
sold the property to Joseph’s sister and brother-in-law Veronica
After more than 20 years of being vacant, the building has been and Henri Ahr in 1923 and served as their home until their deaths.
refurbished and houses retail operators on the bottom floor. The top The house was sold by their children in the mid 1970’s. It has had
floor of the building has been converted to an event center with some of several owners since then but returned to the Frey family when
the original building materials intact. purchased by Joseph Frey’s great-great niece, Joan Voneiff and
her husband George in 2006. It was purchased by the Jacobs in
2022 and will be available for nightly accommodations soon. It
holds a Texas Historical Marker and a PCH Marker.

WALKING TOUR 47

41. Old Blacksmith Shop - 1920s 1102 Fiorella
Owners: Rhonda and Justin Jacobs

Wagon freighting, a lucrative occupation for many local men in 43. The Old Highway Filling Station - 1926 1101 Fiorella
the 1800s, generated other businesses such as blacksmith and Owners: Kenneth & Arlene Smith
wheel wright shops, but the advent of the iron horse and automobile
caused the demise of both. All the shops have disappeared save In the minds of many area residents, this old building at the
this 1920s blacksmith shop of Frank Tschirhart. It is now the current corner of Fiorella and Lafayette will always be the Highway Filling
location of Spartan Leather, a custom leather shop. Station even though the building began as a saloon at the turn of
the century. Built by Anton Beetz, the property was purchased by
Charles W. Suehs in 1925.

It was a bustling place back in the days when Charles Suehs
and his four sons operated the Magnolia Station here. It was also
a liquor store from 1934 to 1955, and for over 60 years it was the
Painter Bus Station for Castroville. Gene Suehs purchased the
property from his father in 1946 and leased it to various businesses
during his retirement.

The original home of Henri Castro stood on this property before
it was razed by Beetz in 1893.

42. Francois Lorentz House - c. 1850 405 Lafayette 44. September Square Owned by City of Castroville
Owners: Rhonda and Justin Jacobs
This historic plot of land commemorates those first pioneers
The exact origins of this house are still somewhat obscure. It is who founded Castroville. A communal shelter was erected on
known, however, that it was part of the property of Henri Castro, this site shortly after Henri Castro and the first settlers arrived
who brought the settlers in the 1840s to what would become here September 3, 1844. The center monument, erected in 1931
Castroville. by the Order of the Alhambra of San Antonio, commemorates
that event. The two side monuments were installed after World
In 1847 Castro sold one of three lots to Jacob Riff. François War II, honoring those servicemen who fought and died in
and Mariana Turpe Lorentz purchased lot #2 from Jacob Riff in defense of their country in World War I and World War II.
December 1848. A few days later they bought lot #1 from Castro
and completed the purchases by acquiring lot #3 from Castro in In September 1994, the sesquicentennial celebration included
July 1852. Sometime between 1848 to 1852, it seems likely the placing a State Historical Marker honoring Henri Castro, founder of
Lorentzes built the house. Castroville. Patriotic services are conducted here on Memorial Day
and Veterans Day by the American Legion Post 460.
On December 4, 1871, Mariana, the widow of François, sold the
property to Theobold and Agatha Monier for $600 in gold coins. Around September Square:
Theobold conveyed all three lots and his personal property to his A couple of historic buildings surround the park. The old Andres
wife. Agatha apparently kept the property until July 1885, when Carle House at 1006 Fiorella St. is now part of the Broadway
she sold it to Fritz and Barbara Haas. National Bank. On the corner at 1011 Alamo St. is the original
Leonard Hans Home.
In 1909, Barbara’s sister, Catherine Schmitt acquired the property
as a bequest in the will written by Haas. Frank X. and Catherine
Schmitt held the property until 1920, when their daughters, Kate
and Frances, inherited the property. Frances later married Will F.
Naegelin.

On October 10, 1924, Frank and Martha Tschirhart bought the
property from Kate Schmitt, Will F. Naegelin and wife, Frances
Schmitt Naegelin, for $2,000. Frank Tschirhart then bought the
present blacksmith shop. Next to the old Suehs filling station was
a building that had been used as a pool hall for the old Baetz Hotel
(part of the Suehs property). Tschirhart moved it across the street
to establish his blacksmith shop. In 1983 Herbert G. and Martha
Mills bought all the property from Franks’ widow, Martha Tschirhart.
The blacksmith shop was leased out to several blacksmiths until
1994, and the house was used for several different shops.

In 2003, Tot and Ward Albro bought the property and restored
it as much as possible to the original design. In 2016, it was
purchased by the current owner.

48 WALKING TOUR

and cypress into shingles. Following Julia’s unexpected death in 1925,
Joseph Jr. sold the entire property to Jordan T. Lawler, a Progressive
developing municipal power for the cities of Bryan and Sabinal. Lawler
converted the mill to generate electricity in 1927, which provided
Castroville’s electricity until 1935. His sister Ruth restored the veranda
in 1937 and reopened it as Landmark Inn on July 4, 1942. Ruth, her
sister Genevieve, and Genevieve’s partner Mary Ruth Lionberger, and
many other Castroville women worked hard to preserve historic places
throughout the city. Ruth Lawler preserved the Landmark Inn for future
generations donating the property to the State of Texas in 1974 with life
tenancy until her death in 1990. The site transferred from Texas Parks
and Wildlife to Texas Historical Commission in 2008.

45. Brauer House - 1850s 1005 Alamo St.
Owner: Janice Hymer

This house, built in the late 1850s, consisted of one large front room 47. Joseph Burell House - c. 1845 414 Florence
with fireplace plus the back room which also has a fireplace. It was built of Owner: Carter Brown
native limestone with cypress beams and roofed with cypress shingles. The
property includes another small house in back which has been enlarged This house and river property was originally owned by Joseph Burell,
and converted to living quarters after 1870. Other structures on the property Sr., a native of Altorf, Alsace, who arrived in 1844 on the Castro ship
include a smokehouse and a hand-dug, rock-lined well. Jeanette Marie, one of the original colonists. Burell sold the lot with house
(probably a one-room structure) to Franz Wurzbach in 1857. Joseph
The Etter family owned the house from 1922 until it was sold to Dr. Arno Conrad purchased the property in 1863 for $655 and built additions to
in 1982. Dr. and Mrs. Hymer purchased the property in 1993. The house the house. The Conrad heirs retained ownership until 1925 when Joe
has a PCH marker and was featured in the Texas Highways article on Lieber of Uvalde bought the property. The Fred Lieber family lived in the
Castroville in August 2001. house until their deaths. Eric Sellers purchased the house in 1983, and
in turn sold the property to Brooke and Al Allison of San Antonio. In 1996
Cross over Hwy 90 to reach: the Wilsons purchased the property. Extensive repairs and improvements
were made to the house, but the original structural features have been
46. Landmark Inn State Historic Site - 1849 402 Florence retained. The first part of the house is believed to be one of the oldest
Owned & Operated by the Texas Historical Commission structures built in Castroville still standing. In 2020, Mr. Brown purchased
the property.
The natural rock crossing of the Medina River and the old San Antonio-
El Paso Road near the Landmark Inn has long been a waystation for 48. Valentine Vollmer House - 1870 501 Florence
people traveling through Texas. The area’s water, shade, and wildlife
attracted many travelers, including Americans Indians and later European, Owners: Russell & Dolores Guinn
Tejano, and Mexican settlers. Henri Castro chose this location because it
was just one day’s wagon ride from San Antonio. Twenty-seven settlers This property was originally deeded to Louis Huth by Henri Castro
established Castroville on September 3, 1844 and were joined by their in 1854. Huth sold the lots to brothers Andrew and Joseph Carle on
families in the weeks that followed. Cesar and Hannah Monod bought August 9, 1870. On that same day, Valentine and Mary Wentz Vollmer
property in September 1849 above the river crossing and built a one-story purchased the property from the Carle brothers for $200.
structure and detached kitchen. The Monods’ enslaved African American
woman, Harriet, was 22 years old with a toddler in 1850, and probably The Vollmer’s built the substantial limestone home and raised their
lived in the detached kitchen. The Monods also bought the adjacent lot family here. Valentine was an active member of the community acting
from Michel and Rosine Simon, possibly with the stone Wash House on as Medina County Sheriff, Tax Collector, Alderman and also was
it. The main building served as the family residence, store, and tavern Mayor of Castroville from 1877 until his death in 1879.
for travelers.
In 1907, after Mary’s death, the property was sold to Louis
In 1853, John and Rowena Vance moved to Castroville from San Mangold. It remained in the Mangold family until June 1998 when it
Antonio and purchased the Monod property. In 1859, they built the was sold to Russell and Dolores Guinn.
adjacent family residence. The business became known as the Vance
Hotel when they added a second floor and began renting the new rooms The original home consists of two large front rooms each with
to travelers in the 1870s. George Louis Haass and Laurent Quintle built
a gristmill on land purchased from the Vance family in 1854. The mill –
designed by famed-architect David Monroe of Seguin – was said to be
worth the time to travel 100 miles in any direction to see. Water from the
Medina River powered the mill – the boiler on exhibit later supplemented
waterpower. Joseph and Margarethe Courand Sr. bought the mill in 1876
and his son Joseph and Julia Courand Jr. bought the Vance Homestead
in 1899 reuniting the two properties. Joseph Jr. converted the milling
complex from piecework to commercial processing of grain, cotton, wool,

a door leading to the front porch. It features eleven foot high bead WALKING TOUR 49
board ceilings with crown molding. There are two smaller rooms (also
with bead board ceilings discovered during restoration) and one large The house sold again in 1959 to the Gene Suehs Family who
room upstairs. lived on the property until 2016 when it was sold. Among other
changes, the Suehs’ converted the original covered porch into a
Sometime after the late 1940s a bedroom, bath and kitchen were bathroom.
added. In 1999, the home was restored and another addition was
made to the home including a much larger kitchen. This home has Under the previous ownership, it has undergone significant
been awarded a PCH marker and the Castroville Conservation interior renovation, taking portions back to original walls. Stone
Society marker. flooring now replaces the original pine floors. The home has a
PCH Marker.

51. A.H. Tondre House - 1911 513 Florence
Owner: Lloyd Ross
49. Burger House - 1844 502 Florence
Owners: Philip & Mary King
A well-preserved, one-family owned, wood framed house was
Considered one of the oldest homes in Castroville, this small purchased from Sears, Roebuch & Co. by Adolph H. Tondre in 1911
Alsatian cottage was built in 1844 by workmen who used it as for an approximate cost of $5,000. The house was shipped by rail
a residence while building other homes in Castroville. A small to La Coste, hauled to Castroville by horse and wagon, and then
addition was soon added which included the fireplace. The home assembled by local carpenters Louis Fuos and Sam Etter. Other out
initially had cheese cloth ceilings but was later changed to a buildings were built by the owner Adolph H. Tondre. Adolph’s son,
wooden ceiling. The floors were cypress wood floors but the front Elton was born in this house in January 1922 and resided here until
room had to be removed and concrete was put in its place. The his death in November of 2016 at 95 years of age. He made very
back room however still has the original cypress flooring. Diamond little modifications to this home keeping it and the outbuildings in
shaped turnbuckles were inserted to help secure the structure. excellent condition. The open living room/dining room will set you
If you look carefully you can also see the wooden shingles that back into the early 1900’s as these rooms are remarkably in virtually
are still in place under the metal roof. Of special interest are the the original condition as built in 1911.
casement windows and the batten shutters. The house has a
San Antonio Conservation Society marker, PCH marker, and the
Castroville Conservation marker.

50. The Louis Huth House - 1846 909 Angelo St. 52. Joseph Louis Tondre House - 1921 601 Florence
Owners: Bruce and Amy Scheiber
Owner: Tom and Lyn Phillips
Joseph (Joe) Louis Tondre married Elizabeth Halbardier in 1912
The original portion of the Huth House was built in 1846. It and had five children, four sons and one daughter. Joe Tondre
was one story with a kitchen separate from the rest of the house. worked with his father and brothers at the L.M. Tondre & Sons
Herbert Mills purchased the house in 1928 and joined the kitchen, store, a general merchandise and hardware store in the middle of
which was originally the smokehouse, to the house by adding a town. Not only did it sell supplies to the people of the area but it
hall and a dining room with a fireplace. The mantle was fashioned also served as their bank.
of millstone taken from the old Huth Grist Mill. The house sold
again in 1936, purchased by the Archibald A. Murrell Family. Mr. Joe Tondre and his wife built their home in 1921 from lumber
Murrell, who was Castroville’s first mayor, immediately began and fixtures from the store. The house has been through several
plans to enlarge it. He closed the two original doors facing Flor- owners and just as many renovations. It is believed that the house
ence Street, converting them to windows. He also closed the originally had three rooms with a porch across the back. The kitchen
exterior door in the dining room. Next he proceeded to add a new and dining room were added at some time and in the early 1960s
wing containing a bathroom, bedroom, laundry room, garage and the west end bedrooms were added.
den. The paneled den, with a bar, fireplace and comfortable seat-
ing, quickly became a meeting place for citizens participating in The current owners removed the added west end and completely
the social and civic affairs of the community. rebuilt it adhering to the original roof line. They have blended old
with new by repeating bead board, removing parquet flooring in the
The small cabin at the back of the property overlooking the living room replacing it with wood flooring, and adding fireplaces in
river was moved from the Murrell’s property on Chacon Lake to and out. The project will be completed by widening the back porch.
house the man he engaged to help with the construction of the
main house. This home shows the progression of home building in Castroville
as descendents of the original settlers made the decision to remain
in Castroville. As owners come and go and our houses are loved
and taken care of, they will remain a part of our unique community
for years to come.

50 WALKING TOUR

This cabin has been recorded by the Historic American Buildings
Survey of the U.S. Department of the Interior for its archives at the
Library of Congress and has received the Pioneer Castroville Home
(PCH) marker.

53. Joe Bendele Log Cabin - 1847-1849 602 Florence 54. G. L. Haass House - 1849-1851 606 Florence
Owners: Sally Coyle & Lloyd Ross Owners: Sally Coyle & Lloyd Ross

This is the last original free standing one room log cabin left This 1 ½ story stone house, built in the typical Pioneer Alsatian/
in Castroville from the early pioneer days. The cabin is a simple French Provincial style originally consisted of two rooms, a fireplace
single story, one room rectangular structure. Exterior lean-to’s were in the main parlor and a loft for storage and sleeping. The house
added after relocating this cabin here by attaching a small lean-to was constructed using hand-hewed native cypress for beaming
at the East end for storage and another on the backside used as and framing with locally quarried limestone for the foundation that
a porch. It is built of hand hewed oak logs with a pitched roof that is held together with mixture similar to cement. The walls were built
was covered with hand cut cypress shakes. using the same materials and sealed with white-washed stucco. The
steeply pitched roof still has the original 1850’s hand cut cypress
The corners of the cabin are of simple square notch (90 degree shakes intact under the upgraded roof.
cut) design. This was a common and less time consuming choice
among settlers wanting to get their homes up quickly. The original hand-made front doors are of a unique French style
assembled using wooden dowels and no nails. All windows were
The corners and ends of the logs, around windows and doorways, 12 paned double hung windows with louvered shutters.
are “blind pegged” from above as each log was put in place. “Blind
pegging” means that each log has a hole drilled in from the top Today the house contains eight rooms likely built in three stages.
of one log to the log below. A wooden peg is then inserted from The first two additions were probably built sometime in 1850s
above, through the two logs, thus connecting them and holding evident by the same expert craftsmanship and materials used in the
them in place. original construction. The first addition extended the original house
by 12 feet on the west end of the house providing extra room for
Cooking was done outside as proof of the original hand built stone sleeping, later becoming an indoor kitchen. The second addition
cooking hearth just outside the cabin. The 40’ hand dug stoned lined was a wraparound screened in porch that encompassed the entire
well still flows with fresh water for drinking, cooking and washing as rear and east end of the house. Now it is fully enclosed consisting of
it did over 167 years ago. four separate rooms. The two east end rooms each have a fireplace
for warmth sharing a common chimney. The last addition, serving
This property is one of two adjoining properties deeded to George as the washroom, was originally of wooden construction built on
Louis Haass (1814-1877) by Henri Castro in 1847. It is generally the west end. This lean-to was also built using hand-hewed logs
thought that this cabin was built at another location in Castroville, for the roof and supports with wooden planking for the siding. The
probably on Joe Bendele’s property, and moved to the Haass roof was also covered with cypress shakes.
property later in the mid to late 1850’s. The reasoning behind
purchasing and moving this cabin is a mystery, but one possible A unique and rare 1910 Flint & Walling Star open-backed gear
explanation is that the log cabin may have actually been purchased model windmill stands over the old 1850s well which supplied piped
by George Haass and used as servants quarters for the three men water from the cistern for the house, cabin and livestock. This
and two women under Mr. Haass’s services. windmill was a higher end model for its time. It features a manually
operated quick release lever which connects the wooden sucker rod
However, property deeds do not show a transfer of ownership to below from the geared drive on top. The common, less expensive
Mr. Bendele so one other explanation is that the log cabin may have models would be bolted together.
actually been owned by Joe Bendele and purchased by George
Haass earlier than 1855 and used it as temporary quarters until the Through the years the house was used primarily as a residence
main stone house was completed. but at one time a doctor practiced medicine here and the local boy
scouts held meetings up in the loft. In the late 1930s, Arthur Coyle
One curious item within the cabin is the concrete slab having two purchased the house. He then restored remodeled and installed
“U” shaped steel bolts sticking out of it. The purpose of this slab was modern utilities in the early 1940s.
not understood until one day a visitor who used to live in the main
stone house said that this was where a previous occupant of the In 1976, Arthur’s son George, inherited the property and resided
cabin kept his two pets, a mountain lion and bobcat, chained up to. here until his passing in 2005. Sally Coyle and fiancé, Lloyd Ross,
reside here today continuing to preserve the main house, cabin
George Haass, a native of Durkheim, Bavaria Germany, was and property.
one of Henri Castro’s original colonists. He was one of two paid
guides leading the colonists out of San Antonio on September 1, During the months of March and April, the historic two acre
1844, to settle near the Medina River on September 3, 1844, and property is referred to as the “Castroville Poppy House” known
was one of the original signers naming and founding Castroville on for its sea of beautiful red poppies. These poppies are probably
September 12, 1844. remnants of past poppy flowers brought over by our Alsatian pioneer
settlers from the old country. During this time, photographers and
Haass held many prestigious positions during his lifetime. He was visitors from afar will come to see this delightfully charming and
elected the first constable in 1844. In 1846, Haass along with his beautiful site.
close friend, Louis Huth, took 10 families six miles west of Castroville
to establish a new settlement they named Quihi. He was appointed The house has been recorded by the Historic American Buildings
the first sheriff of Medina County in 1848 and served as mayor for Survey of the U.S. Department of the Interior for its archives at
many years. He was a prominent businessman partnering with Huth the Library of Congress and has received the Pioneer Castroville
to build the first mercantile store in the early 1850s and a brewery
located directly across the street at the corners of London and Home (PCH) marker.
Fiorella streets. He founded the first grist mill with partner Lawrence
Quintle in 1854 establishing the Haass-Quintle Grist Mill located
behind the Landmark Inn State Historic Site.