Texas Wendish Heritage Museum — Attraction in Texas

I have been driving by the sign for the Wendish museum off highway 71 for many years, but did not take the time to visit until this weekend.

This museum commemorates the Wendish settlers, a group of Slavic immigrants from eastern Germany that arrived in Texas starting in the 1850’s. While presenting the story of the Wendish people, the museum provides a depiction of mid to late 19th century rural Texas life that I believe to be unrivaled in the state. The museum not only has several well-preserved buildings, a research library, and a wealth of artifacts and period photographs, but is located adjacent to the 1871 Church which is open to visitors and well worth the short walk across the historical cemetery from the main museum buildings. On your way, keep your eyes peeled for the tombstone with the inscription written in Wendish.

Although the period of 19th century European immigration to Texas is relatively recent, much of the evidence of the settlers and their lives has disappeared, leaving only (quickly eroding) tombstones littered across the state. Institutions such as the Wendish Museum play an essential role in documenting and transmitting the culture and history of these people that make up such a large portion of Texas history.

The docent at the museum at the time of our visit (June 9, 2018) was extremely knowledgeable and expanded on information given in the exhibits as well as answering questions and playing a selection of Wendish poetry and hymns for visitors. With an entrance fee of only $5, it shouldn’t be missed if you are...

Very nice presentations addressing the migration of Wends coming to Texas. Displays and information about their cultural influence in the area as well as why they came to Texas instead of Australia. It was very interesting to learn about how this small group was basically driven from Prussia, arriving in Galveston in 1857(?) Traveling 150 inland to join other Wendish settlers who had written home encouraging them to come. Buying 4500 acres for the approximate 500 who arrived. They worked together to re-establish a community where they could speak their own language and worship in the...

I stopped in to learn about my great grandfather's heritage. I've known about this museum for a while. I travel through going from the Houston area to Central Texas every couple of years. I am so glad I was able to finally stop in. The workers were very nice. I came during Spring Break so they were a little busy, but I got enough knowledge to come home and research about the history of my Wendish ancestry. The museum has a lot of items made and used by the Wendish people. I really enjoy researching about the history of my ancestors. I hope I find time to do...