A couple weekends ago we took a journey out to a historic little town called Gruene (pronounced green). A little town only 30 minutes away, thats modo is "Gently resisting change since 1872." To me any town like that is worth visiting!
In the mid-1840's German farmers became the first settlers in Gruene, Texas. Like Matt and I, spreading our wings after marriage, Ernst Gruene and his bride, Antoinette reached the newly established city of New Braunfels in 1845. But because acreage was scarce, he purchased land down the river and built the first home in Gruene.
Gruene build houses in various styles. The first mercantile store was built in 1878 and a cotton gin powered by the Guadalupe River was soon added. Further construction included a dance hall and saloon- Gruene Hall- which became the center of the community's social life.
The death of Henry D. in 1920 marked a downfall of Gruene development. 1922 the original cotton gin burned down and was replaced with a newer electric model. (shame! I would have loved to have seen that!) The economic depression was too much and the family businesses went under, except for Gruene Hall, which has never closed.
Today Gruene is once again a thriving community. Gruene Hall is the oldest dance hall in Texas and many country-singing stars and legends have performed there over the years. Willie Nelson, George Strait, Jerry Jeff Walker, Lyle Lovett are some of the well-known singers. A complete list of the singers is displayed inside the hall.
It was a great little town to visit for the day! Can't wait to go back and next time hopefully bring you!
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