Texas German Societytexasgermansociety.com/news_letter_files/TGS June 2016... · Texas German Society Reporter 1 Summer 2016 Texas German Society Organized September 6, 1983 Witte

Texas German Society Reporter 1 Summer 2016

Texas German Society Organized September 6, 1983 ■ Witte Schmid Haus 1860

Editor – Marie Herridge, 5462 Hwy 159 W, Bellville, TX 77418

[email protected]

REPORTER Summer 2016

VOL. XVIII, NO. 1

Beat the Texas Heat Your Guide for a Texas Summer

mailto:[email protected]


SEPTEMBER 17, 2016

CRAWFORD COMMUNITY CENTER

999 E. 4th

Street, Crawford, TX 76638

German Waltzes, Polkas, Yodeling, Variety There’s no other band like it!!!!!

Website: enzianbuam.com

HALL OPENS AT 4 P.M., DINNER AT 5 P.M. DANCING 6 TO 9:30 P.M.

Setups & soft drinks available German-type Food by Wiethorn Catering

TICKETS - Adult $20 Children 12 & under $10 DEADLINE – September 13

CONTACTS

Helen Miller – 254-772-7257 Betty Hubbard – 254-662-0116 Van Massirer – 254-486-2366


The Rock Church

ST. OLAF LUTHERAN CHURCH MADISON LUETGE

St. Olaf Lutheran Church lies between Cranfills Gap and Clifton. It was built in 1886 by Norwegians and

most of the features are still original, including the pews and floors. Services are now only held by candlelight

on Christmas and sunrise on Easter.

It is referred to as Old Rock Church because of the rock with which it was built. It stands in solemnity on a

hill and provides a stunning view of the landscape on all sides as it overlooks the cemetery beside it and a

beautiful field of wildflowers opposite it. At sunset, the church is brilliantly silhouetted against the sky on one

side. The church’s lone structure resting on the hill establishes it as a monument to the past. Time has not

touched this small, sacred expanse.

Above the threshold, a marker stone reads ‘St Olafs Kirke 30st May 1886’. The entrance has wooden

double doors that open directly into the worship space. Given the modest size of the church, there is no

transitional space and the pews are immediately accessible from the entrance.

The altar is one large wooden pulpit with a railed kneeler around the front. The wooden feature is off set by

the sky blue ceiling and soft yellow walls. The windows are original with glass bodies and stained glass in their

rounded peaks. The recently restored organ is stationed on a second level at the back of the space. Wood is used

as a theme, as the pews, altar, floors and other structural features are also wood. Overall, the church’s layout is

very simple and understated.


The cemetery is marked by an ornate iron gate that

faces the side of the church and is visible through the

right side row of windows. Beyond, the graves gently

slope down with the hill. Sunlight sweeps through the

field and highlights each marker at sunset as the

church stands as an illuminated sentinel.

It has become a sought after destination for

weddings, baptisms and other special occasions. Due

to the small number of services it holds, it is open to

the public. All of the features within the church,

including the bell, were purchased and installed before

1900. The church is still without running water and

electricity. The only heating is provided by an

enormous wood burning stove.

This picturesque church is a hidden gem. Though it

is small, its historical significance remains a valuable

asset for Texas.


The church is accessible by

appointment.

http://rockchurch-gap.com/


Exploring Independence, TX

Independence is a small town with an immense history. It was founded in 1835 and

was the original site for Baylor University. Sam Houston was baptized just down the road and attended the Independence Baptist Church. His regular seat is marked by a Texas flag. Independence Baptist Church is also the Texas Baptist Museum.

After Baylor moved its universities to the Waco area, the

buildings remained and the ruins are now open to the public. The all-male campus is located on Windmill Hill and the all-female campus is located on Academy Hill. Windmill Hill has been converted into a park with informational plaques to assist a self-guided tour. Academy Hill is now Baylor Park and is an open field with the four stone columns surrounded by beautiful trees.

Other sites include the Antique Rose Emporium, Sam

Houston’s home and the Independence Coffee Company. There are a few Bed & Breakfasts and other tours available by appointment. Independence General Store is located at 9400 Lueckemeyer Rd.


Texas Baptist Museum-Intersection of Hwy 50 & FM 390 Tue-Sat 9-4, FREE admission Independencetx.com

Above and below photos from independencetx.com

Photo by The Cherished Lens

Photo by Madison Luetge


Mollie B News Texas Polka Bands Featured on the Mollie B Polka

Party on RFDtv

In late April the Mollie B Polka Party had a taping for the show at the Sokol Hall in

Ennis, Texas. Mollie B and her crew spent four days filming numerous bands from around the

United States. Among the bands were Enzian Buam ( Robert Herridge is a member), Czech and

Then Some, the Red Ravens, Texas Tribute Band, the Texas Dutchmen, the Shiner Hobo Band

and many more. Each band performed about four sets with three songs each. The individual sets

are the segments each band has on the show.

The segments are now integrating into her program on Wednesday at 5:30 pm and

Saturday 9:00 pm. Go to the RFDtv website to view the week’s schedule.


For more information, visit:

RFDtv.com

MollieB.com

Mollie B Polka Party on Facebook

Courtesy of the Mollie B Polka Party Facebook page.2016.

Enzian Buam and Mollie B at the April taping of the

Mollie B Polka Party.2016.

Courtesy of the Mollie B Polka Party

Facebook page.2016.


2016 TGS EXECUTIVE BOARD AND CHAPTER PRESIDENTS

President: 1st Vice President: 2nd Vice President:

Glenn Altwein Georg Ulbrich Dan Schoppe

1441 FM 155 6114 Peeler Rd. 1008 Auburn Drive

La Grange, Texas 78945 LaGrange, Texas 78945-5513 Arlington, Texas 76012

(979)247-3456 (979)247-4936 (817)860-1624

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Secretary: Treasurer: Program Director

Peggy Schulin Christa Prewitt Alleen Winkler

P.O. Box 1242 P O Box 992 2831 CR 323

Katy, TX 77492 Elgin, Texas 78621 Lexington, Texas 78947

(281-391-5545 (512)281-2916 (512)253-6310

[email protected] [email protected]

Editor/Webmaster: Publicity Director: Immediate Past President:

Marie Herridge Glenn Guettler Robert D Herridge

5462 Hwy 159 West 13730 Hambleton Circle 5462 Hwy 159 West

Bellville, Texas 77418 Houston, Texas 77069 Bellville, Texas 77418

(713)302-0830 (281)444-7572 (713)582-2461


Director: (2016-2017) Director: (2016-2017) Director: (2016-2018)

Van Massirer Cathy Hanzik Don Ahrendt

124 Canaan Church Rd. 6477 Fenske Lane P O Box 907

Crawford, Texas 76638 Needville, Texas 77461 Giddings, Texas 78942

(254)486-2366 (281)342-8243 (979)[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Director: (2016-2018) Director: (2016-2018) Lifetime Director:

Dorothy Leyendecker Anthony Stott Flora von Roeder

3977 Hwy. 90 200 Oak Crest Drive 2515 Shakespeare2

Columbus, Texas 78934 Manvel, Texas 77578 Houston, Tx. 77030

(979)732-3302 (713)826-7100 (713)666-6085


Lifetime Director: Lifetime Director: Lifetime Director:

Alfred Drescher Sanford Schmid Glenn Guettler

956 N. Jefferson 250 S. Main (see Publicity Director)

LaGrange, Texas 78945 LaGrange, Texas 78945

(979)968-8803 (979)968-3382

[email protected]

CHAPTERS:Austin County: Bastrop County: Bluebonnet:

Ann Aschenbeck Rebecca Bernhard Herbert Schumann

1101 S. Nassau 101 Link Street 5099 Centerhill Rd.

Round Top, Texas 78954 Elgin, Texas 78621 Bellville, Texas 77418

(979)249-3930 (512)818-1022 (979)865-3804

[email protected] [email protected]

Colorado County: Der Meer Platz: Fayette County:

Dorothy Leyendecker Rev. Tom Dietzel Georg Ulbrich

3977 Hwy. 90 816 Oak Ave. 6114 Peeler Rd.

Columbus, Texas 78934 Rockport, Texas 78382-5906 LaGrange, Texas 78945-5513

(979)732-3302 (361)364-1739 (979)247-4936



Fort Bend County: Galveston County: Golden Crescent:

Cathy Hanzik Dolores Taylor Dennis Boehm

6477 Fenske Lane 4621 Avenue O 103 Taylorcrest Dr.

Needville, Texas 77461 Galveston, Texas 77551 Victoria, Texas 77905-0693

(281)342-8243 (409)750-0172 (361)574-8569


Harris County: Heart of Texas: Katy Tri-County:

Jeff Lindemann J. W. Thiele Linda Phillips

3405 Roseland 411 Ridge View P O Box 5793

Houston, Texas 77006 Clifton, Texas 76634-1156 Katy, Texas 77491-5793

(713)524-3988 (254)675-8254 (832)344-6659


Lavaca-Dewitt County: Lee County: North Harris County:

Joyce Manning Don Ahrendt Aaron Schindewolf

500 Burt St. P O Box 907 6218 Windrose Hollow Ln.

Yoakum, Texas 77995-3922 Giddings, Texas 78942 Klein, Texas 77379

(361)741-6094 (979)542-3225 (281)370-9747


South Belt: Tarrant County: Washington County:

Anthony Stott Dan Schoppe Pat Fischer

200 Oak Crest Drive 1008 Auburn Drive 404 Magnolia LaneManvel, Texas 77578 Arlington, Texas 76012 Brenham, Texas 77833(713)826-7100 (817)860-1624 (979)251-8429


Past President's Chapter: Young German Texans: Texas German Trails

(Members at Large) Robert Herridge Van Massirer

Robert Herridge (see Immediate Past Pres) (see TGS Director)(see Immediate Past Pres.)

MUSEUM (DAS HAUS) COMMISSION

Lifetime Member: Lifetime Member: Lifetime Member:

Sanford Schmid Joycine & Louis Hanath Dorothy Leyendecker

250 S. Main 4261 Routt Road 3977 Hwy 90

LaGrange, Tx. 78945 Chappell Hill, Tx. 77426 Columbus, Tx. 78934

(979)968-3382 (979)836-9127 (979)732-3302


Lifetime Member: Lifetime Member: Member:

Paul Schenck Geraldine Luetge Herbert Gerken4222 Creamer Creek Rd. 806 FM 1457 P.O. Box 291433


iiii

CHAPTER ACTIVITIES

I don’t intentionally leave any chapter news out but there are times items get misplaced and overlooked (even with email).

So I apologize upfront to any chapter/person if your news is overlooked. I would really like to have news from every

chapter. Any special events or stories you want to share would also be appreciated. Please put TGS in your subject line

on email. (Editor)

Austin County

Bastrop County

New members are always welcome. For more information, please contact our president Mikki Meyer at (512)

253-1111 or vice-president Rebecca Bernhard at (512) 818-1022.

Bluebonnet Chapter

Meeting dates are the 4th Wednesday every other month at 7 pm starting in January at the Hill Center in Sealy. Guests are welcomed. Membership to the Bluebonnet Chapter is open to anyone who is interested in preserving German culture, language and heritage.

July 27 is our ice cream social. Blue Bell ice cream will be served. The entertainment will be provided by Concordia

Gesang Verein singers. .

Colorado County

February 25, 2016 – Our first meeting of 2016 began with Randa Simmons presenting the story of her great-

grandfather, Charles August Dittmar. He emigrated from Germany to Brazil, then onto the California Gold

Rush, Colorado City, New York and eventually Texas.

We then began our business portion of the meeting with committees being formed and getting ready to work on

the upcoming Texas German Society Annual Convention in Mentz, TX on March 12.

April 27, 2016 – Schneider Hall, Columbus, TX was the site of our meeting/spring social. Bar-B-Que chicken

and sausage with all the trimming was served followed by the business meeting.

The chapter elected to donate $1000 to the Texas German Scholarship Fund and $500 to the Ministerial

Alliance of Columbus to help the flood victims in Colorado County.

President Dorothy Leyendecker reported a very successful and well attended Texas German Society Convention

in Mentz, TX on March 12.

Ursula Keierleber presented the program “Fun Differences of Americans and Germans.”


June 23, 2016 – Regularly scheduled meeting held at the Nesbitt Memorial Library. It was announced that the

family of Harry Henkhaus had given his A&M Ring, to be placed in his memory, to the memorial located on the

A&M campus honoring ex-students who were a part of the first muster at Corregidor during World War II.

Our program entitled “Why Germans Came to America” presented by Dorothy Leyendecker was of great

interest to our group as most of the grandparents or great-grandparents immigrated to America coming through

Louisiana or Galveston and inland to our area and surrounding areas.

Fayette County

Fort Bend County

The Fort Bend Chapter of the Texas German Society meets every other month on the second Tuesday of

the month in the meeting room at the Albert George Branch of the Fort Bend County Library System in

Needville, Texas, from 6 PM to 8 PM.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact President Cathy Hanzik by telephone at 281-342-8243 or by

email at [email protected].

The Fort Bend Chapter of the Texas German Society journeyed to Danevang on Tuesday, September 8,

2015. Danevang is considered “The Danish Capital of Texas.” They toured an old Danish pioneer house built

in 1898, which has been restored and is furnished with period-pieces of the era. Then they went next door and

toured the Danish Heritage Museum which is housed in a building reminiscent of the barns in Denmark. This

museum houses artifacts of the early Danish settlement and contains exhibits relating to the Viking culture, as

well as exhibits pertaining to the agriculture of the area, weather observation, schools, social life, and the

historic Danevang Lutheran Church and cemetery. The museum features a rare exhibit of a complete collection

of Bing & Grondahl Christmas-season dinner plates from 1895 to the present. The group of 18 members

stopped in El Campo before the museum tour and had a delightful lunch at Mikeska’s Barbecue.

Pictured are:

Seated: Frank Strieder, Ora Dell Strieder, Juanita

Todd

Standing: Cathy Hanzik, Delbert Niemann, Leona

Hausler, Carol Niemann, Winona Luedeke, Marcella

Hackstedt, Walter Todd

Standing 2nd Row: Lynn Roesler, Erna Thielemann,

Loyce Anderson, Clarence Thielemann, Darlene

Mensik, Evelyn Schmidt, Raymond Schmidt, Helen

Altimore



Fort Bend 2016 Schedule

January 12 Planning for 2016

March 12 State Convention at St. Roch's, Mentz, TX

May 10 Round Top Tour

July 12 DVD and Ice Cream Social at Library

September 6 Wharton Tour

November 8 Brookwood Tour

January 10, 2017 Planning for 2017

On Saturday, March 12, 2016, members of the Fort Bend Chapter of the Texas German Society attended the

33rd Annual State Texas German Society Convention that was held at the St. Roch Catholic Church Parish Hall

in Mentz, Texas. The Convention was hosted by the Colorado County Chapter. The speakers were Arliss

Treybig on the History of Mentz, Roger Wade on the World War II Texas German POW Camps in Texas, and

Dr. Meredith McClain on the German-Texans and the Llano Estacado Connection. The group was able to visit

the St. Roch Catholic Church built in 1941 and the cemetery after the Convention. There was a catered meal of

Chicken Fried Pork, Sausage, Texas German Potato Salad, Sauerkraut, Green Beans, Bread, and German

Chocolate Cake. The group was entertained by the Shanty Chor of Houston. President Glenn Altwein

conducted the Texas German Society Business Meeting with a new slate of officers being elected and

installed. A total of $2,250 was awarded in scholarships to three graduating seniors based on a 500 word essay

on the topic of "My Present and Continued Interest in the German Language and Culture". The applicants must

be presently enrolled in a German language course or have taken a German language course in high school.

Seated: Patsy

Roesler,

Darlene

Mensik,

Marilyn James,

Ruth

Kendziora,

Alexander

Schmidt

(Grandson of

Raymond &

Evelyn

Schmidt),

Juanita Todd,

Walter Todd

2nd

Row: Lynn

Roesler, Erna

Thielemann, Loyce Anderson, Evelyn Schmidt, Leona Hausler, Jeanette Matthews, Theresa Schultz, Helen

Altimore, Cathy Hanzik

Back Row: Clarence Thielemann, Johnie Cooper, Raymond Schmidt, Delbert Niemann, Carol Niemann,

Winona Luedeke, Delores Bain, Barbara Cooper


Galveston Chapter Contact Dolores Taylor at 409.750.0172 or [email protected] for more information.

Golden Crescent Chapter

December 03, 2015 This was not a formal meeting, it was our Christmas Party.

Ann Heinrich was in charge of decorations and getting the room ready for the party. Several of the members arrived early

around 4:00pm to assist Ann in setting up the tables and decorating.

Ann Heinrich had bought poinsettias to be placed on each table, and she donated those to be given as door prizes. The left

over plates (about nine) were also given as door prizes. Members began arriving about 5:30pm.

Dennis Boehm, President, got our attention about 7:00pm for the blessing and the pledge of allegiance. Country Catering

got the buffet set up and we enjoyed a wonderful meal of salad, roast beef, German potatoes, green beans and rolls. The

members had brought delicious desserts to be enjoyed.

Minutes: None were read. Treasurer: No report. Old Business: No old business was discussed

New Business: Dennis asked the members if they would like to donate the monies from the No Bake Sale we collected to

our scholarship fund. Members voted yes to this.

Announcements: Dennis announced he was checking about having the German exchange students at our next meeting.

Program: After we ate, we sang Christmas songs which Dennis had downloaded off of You Tube. Some songs we sang

in English and some in German. Everyone seemed to be having a wonderful time. It was mentioned how our members

were enjoying visiting with each other a great deal, we do not get to visit much at our regular meetings.

Attendance: 31 persons were in attendance, including four guests. After singing and doing the clean up – meeting was

concluded about 8:45pm.

February 04, 2016 Dennis Boehm, President, called the meeting to order at 7:05pm. After calling the meeting to order,

we said the pledge of allegiance. Dennis introduced our guest speakers, German exchange students and their local

coordinator, Diane Dabney and her husband Buck.

Program: Diane Dabney, local coordinator and German students were Sarah Franz (15), Vanessa Bendusch (17), Alicia

Wager (16) and Judith Glaser (Judith was ill), Diane made Judith’s speech in her absence. The students each gave a short

interesting program about their village in Germany, along with photos of the very beautiful old building in their villages.

They were all very personable, well-mannered young ladies and each gave very impressive programs. They made

different comparisons – Germany to Texas.

Dennis gave the blessing for our meal and we enjoyed the dishes each member had brought.

Minutes: Minutes were read and approved from the last meeting.

Treasurer: Treasurer’s report was read and approved. Dorothy Boehm announced we are going back to a box of supplies

brought to each meeting. Instead of the committee having to buy all the supplies for each meeting, they could just

replenish needed supplies and extra could carry to the next meeting. This process actually saves money and keeps

members from having extra wasted supplies. Dorothy brought to the member’s attention a problem with the bank

account. The bank is now going to charge $10/month for having a checking account being below their desired balance.

The members discussed the problem, voted and approved to allow Dorothy to go to the bank and handle the situation

however she could to get our account set up with the bank so they will not deduct a monthly fee.



Old Business: Ann Heinrich announced she was planning to have the same type of Christmas party this year as she did

last year. If anyone had suggestions or wanted to make changes, please give her a call with those ideas. Dennis said he

would check about the “The Landing” meeting room so we would decide which room we wished to use.

New Business: State convention is March 12, 2016 in Alleyton, Texas and Dennis had packets to pass out to register. He

encouraged as many members as possible to attend.

Dorothy Albrecht gave us a short report on her scholarship for 2016. Some of the members wanted to cut back from

giving two scholarships a year to one, since we are short on funds. After discussion and a vote it was decided to stay with

two scholarships per year – we just quit awarding scholarships when we are out of funds.

Dennis sent a memorial for Leslie Buchhorn, a member who passed last year.

Dennis suggested the membership might be interested in making some short field trips to area towns where there is

German Restaurants with German foods on their menu. He will check out restaurants.

Attendance: 29 persons were in attendance, including six guests. Meeting was adjourned about 9:05pm.

April 07, 2016 Dennis Boehm, President, called the meeting to order at 7:05pm. After calling the meeting to order, we

said the pledge of allegiance. Dennis gave the blessing for and we enjoyed our food.

Minutes: Minutes were read and approved from the last meeting.

Treasurer: Treasurer’s report was read and approved. Dorothy Boehm, our treasurer, announced that she was able to

combine our two checking accounts. Our regular one and the scholarship one to keep us from having to pay monthly

account charges for each. She will just keep them separate in her bookkeeping system, which will work out just fine.

Announcements: Dennis recognized our members who had birthdays and anniversaries in the months of March and April.

He also asked for updates on our members who have been ill or had surgery.

Old Business: Harvey Spies gave us a report on the Texas State convention in Alleyton, Texas. He said it was the best

convention he has been to so far; there were about 300 people in attendance. There were lots of door prizes, the meal was

excellent, and most of the silent auction items seemed to have been handmade items.

Dorothy Albrecht gave us a report on her scholarships; so far she has 19 of them and cut off is still about a week away.

Dennis said he is always open to suggestions for programs. He suggested some of the members might like to have a chart

or short presentation on their family history. Then asked for discussion on some way to raise funds for our scholarship

fund; some of the ideas which were discussed: silent auction, games party, no bake sale or bake sale for the public, raffle

of some kind – no final decision was made on what we should do.

New Business: June 5th Sunday is our picnic. Do we want fried chicken again and how many plan on attending? It was

decided that 2:00 to 6:00 was still a good time. Last time we planned on playing games but everyone was having such a

good time visiting – we never got around to the games. We will plan on about 30 again this year with fried chicken, both

white and dark meat.

Program: Dennis brought a table prayer for us to practice in German. We went over our phrases in German from our last

lesson. Most members preferred to just add some more phrases to our list and work on those. Dennis suggested the

Lord’s Prayer or the pledge of allegiance; most members thought they were too hard to learn. Just small sentences or

words were what most members wanted to learn. Some suggestions were made, so Dennis is going to add to our list for

next lesson.

Attendance: 24 persons were in attendance. Meeting was adjourned about 8:35pm.


June 05, 2016 This was not a formal meeting; it was our yearly June picnic. We met at 2:00pm at The Crossing which

is across the street from our regular meeting place.

Fried chicken was provided and the members brought the side dishes and desserts. As usual we had more than enough

food to enjoy. Some of the members brought dominoes to play, some played cards while others were just happy to visit

among themselves. We do not get to visit a great deal at our regular meetings so this was enjoyable.

Dennis Boehm, President, asked for the member’s attention about 5:00pm; we said the pledge of allegiance and Dennis

gave the blessing for our meal.

Minutes: No minutes read. Treasurer: No treasurer report given.

Announcements: Dennis asked for recent anniversaries/birthdays of members and we sang Happy Birthday to everyone

who had a birthday.

Old Business: Dorothy Albrecht displayed the papers for our scholarship students for members to view.

New Business: We had Patrick and Monika Janak as guests and they joined our group. This is exciting as Monika is a

retired German teacher, so we can hope for help with our German lessons. Maybe they will have some ideas as to how to

attract some more members with German interests.

Program: No program, games were played and members visited among themselves.

Attendance: 30 persons were in attendance, including our two new members. Meeting was adjourned about 7:00pm.

Harris County Chapter

The Harris County Chapter of the Texas German meets at Trini Mendenhall Sosa Community Center, which is at 1414

Wirt Road at the intersection of Wirt and Westview in Spring Branch.

They have very interesting programs and if you are in need of some ideas or information you can contact Ruth Froebel at

281.531.0822.

Heart of Texas Chapter

Katy Tri-County Chapter

Lavaca/DeWitt County

Lee County

The Lee County Chapter meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at First National Bank meeting room, and we

enjoy a snack supper.

They will have an indoor picnic in September.

.


North Harris County Aaron Schindewolf, president 281.370.9447

Meetings are held in January, March, May, July, September and November on the 4th Monday @ 7 p.m. Location:

Trinity Lutheran Church, Family Life Center -Rm 116 5201 Spring Cypress Rd, Spring, TX 77379 (Klein) (½ mile west

of Kuykendahl)

We invite you to our next meeting

Monday, November 23, 2015

Meetings are held in January, March, May, July, September and November on the 4th Monday @ 7 p.m.

Location: Trinity Lutheran Church, Family Life Center -Rm 116

5201 Spring Cypress Rd, Spring, TX 77379 (Klein)

( ½ mile west of Kuykendahl) info @ 281-356-3260

The theme for the meeting will be: 2015: 25 Years of German Unity, 70 Years End of WW II, a history lesson

and discussion in collaboration with the German Consulate General of Houston.

Roger and Clarice Wunderlich would love to thank everyone who came September 28th and made our 20th

anniversary such a special and memorable day. Mayor Gretchen Fagan of Tomball declared this Monday as

"Roger Wunderlich Day".

Signed-up members for refreshment are: Bob Chantlos, Candice Strother and anyone else that would like to

contribute

We will have election of Officers, nomination from the floor are welcome

The Texas Germany Society - dedicated to preserve and promote our German Heritage, culture and language. It

is a non-profit and non-political organization.

Membership dues are $10 per person. Please mail to address below or at meeting

Name__________________________ Phone_________________________

Address______________________ City_____________________________

e-mail________________________________

Return this portion with dues to Doris Guettler at 13730 Hambleton Circle, Houston, TX 77069

Southbelt Chapter

The South Belt chapter meets at 5:30p.m. the Third Thursday evening of every month at Mount Olive Lutheran Church on

Scarsdale Blvd. in Houston, Texas. We invite all who are interested in our German heritage to join us for food and

fellowship.

They have interesting programs like one on the prisoner of war camp in Hearne. In June they had a social and went to

King’s Biergarten in Pearland for some delicious German food and music by Enzian Baum.

tel:281-356-3260


Tarrant County

Washington County

Texas German Trails Project

Texas German Trails project is underway to identify and locate on a state map or in a guide all of the more

significant communities and towns that were settled by German immigrants. If you would like to see your area

represented and are willing to help or would like additional information, please contact Van Massirer at (254)

486-2366 or [email protected].

Please! Support the Texas German Society Scholarship Fund by subscribing or renewing your subscription to GERMAN LIFE. 50% or 1/2 of the subscription money stays in our scholarship fund ONLY if you send your renewal to the address below – not directly to German Life. You will receive your renewal from German Life but please make your check payable to TGS and mail to the address below.

_______________________________

Name ___________________________________

City ______________________________________

State ___________________________________

German Life Thank you for your support! Please mail to:

TGS Scholarship Fund 13730 Hambleton Circle Houston, TX 77069 www.texasgermansociety.com

1 -yr. Subscription $24.95 (save 23%)

2 yr. Subscription $38.95 (save 38%)

3 yr. Subscription $53.95 (save 42%)

Renewal

Address

Zip __________

FUND RAISER PROGRAM

2016

TEXAS GERMAN SOCIETY

Payment: Cash Check # ____ (make checks payable to TGS)


http://www.texasgermansociety.com/


Be sure to submit any activities in your area. The next newsletter will be in

October so start submitting your articles and information now. The deadline for

the October 2016 newsletter is September 15, 2016.

2016 TGS Scholarship Winners

Pictured above: Grace Holtkamp, TGS Scholarship Chair, 1st Place $1,000 Amber Klepser, Sealy High

School, 2nd place $750 Erin O’Hara, Cinco High School-Katy ISD, 3rd place $500 Cindy Makouhu, Clements

High School-Fort Bend ISD and Glenn Alwein, TGS State President.


IN MEMORIUM

Harry Henkhaus, Jr.

Posted: Tuesday, March 8, 2016 2:29 pm

Mr. Harry Charles Henkhaus, Jr., 89, passed away at his home in

Columbus on Feb. 29, 2016.

Harry was born on November 30, 1926 in New Ulm to Harry

Charles Henkhaus, Sr., and Roxie Gross Henkhaus. He attended

school at the Henkhaus schoolhouse on the family farm in New

Ulm until 1940.

Harry graduated from Columbus High School in 1944 and attended Texas A&M College until 1945,

when he was drafted into the U.S. Army.

He served in the Philippines and was later transferred to the Army Air Corps in Tokyo, Japan, where

his unit supplied guards for General Douglas MacArthur's home and office, as well as the home of

Emperor Hirohito. After the war, Harry was discharged from the military as a Sergeant, and in 1947

he returned to the Aggie Corps and resumed his studies. He was commissioned a second Lieutenant

and a Distinguished Military Graduate and received a degree in Agriculture in 1950. Harry was a loyal

Aggie his whole life and was honored to have attended Aggie Muster on Apr. 21, 1946 on Corrigedor

Island.

Harry married Marion Obermueller on May 20, 1950 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Frelsburg. He

was employed with the U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service in Snyder, and later in Columbus. In 1966

he transferred to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Galveston where he trained as a real estate

appraiser, retiring in 1984 as Chief Appraiser of the Real Estate Division.

Upon retirement, Harry and Marion returned back home to Columbus. Harry was active in the

Columbus area his whole life. He owned and operated the Dairy Cone for 25 years, and the Dairy Bar

for 15 years. In 1964 he developed a new Columbus neighborhood, the Ward subdivision. He was

active as a real estate broker for 30 years, and as a rancher for most of his life.

As a committed volunteer, Harry proudly served the Lions Club for 57 years, and was a member of the

Colorado County Central Appraisal District Board of Directors for 16 years. He was also active in the

Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Galveston and Colorado County A&M Clubs, the American Legion

VFW, the German Society, and Columbus United Methodist Men.

http://www.coloradocountycitizen.com/obituaries/article_7f60448e-e56c-11e5-a122-7f9125437d4c.html?mode=image&photo=0


Harry had a long and happy life with his wife Marion. He enjoyed spending time with his family out

in the country, and he loved to hunt and fish with his sons.

Harry was preceded in death by his wife, Marion Obermueller Henkhaus; brother Roger Henkhaus,

and an infant sister, Margaret.

Harry is survived by his four children and their spouses: Bruce and Sherry Henkhaus of Ingleside;

Gail and Steve Gonsoulin of Brenham; Jean and Steve Mueller of Fernandina Beach, Fla.; and James

and Emily Henkhaus of Brenham; sister-in-law Genelle Obermueller Kohutek of Willow Springs. He

is also survived by nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff at Columbus Community Hospital, especially nurse Kelli

Krpec, for the skillful and caring attention Harry received while undergoing treatment for

leukemia. Thanks also to his wonderful in-home caregivers, Frances Gonzales, Carol Armstrong, and

Mechele Manshun. Harry was blessed with many kind friends who helped watch over him in his final

years, and our thanks and gratitude go out to all of them, especially Bill and Barbara Hartley, Gene

and Peggy Cochran, Erv Jungman, Hugo Richter, Bub Baumgart, Royce Jurries, the volunteers with

Grace's Table, and the members of the Birthday Club.

Funeral service was Saturday, Mar. 5, 2016 at 10 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Columbus

with Pastor Mark Brechin officiating under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home of Columbus.

Burial with military honors by the VFW and American Legion of Columbus followed in Odd Fellows

Rest Cemetery in Columbus.

Serving as pallbearers were grandsons Matt Mueller, Scott Gonsoulin, Brent Gonsoulin, Graham

Henkhaus and Luke Henkhaus; and sons-in-law Steve Gonsoulin and Steve Mueller.

Memorial contributions may be made in Harry's name, if desired, to the First United Methodist

Church, 1229 Milam St., Columbus, Tex. 78934; or the Columbus Lions Club, P.O. Box 532,

Columbus, Tex. 78934. Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com.

http://www.hennekefuneralhome.com/


Harold H. Stirl

February 24, 1927 – February 26, 2016

Harold H. Stirl passed away at home on Feb. 26, 2016 in Austin at the age of

89. He was born on Feb. 24, 1927 to Ernest Albert Stirl and Hedwig (Gaedke)

Stirl. He graduated as Salutatorian of his class at Nordheim High School and

attended Texas Lutheran College. He married Snooks Messamore, his high

school sweetheart, on July 7, 1946. They settled in Nordheim and raised three

children.

Harold partnered with his father selling insurance and operating a service

station. Later his brother Lawrence joined them. In 1970 Harold went to work

for Coastal States as national maintenance manager, where he worked for over

20 years. He retired in 1991 and they moved to Columbus.

Harold was very active in the community. In Nordheim he was the Mayor, the

Fire Marshall, Scout Master, President of the PTA, Secretary of the Chamber

of Commerce and Agriculture, member of the City Council, Treasurer and Council of the Nordheim Lutheran

Church, and Sec/Treas. of the Nordheim Shooting Club. In Columbus, he was the Sec/Treas. of the Odd

Fellows Cemetery, American Legion Commander, German Society President, Lions Club President, and

Trustee of the Methodist Church and a 50+ year member of the Sons of Hermann. He was also a veteran of the

U.S. Army.

Harold is survived by his children, Cynthia Willoughby of Cypress, Michael Stirl (Nancy) of Daingerfield, and

Denise Hickey of Austin; grandchildren, William Willoughby (Kathy) of Petronilla, Thomas Willoughby of

Nacogdoches, Jeffrey Stirl of Gatesville, Jennifer Stirl of Daingerfield, Sara Hickey of Austin, and Kris Hickey

of Austin; great-grandchildren, Alala and David Willoughby of Petronilla, and Tristen Jackson of Humble.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his brother and his sons-in-law Jim Hickey and Frank

Willoughby.

Harold was a father, a mentor, an innovator, a Christian, a jokester, a volunteer, a gardener, a selfless man

always giving of his time, talent, and endless love and energy. He gave 110% to whatever he did and never

slowed down, even up to his last day. Heaven has gained a wonderful new servant.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 3 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm; and on Friday from 8 am to 1 pm at

Henneke Funeral Home, Columbus.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 4, 1 pm at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus.

Interment in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus with Military Honors by the American Legion.

Pallbearers are Gary Chandler, James Yearwood, Eddie Hernandez, Ernest Baumgart, Tony Pullicino, and

Douglas Lilie. Honorary pallbearers are William, Thomas and David Willoughby, Jeffrey Stirl, Kris Hickey,

Addam Terrazas, and Tristen Jackson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society – Colorado County Unit, 4401

Lilac St., Victoria, TX 77901; or the Columbus Lions Club, P.O. Box 532, Columbus, TX 78934.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com. Henneke Funeral Home Columbus, Texas

http://www.hennekefuneralhome.com/

http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj_q-vH8v_NAhVHyWMKHU0tD_EQjRwIBw&url=http://www.coloradocountycitizen.com/obituaries/article_6454f87e-dff4-11e5-9bf4-7b24f5e07169.html&psig=AFQjCNGyYOmIJDF1Q4jOtVJ4nfBJl6m-MQ&ust=1469030324397935


Lillian Ida Brune March 19, 1924 - June 17, 2015

Lillian Ida Klockman Brune, 91, of Columbus, Texas passed away on June 17,

2015 in Columbus after a brief illness. She was born on March 19, 1924, in

Eagle Lake, Texas, to Albert Arnold Klockman and Ida Till Klockman. Lillian

attended school in Eagle Lake. On June 14, 1942, she married Henry Howard

Brune Sr., upon his discharge from the Navy, they made their home in

Columbus, Texas. Her sons, Henry Howard Brune Jr., (7-27-1946) and Charles

Ray Brune (3-20-1949) were born in Columbus.

The viewing will be held at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus, Texas from

5:00 to 8:00 pm, Friday, June 19, 2015. Funeral services will be held on

Saturday, June 20, 2015 at Trinity Church in New Bielau, Texas at 10:00 a.m.

with Rev. Ernest Dean officiating. Burial will follow at Weimar Masonic

Cemetery in Weimar, TX.

Lillian’s profession was a domestic engineer. She baked and decorated cookies

for special occasions. Lillian loved the holidays, shopping, cooking, playing cards and her dog, Izzy Jane.

Lillian loved to go anywhere. During her life she traveled to Canada, Mexico, Europe, Australia, New Zealand

and many of the States. She especially enjoyed the fall colors of the Northeastern States. Lillian and her sisters-

in-law coordinated the family Christmas Party and the “42” party on New Year’s. Lillian was a member of the

German Club, the Home Demonstration Club, the Columbus Community Hospital Auxiliary and the Colorado

County Historical Commission. She was also an avid walker.

Lillian was a long time member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Columbus. She was currently a member of

Trinity Church in New Bielau and was provided transportation, each Sunday, by her generous and loving

church family.

During the last years of her life, she was beset with many health problems. She was able to remain in her home

with assistance of her son, Henry, her neighbor Robin Garcia, her companion Mary Lou Castillo, and many

friends.

She is survived by her sons Henry H. Brune, Jr. and wife Marjorie, Charles R. Brune and wife Wanda. Four

grandchildren are: Karl R. Brune and wife Leslie, Cynthia G. Brune, Stephen Brune and wife Kelly, Jason

Brune and wife Daphne. Her six great-grandchildren are Christopher Mizell, Elysa Brune, Nathan Brune,

Brandon Brune, Taryn Brune, and Sarah Brune. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Kermit Brune, her

first cousin Doris Beken Albright, and nephew Robert Klockman.

Lillian was predeceased by her parents, an infant brother, brother, Arnold Klockman, her husband, Henry H.

Brune, Sr., brothers and sisters-in-law, Arthur Brune, Jr., Gilbert Brune, Elvira Schneider, Gladys Schneider,

and Beatrice Stock.

Pallbearers are grandsons, family and friends, Herman Brune, Karl Brune, Jason Brune, Stephen Brune, Allen

Bellamy, Edward Bellamy, Dale Koehn, and Mark Brune.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations/memorials be sent to the: Trinity Church Scholarship

Fund, 1985 FM 155 South, Weimar, Texas 78962, or to a charity of your choice.


♫♪♫♫♫♪♫♫♪♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♫♪♫♫♫♫

Calendar of Events

2016

JULY

July 30 – Hot Nights, Cool Tunes, Downtown Brenham, Suede (highly anticipated performance 7pm

SEPTEMBER

Labor Day Weekend - Westfest, West, TX http://www.westfest.com

Sept 10 - Caldwell Kolache Fest http://www.burlesoncountytx.com/kolachefestival.html

Sept 17 – TGS Heart of Texas Oktoberfest, Crawford Community Center, Betty Hubbard 254.662.0116

OCTOBER – Look for all the October festivals around our area.

3rd Weekend Fayetteville Lickskillet http://www.fayettevilletxchamber.org/

DECEMBER December 4 – Das Haus Christmas Party - all members welcomed - Bring your favorite dish/snack

December 9-11- German Christmas Market “Weihnachtsmarkt Texas Style”, Tomball, TX The Market is

sponsored by the City of Tomball, Tomball Sister City, and German Heritage Festival

www.tomballsistercity.org . www.myspace.com/tgchristmas

2017 MARCH

March 18 TGS State Convention 34th Annual – Hosted by Lee & Fayette County Chapter KC-Hall LaGrange

March 30-April 2 Annual Tomball German Heritage Festival www.tomballsistercity.org

APRIL

April 23 15th Annual Frühling Saengerfest, sponsored by Bluebonnet Chapter of TGS & Bellville Lions Club,

Bellville, Concordia Hall, 936 S Tesch, Bellville 11 am.

MAY

May 5-7 – Brenham Maifest, Washington County Chapter, Brenham, TX www.maifest.org

EXTRA! EXTRA! EXTRA! 34TH ANNUAL TEXAS GERMAN SOCIETY

CONVENTION

MARCH 18, 2017 AT KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HALL IN LA GRANGE

HOSTED BY LEE & FAYETTE CHAPTERS

LOOK FOR MORE INFORMATION AS IT COMES AVAILABLE

http://www.burlesoncountytx.com/kolachefestival.html

http://www.fayettevilletxchamber.org/

http://www.tomballsistercity.org/

http://www.myspace.com/tgchristmas

http://www.tomballsistercity.org/


2016 Tomball German Heritage Festival

December 9-11, 2016

Old Town Tomball, Texas

Historical Train Depot Plaza

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Documents

Texas German Societytexasgermansociety.com/news_letter_files/TGS June 2016... · Texas German Society Reporter 1 Summer 2016 Texas German Society Organized September 6, 1983 Witte