Meet the Friends of Gillespie County Historic Schools

The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools are former students of the closed schools and members of the community, interested in preserving the traditions of the schools, the community clubs, and the history of Gillespie County for future generations.

For many years, these schools were places of learning for the German community in Gillespie County. During the 1950's and 1960's, the students who were attending the schools were consolidated into the Fredericksburg Independent School District. Although the schools are no longer used as places of learning, those that remain are continuing the traditions they established in the rural areas, serving as community centers.

Our schools are available for private functions, weddings, and other social activities, as well as group tours. To make arrangements, contact the rental contact representative on each individual school page. You can find a directory of our schools on our Schools Directory page.

Today, several properties are in need of preservation. The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools have taken on the responsibility of preserving and ensuring that these former schools will be the future parks for the residents of the county. We have a number of fundraisers throughout the year, including our annual Open House the first weekend in April. Several of the schools will be open to the public. Donations are always appreciated and are tax deductible.

Visit our exhibit in the Exhibition Hall during the Gillespie County Fair held each August. Support our annual Bake Sale held each December.

On April 4, 2009, The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools dedicated a historical marker commemorating the rich public school history in Gillespie County in a short ceremony. Click here to read more about it on our Plaque Dedication page.

Remember, the Gillespie County Country Schools Trail is open all year. Pick up a map at the Fredericksburg Visitor's Center or visit the White Oak School at the Pioneer Museum which is open daily. You can also visit our Driving Directions page for the complete schools trail directions.

Take a video tour of our schools by clicking on the image below.

You can also visit our School Store to purchase a DVD of the tour, which includes over 150 pictures of 12 former rural country schools located on the Gillespie County Country Schools Driving Trail, along with the history of each school. Suggested donation: $16 (donated shipping amount included).