New Braunfels

New Braunfels
Motto(s):  "In New Braunfels, Life is Beautiful"
Area
• Total	116 km2 (44.9 sq mi)
Population  (2020)
• Total	79,152
Website	www.nbtexas.org

New Braunfels is a city located in Comal County, Texas, United States. It is situated in the Texas Hill Country and is part of the San Antonio-New Braunfels Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city was established in 1845 by German settlers and has a rich cultural heritage that is still evident today.

History

New Braunfels was founded by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, who was the Commissioner General of the Adelsverein, a society that aimed to establish a German colony in Texas. The city was named after Braunfels in Germany, the prince's ancestral home. The German immigrants brought with them their language, customs, and traditions, which have had a lasting impact on the city's culture.

During the 19th century, New Braunfels became a popular destination for German immigrants seeking a new life in America. The city's location along the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers provided fertile land for agriculture and attracted settlers looking to establish farms and ranches. The German influence can still be seen in the architecture of many of the historic buildings in downtown New Braunfels.

Geography

New Braunfels is located at and has a total area of 44.9 square miles. The city is situated in the Texas Hill Country, known for its rolling hills, clear rivers, and abundant wildlife. The Comal River, one of the shortest rivers in the world, flows through the city and is a popular destination for tubing and water recreation.

Attractions

New Braunfels offers a variety of attractions for residents and visitors alike. One of the most popular destinations is Schlitterbahn Waterpark, a sprawling water park that features water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. The park attracts millions of visitors each year and is a major contributor to the city's tourism industry.

Another notable attraction in New Braunfels is the Gruene Historic District. This district is home to Gruene Hall, the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas. Gruene Hall has hosted many famous musicians over the years and continues to be a popular venue for live music.

Education

New Braunfels is served by the New Braunfels Independent School District, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools in the city. The district is known for its high academic standards and offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students.

Notable People

New Braunfels has been home to several notable individuals throughout its history. One of the most famous residents was Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, the founder of the city. Other notable individuals include:

• Clarence Hailey Long, former U.S. Representative
• Guadalupe River, a popular river for outdoor recreation
• Landa Park, a large park with a golf course, picnic areas, and a miniature train
• Wurstfest, an annual German festival celebrating the city's heritage

External links

• Official website
• New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce