Back
When the first German settlers arrived at the banks of the sparkling Cibolo in the 1840’s, they were captivated by the rolling hills and vibrant bluebonnets of the Texas Hill Country. And while they came to build a whole new life for themselves, they still brought distinct and vibrant pieces of their homeland with them. From art to music to Christmas traditions, the legacy of German culture is built into the very foundations of Boerne, TX.
Texas Hill Country Photos by Jay Pennington
And though the biergartens and festivals are plenty, perhaps the most obvious (and simple) piece of German culture is displayed in the local architecture. The most practical fusion of art and culture, Boerne’s historic homes and original buildings proudly display the town’s legacy of excellence, as well as an old-world sense of character and story.
These local homesteads vary widely in influence and design elements. According to the comprehensive sweep of the Boerne Historic Design Guidelines, the Boerne area boasts everything from Colonial Revival to Craftsman to Texas German Vernacular, Folk Victorian, Romanesque Revival, Beaux Arts Classical, Art Moderne, and far, far more.
For your nostalgic and architectural pleasure, we’ve found a few Kendall County historic homes that are still in use today! The following homesteads hearken back to different eras and styles...but each has one thing in common: they are all ready to welcome a new homeowner and a new story.
Year Built: 1895
Architectural Style: Folk Victorian
The oldest of the bunch, this gorgeous 1895 home is best described as “Folk Victorian”. This style utilizes the complexity of Queen Anne, but the more focused decorative details. This particular home has been updated for modern comfort, while still maintaining its original historic charm. With over 2 acres of waterfront property and plenty of mature pecan trees, this waterside homestead is a part of Kendall County history!
Year Built: 1950
Architectural Style: Craftsman/Bungalow & Stick Style
This sunny little cottage mixes several styles, emitting both bungalow vibes and Queen Anne (Stick Style) details. The broad, wooden porch is complemented beautifully by crisp white accents.
Centrally located in downtown Boerne, this home is just minutes from local shopping and dining. The floor plan includes high ceilings, neutral colors, hardwood flooring, great room with stone fireplace, eat-in kitchen, spacious bedroom & full bath.
Year Built: 1944
Architectural Style: Craftsman/Bungalow
Showcasing the most common architectural style in America during the early 20th century, this craftsman/bungalow style home is characterized by wide windows and roof eaves, broad overhangs, and modest size. This particular River Road property showcases hardwood floors, a covered porch, beautiful trees, and plenty of character.
Year Built: 1950
Architectural Style: Texas German Vernacular
Though built in 1950, this home combines mid-century modern details with the Texas German Vernacular style. Featuring a stone exterior, and a gently pitched roof, this quiet and remarkable home is located on over 10 acres of private Hill Country. Updated to fit modern conveniences, this home retains its sense of character.
Year Built: 1915
Architectural Style: Stick Style (Queen Anne)
Located in the nearby town of Comfort, TX, this home holds elements of Stick Style and Texas German Vernacular architecture. The stone exterior combines with high pitched gable roofs, an asymmetrical floor plan, and bay windows. This delightful two-story home also boasts wood, vinyl, and laminate flooring.
Year Built: 1903
Architectural Style: Stick Style (Queen Anne)
A classic example of Queen Anne (Stick Style), this original cottage uses gorgeous milled detailing and varying uses of wood wall surfaces. We love the embellished eaves! Nestled right in the Comfort Historic district, this one-of-a-kind home dates back to 1903, boasting wood floors, high ceilings, and beadboard walls.
The original Kendall County settlers may have built houses, churches, and businesses in which to live, work, and serve; however, with each limestone block, they also created a physical framework upon which the town still thrives today.
As the most practical fusion of art and culture, architecture communicates the very ethos of a town. Boerne’s historic architecture says one thing: though it is ever-evolving, growing, and moving forward, Boerne (and the surrounding Hill Country towns) boast a special ability to acknowledge, appreciate, and honor the past.
You can find more information about Boerne’s historic churches and buildings by grabbing a Historic Walking Tour online or in the Boerne Visitor Center!
